Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago, IL
Dajana Marin is a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a weight-neutral and non-diet approach. She completed her bachelor’s degree and supervised practice at Dominican University and is finishing her master’s degree in applied exercise science with a concentration in sports nutrition. Dajana has experience working in a clinical and private practice settings with diverse populations and conditions. She is passionate about helping her clients make lifelong sustainable changes through an intuitive eating approach. Her counseling style is calming, warm, open, and gently challenging.
Dajana Marin is a board-certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a weight-neutral and non-diet approach. She completed her bachelor’s degree and supervised practice at Dominican University and is finishing her master’s degree in applied exercise science with a concentration in sports nutrition. Dajana has experience working in a clinical and private practice settings with diverse populations and conditions. She is passionate about helping her clients make lifelong sustainable changes through an intuitive eating approach. Her counseling style is calming, warm, open, and gently challenging.
Shalini is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian who also holds a Master of Science in Health Science and Nutrition from Georgia State University. Shalini began her career as an inpatient Clinical Dietitian over 10 years ago and has since transitioned into providing medical nutrition therapy in outpatient settings. Shalini practices a flexitarian, plant-based style of eating at home. Aside from nutrition, Shalini has a passion for cooking, fitness, and spending time with her family. She became a Registered Dietitian to help people understand the connection between food and wellness.
Shalini is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian who also holds a Master of Science in Health Science and Nutrition from Georgia State University. Shalini began her career as an inpatient Clinical Dietitian over 10 years ago and has since transitioned into providing medical nutrition therapy in outpatient settings. Shalini practices a flexitarian, plant-based style of eating at home. Aside from nutrition, Shalini has a passion for cooking, fitness, and spending time with her family. She became a Registered Dietitian to help people understand the connection between food and wellness.
Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss.
During sessions with Ilana, you can expect to receive evidenced-based care and build a collaborative relationship with her. During her spare time, Ilana enjoys cooking new recipes, eating her way through Chicago’s restaurant scene and reading. Ilana looks forward to working with new clients to help them achieve their nutrition goals!
Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss.
During sessions with Ilana, you can expect to receive evidenced-based care and build a collaborative relationship with her. During her spare time, Ilana enjoys cooking new recipes, eating her way through Chicago’s restaurant scene and reading. Ilana looks forward to working with new clients to help them achieve their nutrition goals!
Rachael’s specialties include diabetes (pre- diabetes, type 1, type 2, and gestational), autoimmune conditions, digestive disorders, disordered eating, binge eating disorder, intuitive and mindful eating, anti-inflammatory diets, and general wellness.
Rachael is a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping others build a joyful, balanced relationship with food. She understands that one’s connection with food and body is deeply personal and strives to support you as a partner in your health journey. Her approach is integrative and holistic, emphasizing balance, sustainability, and enjoyment. Rachael connects personally with clients to understand their unique lifestyle, background, and challenges, allowing her to provide truly individualized support in a warm, empathetic, and judgment-free space.
Rachael’s specialties include diabetes (pre- diabetes, type 1, type 2, and gestational), autoimmune conditions, digestive disorders, disordered eating, binge eating disorder, intuitive and mindful eating, anti-inflammatory diets, and general wellness.
Rachael is a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping others build a joyful, balanced relationship with food. She understands that one’s connection with food and body is deeply personal and strives to support you as a partner in your health journey. Her approach is integrative and holistic, emphasizing balance, sustainability, and enjoyment. Rachael connects personally with clients to understand their unique lifestyle, background, and challenges, allowing her to provide truly individualized support in a warm, empathetic, and judgment-free space.
Hi, I’m Andrea, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who wants to make nutrition practical, approachable, and, believe it or not, enjoyable. Whether helping clients navigate complex medical conditions in a hospital setting or guiding individuals toward a healthier relationship with food, my goal is to provide education and support that fits your unique needs.
Hi, I’m Andrea, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) who wants to make nutrition practical, approachable, and, believe it or not, enjoyable. Whether helping clients navigate complex medical conditions in a hospital setting or guiding individuals toward a healthier relationship with food, my goal is to provide education and support that fits your unique needs.
Jennifer is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist.
Jennifer is a facilitator of Plant Forward, Health at any Size and Mindful Eating. She specializes in Diabetes, Pre- diabetes, PCOS, Cardiac and CHF Rehabilitation.
Jennifer is Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist.
Jennifer is a facilitator of Plant Forward, Health at any Size and Mindful Eating. She specializes in Diabetes, Pre- diabetes, PCOS, Cardiac and CHF Rehabilitation.
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
Emily is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, certified by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. She completed her education at Mount Mary University and her clinical internship at Roger’s Behavioral Health, both in Wisconsin. Within her first year of being an RDN, Emily presented to over 100 RDNs in her state on the importance of weight inclusive care. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, reading as many books as possible, and being a cat mom to her big cat (Blue) and little cat (Lilly).
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!
