Autoimmune Diseases Nutritionists and Dietitians in Wayland, MA

Photo of Katherine L Fernald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master
Katherine L Fernald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, Reiki, Master
Online Only
I am a registered, licensed, insurance accepting, psych-specialist nutritionist with over 20 years experience. Referrals and inquiries accepted for nutritional concerns including: eating disorders, weight control issues for all ages, Alzheimers, diabetes, digestive disorders, and other medical concerns. I offer assistance with 12 step recovery programs, medication induced weight gain, complex issues involving: nutrition and pregnancy, breast feeding, cholesterol, blood pressure, heart related issues, and vegetarian nutrition. I also specialize in co-occurring mental illness and eating disorders or other medical issues. I have experience in geriatric and childhood psychiatric nutrition. I provide family support and involvement as necessary.
I am a registered, licensed, insurance accepting, psych-specialist nutritionist with over 20 years experience. Referrals and inquiries accepted for nutritional concerns including: eating disorders, weight control issues for all ages, Alzheimers, diabetes, digestive disorders, and other medical concerns. I offer assistance with 12 step recovery programs, medication induced weight gain, complex issues involving: nutrition and pregnancy, breast feeding, cholesterol, blood pressure, heart related issues, and vegetarian nutrition. I also specialize in co-occurring mental illness and eating disorders or other medical issues. I have experience in geriatric and childhood psychiatric nutrition. I provide family support and involvement as necessary.
(508) 955-0579 View (508) 955-0579
Photo of Tori Nelson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Tori Nelson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Tori Nelson is a registered dietitian focused on using her knowledge to help those dealing with gut dysfunction, auto-immune disease, and woman’s health and hormonal imbalances. Tori understands personally the negative impact gut dysfunction can have on someone. After personally suffering for too long with bowel irregularity, bloating, and more she was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. It has become her passion to help others suffering who are left with nowhere to turn. She believes that through the correct holistic and alternative therapies, you can uncover the root cause of dis-ease to heal and achieve long-term wellness.
Tori Nelson is a registered dietitian focused on using her knowledge to help those dealing with gut dysfunction, auto-immune disease, and woman’s health and hormonal imbalances. Tori understands personally the negative impact gut dysfunction can have on someone. After personally suffering for too long with bowel irregularity, bloating, and more she was diagnosed with Crohn's Disease. It has become her passion to help others suffering who are left with nowhere to turn. She believes that through the correct holistic and alternative therapies, you can uncover the root cause of dis-ease to heal and achieve long-term wellness.
(508) 219-6969 View (508) 219-6969

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Rachael Biggers, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
Rachael Biggers
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Rachael’s specialties include diabetes (pre, type 1, type 2, gestational), autoimmune conditions, digestive disorders, disordered eating, binge eating disorder, intuitive/mindful eating, anti-inflammatory diet and general wellness.
Rachael is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping others to develop a joyful and harmonious relationship with food. She understands that ones relationship with food and body is deeply personal and wants to work alongside you in partnership, meeting you where you are at in your health journey. Rachael’s approach is integrative and holistic, focusing on finding balance, sustainability, and most importantly, enjoyment in food. She believes in connecting with clients on a personal level to understand their unique lifestyle, background, and challenges, allowing for her to provide truly individualized support.
Rachael’s specialties include diabetes (pre, type 1, type 2, gestational), autoimmune conditions, digestive disorders, disordered eating, binge eating disorder, intuitive/mindful eating, anti-inflammatory diet and general wellness.
Rachael is a Registered Dietitian who is passionate about helping others to develop a joyful and harmonious relationship with food. She understands that ones relationship with food and body is deeply personal and wants to work alongside you in partnership, meeting you where you are at in your health journey. Rachael’s approach is integrative and holistic, focusing on finding balance, sustainability, and most importantly, enjoyment in food. She believes in connecting with clients on a personal level to understand their unique lifestyle, background, and challenges, allowing for her to provide truly individualized support.
(786) 686-0434 View (786) 686-0434
Photo of Maureen Hodgdon - Aligned Nutrition Counseling, Inc., Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Aligned Nutrition Counseling, Inc.
