Cholesterol Nutritionists and Dietitians in Willowbrook, IL

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Photo of Lauren Hopkin, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Lauren Hopkin
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, 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, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our DEXA scan to analyze body composition), 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, I have access to primary care physicians, best-in-class diagnostics (including our DEXA scan to analyze body composition), and other clinical resources that aid in coaching our Fuel U clients.
(815) 605-8861 View (815) 605-8861
Photo of Amy Adams, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LDN
Amy Adams
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether your goal is weight loss, building muscle, improving blood sugar, cholesterol, or blood pressure—or simply feeling confident in your body—I’m here to support you!
Hi, I’m Amy! I’m a Registered Dietitian & bodybuilder with 11 years of experience who knows firsthand what it’s like to put in maximum effort and still feel stuck. If you’re training hard, eating well, and not seeing the results you expect, you’re not broken. And if this is your very first step toward prioritizing your health and changing your life, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. My approach blends sustainable, evidence-based nutrition with personalized support, meeting you where you are and helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Whether your goal is weight loss, building muscle, improving blood sugar, cholesterol, or blood pressure—or simply feeling confident in your body—I’m here to support you!
Hi, I’m Amy! I’m a Registered Dietitian & bodybuilder with 11 years of experience who knows firsthand what it’s like to put in maximum effort and still feel stuck. If you’re training hard, eating well, and not seeing the results you expect, you’re not broken. And if this is your very first step toward prioritizing your health and changing your life, you’re exactly where you’re meant to be. My approach blends sustainable, evidence-based nutrition with personalized support, meeting you where you are and helping you move forward with clarity and confidence.
(339) 231-8126 View (339) 231-8126
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
Photo of Boguslawa L Susol, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Boguslawa L Susol
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I specialize in cardiometabolic health, helping individuals manage and prevent diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and maintain a healthy body weight through personalized nutrition.
I’m a Registered Dietitian and the owner of BLS Nutrition, a nutrition practice based in Schaumburg, Chicago Suburbs. From Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) and tailored meal planning to practical nutrition counseling and culinary guidance, I provide the tools and support needed to take charge of your health and feel your best. I am passionate about empowering individuals of all ages to take charge of their health with personalized nutrition strategies. My practice is open to everyone, and I strive to help individuals of all cultural backgrounds to the best of my ability. Additionally, children are always welcome in my office!
I specialize in cardiometabolic health, helping individuals manage and prevent diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and maintain a healthy body weight through personalized nutrition.
I’m a Registered Dietitian and the owner of BLS Nutrition, a nutrition practice based in Schaumburg, Chicago Suburbs. From Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) and tailored meal planning to practical nutrition counseling and culinary guidance, I provide the tools and support needed to take charge of your health and feel your best. I am passionate about empowering individuals of all ages to take charge of their health with personalized nutrition strategies. My practice is open to everyone, and I strive to help individuals of all cultural backgrounds to the best of my ability. Additionally, children are always welcome in my office!
(872) 395-6294 View (872) 395-6294
Photo of Katerina Varnum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Katerina Varnum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
I help improve blood sugar, reduce insulin resistance, reverse fatty liver markers, support weight loss, restore cycles in PCOS, and improve cholesterol and blood pressure.
You’re doing your best, yet your blood sugar is unpredictable, your weight won’t move, your energy crashes, or your cycles are irregular. You want answers, not another diet. My clients come to me when they’re struggling with insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, or midlife metabolism and are ready for a plan that actually works. I use functional nutrition, hormone mapping, and microbiome science to find what’s driving your symptoms so you can feel better, lose weight, and finally see real, lasting results.
I help improve blood sugar, reduce insulin resistance, reverse fatty liver markers, support weight loss, restore cycles in PCOS, and improve cholesterol and blood pressure.
You’re doing your best, yet your blood sugar is unpredictable, your weight won’t move, your energy crashes, or your cycles are irregular. You want answers, not another diet. My clients come to me when they’re struggling with insulin resistance, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, PCOS, fatty liver, or midlife metabolism and are ready for a plan that actually works. I use functional nutrition, hormone mapping, and microbiome science to find what’s driving your symptoms so you can feel better, lose weight, and finally see real, lasting results.
(818) 403-3159 View (818) 403-3159
Photo of Tera Naset - Tera Naset Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDCES
Tera Naset Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDCES
Serves Area
If you have Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, or struggle to lose weight in your mid-section, Tera Naset can help.
