Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chicago, IL
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
Are you looking for an individualized approach to nutrition? Do you feel stuck in the dieting cycle and not sure where to go next? Do you struggle to incorporate healthy habits during busy weeks with hectic schedules? I am a Registered Dietitian at Fuel U (by SHIFT), a 12-week personalized nutrition coaching program (available both in-person and virtually). Through my connection with SHIFT, a concierge medical practice in River North, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our dual-compartment DEXA scan), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health.
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
With a heart that genuinely loves people, Kelly derives immense satisfaction from coaching and helping individuals on their path to better health.
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
As a Dietitian Coach with All Access Dietitians, we commit to a 12 session program with all clients. The program is rooted in positive psychology to enable behavior change towards your health and wellness goals, blending the science of nutrition with the art of coaching.
If you are someone looking for the accountability and guidance to change your health habits, improve your bloodwork, manage your chronic condition through diet and build your toolbox of resources for sustainable change, this will be a great fit for you.
As a Dietitian Coach with All Access Dietitians, we commit to a 12 session program with all clients. The program is rooted in positive psychology to enable behavior change towards your health and wellness goals, blending the science of nutrition with the art of coaching.
If you are someone looking for the accountability and guidance to change your health habits, improve your bloodwork, manage your chronic condition through diet and build your toolbox of resources for sustainable change, this will be a great fit for you.
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Plant Based Diets, Heart Health, Kidney Health, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
Specialties include: Sports Nutrition, Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Intuitive and Mindful Eating, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Plant Based Diets, Heart Health, Kidney Health, and General Lifestyle and Nutrition.
Maria is a Registered Dietitian who strongly believes in improving physical, mental, and emotional health through nutrition. Maria enjoys using her clinical background to help others navigate their unique nutritional needs by providing individualized interventions. Maria believes in a patient-centered, evidenced-based approach to nutrition care. She will help you achieve your nutrition goals through education, counseling, and therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure response prevention therapy, and medical nutrition therapy.
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
Carra is a Registered Dietitian (RD) who recognizes that nutrition is both universal and deeply personal. Nutrition isn’t just about eating—culture, goals, preferences, and habits all shape how we fuel ourselves. Carra provides a nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect nutrition and wellness and feel empowered to make sustainable changes.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Madeline is a registered dietitian who is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their personal goals and feel in control of their own nutrition journey. She has experience in all levels of eating disorder treatment across all age groups. Madeline has a background in athletics and utilizes this to foster resilience and strength in her clients. She approaches each session with curiosity and drive to understand her clients struggles. She provides a safe space for all individuals to create and define their own definition of health and sustainable change.
Specialties include: Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
Specialties include: Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Morgan is a registered dietitian committed to improving overall health and well-being. She specializes in supporting individuals with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, and thyroid management. With a holistic approach, Morgan goes beyond assessing dietary habits to consider various lifestyle factors such as sleep patterns, stress levels, and one's relationship with food. Morgan combines her expertise in nutrition with a compassionate approach to guide individuals on their journey towards improved health and wellness. Morgan recognizes that everyone's health and wellness journey is unique.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
Brittany Payton, RD, LD, is a licensed dietitian with over 19 years of experience helping clients heal chronic conditions using food as medicine. After facing her own health challenges, she adopted a root-cause, whole-body approach. Brittany blends functional nutrition, clinical insight, and compassion to create personalized, practical plans. She truly listens to each client, empowering them to make lasting change—no quick fixes or restrictive diets here.
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
I specialize in eating disorders/disordered eating, emotional eating, diabetes or pre-diabetes, general health, heart health, sports & performance nutrition, chronic kidney disease, IBS, gut health, thyroid disorders, weight stabilization, weight loss medications, tube feeding (EN), total parenteral nutrition (TPN), and cancer.
I understand that life’s challenges are complex and unique to each individual. Busy schedules, limited nutrition resources, and complicated relationships with food are just some of the many factors that contribute to failed diet and lifestyle changes. I’m here to help you establish a healthy relationship with food and guide you through the connection between mind, body, and spirit to accomplish your goals. I firmly believe that wellness is a dynamic process of change and growth, “a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease“.
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
Solveig is a Registered Dietitian who specializes in women's health, fertility, and PCOS. She fosters a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their relationship with food and learn to make mindful choices that nourish both body and soul. Solveig believes in a holistic, non-diet approach to nutrition counseling, empowering clients to be the expert of their own body. She believes her job as a dietitian is to share evidence-based knowledge, provide nutrition education, and help reframe limiting beliefs while respecting client's autonomy regarding their health choices.
I specialize in all things women's health. This includes PCOS, fertility, endometriosis, thyroid health, and menopause. All my sessions are virtual and I work with people in many different states across the US.
I specialize in all things women's health. This includes PCOS, fertility, endometriosis, thyroid health, and menopause. All my sessions are virtual and I work with people in many different states across the US.
Christi (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), and a Lifestyle Coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program. She studied dietetics and dance at Michigan State University and completed a master’s degree in applied nutrition at Russell Sage College. She helps clients with a variety of health concerns and specializes in diabetes, metabolic disorders, mental health conditions, digestion issues and weight concerns. Christi is LGBTQ+ ally with years of experience providing inclusive care.
