Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago Heights, IL
Hi, I'm Thekra Hweih — Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Nutrition Science and a perfect 4.00 GPA. My mission is simple: to help you feel amazing in your body without falling for fads or being dismissed by the healthcare system.
I specialize in weight management, PCOS, thyroid conditions, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and hormone health — utilizing science-backed, sustainable strategies. I also support women through endometriosis, postpartum recovery, and fertility nutrition. And yes — I also help men achieve real, lasting weight loss and better health.
Hi, I'm Thekra Hweih — Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a Master’s and Bachelor’s in Nutrition Science and a perfect 4.00 GPA. My mission is simple: to help you feel amazing in your body without falling for fads or being dismissed by the healthcare system.
I specialize in weight management, PCOS, thyroid conditions, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and hormone health — utilizing science-backed, sustainable strategies. I also support women through endometriosis, postpartum recovery, and fertility nutrition. And yes — I also help men achieve real, lasting weight loss and better health.
More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby
We're here to help you find the fun in food again. We firmly believe that all of us can find joy in food - whether you are navigating a new diagnosis, struggling with disordered eating, or working on recovery from an eating disorder.
Emotional eating, binge eating, restriction, picky eating - we will walk along side you or your child and help you find calm with food again while understanding the science of nutrition.
We're here to help you find the fun in food again. We firmly believe that all of us can find joy in food - whether you are navigating a new diagnosis, struggling with disordered eating, or working on recovery from an eating disorder.
Emotional eating, binge eating, restriction, picky eating - we will walk along side you or your child and help you find calm with food again while understanding the science of nutrition.
No, you don't need drugs to improve your blood sugar, lose weight, or deal with PCOS. Yes, medications might seem convenient; however, this road goes nowhere. With time, your drug quantity will increase because these drugs can’t treat the causes of your problems. Based on the latest research, effective treatment of diabetes and PCOS can be achieved by working with gut microbiome. I use gut microbiome in my practice not only to lower insulin resistance and lower blood glucose but also for weight loss, getting regular periods, and improving the ability to conceive for girls with PCOS.
No, you don't need drugs to improve your blood sugar, lose weight, or deal with PCOS. Yes, medications might seem convenient; however, this road goes nowhere. With time, your drug quantity will increase because these drugs can’t treat the causes of your problems. Based on the latest research, effective treatment of diabetes and PCOS can be achieved by working with gut microbiome. I use gut microbiome in my practice not only to lower insulin resistance and lower blood glucose but also for weight loss, getting regular periods, and improving the ability to conceive for girls with PCOS.
As a nutrition expert, I know that diet culture destroys our innate ability to listen to our bodies and causes disordered and emotional eating. I want to help you to mend your relationship with food and body. As a mom, I know that it’s our common goal to raise healthy humans. I also know all of the pressures we face to be perfect, look good, and eat right, all while balancing your family’s needs. I want to help you feel confident about what and how you’re feeding your family. Nutrition doesn't have to be complicated. Let's simplify it together so we can sustainably take care of our bodies - our one place to live in.
As a nutrition expert, I know that diet culture destroys our innate ability to listen to our bodies and causes disordered and emotional eating. I want to help you to mend your relationship with food and body. As a mom, I know that it’s our common goal to raise healthy humans. I also know all of the pressures we face to be perfect, look good, and eat right, all while balancing your family’s needs. I want to help you feel confident about what and how you’re feeding your family. Nutrition doesn't have to be complicated. Let's simplify it together so we can sustainably take care of our bodies - our one place to live in.
The number one thing I hear is "I know what I need to do, but I'm not doing it." My intention is to break down that barrier to help start doing it. My ideal client is someone who wants and/or needs to make changes to their diet and lifestyle, but looking for a professional who can guide them and provide accountability. Whether this is for weight loss, heart health, diabetes, sports nutrition or just for eating healthier, my goal is support you.
The number one thing I hear is "I know what I need to do, but I'm not doing it." My intention is to break down that barrier to help start doing it. My ideal client is someone who wants and/or needs to make changes to their diet and lifestyle, but looking for a professional who can guide them and provide accountability. Whether this is for weight loss, heart health, diabetes, sports nutrition or just for eating healthier, my goal is support you.
Jessica became a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist after completing her Dietetic Internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition through Murray State University, Kentucky. She has been afforded the opportunity to work in many clinical settings throughout her career, including rehab facilities, small and large hospitals, and within physician’s offices in addition to one-on-one clients. Speaking with Jessica will give you the confidence you have been searching for to build a healthier life with a solid understanding of a healthy diet.
