Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Du Page County, IL

Photo of Steve Ziganto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Steve Ziganto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Woodridge, IL 60517
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
At our first session, the average person tells me "I know what I need to do, I just wish I had the willpower to do it." Many rely on sheer willpower to accomplish their goals instead of learning how to make nutrition a simple and enjoyable process. Nutrition is not supposed to be this hard or guilt-inducing. It should primarily mold around your general life and preferences, not the other way around. My main approach to accomplish this is to build a basic understanding on why your old habits do not work, and why these new habits will work.
(708) 840-8701 View (708) 840-8701
Photo of Deepa Deshmukh, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE, LDN
Deepa Deshmukh
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, BC-ADM, CDE, LDN
Lisle, IL 60532
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.
(630) 387-9967 View (630) 387-9967
Photo of Lou Ann Chvatal, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, cpt
Lou Ann Chvatal
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, cpt
Lisle, IL 60532
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.
(630) 338-0778 View (630) 338-0778
Photo of Sofia Mendes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Sofia Mendes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Downers Grove, IL 60515
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
I am a registered dietitian who is passionate about guiding others toward a healthier, more positive relationship with food and their bodies. I understand that nutrition is not a one-size-fits-all journey, which is why I prioritize a client-centered approach and tailor my care to each individual. In a world overwhelmed by nutrition myths and misinformation, I strive to cut through the noise and make healthy living approachable and clear. I recognize that every person has unique nutritional needs, so I ensure that my guidance reflects that.
(630) 496-4611 View (630) 496-4611
Photo of Anna Petersen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Petersen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Anna works collaboratively with clients, utilizing a root cause approach, while providing quality care in an accessible manner. She believes that food is not only fuel but a vital component of a person's overall health and happiness. Her approach is characterized by empathy and active listening, allowing her to understand each client’s unique challenges and aspirations. Anna's focus is on functional nutrition, meaning she looks at how food and nutrients affect bodily functions - from energy and digestion to mood and cognitive function.
Anna works collaboratively with clients, utilizing a root cause approach, while providing quality care in an accessible manner. She believes that food is not only fuel but a vital component of a person's overall health and happiness. Her approach is characterized by empathy and active listening, allowing her to understand each client’s unique challenges and aspirations. Anna's focus is on functional nutrition, meaning she looks at how food and nutrients affect bodily functions - from energy and digestion to mood and cognitive function.
(779) 228-3873 View (779) 228-3873
Photo of Ashley McTaggart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Ashley McTaggart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
Formerly Ashley Evans. I am a Registered Dietitian and an alumna of Northern Illinois University. With over seven years of experience in the eating disorder field, I am deeply passionate about supporting individuals in their recovery journey. I began my nutrition career at a residential eating disorder facility in downtown Chicago and later expanded my expertise through roles in Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) levels of care. My nutrition philosophy emphasizes building a healthy and positive relationship with food, integrating mental, emotional, physical, and social health.
(773) 372-0099 View (773) 372-0099
Photo of Christi Kargl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Christi Kargl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
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.
(312) 584-2745 View (312) 584-2745
Photo of Mia Greco - Olive Branch Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Olive Branch Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MPH, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
Our mission is to provide weight inclusive medical nutrition therapy, using the principles of Intuitive Eating in a HAES aligned practice. The intent of our counseling is to help people find peace with food freedom, develop a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, and focus on gentle nutrition to manage and prevent chronic disease states.
(224) 218-5362 View (224) 218-5362
Photo of Mark LeVine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Mark LeVine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
(847) 629-4985 View (847) 629-4985
Photo of Alexis Gonzalez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Alexis Gonzalez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(312) 584-3691 View (312) 584-3691
Photo of Stephanie Fiorentino, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Stephanie Fiorentino
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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.
(773) 207-3268 View (773) 207-3268
Photo of Marisa Spiegel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Marisa Spiegel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a dietitian with 20 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals across all stages of life, from children to older adults, discover how nutrition can transform their health and well-being. My work spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I’ve supported people managing a wide range of medical conditions, lifestyle goals, and health concerns. These experiences have shaped my deep belief that nutrition is more than just what we eat, it's a key part of prevention, healing, and living fully.