Tera will help you match your current diet with your current metabolism in order to get your labs back into the normal range ASAP. Then you can focus on improving your overall metabolism so that you can enjoy a wide range of foods and feel good in your body for a long time to come.
If you have Diabetes, High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure, or struggle to lose weight in your mid-section, Tera Naset can help.
Tera will help you match your current diet with your current metabolism in order to get your labs back into the normal range ASAP. Then you can focus on improving your overall metabolism so that you can enjoy a wide range of foods and feel good in your body for a long time to come.
(480) 841-9418 View (480) 841-9418
Photo of Brianne Herber, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Brianne Herber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
Specialties include nutrition support for bariatric surgery (pre- and post-op), weight management, diabetes, pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gout, general healthy eating, PCOS, gastrointestinal concerns, and IBS.
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.
Specialties include nutrition support for bariatric surgery (pre- and post-op), weight management, diabetes, pre-diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, gout, general healthy eating, PCOS, gastrointestinal concerns, and IBS.
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.
(341) 209-5964 View (341) 209-5964
Photo of Emmy Bright, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Emmy Bright
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Chicago, IL 60606
Hi there! I'm Emmy Bright, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor with a weight-neutral and non-diet approach to nutrition & health. I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions. I also specialize in working with clients who have or have had Disordered Eating, Body Image Issues, Chronic Dieting, and/or Eating Disorders (binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, ARFID).
Hi there! I'm Emmy Bright, a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor with a weight-neutral and non-diet approach to nutrition & health. I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions. I also specialize in working with clients who have or have had Disordered Eating, Body Image Issues, Chronic Dieting, and/or Eating Disorders (binge eating, anorexia, bulimia, ARFID).
(608) 535-6692 View (608) 535-6692
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 Ava Ajlouny, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Ava Ajlouny
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ava’s ideal client is someone who is curious about nutrition and ready to make real, lasting changes. They want to break free from diets, rebuild their relationship with food, and learn to trust their body’s cues. They’re interested in hormone balance, gut health, anti-inflammatory eating, and sustainable habits that support energy and well-being. They value guidance, education, and accountability as they move toward intuitive eating, joyful movement, and long-term health.
Ava’s ideal client is someone who is curious about nutrition and ready to make real, lasting changes. They want to break free from diets, rebuild their relationship with food, and learn to trust their body’s cues. They’re interested in hormone balance, gut health, anti-inflammatory eating, and sustainable habits that support energy and well-being. They value guidance, education, and accountability as they move toward intuitive eating, joyful movement, and long-term health.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
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 Ashley Jarvis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Ashley Jarvis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Ashley has been a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for over ten years and a pilates teacher for nearly fifteen years. Her greatest passion and profound privilege is to witness the power of functional nutrition and movement in her client’s health.
Ashley has been a practicing Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for over ten years and a pilates teacher for nearly fifteen years. Her greatest passion and profound privilege is to witness the power of functional nutrition and movement in her client’s health.
(919) 525-3799 View (919) 525-3799
Photo of Caitlin Johnson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Caitlin Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60638
My ideal client is a woman with PCOS who feels overwhelmed, unheard, or frustrated by conflicting advice. She wants clear answers, evidence-based nutrition guidance, and a plan that supports ovulation, hormone balance, and fertility without extremes. Her goal is to feel confident in her body again, understand her labs and symptoms, and take sustainable steps toward pregnancy and long-term metabolic health—with compassionate, realistic, and empowering support.
My ideal client is a woman with PCOS who feels overwhelmed, unheard, or frustrated by conflicting advice. She wants clear answers, evidence-based nutrition guidance, and a plan that supports ovulation, hormone balance, and fertility without extremes. Her goal is to feel confident in her body again, understand her labs and symptoms, and take sustainable steps toward pregnancy and long-term metabolic health—with compassionate, realistic, and empowering support.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Marcy Kirshenbaum, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
Marcy Kirshenbaum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Northbrook, IL 60062
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
As a clinical nutritionist, I offer individual nutritional counseling to help you make practical and sustainable changes specifically addressing your issues through a healthy lifestyle. You'll experience optimal health and wellness when your body functions are in balance. In our fast-paced, convenience focused lives, we are faced with many obstacles that take us off course-our lifestyle and the quality of our foods, for example. I specialize in gastrointestinal wellness and detoxification support. Gastrointestinal health plays a central role in all other body systems, while support of the body's detoxification mechanisms is critical in our world today.