Jessica became a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist after completing her Dietetic Internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition through Murray State University, Kentucky. She has been afforded the opportunity to work in many clinical settings throughout her career, including rehab facilities, small and large hospitals, and within physician’s offices in addition to one-on-one clients. Speaking with Jessica will give you the confidence you have been searching for to build a healthier life with a solid understanding of a healthy diet.
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
I'm inviting all individuals who need a fresh start to their recovery. A fresh start looks like: needing to work through challenges that still remain from previous eating disorder treatments; an introduction to that body of yours who has been waiting to be "friended" by you; wanting to know how very different a nourished brain behaves and finally- meeting a hybrid dietitian who safely, wisely helps you eat, move and live in a body that's hungry for change.
I was born and raised in Chicago, attended the University of Dayton for undergrad (Go Flyers!) and received my master's degree at Central Michigan University. I currently work at the University of Chicago as the liver transplant dietitian, specializing in all types of liver disease. I also own my own consulting business which has allowed me to broaden my expertise to serve an even wider variety of patient populations. When I am not working, I am spending time with my family- my husband, Kevin, and my two young (crazy) boys, Marty and Charlie, and have one more on the way!
I was born and raised in Chicago, attended the University of Dayton for undergrad (Go Flyers!) and received my master's degree at Central Michigan University. I currently work at the University of Chicago as the liver transplant dietitian, specializing in all types of liver disease. I also own my own consulting business which has allowed me to broaden my expertise to serve an even wider variety of patient populations. When I am not working, I am spending time with my family- my husband, Kevin, and my two young (crazy) boys, Marty and Charlie, and have one more on the way!
Natalie is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian licensed in the state of Illinois. She attended Dominican University, where she completed her BS in Nutrition and Dietetics as well as her MS in Nutrition. Spanning her career, Natalie has worked with a wide variety of individuals, from adolescents to adults with varying health conditions. It was after working with a private practice group in Chicago that Natalie discovered her passion for helping those suffering with eating disorders or years of disordered eating patterns repair their relationship with food.
Natalie is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian licensed in the state of Illinois. She attended Dominican University, where she completed her BS in Nutrition and Dietetics as well as her MS in Nutrition. Spanning her career, Natalie has worked with a wide variety of individuals, from adolescents to adults with varying health conditions. It was after working with a private practice group in Chicago that Natalie discovered her passion for helping those suffering with eating disorders or years of disordered eating patterns repair their relationship with food.
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s Degree in Nutrition Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago who has been practicing dietetics for nearly two decades. She is committed to helping people achieve their wellness goals through a holistic and personalized approach to nutrition counseling. Drawing on her deep understanding of nutrition science she sees her role not only as educator, but as partner and collaborator in identifying skills, practices and sustainable daily actions that drive lasting change.
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s Degree in Nutrition Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago who has been practicing dietetics for nearly two decades. She is committed to helping people achieve their wellness goals through a holistic and personalized approach to nutrition counseling. Drawing on her deep understanding of nutrition science she sees her role not only as educator, but as partner and collaborator in identifying skills, practices and sustainable daily actions that drive lasting change.
A mom of two amazing young men, a lifelong equestrian, a rock -n- roll drummer and a farmer -sheep, chickens and horses. I have explored life on many levels including my formal education at Michigan State University where I received a BS in Animal Science and another in Human Nutrition/Dietetics. A stint as an Air Force dietitian, thousands of hours in personal development with Tony Robbins, Joseph McClendon III and the Legendary Group have and continue to support my growth. I connect deeply with my clients so that they are able to live the healthy lives they seek. It is truly my mission.
A mom of two amazing young men, a lifelong equestrian, a rock -n- roll drummer and a farmer -sheep, chickens and horses. I have explored life on many levels including my formal education at Michigan State University where I received a BS in Animal Science and another in Human Nutrition/Dietetics. A stint as an Air Force dietitian, thousands of hours in personal development with Tony Robbins, Joseph McClendon III and the Legendary Group have and continue to support my growth. I connect deeply with my clients so that they are able to live the healthy lives they seek. It is truly my mission.
Dana’s individualized approach focuses on educating athletes about the importance of nutrition for maximizing success in their sport, while establishing healthy behaviors to benefit them long after their athletic careers.
Dana’s individualized approach focuses on educating athletes about the importance of nutrition for maximizing success in their sport, while establishing healthy behaviors to benefit them long after their athletic careers.
