Bariatric Support Nutritionists and Dietitians in Downers Grove, IL
Hi there! I'm Faith, licensed registered dietitian and founder of The Bariatric Nutritionist. I specialize in treating adults with overweight and obesity. I received my Masters in Nutrition at University of Illinois. I bring to my practice over 6 years of nutrition therapy at one of the largest medical and surgical weight loss centers in Chicago. My counseling style is empathetic and encouraging.
Hi there! I'm Faith, licensed registered dietitian and founder of The Bariatric Nutritionist. I specialize in treating adults with overweight and obesity. I received my Masters in Nutrition at University of Illinois. I bring to my practice over 6 years of nutrition therapy at one of the largest medical and surgical weight loss centers in Chicago. My counseling style is empathetic and encouraging.
I'm Bella, a Registered Dietitian based in the suburbs of Chicago, specializing in an anti-diet approach that promotes intuitive eating and inclusivity. My counseling philosophy emphasizes embracing all foods without guilt and fostering balanced, enjoyable eating habits. I believe in empowering individuals to listen to their body's cues for hunger and fullness, guiding them toward a positive relationship with food that supports sustainable health and wellness.
I'm Bella, a Registered Dietitian based in the suburbs of Chicago, specializing in an anti-diet approach that promotes intuitive eating and inclusivity. My counseling philosophy emphasizes embracing all foods without guilt and fostering balanced, enjoyable eating habits. I believe in empowering individuals to listen to their body's cues for hunger and fullness, guiding them toward a positive relationship with food that supports sustainable health and wellness.
I SOLVE ATHLETE PROBLEMS. I work with athletes of every age and ability, helping them improve performance through sport-specific nutrition. Doing an Ironman? Making weight for an MMA fight? Need that DI scholarship? Have cramping issues, GI problems, hate your body, just tore your ACL or are paralyzed by all the conflicting diet ads? Do you run out of energy during workouts? Are you a masters athlete with medical issues and multiple meds? Maybe you're a parent and your kid wants to make the varsity team by using a sketchy supplement. Or you're a coach and just don't know what to say when your athletes get dehydrated. I CAN HELP!
I SOLVE ATHLETE PROBLEMS. I work with athletes of every age and ability, helping them improve performance through sport-specific nutrition. Doing an Ironman? Making weight for an MMA fight? Need that DI scholarship? Have cramping issues, GI problems, hate your body, just tore your ACL or are paralyzed by all the conflicting diet ads? Do you run out of energy during workouts? Are you a masters athlete with medical issues and multiple meds? Maybe you're a parent and your kid wants to make the varsity team by using a sketchy supplement. Or you're a coach and just don't know what to say when your athletes get dehydrated. I CAN HELP!
More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
As a dedicated and compassionate dietitian, Kristin specializes in helping her clients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized nutrition and lifestyle changes. With a deep understanding that each individual’s dietary needs are unique, she tailors her approach to suit her client’s specific lifestyle, health conditions and goals. Kristin focuses on promoting intuitive eating and fostering a positive relationship with food, helping her clients to listen to their body’s cues and develop a more balanced and mindful approach to eating.
People who wish to lose weight are battling a variety of factors related to behavior, psychology, and physiological adaptations that reduce how much fat our body is willing to burn while nudging us to eat more. I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
People who wish to lose weight are battling a variety of factors related to behavior, psychology, and physiological adaptations that reduce how much fat our body is willing to burn while nudging us to eat more. I use only evidence based strategies to get onto flexible and sustainable meal and exercise plans that work because they are based 100% on science and tailored to the individual from a person that has gone through the weight loss and health journey herself, me!
Jessica is a Registered Dietitian whom specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, and Sports Nutrition. Jessica is passionate about providing a patient-centered approach to nutrition care and is dedicated to helping clients reshape their lifestyle in a sustainable and enjoyable way so food is fun again. Her evidence-based and anti-diet recommendations support improving health with zero judgement towards food preferences or body size.Jessica is dedicated to providing the education and tools her patients need to thrive.
Jessica is a Registered Dietitian whom specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, and Sports Nutrition. Jessica is passionate about providing a patient-centered approach to nutrition care and is dedicated to helping clients reshape their lifestyle in a sustainable and enjoyable way so food is fun again. Her evidence-based and anti-diet recommendations support improving health with zero judgement towards food preferences or body size.Jessica is dedicated to providing the education and tools her patients need to thrive.