As a dietitian with 20 years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of helping individuals across all stages of life, from children to older adults, discover how nutrition can transform their health and well-being. My work spans both inpatient and outpatient settings, where I’ve supported people managing a wide range of medical conditions, lifestyle goals, and health concerns. These experiences have shaped my deep belief that nutrition is more than just what we eat, it's a key part of prevention, healing, and living fully.
(708) 273-5872 View (708) 273-5872

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Alisha Macas, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Alisha Macas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Northfield, IL 60093
As a foodie at heart, I believe nourishing your body should be delicious and fun!
Together, we'll work on fueling your body with the right foods, and embracing a balanced lifestyle that supports both your health goals and well being. I want you to feel strong, confident, and connected with the foods that help you feel your best. It should be fun and fulfilling - because you deserve it! Feel free to reach out and let's work together!
As a foodie at heart, I believe nourishing your body should be delicious and fun!
Together, we'll work on fueling your body with the right foods, and embracing a balanced lifestyle that supports both your health goals and well being. I want you to feel strong, confident, and connected with the foods that help you feel your best. It should be fun and fulfilling - because you deserve it! Feel free to reach out and let's work together!
(331) 296-0758 View (331) 296-0758
Photo of Abbie Widing, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Abbie Widing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60616
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
Abbie is passionate about helping others improve their relationship with food, body image, weight, and health. She helps clients achieve positive changes in mental and physical well-being through nutrition counseling and education. Abbie provides personalized care tailored to your nutritional needs using a non-diet approach. She offers counseling in a supportive setting, using methods like motivational interviewing and cognitive-behavioral therapy, along with tools such as hands-on activities and educational handouts.
(659) 216-8557 View (659) 216-8557
Photo of Amanda Wagner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RDN, LDN
Amanda Wagner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
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.
(872) 253-8493 View (872) 253-8493
Photo of Jacs Scheinman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Jacs Scheinman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
Hi, I’m Jacs Scheinman (he/him)—a registered dietitian and co-founder of Food 4 Thought Nutrition, PLLC. I specialize in compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support for neurodivergent, queer, and chronically ill individuals—especially those navigating disordered eating, ARFID, or complex medical and digestive conditions. If traditional nutrition advice hasn’t worked for your brain or body, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken.
(847) 910-3662 View (847) 910-3662
Photo of Shilpa K Patel - Energycompass, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Energycompass
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Barrington, IL 60010
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I specialize in educating and empowering clients by addressing the complex interconnections between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment. My goal is to support whole-body function and long-term wellness by targeting key systems such as sugar metabolism, gastrointestinal health, brain and mental health, hormonal balance, immune function, and more. Using a personalized, functional approach, I incorporate a wide range of tools—including comprehensive lab testing and individualized assessments—to uncover nutritional and lifestyle imbalances that may be contributing to health challenge
(847) 994-4313 View (847) 994-4313
Photo of Hannah Orlosky, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Hannah Orlosky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Online Only
Hi, I'm Hannah! I help people make peace with food and reconnect with their bodies in a gentle, sustainable way. My approach is non-diet, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed, supporting clients across a range of nutrition needs—from eating disorders and disordered eating to general nutrition and wellness guidance.
Hi, I'm Hannah! I help people make peace with food and reconnect with their bodies in a gentle, sustainable way. My approach is non-diet, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed, supporting clients across a range of nutrition needs—from eating disorders and disordered eating to general nutrition and wellness guidance.
(872) 253-6782 View (872) 253-6782
Photo of Kendall Shanks, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Kendall Shanks
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60622
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
As I grow older, I realize I want to help adults and older adults continue living their best lives. My ideal client is someone who doesn’t judge themselves by their chronological age, but wants to live healthfully and simply needs the right tools, guidance, and confidence to inspire both themselves and their families.
(813) 590-1238 View (813) 590-1238
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60610
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
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.