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Medway, MA 02053
Currently accepting new clients! Are you ready to ditch the diet, learn how to fuel your body and realign your gut? Do you want to optimize your health and wellness? Our gastrointestinal tract houses the majority of our immune system. The foods we eat can directly affect our immune system causing inflammation and digestive issues. Maureen specializes in the area of gastroenterology and works closely with those with various digestive issues and food sensitivities.
Currently accepting new clients! Are you ready to ditch the diet, learn how to fuel your body and realign your gut? Do you want to optimize your health and wellness? Our gastrointestinal tract houses the majority of our immune system. The foods we eat can directly affect our immune system causing inflammation and digestive issues. Maureen specializes in the area of gastroenterology and works closely with those with various digestive issues and food sensitivities.
(508) 388-1733 View (508) 388-1733
Photo of Linda Oechsle, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, NBC-HWC
Linda Oechsle
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, NBC-HWC
Serves Area
Are you living with a chronic health condition that you would like to improve but don’t know where to start? Are you confused or overwhelmed by all the advice you get from family, friends, or healthcare providers about what you should eat or do to feel better? Have you already tried to make some healthy changes, but just haven’t been able to make them stick? If you're looking for evidence-based nutrition guidance and a nonjudgmental partner who can help you build and maintain healthy habits, I can help. My holistic, coaching-based approach to diet and lifestyle change empowers you to reach your health goals and live your best life.
Are you living with a chronic health condition that you would like to improve but don’t know where to start? Are you confused or overwhelmed by all the advice you get from family, friends, or healthcare providers about what you should eat or do to feel better? Have you already tried to make some healthy changes, but just haven’t been able to make them stick? If you're looking for evidence-based nutrition guidance and a nonjudgmental partner who can help you build and maintain healthy habits, I can help. My holistic, coaching-based approach to diet and lifestyle change empowers you to reach your health goals and live your best life.
(475) 244-9841 View (475) 244-9841
Photo of George Mandler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CLT, CNS, LDN, LicAc, FABORM
George Mandler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CLT, CNS, LDN, LicAc, FABORM
Stow, MA 01775
I am a Massachusetts Chinese Medicine doc and Licensed Dietitian. I studied Functional Medicine before it became a buzzword 15+ years ago, although no longer use expen$ive testing but focus on Chinese Medicine diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in the areas of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, IBD, IBS, and reflux but see SIBO as a symptom rather than a cause. I do not give out SIBO diets, but work on fixing the underlying issue. If you have GYN issues such as heavy bleeding, menopausal symptoms, or pain during periods I can almost certainly help you with Chinese Medicine.
I am a Massachusetts Chinese Medicine doc and Licensed Dietitian. I studied Functional Medicine before it became a buzzword 15+ years ago, although no longer use expen$ive testing but focus on Chinese Medicine diagnosis and treatment. I have a special interest in the areas of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, IBD, IBS, and reflux but see SIBO as a symptom rather than a cause. I do not give out SIBO diets, but work on fixing the underlying issue. If you have GYN issues such as heavy bleeding, menopausal symptoms, or pain during periods I can almost certainly help you with Chinese Medicine.
(978) 248-0318 View (978) 248-0318
Photo of Malou Aragon Nichols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Malou Aragon Nichols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Serves Area
Malou sees each individual as the expert of their lived experience and believes in their inherent wholeness. Their work is offered in deep respect for the activism and leadership of People of the Global Majority, BIPoC, Two-Spirit, fat, trans, and disabled people. She recognizes that food and body liberation movements, along with ideas like Health at Every Size, intuitive eating, or mindful eating, are not just possible, but have roots in the ancient, Indigenous worldviews of sovereignty, collective care, and relational well-being.
Malou sees each individual as the expert of their lived experience and believes in their inherent wholeness. Their work is offered in deep respect for the activism and leadership of People of the Global Majority, BIPoC, Two-Spirit, fat, trans, and disabled people. She recognizes that food and body liberation movements, along with ideas like Health at Every Size, intuitive eating, or mindful eating, are not just possible, but have roots in the ancient, Indigenous worldviews of sovereignty, collective care, and relational well-being.
(970) 442-9670 View (970) 442-9670
Photo of Megan Byrd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Megan Byrd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Megan is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients improve health and wellness through a compassionate, personalized approach. She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness. She collaborates with clients to create plans that support their unique health goals.
