Bariatric Support Nutritionists and Dietitians in Gurnee, IL

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

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Jeff Beach, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Jeff Beach
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food, energy, and overall well-being while honoring cultural food traditions. They often feel stuck between diet rules, confusion, or guilt around eating, and want a more sustainable, intuitive approach. I support clients through a culturally inclusive, anti-diet framework that values their lived experience. Together, we focus on mindful and intuitive eating, bridging the gap between knowledge and action so healthy eating feels natural, flexible, and sustainable.
My ideal clients are individuals wanting to improve their relationship with food, energy, and overall well-being while honoring cultural food traditions. They often feel stuck between diet rules, confusion, or guilt around eating, and want a more sustainable, intuitive approach. I support clients through a culturally inclusive, anti-diet framework that values their lived experience. Together, we focus on mindful and intuitive eating, bridging the gap between knowledge and action so healthy eating feels natural, flexible, and sustainable.
(708) 336-4998 View (708) 336-4998
Photo of Ellen Handlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ellen Handlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
As a practicing Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Coach, I am focused on helping clients discover joy and inspiration while living a healthy lifestyle. My approach is highly personalized and emphasizes balance and moderation, as opposed to restriction and elimination. Together, we'll explore your lifestyle and habits, building a fully customized plan you feel confident succeeding with. I'll be there for you every step of the way, offering warm and enthusiastic support in a judgment-free and secure space.
(877) 379-5460 View (877) 379-5460
Photo of Justyna Bergholz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Justyna Bergholz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Serves Area
I work with individuals navigating binge eating, chronic health conditions, and those interested in improving the quality of their diet. I offer a practical approach grounded in respect, compassion, and behavior change principles. I invite clients into a supportive space where you can untangle past food experiences, understand how food impacts your health, and engage in self-reflection - exploring and challenging beliefs about food, body, and self.
I work with individuals navigating binge eating, chronic health conditions, and those interested in improving the quality of their diet. I offer a practical approach grounded in respect, compassion, and behavior change principles. I invite clients into a supportive space where you can untangle past food experiences, understand how food impacts your health, and engage in self-reflection - exploring and challenging beliefs about food, body, and self.
(219) 342-2345 View (219) 342-2345
Photo of Ashley McTaggart, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Ashley McTaggart
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 Kristy Crum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MS
Kristy Crum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MS
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, eating disorders, and overall well-being. They often feel overwhelmed by nutrition advice or unsure how to make lasting changes. I provide collaborative, individualized, and evidence-based care focused on their goals. Together, we work to improve health, nutrition, and lifestyle through realistic strategies, behavior change, and ongoing support that promotes sustainable progress.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, eating disorders, and overall well-being. They often feel overwhelmed by nutrition advice or unsure how to make lasting changes. I provide collaborative, individualized, and evidence-based care focused on their goals. Together, we work to improve health, nutrition, and lifestyle through realistic strategies, behavior change, and ongoing support that promotes sustainable progress.
(773) 570-1002 View (773) 570-1002
Photo of Rita Ekelman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LDN, CD
Rita Ekelman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LDN, CD
Online Only
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.
(224) 362-0991 View (224) 362-0991
Photo of Alisa C Bloom, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC
Alisa C Bloom
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC
Lincolnshire, IL 60069
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
(224) 507-1973 View (224) 507-1973
Photo of Judy E. Manisco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Judy E. Manisco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Awarded BEST Effective Weight Loss and Nutrition Plans in Chicago. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with over twenty- five years of experience. My unique approach has helped people achieve 125 pound weight loss (single person), reverse diabetes, gain energy, clearer thinking, achieve personal and professional success, 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. Feel free to view my website to learn more about me.
Awarded BEST Effective Weight Loss and Nutrition Plans in Chicago. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with over twenty- five years of experience. My unique approach has helped people achieve 125 pound weight loss (single person), reverse diabetes, gain energy, clearer thinking, achieve personal and professional success, 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. Feel free to view my website to learn more about me.
(708) 512-7172 View (708) 512-7172