Hi, I am Janelle Middleton, MPH, RDN, LDN. I completed my graduate course work at Loma Linda University in California and undergraduate studies at Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois. I have 8 years of RD experience and earned Employee of the Month in my previous clinical nutrition role. Since I would describe myself as very much a people person, naturally inquisitive, and a great listener, you can expect to feel heard and supported in our sessions. I pride myself on being empathetic and encouraging, while effectively holding you accountable to the goals YOU set for yourself.
Hi, I am Janelle Middleton, MPH, RDN, LDN. I completed my graduate course work at Loma Linda University in California and undergraduate studies at Dominican University in River Forest, Illinois. I have 8 years of RD experience and earned Employee of the Month in my previous clinical nutrition role. Since I would describe myself as very much a people person, naturally inquisitive, and a great listener, you can expect to feel heard and supported in our sessions. I pride myself on being empathetic and encouraging, while effectively holding you accountable to the goals YOU set for yourself.
Amy will use her 10 years of counseling experience with medical nutrition therapy for kidney, cardiac, diabetes and weight management.
Amy has found her true passion of nutrition counseling and looks forward to getting to know you and helping you meet your nutritional goals.
Amy will use her 10 years of counseling experience with medical nutrition therapy for kidney, cardiac, diabetes and weight management.
Amy has found her true passion of nutrition counseling and looks forward to getting to know you and helping you meet your nutritional goals.
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
Being healthy starts with proper nutrition because food impacts so much including: good health, weight loss, diabetes management and even healing from symptoms (migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, joint pain and fatigue) caused by food sensitivities.
I am Registered Dietitian, who has completed several additional advanced certifications in diabetes (CDE) and food sensitivities (CLT) dietary treatments. Distinguished as a qualified expert, I am passionate about helping clients restore their health through personalized nutrition and lifestyle programs. Allow me to guide you toward YOUR path of wellness!
Although her research and dissertation focused on weight loss after bariatric surgery; Asante has great experience among clients with diabetes, cardiovascular, and food sensitivities and allergies.
Asante is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian. She completed her clinical internship and masters degree at Rush University Medical Center after graduating from Case Western Reserve University. Asante is an expert in counseling and educating patients who need medical nutrition therapy in either an inpatient or outpatient setting. In sessions with Asante she will empower her patients and instill confidence in his or herself to achieve desired goals.
Although her research and dissertation focused on weight loss after bariatric surgery; Asante has great experience among clients with diabetes, cardiovascular, and food sensitivities and allergies.
Asante is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian. She completed her clinical internship and masters degree at Rush University Medical Center after graduating from Case Western Reserve University. Asante is an expert in counseling and educating patients who need medical nutrition therapy in either an inpatient or outpatient setting. In sessions with Asante she will empower her patients and instill confidence in his or herself to achieve desired goals.
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board Certified Renal (Kidney) Nutrition Specialist. When I initially pursued a career in nutrition I was drawn to the idea that something as basic as food could have such a profound effect on health. Now my goal is to provide my clients with the most up-to-date nutrition advice backed by science, so they can feel empowered around food (even if they have a chronic disease). I was born and raised in north Florida and now reside in central Florida with my husband, son, and dog.
I am a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and a Board Certified Renal (Kidney) Nutrition Specialist. When I initially pursued a career in nutrition I was drawn to the idea that something as basic as food could have such a profound effect on health. Now my goal is to provide my clients with the most up-to-date nutrition advice backed by science, so they can feel empowered around food (even if they have a chronic disease). I was born and raised in north Florida and now reside in central Florida with my husband, son, and dog.
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL. I specialize in helping patients with kidney disease & kidney health concerns. Together we'll implement changes to help improve your labs, slow the progression of kidney disease, and ensure you enjoy what you eat! I’ll help you let go of fears and misconceptions about the "renal diet", and help you gain confidence that you CAN manage your kidney disease and continue doing all the things you love – traveling, being active, and spending precious time with loved ones.
I am a dietitian and Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, based in Chicago, IL. I specialize in helping patients with kidney disease & kidney health concerns. Together we'll implement changes to help improve your labs, slow the progression of kidney disease, and ensure you enjoy what you eat! I’ll help you let go of fears and misconceptions about the "renal diet", and help you gain confidence that you CAN manage your kidney disease and continue doing all the things you love – traveling, being active, and spending precious time with loved ones.
I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health.
Seeing the weight discrimination in the medical field and how it only keeps people cycling with diets and negative body image, has fueled my passion to help people break free from these cycles and to get involved in asking for changes in the medical industry.
I have in depth experience with gastrointestinal disorders, diabetes, and heart health.
Seeing the weight discrimination in the medical field and how it only keeps people cycling with diets and negative body image, has fueled my passion to help people break free from these cycles and to get involved in asking for changes in the medical industry.
My name is Michel Harris and I have been a Registered Dietitian since 2000 and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist since 2010.
I am currently an Assistant Professor of Nutrition at Dominican University and recently received my Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from The University of North Florida. I feel that it's very important as a teacher to continue practicing in my field, and I just enjoy helping others make changes that improve their health and wellness.
My name is Michel Harris and I have been a Registered Dietitian since 2000 and a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist since 2010.