Christine is a warm, approachable dietitian who believes nutrition plays a crucial role in not only physical health, but also mental health and overall wellbeing. She takes a client-centered approach in her nutritional counseling, focusing on the specific needs of each individual. While providing a non-judgmental, positive and encouraging atmosphere for her clients, she uses goal and evidence based nutrition therapy to help clients achieve their desired results. Christine enjoys a hands-on approach, often helping clients with meal planning and grocery shopping.
Christine is a warm, approachable dietitian who believes nutrition plays a crucial role in not only physical health, but also mental health and overall wellbeing. She takes a client-centered approach in her nutritional counseling, focusing on the specific needs of each individual. While providing a non-judgmental, positive and encouraging atmosphere for her clients, she uses goal and evidence based nutrition therapy to help clients achieve their desired results. Christine enjoys a hands-on approach, often helping clients with meal planning and grocery shopping.
Ashley (Evans) McTaggart is a Registered Dietitian and a alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over six years of experience in the eating disorder field, Ashley is deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. She began her nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded her expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. Ashley’s nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
Ashley (Evans) McTaggart is a Registered Dietitian and a alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over six years of experience in the eating disorder field, Ashley is deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. She began her nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded her expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. Ashley’s nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
My ideal client struggles with disordered eating, emotional eating, or medical nutrition issues like diabetes or gastrointestinal problems. They feel overwhelmed by food choices, guilt, or body image concerns. Their goal is to regain control over their eating habits, heal their relationship with food, and manage their health without restrictive diets. They seek clarity, structure, and emotional support to develop a sustainable, balanced approach to nutrition that improves both their mental and physical well-being
My ideal client struggles with disordered eating, emotional eating, or medical nutrition issues like diabetes or gastrointestinal problems. They feel overwhelmed by food choices, guilt, or body image concerns. Their goal is to regain control over their eating habits, heal their relationship with food, and manage their health without restrictive diets. They seek clarity, structure, and emotional support to develop a sustainable, balanced approach to nutrition that improves both their mental and physical well-being
Natalie was born and raised in the Chicago area but has lived in Wisconsin, Georgia, and Florida before ultimately finding her way back to the windy city. She received her first degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in communication science and disorders and spent the early days of her career working in special education. As a former gymnast, Natalie always had a passion for food, nutrition, and its effect on athletic performance. She became a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and went on to receive her second degree in nutrition and dietetics from Dominican University in Chicago.
Natalie was born and raised in the Chicago area but has lived in Wisconsin, Georgia, and Florida before ultimately finding her way back to the windy city. She received her first degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in communication science and disorders and spent the early days of her career working in special education. As a former gymnast, Natalie always had a passion for food, nutrition, and its effect on athletic performance. She became a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and went on to receive her second degree in nutrition and dietetics from Dominican University in Chicago.
I am a registered dietitian (RD) and a certified nutrition support clinician (CNSC) with 12 years of experience providing medical nutrition therapy. I have an undergraduate and a graduate degree in nutrition and dietetics and I am currently pursuing a doctorate degree in clinical nutrition to further advance my knowledge and skills as a RD. I am very passionate about helping others and I strongly believe that non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, etc. are preventable by making certain lifestyle changes and I aim to provide sustainable ways to make those changes rather than a "diet" approach.
I am a registered dietitian (RD) and a certified nutrition support clinician (CNSC) with 12 years of experience providing medical nutrition therapy. I have an undergraduate and a graduate degree in nutrition and dietetics and I am currently pursuing a doctorate degree in clinical nutrition to further advance my knowledge and skills as a RD. I am very passionate about helping others and I strongly believe that non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, etc. are preventable by making certain lifestyle changes and I aim to provide sustainable ways to make those changes rather than a "diet" approach.
Alaa Elhannouny, a Registered Dietitian (RD) credentialed by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, completed her supervised practice in the Master's Coordinated Nutrition program at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her motivation as an RD is driven by her goal to prevent and combat the chronic conditions that affect many individuals today. Recognizing that nutrition is a key lifestyle risk factor for chronic diseases, she strives to empower clients to make informed decisions for optimal nutrition, helping them feel their best.