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Emma Wood, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Emma Wood
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
Emma specializes in working with clients interested in PCOS, Hormonal Imbalances, Pre/Post Natal, Infertility, Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management, Anti-Inflammatory, Thyroid Conditions, and other areas. Emma is passionate about helping others achieve their individual nutrition and health goals. She practices “judgment free” care and understands the numerous barriers to health, while serving as a partner to her patients on their wellness journey. She utilizes evidenced based practices to produce sustainable results and help others create a positive relationship with nutrition
(904) 454-8105 View (904) 454-8105
Photo of Tamara Stabrowski- Midwest Dietitian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Tamara Stabrowski- Midwest Dietitian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Online Only
I am a Certified Eating Disorder Dietitian (CEDS-C) and an approved consultant by IAEDP. I promote self-regulated principles to foster permanent life changes. My goal is to individualize tools necessary to balance normalized eating in everyday life without fears and anxieties over food as fuel. As CEO of Midwest Dietitian, I treat Anorexia and Bulimia, Athletes and Compulsive Exercisers, Food Addiction, Binge Eating Disorder, ARFID, Obesity, Compulsive Overeating, PICA, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder. HIPAA compliant Telehealth provided.
I am a Certified Eating Disorder Dietitian (CEDS-C) and an approved consultant by IAEDP. I promote self-regulated principles to foster permanent life changes. My goal is to individualize tools necessary to balance normalized eating in everyday life without fears and anxieties over food as fuel. As CEO of Midwest Dietitian, I treat Anorexia and Bulimia, Athletes and Compulsive Exercisers, Food Addiction, Binge Eating Disorder, ARFID, Obesity, Compulsive Overeating, PICA, and Body Dysmorphic Disorder. HIPAA compliant Telehealth provided.
(630) 427-4752 View (630) 427-4752
Photo of Laurie Schubert, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RD, CSSD
Laurie Schubert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RD, CSSD
Naperville, IL 60563
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!
(331) 215-9718 View (331) 215-9718
Photo of Alexa Morello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Alexa Morello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for women’s health, gut health, metabolic wellness, and long-term health. They often feel frustrated by ongoing symptoms, inconsistent results, or advice that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. I take a whole-person approach, looking at nutrition, habits, stress, and routines to understand the root of concerns. Together, we build personalized, realistic strategies that support symptom relief and long-term wellness, helping clients feel confident, supported, and consistent in their health journey.
(708) 991-5413 View (708) 991-5413
Photo of Douglas Liner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Douglas Liner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Hello! I am Doug Liner, a Registered Dietitian with 30 years of experience working with others in diabetes care, metabolic health, and weight loss. I work with a wide range of other medical conditions and hold a Certificate of training in Adult and Pediatric Obesity from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. I believe nutritional care should be approached through simple to understand and implement tools for daily living.
Hello! I am Doug Liner, a Registered Dietitian with 30 years of experience working with others in diabetes care, metabolic health, and weight loss. I work with a wide range of other medical conditions and hold a Certificate of training in Adult and Pediatric Obesity from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. I believe nutritional care should be approached through simple to understand and implement tools for daily living.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
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.
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.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Randi Andres, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Randi Andres
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60608
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
Randi Andres is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, PCOS, and Digestive Issues. Her passion is to help clients cultivate a more peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. Through a non-diet, weight inclusive philosophy, Randi enjoys providing the tools and support to clients so that they can learn to nourish their bodies in a safe, non-judgmental, and enjoyable way. She believes that through integrating the principles of intuitive eating and health at every size, everyone can and deserves to achieve food freedom.
(305) 614-9182 View (305) 614-9182
Photo of Tina M Musselman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LPC, RD, CLT, MA
Tina M Musselman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LPC, RD, CLT, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Does this sound familiar? You are busy, overstretched and tired of not recognizing yourself when you look in the mirror? Do you give so much to others, family, organizations and work that there is nothing left for yourself at the end of the day? Is your energy, vitality and health being chipped away little by little? Have challenges such as Whole 30, Hard 75 and intense diets failed you?
Does this sound familiar? You are busy, overstretched and tired of not recognizing yourself when you look in the mirror? Do you give so much to others, family, organizations and work that there is nothing left for yourself at the end of the day? Is your energy, vitality and health being chipped away little by little? Have challenges such as Whole 30, Hard 75 and intense diets failed you?
(815) 393-9509 View (815) 393-9509
Photo of Juhi Shah, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Juhi Shah
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Chicago, IL 60654
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.
(815) 605-2571 View (815) 605-2571
Photo of Caitlin Hexum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RD, LD
Caitlin Hexum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, RD, LD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for weight management, bariatric care, eating disorders, and overall health. They often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate nutrition advice and want a balanced, sustainable approach. I provide collaborative, individualized care focused on realistic goals, behavior change, and improving their relationship with food. My approach is supportive and practical, helping clients build confidence, consistency, and long-term habits that fit their lifestyle.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support for weight management, bariatric care, eating disorders, and overall health. They often feel overwhelmed, stuck, or unsure how to navigate nutrition advice and want a balanced, sustainable approach. I provide collaborative, individualized care focused on realistic goals, behavior change, and improving their relationship with food. My approach is supportive and practical, helping clients build confidence, consistency, and long-term habits that fit their lifestyle.
(210) 791-9924 View (210) 791-9924
Photo of Amanda Ghighi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Amanda Ghighi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60654
Amanda is an RD specializing in general health and wellness, eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
Amanda is an RD specializing in general health and wellness, eating disorders and disordered eating. She is dedicated to helping individuals heal their relationship with food and their bodies. Amanda believes in creating a compassionate and supportive environment, incorporating evidence-based nutrition practices to guide clients toward sustainable changes. She strives to empower her clients to break free from diet culture and develop a nourishing and balanced approach to eating. Amanda offers compassionate, patient-centered nutrition care, focusing on non-diet, weight-inclusive principles.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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.