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
As a Certified Eating Disorder Nutrition Therapist, my goal is to repair, rebuild and restore you back to health by teaching you how to renourish yourself mind, body and spirit, verses just teaching you how to eat. In most cases, successful nutrition therapy is not a "quick-fix". My role is to have a clear understanding of your goals and to work with you step-by-step in helping you to achieve them. I have a collaborative approach focusing on progress not perfection and believe in using the food plan that best fits you.
As a Certified Eating Disorder Nutrition Therapist, my goal is to repair, rebuild and restore you back to health by teaching you how to renourish yourself mind, body and spirit, verses just teaching you how to eat. In most cases, successful nutrition therapy is not a "quick-fix". My role is to have a clear understanding of your goals and to work with you step-by-step in helping you to achieve them. I have a collaborative approach focusing on progress not perfection and believe in using the food plan that best fits you.
As a Registered Dietitian for over 20 years, I am committed to providing excellent nutrition therapy services with compassion and inclusivity. I have witnessed the harm caused by chronic dieting and eating disorders, and maintain expertise in eating disorder recovery, utilizing a Health At Every Size approach. In addition, I respect the science of nutrition and stay abreast of best Medical Nutrition Therapy practices for diabetes management, cardiovascular health, and general wellness.
As a Registered Dietitian for over 20 years, I am committed to providing excellent nutrition therapy services with compassion and inclusivity. I have witnessed the harm caused by chronic dieting and eating disorders, and maintain expertise in eating disorder recovery, utilizing a Health At Every Size approach. In addition, I respect the science of nutrition and stay abreast of best Medical Nutrition Therapy practices for diabetes management, cardiovascular health, and general wellness.
For over twenty years, I have worked in helping people find healing and health through nutrition education and counseling. With experience in areas including family nutrition, eating disorders, medical nutrition therapy, and more I utilize a person centered, non-diet approach to understand values, goals, and challenges in navigating nutrition. Insurance and self-pay options are available.
In-person and virtual appointments available in Illinois as well as virtual in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Arkansas, Kentucky, and California.
Faith based nutrition counseling available upon request.
For over twenty years, I have worked in helping people find healing and health through nutrition education and counseling. With experience in areas including family nutrition, eating disorders, medical nutrition therapy, and more I utilize a person centered, non-diet approach to understand values, goals, and challenges in navigating nutrition. Insurance and self-pay options are available.
In-person and virtual appointments available in Illinois as well as virtual in the states of Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Arkansas, Kentucky, and California.
Faith based nutrition counseling available upon request.
Whether or not you want to improve your run time, or improve your glucose control, the evidence is clear that working with a Registered Dietitian can help you do that! Our goal at DuPage Dietitians is to assist each client in learning how they to move toward a lifetime of health. We do that by closing the knowledge gap, writing sound nutrition prescriptions based on solid evidence and by coaching our clients toward lasting changes.
Whether or not you want to improve your run time, or improve your glucose control, the evidence is clear that working with a Registered Dietitian can help you do that! Our goal at DuPage Dietitians is to assist each client in learning how they to move toward a lifetime of health. We do that by closing the knowledge gap, writing sound nutrition prescriptions based on solid evidence and by coaching our clients toward lasting changes.
I will meet you where you're at and help close the gap to where you want to be. We will build a partnership, knowing you are the expert in your health. I will provide space to think about what might be different and help you brainstorm around the next step. We will create tiny changes and build on your success.
I will meet you where you're at and help close the gap to where you want to be. We will build a partnership, knowing you are the expert in your health. I will provide space to think about what might be different and help you brainstorm around the next step. We will create tiny changes and build on your success.
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
Hi, I'm Stephanie! I’m a Health at Every Size aligned dietitian specializing in eating disorder recovery, intuitive eating, and weight neutral medical nutrition therapy. I work with clients to develop an individualized nourishment plan based on their hunger, fullness, and satisfaction cues – without relying on external factors like calorie counting or food restriction to guide eating. I believe that food should be satisfying, fun, and easy. I believe that wellness should be accessible to everyone. And I believe that people in all bodies deserve respectful, compassionate care.
My approach to nutrition counseling is a collaborative, judgment-free approach that helps you learn about your body's needs and nutrition. I will be supportive in helping set priorities, establish goals, and create individualized plans.
My approach to nutrition counseling is a collaborative, judgment-free approach that helps you learn about your body's needs and nutrition. I will be supportive in helping set priorities, establish goals, and create individualized plans.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Chicago Heights?
To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.
How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.
Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?
If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.