Alaa Elhannouny, a Registered Dietitian (RD) credentialed by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, completed her supervised practice in the Master's Coordinated Nutrition program at the University of Illinois at Chicago. Her motivation as an RD is driven by her goal to prevent and combat the chronic conditions that affect many individuals today. Recognizing that nutrition is a key lifestyle risk factor for chronic diseases, she strives to empower clients to make informed decisions for optimal nutrition, helping them feel their best.
Hi! My name is Mandy Guide, a registered dietitian nutritionist, working alongside Tina within the Pointe. My passion for health and nutrition has fueled me in this environment for the past 20 years! If you asked me what other career I would choose if not to be a dietitian, I do not think I would have another answer. I truly believe I was put on this earth to help teach and promote wellness to people.
Hi! My name is Mandy Guide, a registered dietitian nutritionist, working alongside Tina within the Pointe. My passion for health and nutrition has fueled me in this environment for the past 20 years! If you asked me what other career I would choose if not to be a dietitian, I do not think I would have another answer. I truly believe I was put on this earth to help teach and promote wellness to people.
Nicole is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She completed her dietetic internship through the coordinated graduate program at Northern Illinois University after attending the University of Minnesota for her undergraduate degree in nutrition. After sessions with Nicole, you can expect to feel empowered to make food choices that make you feel your best. You will gain a better understanding about how food and nutrition work in the body. Nicole excels at assisting clients with goal setting and providing clients with tools to achieve their goals.
Nicole is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. She completed her dietetic internship through the coordinated graduate program at Northern Illinois University after attending the University of Minnesota for her undergraduate degree in nutrition. After sessions with Nicole, you can expect to feel empowered to make food choices that make you feel your best. You will gain a better understanding about how food and nutrition work in the body. Nicole excels at assisting clients with goal setting and providing clients with tools to achieve their goals.
I have always had a passion for nutrition and helping others. I work with all patients/populations. I specialize in obesity/weight reduction, sports nutrition, women's health (Menopause, Perimenopause, PCOS, etc), Thyroid, diabetes, renal, cardiac (hypertension/high cholesterol), and Gut Health/GI conditions (IBS, Diverticulitis, Celiac, etc.).
I have always had a passion for nutrition and helping others. I work with all patients/populations. I specialize in obesity/weight reduction, sports nutrition, women's health (Menopause, Perimenopause, PCOS, etc), Thyroid, diabetes, renal, cardiac (hypertension/high cholesterol), and Gut Health/GI conditions (IBS, Diverticulitis, Celiac, etc.).
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
Stephanie is a Registered Dietitian with over 11 years of experience helping individuals manage their health through nutrition. Stephanie promotes individualized care, focusing on nutrition education, behavior change, and promoting health in a sustainable way. Stephanie enjoys connecting with her clients and developing a plan together that will work for their life and aligns with their goals.
Beth has been working for over five years as an inpatient, outpatient and long-term care Licensed Registered Dietitian. The possibilities to manage and prevent chronic disease with improved nutrition inspired Beth to begin a career in dietetics. A food lover at heart, Beth believes food must always taste good, therefore she loves to be creative with recipes to increase nutritional value. She helps guide her clients toward nutritious eating with the goal of nourishing the body to improve energy and quality of life.
Beth has been working for over five years as an inpatient, outpatient and long-term care Licensed Registered Dietitian. The possibilities to manage and prevent chronic disease with improved nutrition inspired Beth to begin a career in dietetics. A food lover at heart, Beth believes food must always taste good, therefore she loves to be creative with recipes to increase nutritional value. She helps guide her clients toward nutritious eating with the goal of nourishing the body to improve energy and quality of life.
Xyomara Beltran, RDN, MA, CHES, LDN, MBA, CPC is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 21 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Professional Coach. She received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise from Virginia Tech and completed her Dietetic Internship at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Additionally, she completed a Master of Arts in Health Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and her Healthcare Executive Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the University of Miami.
Xyomara Beltran, RDN, MA, CHES, LDN, MBA, CPC is a Board-Certified Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 21 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Professional Coach. She received a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise from Virginia Tech and completed her Dietetic Internship at New York-Presbyterian Weill Cornell Medical Center. Additionally, she completed a Master of Arts in Health Education at Teachers College, Columbia University, and her Healthcare Executive Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) at the University of Miami.