Megan is a Registered Dietitian who helps clients improve health and wellness through a compassionate, personalized approach. She has experience in PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating in children, blood pressure and cholesterol management, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness. She collaborates with clients to create plans that support their unique health goals.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Sue-Ellen Anderson-Haynes - 360Girls&Women, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES , LDN, CPT
360Girls&Women
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES , LDN, CPT
Hopkinton, MA 01748
Are you or your loved one struggling with hormone imbalances such as insulin resistance, low libido, irregular periods, early puberty, fibroids, PCOS, early menopause, hot flashes, gut issues, constant hunger, sugar cravings, etc? Chronic disease (Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes..) significantly affect your reproductive health. If you're struggling with these health issues expert professional guidance is available at 360Girls&Women. We help you manage, prevent, often times reverse diet & lifestyle related diseases, those specifically that affect the health of girls & women, using evidence-based holistic methods
Are you or your loved one struggling with hormone imbalances such as insulin resistance, low libido, irregular periods, early puberty, fibroids, PCOS, early menopause, hot flashes, gut issues, constant hunger, sugar cravings, etc? Chronic disease (Heart Disease, Cancer, Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes..) significantly affect your reproductive health. If you're struggling with these health issues expert professional guidance is available at 360Girls&Women. We help you manage, prevent, often times reverse diet & lifestyle related diseases, those specifically that affect the health of girls & women, using evidence-based holistic methods
(508) 625-7042 View (508) 625-7042
Photo of Yourfide Dietitian-Nutritionist Llc - YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
YourFide Dietitian Nutritionist Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
Services we offer: Individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy and Counseling for: Heart disease/ Kidney disease/pre diabetes- Diabetes/ high cholesterol/Crohn/ PCOS/ Gout/ Autoimmune-diseases/ Liver-Disease/ Cancers/ High Blood Pressure/ Eating-Disorder (Anorexia/Bulimia)/ Gastrointestinal-diseases /Lupus/ Weight-management- Obesity/ Irritable Bowel Syndrome /
Insurance Accepted: Ready to reverse abnormal blood test results? Want to see improvement in your health and prevent complications? Need a chronic disease functional medicine practitioner ? We provide whole-body assessments, functional and integrative medicine services, order blood test, and then create a personalized nutrition plan to help your body heal naturally. Schedule to see our holistic board certified dietitian. Meet with our holistic certified dietitian in-office or via Tele-health( online). We’re in-network with all major health insurances plans… doctors can fax referral to:470-239-1564
(678) 974-0659 View (678) 974-0659
Photo of Stephanie Sudjian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MEd, RD, LDN, IFMCP
Stephanie Sudjian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, MEd, RD, LDN, IFMCP
Online Only
Hi there! I am a seasoned Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in women’s health. My mission is to change the dialogue & outcomes surrounding women's health by empowering women to better understand how their bodies function. With over a decade of advanced education & specialized functional training, I am committed to guiding women toward the health outcomes they deserve, with a focus on genuine care and comprehensive lifestyle solutions including stress management, movement, sleep hygiene, social connection, and nervous system support.
Hi there! I am a seasoned Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in women’s health. My mission is to change the dialogue & outcomes surrounding women's health by empowering women to better understand how their bodies function. With over a decade of advanced education & specialized functional training, I am committed to guiding women toward the health outcomes they deserve, with a focus on genuine care and comprehensive lifestyle solutions including stress management, movement, sleep hygiene, social connection, and nervous system support.
(484) 642-0482 View (484) 642-0482
Photo of Amanda Rigby - HealThy Self Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
HealThy Self Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CLT
Online Only
The diet that is right for you has no name. I know you’ve tried everything because I was you. It was not until I stopped working against my body that I learned I was in control of how good I could feel. I also know you don’t feel well. No one seems to understand why you’d rather stay home, or why it takes you so long to get ready. You don’t recognize yourself anymore. You’re tired of waiting for answers. Most importantly, you just want to feel normal again.
The diet that is right for you has no name. I know you’ve tried everything because I was you. It was not until I stopped working against my body that I learned I was in control of how good I could feel. I also know you don’t feel well. No one seems to understand why you’d rather stay home, or why it takes you so long to get ready. You don’t recognize yourself anymore. You’re tired of waiting for answers. Most importantly, you just want to feel normal again.