(224) 231-6943 View (224) 231-6943
Photo of Elise Vega, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
Elise Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PSM, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre-Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
Specialities include: Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, Intuitive Eating, High Cholesterol, Heart Health, High Blood Pressure, Weight Gain, Anti-Inflammatory, Pre-Diabetes, and Type 2 Diabetes.
Elise is a dietitian who focuses on using realistic approaches to help you improve your health through nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle practices. Her approach to nutrition is holistic and client centered. She takes the time to fully understand your unique lifestyle, preferences, and challenges to create a realistic nutrition plan together as a team. Elise believes in the power of using high quality nutrient dense foods to support all aspects of your health and wellbeing.
(321) 468-9298 View (321) 468-9298
Photo of Anna Velazquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Anna Velazquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
Anna is a Registered Dietitian that practices out of Health Loft specializing in working with adults and pediatrics with a history of GI disorders (Celiac, IBS, Low-FODMAP, IBD, Constipation, GERD, lactase and sucrase deficiency), Healthy Eating, Food Allergies, and Pediatric Nutrition. She works collaboratively with clients to set realistic and practical goals reflective of individualized nutrition plans. She believes that balanced nutrition looks differently for everyone, and client’s medical history needs to be considered along with their resources, schedules, and circumstances.
(561) 709-2317 View (561) 709-2317
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 Jill Merkel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Jill Merkel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, Intuitive Eating, and sports nutrition. I’ve worked in a variety of settings including collegiate athletics, professional sports, and private practice. I aim to help you find freedom from food rules and restriction and I help active individuals fuel their bodies without obsession. I believe all bodies are good and everyone deserves respect, care, and acceptance. You are the expert of you. I am here to support you and help you figure out what feels best for you, in your body.
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, Intuitive Eating, and sports nutrition. I’ve worked in a variety of settings including collegiate athletics, professional sports, and private practice. I aim to help you find freedom from food rules and restriction and I help active individuals fuel their bodies without obsession. I believe all bodies are good and everyone deserves respect, care, and acceptance. You are the expert of you. I am here to support you and help you figure out what feels best for you, in your body.
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Photo of Brooke Rosenfeld, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Brooke Rosenfeld
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Online Only
My goal is to help you improve your relationship with food & ditch the fad diets. My goal is to not only help my clients lose weight but also the skills you will need to maintain results you achieve by building a solid foundation of baseline habits that will serve you for the rest of your life. Whether you want to lose weight, help aid in preventing or a plan that will help you treat a disease, you want to just improve your overall health & wellness, I am here to help you! I accept insurance as well as private pay.
My goal is to help you improve your relationship with food & ditch the fad diets. My goal is to not only help my clients lose weight but also the skills you will need to maintain results you achieve by building a solid foundation of baseline habits that will serve you for the rest of your life. Whether you want to lose weight, help aid in preventing or a plan that will help you treat a disease, you want to just improve your overall health & wellness, I am here to help you! I accept insurance as well as private pay.
(860) 854-7199 View (860) 854-7199
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
Cholesterol Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the blood that is essential for forming healthy cells and ensuring regular body functions. Although cholesterol often has a negative reputation, it plays a crucial role in our health. There are several types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The balance between these types is more important than eliminating cholesterol entirely. In general HDL is considered to be the "good" form of cholesterol, while LDL is considered to be the "bad" form associated with conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with high levels of LDL cholesterol circulating in their blood are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, as a result of plaque build-up on the interior of the body's arteries.

How does diet affect cholesterol?
While many individuals with high cholesterol are prescribed medications to help lower their levels, lifestyle changes—especially dietary modifications—are considered the first line of treatment. Reducing the consumption of foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, helps lower cholesterol. Conversely, consuming sufficient fiber, healthy fats (like those found in salmon and nuts), and low-fat proteins can help lower LDL levels and improve cardiovascular health.

What diet is best if you have high cholesterol?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutrition approach to lowering blood cholesterol levels. 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 cholesterol levels; 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 high cholesterol levels due to the high levels of saturated and trans fats that such diets can include.

Why is it useful to see a dietitian if you have high cholesterol?
Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have high cholesterol can be greatly beneficial. They can help construct a diet that lowers cholesterol and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Dietitians can assist clients in identifying foods that are low in cholesterol and those that support overall health. They can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support blood cholesterol reduction, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with high cholesterol, such as kidney conditions, diabetes, and heart disease.