I am currently an Assistant Professor of Nutrition at Dominican University and recently received my Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from The University of North Florida. I feel that it's very important as a teacher to continue practicing in my field, and I just enjoy helping others make changes that improve their health and wellness.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
Hi! I'm Lindsay, Functional Medicine Dietitian and Eating Disorder Specialist. I am passionate about helping my clients find healing from digestive distress and/or hormonal imbalances. Our relationship with food is the most consistent and intimate connection we have in our lifetime. Like many important relationships, how we connect and interact with food can become confusing, overwhelming and complicated. Do you find yourself lost among mixed messages of how to care for your health? Are you struggling with your health and want to find a sustainable way to use food as a healing tool? Peace with food and your body is possible for you.
My name is Natalia Rios, and I am your personal Registered Dietitian. My mission is to help clients achieve their own definition of a healthful life. Together we will work on creating specific goals and sustainable habits. When you meet with me, your needs always come first. You are in charge! As a team we will collaborate on what it means to feel your best. Let's take the first step and get started, I look forward to meeting you!
My name is Natalia Rios, and I am your personal Registered Dietitian. My mission is to help clients achieve their own definition of a healthful life. Together we will work on creating specific goals and sustainable habits. When you meet with me, your needs always come first. You are in charge! As a team we will collaborate on what it means to feel your best. Let's take the first step and get started, I look forward to meeting you!
I am a Registered Dietitian originally from Tremont, IL who currently lives and works in Morton, IL. I earned a Masters of Science in Dietetics at Eastern Illinois University and worked as a Sanitarian completing Health Inspections for the local community prior to becoming a Registered Dietitian. My career path has allowed me to work in a variety of settings and gain in-depth knowledge on multiple nutrition related topics. With a background in nutrition and an active career as an RD, I am passionate about helping clients find healthy habits that coincide with their lifestyle goals and improve their overall quality of life.
I am a Registered Dietitian originally from Tremont, IL who currently lives and works in Morton, IL. I earned a Masters of Science in Dietetics at Eastern Illinois University and worked as a Sanitarian completing Health Inspections for the local community prior to becoming a Registered Dietitian. My career path has allowed me to work in a variety of settings and gain in-depth knowledge on multiple nutrition related topics. With a background in nutrition and an active career as an RD, I am passionate about helping clients find healthy habits that coincide with their lifestyle goals and improve their overall quality of life.
Nicholas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who graduated with a B.S. in Nutrition and Food Science with a concentration in Dietetics and completed dietetic training with a focus on disease management and health promotion at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2018. Nicholas has also completed training in the FODMAP diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) through Monash University. Nicholas knows firsthand the devastating impact chronic diseases have on someone's life, and it is what drives him in his career as a dietitian.
Nicholas is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who graduated with a B.S. in Nutrition and Food Science with a concentration in Dietetics and completed dietetic training with a focus on disease management and health promotion at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in 2018. Nicholas has also completed training in the FODMAP diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) through Monash University. Nicholas knows firsthand the devastating impact chronic diseases have on someone's life, and it is what drives him in his career as a dietitian.
Diabetes Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is diabetes?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition characterized by excessively high blood sugar levels due to insufficient insulin. Insulin is a hormone essential for reducing blood sugar by enabling cells to absorb glucose from the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin due to an inflammatory process affecting insulin-producing cells. In contrast, type 2 diabetes is an acquired condition resulting from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, such as obesity and physical inactivity. In type 2 diabetes, the body has an impaired response to insulin, known as "insulin resistance." Even if the pancreas produces a normal amount of insulin, the body stops responding effectively to the hormone, resulting in impaired glucose uptake into cells.
Is type 2 diabetes caused by a bad diet?
Type 2 diabetes is a complex disease influenced by both genetic and lifestyle factors. Research has shown that poor diet is a major contributor, particularly the consumption of sugar-rich foods and refined carbohydrates, which can lead to insulin resistance. An unhealthy diet promoting obesity is another risk factor, as excess weight increases the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Additional lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption also contribute to the disease's onset. These elements collectively underscore the importance of healthy diet choices in preventing type 2 diabetes.
How does nutrition affect diabetes?
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Keeping track of carbohydrate intake is essential for proper insulin dosing and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. To manage blood sugar effectively, many people with diabetes avoid foods that cause spikes in blood sugar, like sugary snacks and refined carbs such as white bread. Instead, they focus on foods that help stabilize blood sugar, like healthy fats and high-fiber options. Portion control and eating meals at regular times are also important for keeping blood sugar levels steady.
How can a dietitian help someone with diabetes?
Dietitians play a crucial role in assisting individuals with diabetes through lifestyle modification strategies and symptom management. Their expertise is particularly valuable for those recently diagnosed or at risk of developing diabetes. Dietitians provide guidance on tracking carbohydrate intake and appropriately dosing insulin, which is essential for effective diabetes management. For individuals with type 2 diabetes, dietitians can help design weight loss plans and recommend specific dietary modifications, such as increasing the intake of plant-based foods, to promote a healthier lifestyle. In addition, dietitians will often work with other medical professionals on a patient's care team to help the patient navigate symptoms and can thus help the patient integrate input from various professional sources in the management of their condition.