(401) 246-8577 View (401) 246-8577
Photo of Meg Marie Orourke - Harmony With Food: Meg Marie ORourke, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Harmony With Food: Meg Marie ORourke
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
I help people who have hit a brick wall with conventional medicine. The TRUTH is most doctors know very little about nutrition, the microbiome, micronutrients or food sensitivities. At Harmony With Food we say " TEST don't Guess" to determine exactly what food, drinks and supplements you should or should not be doing. Not getting what you hoped for with conventional medicine? Microbiome, Mold, Food Sensitivities, micronutrients etc. may be the cause of your chronic GI Issues: constipation, bloating or running to the bathroom all the time. Joint pain, fatigue, weight loss resistance etc.
I help people who have hit a brick wall with conventional medicine. The TRUTH is most doctors know very little about nutrition, the microbiome, micronutrients or food sensitivities. At Harmony With Food we say " TEST don't Guess" to determine exactly what food, drinks and supplements you should or should not be doing. Not getting what you hoped for with conventional medicine? Microbiome, Mold, Food Sensitivities, micronutrients etc. may be the cause of your chronic GI Issues: constipation, bloating or running to the bathroom all the time. Joint pain, fatigue, weight loss resistance etc.
(401) 246-7493 View (401) 246-7493
Photo of Jason Kashdan - Alimente, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Alimente
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Serves Area
Alimente provides 1-on-1 nutrition counseling tailored to each individual's preferences, needs, and values. Together we will make a plan to reshape how you see food.
Alimente provides 1-on-1 nutrition counseling tailored to each individual's preferences, needs, and values. Together we will make a plan to reshape how you see food.
(401) 389-3337 View (401) 389-3337
Photo of Nicolette Fraza, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Nicolette Fraza
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I help people struggling with digestive health issues overcome their symptoms through evidence based nutrition and lifestyle strategies when conventional medicine has failed them. I believe everyone has the right to live an energetic, symptom free life and have epic, daily poops. Bloating, reflux, irregular bowel movements, gas, food sensitivities, chronic fatigue, weight fluctuations and skin issues are not normaI and are not all in your head. Together we will take an individualized, holistic approach to restore your gut health, calm inflammation and ditch the diets so you can feel confident in the way you eat, look, and feel.
I help people struggling with digestive health issues overcome their symptoms through evidence based nutrition and lifestyle strategies when conventional medicine has failed them. I believe everyone has the right to live an energetic, symptom free life and have epic, daily poops. Bloating, reflux, irregular bowel movements, gas, food sensitivities, chronic fatigue, weight fluctuations and skin issues are not normaI and are not all in your head. Together we will take an individualized, holistic approach to restore your gut health, calm inflammation and ditch the diets so you can feel confident in the way you eat, look, and feel.
View
Photo of Erin Angelillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Erin Angelillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Hi! My name is Erin and I'm a Registered Dietitian. I help to educate and empower clients through their recovery with disordered eating and negative body image. I also specialize in complex chronic conditions including dysautonomia, POTS, and MCAS. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, my goal is to support you with practical tools that honor your unique needs and lived experience.
Hi! My name is Erin and I'm a Registered Dietitian. I help to educate and empower clients through their recovery with disordered eating and negative body image. I also specialize in complex chronic conditions including dysautonomia, POTS, and MCAS. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, my goal is to support you with practical tools that honor your unique needs and lived experience.
(857) 466-1820 View (857) 466-1820
Photo of Alejandra .londono, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Alejandra .londono
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Serves Area
I provide personalized nutritional support for a wide range of health concerns, including gastrointestinal issues, PCOS,diabetes, pregnancy and prenatal nutrition, chronic kidney disease (CKD), autoimmune conditions, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol.
With over 12 years of experience in the field of holistic and functional nutrition, I am passionate about helping individuals create lasting, meaningful change in their health and well-being. My approach focuses on addressing the root causes of imbalance rather than just managing symptoms, guiding clients to develop sustainable eating habits that support their unique needs and long-term goals. I believe that true wellness comes from a well-rounded approach, which is why I work with all the key pillars of well-being—nutrition, lifestyle, emotional health, and mindfulness. My mission is to empower people to make conscious decisions.
I provide personalized nutritional support for a wide range of health concerns, including gastrointestinal issues, PCOS,diabetes, pregnancy and prenatal nutrition, chronic kidney disease (CKD), autoimmune conditions, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol.