Christi (she/her) is a registered dietitian, a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES), and a Lifestyle Coach for the Diabetes Prevention Program. She studied dietetics and dance at Michigan State University and completed a master’s degree in applied nutrition at Russell Sage College. She helps clients with a variety of health concerns and specializes in diabetes, metabolic disorders, mental health conditions, digestion issues and weight concerns. Christi is LGBTQ+ ally with years of experience providing inclusive care.
At Nourished Transitions, I provide individualized, evidence-based nutrition care rooted in a whole-person approach. As a registered dietitian, I support clients in managing chronic conditions, eating disorders, and disordered eating while fostering a more attuned relationship with food and body. My work is compassionate, collaborative, and inclusive, with a commitment to culturally responsive care that honors diverse identities, including BIPOC experiences. I also integrate support for life transitions and overall well-being.
At Nourished Transitions, I provide individualized, evidence-based nutrition care rooted in a whole-person approach. As a registered dietitian, I support clients in managing chronic conditions, eating disorders, and disordered eating while fostering a more attuned relationship with food and body. My work is compassionate, collaborative, and inclusive, with a commitment to culturally responsive care that honors diverse identities, including BIPOC experiences. I also integrate support for life transitions and overall well-being.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
Hi! I'm Mia (she/her). I’m a Registered Dietitian dedicated to providing culturally centered, accessible, and compassionate nutrition care. I am committed to providing HAES-aligned evidence based care that also honors and celebrates your lived experience. I utilize intuitive eating principles and motivational interviewing with an “all foods fit” and gentle nutrition approach.I will work with you from a place of curiosity and together we will develop tools, skills, and knowledge to better understand and nourish your body while working towards your health goals.
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in sports nutrition, plant-based eating, and the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner and former division 1 cross country/ track athlete. She is also a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach.
Amanda is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) that specializes in sports nutrition, plant-based eating, and the intersection of the two. She is an avid runner and former division 1 cross country/ track athlete. She is also a former high school science teacher with a M.Ed in science education who changed careers to become a RDN. Amanda also works as Certified Running Coach.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
Hi, I’m Alexis! I am a Health at Every Size-aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, substance use, and medical nutrition therapy. My counseling approach is weight-neutral, client-centered, and grounded in evidence-based practice. I believe every individual has the capacity to live free from the cycle of dieting and the pain of persistent body dissatisfaction. It is my belief that nourishing our bodies can be both empowering and enjoyable.
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/ Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Other areas of practice/interest include Cardiac/ Heart Health, Renal Disease, and intuitive eating.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Brianne is a Registered Dietitian at Health Loft who is passionate about providing personalized support to help clients reach their health goals and create sustainable lifestyle changes. She takes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, meeting each person where they are in their journey. Brianne believes nutrition and health are not one-size-fits-all and is committed to walking alongside her clients, offering guidance tailored to their unique needs—one step at a time.
Brianne is a Registered Dietitian at Health Loft who is passionate about providing personalized support to help clients reach their health goals and create sustainable lifestyle changes. She takes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach, meeting each person where they are in their journey. Brianne believes nutrition and health are not one-size-fits-all and is committed to walking alongside her clients, offering guidance tailored to their unique needs—one step at a time.
Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians
How does nutrition affect heart health?
Nutrition plays a significant role in heart health, affecting conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can raise "bad" cholesterol levels, potentially leading to clogged arteries and heart disease. In addition, high-sugar and refined carb foods, common in the American diet, are often high in calories but low in nutrients. Abundant consumption of such foods can lead to conditions such as weight gain and diabetes, which put extra strain on the heart. Excess sodium intake is yet another dietary component that can impact heart health. Consumption of too much sodium can raise blood pressure, making the heart work harder. Conversely, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps support heart health through the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels and the reduction of inflammation.
What diet is best for heart health?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutrition approach to a heart healthy diet. The "Mediterranean diet," characterized by the consumption of lots of healthy fats, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is one common diet with abundant evidence supporting its efficacy in reducing blood cholesterol levels and preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet is another common diet shown to reduce blood pressure and positively impact heart health; the DASH diet emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low fat dairy products with a particular focus on reducing the consumption of saturated fats. Conversely, diets that include the consumption of large amounts of protein and fats—such as the keto diet and atkins diet—are generally not recommended for those with heart conditions or high cholesterol levels due to the high levels of saturated and trans fats such diets can include.
What foods increase one's risk of heart disease?
Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, can have a very negative impact on heart health. In addition, sweets, high-sugar drinks, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta are usually good to avoid in order to positively impact heart health. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fat alternatives, such as consuming lean fish high in omega-3 fatty acids instead of red meat, is often a good strategy, as is replacing highly-processed and sugar-rich foods with alternative carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Why should someone with heart disease see a dietitian?
Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so individuals with heart disease may greatly benefit from seeing a dietitian to improve their cardiac health. Dietitians can help clients identify foods that support heart health, such as whole grains, as well as help clients eliminate foods that can place a strain on the heart when consumed in large quantities over time, such as saturated and trans fats. Dietitians can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support heart health, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with heart disease, such as kidney conditions or diabetes.