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience in the field of nutrition. After earning her bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Ohio University, Jennifer completed an accredited dietetic internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. When working with Jennifer, she will support you in accomplishing your health goals in a non-judgmental environment. Jennifer has enjoyed working in various healthcare settings providing medical nutrition therapy to adults with chronic diseases as well as ensuring pregnant women are meeting their nutrition requirements.
Jennifer is a Registered Dietitian with over 20 years of experience in the field of nutrition. After earning her bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Ohio University, Jennifer completed an accredited dietetic internship and master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from Rush University Medical Center in Chicago. When working with Jennifer, she will support you in accomplishing your health goals in a non-judgmental environment. Jennifer has enjoyed working in various healthcare settings providing medical nutrition therapy to adults with chronic diseases as well as ensuring pregnant women are meeting their nutrition requirements.
Voted Best "Weight Loss & Nutrition Program in the Chicago Area with over 20 Years Of Nutrition-Dietary Success. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with Balancing Glucose and Insulin Levels has helped patients lose between 5 and 125 pounds (single person), I will help you feel energized and happy again. Customized Eating Plans for your specific needs and lifestyle along with continuous Nutrition Education. I look forward to sharing my "JEM Bites" with you. Please leave a Voice Message if calling. Learn more about Judy E. Manisco, RD,LDN at www.jemnutriionservices.com
Voted Best "Weight Loss & Nutrition Program in the Chicago Area with over 20 Years Of Nutrition-Dietary Success. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with Balancing Glucose and Insulin Levels has helped patients lose between 5 and 125 pounds (single person), I will help you feel energized and happy again. Customized Eating Plans for your specific needs and lifestyle along with continuous Nutrition Education. I look forward to sharing my "JEM Bites" with you. Please leave a Voice Message if calling. Learn more about Judy E. Manisco, RD,LDN at www.jemnutriionservices.com
Bariatric Support Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is bariatric surgery?
Bariatric surgery is a weight-loss method involving surgical intervention to help individuals lose weight. There are several types of bariatric surgery, including gastric sleeve procedures, gastric bypass, and duodenal switch surgeries like the biliopancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. This approach is often considered a "last resort" due to the high risks and potential complications, such as nutrient malabsorption, "dumping syndrome," gallstones, and hernias. To qualify for bariatric surgery, adults typically must have "class III obesity," defined as a BMI over 40, or a BMI over 35 with at least one related health issue. Adolescents and children can also undergo bariatric surgery but have different inclusion criteria due to the risks associated with the procedure.
How long does it take to see results from bariatric surgery?
In general, the primary goal of bariatric surgery is to promote weight loss to prevent or better manage obesity-related conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, chronic mobility issues, and certain cancers. Therefore, since these diseases are chronic, it may take several years to see significant improvements or prevention following bariatric surgery. However, rapid weight loss often occurs in the initial weeks and months after surgery, with the extent of weight loss varying depending on the type of procedure and the patient's condition. Typically, the fastest weight loss occurs in the first 2-3 months post-surgery, with weight loss plateauing within 1-2 years.
What can you eat once you've had bariatric surgery?
In the first 1-2 months following bariatric surgery, individuals are placed on a restricted diet, such as a fully liquid or pureed food diet, to aid in recovery. After this initial period, most individuals can gradually reintroduce regular foods back into their diet, although they may find that some previously tolerated foods now cause discomfort, nausea, or vomiting. As a result, individuals are encouraged to reintroduce new foods slowly, especially those that are harder to digest, like salads, raw vegetables, and red meats. In addition, many clients may work closely with medical and nutrition professionals in the months and years following bariatric surgery in order to adopt a diet that promotes a healthier lifestyle and maintains their weight loss following bariatric surgery.
Who can benefit from bariatric nutrition support?
All individuals undergoing bariatric surgery can benefit from the expertise of a nutritional professional, such as a registered dietitian (RD), to manage their nutrition post-surgery. Given that bariatric surgery is often considered a "last resort" option, many individuals have already consulted a nutrition professional before their surgery to explore less invasive weight loss options. Following surgery, however, RDs can provide particularly valuable guidance in helping clients find foods that minimize post-surgery symptoms like nausea and vomiting and help develop a meal plan that promotes sustained weight loss. Additionally, RDs can help clients address certain nutritional deficiencies that may arise due to the altered digestive process after surgery, ensuring that clients maintain an adequate intake and receive essential vitamins and minerals following surgery.