With over 12 years of experience in the field of holistic and functional nutrition, I am passionate about helping individuals create lasting, meaningful change in their health and well-being. My approach focuses on addressing the root causes of imbalance rather than just managing symptoms, guiding clients to develop sustainable eating habits that support their unique needs and long-term goals. I believe that true wellness comes from a well-rounded approach, which is why I work with all the key pillars of well-being—nutrition, lifestyle, emotional health, and mindfulness. My mission is to empower people to make conscious decisions.
(813) 694-9329 View (813) 694-9329
Photo of Aarti Batavia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, FSCP, IFMCP
Aarti Batavia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, FSCP, IFMCP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With over 27 years of experience in clinical & outpatient counseling, I specialize in providing personalized health solutions to manage chronic conditions such as inflammation, autoimmune conditions, digestive/gut issues, IBS/ BD, food allergies, asthma, migraine, fibromyalgia, eczema, obesity metabolic syndrome, hormonal imbalances-peri/ menopause & post menopause.
I focus on addressing the root cause of health issues instead of masking symptoms with medications. Through personalized guidance, I help you navigate the path to health with clarity. I offer food-sensitivity, stool, and other testing to further tailor your health plan. By using the right nutrition and supplements, you can feel great again.
With over 27 years of experience in clinical & outpatient counseling, I specialize in providing personalized health solutions to manage chronic conditions such as inflammation, autoimmune conditions, digestive/gut issues, IBS/ BD, food allergies, asthma, migraine, fibromyalgia, eczema, obesity metabolic syndrome, hormonal imbalances-peri/ menopause & post menopause.
I focus on addressing the root cause of health issues instead of masking symptoms with medications. Through personalized guidance, I help you navigate the path to health with clarity. I offer food-sensitivity, stool, and other testing to further tailor your health plan. By using the right nutrition and supplements, you can feel great again.
(517) 366-2248 View (517) 366-2248
Photo of Leah Grace Barack - Grace Functional Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
Grace Functional Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
I help women struggling with bloat, constipation, and digestive issues find real, lasting relief. Maybe you’ve tried “eat more fiber” and cutting foods out, but nothing really works—and you're tired of feeling stuck, sluggish, and uncomfortable in your own body. You just want to have a flat belly, regular bowel movements, feel lighter, and stop obsessing over your symptoms. If you’re craving real answers, consistent relief, and a clear path forward that feels doable and sustainable, I can help you get there.
View
Photo of Cindy Crowninshield, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, HHC
Cindy Crowninshield
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, HHC
Online Only
I help patients with GI disorders, food allergies/sensitivities/intolerances, inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and weight management.
My ideal patient is someone who wants to learn about clean eating and healthy ingredients to put into AND onto their body and how just one ingredient can promote health or disease. For example, spinach or chicken may be toxic to my patient but healthy to someone else. Through customized nutrition treatment plans, genetic testing, application of Chinese medicine (when clinically appropriate), and meal planning my patients learn how to eat compatible, real foods for their body to eliminate the source of symptoms and health issues.
I help patients with GI disorders, food allergies/sensitivities/intolerances, inflammatory diseases, autoimmune disorders, and weight management.
My ideal patient is someone who wants to learn about clean eating and healthy ingredients to put into AND onto their body and how just one ingredient can promote health or disease. For example, spinach or chicken may be toxic to my patient but healthy to someone else. Through customized nutrition treatment plans, genetic testing, application of Chinese medicine (when clinically appropriate), and meal planning my patients learn how to eat compatible, real foods for their body to eliminate the source of symptoms and health issues.
(781) 786-7216 View (781) 786-7216
Autoimmune Diseases Nutritionists and Dietitians

What are autoimmune diseases?

Autoimmune conditions are diseases characterized by the over-activation of the body's immune system. There are many types of autoimmune diseases, each varying in symptoms, severity, and affected areas. Widely known autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, Addison's disease, and scleroderma. While the causes of autoimmune diseases are often unknown, many people manage their symptoms with medications (such as anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs) and lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise modifications.

How can nutrition help with autoimmune diseases?

While there is little evidence to suggest that autoimmune conditions can be cured through diet, many individuals with autoimmune conditions may benefit from nutrition changes to reduce autoimmune symptoms. Since autoimmune conditions are characterized by high levels of inflammation, including anti-inflammatory foods in one's diet may be particularly important for those with autoimmune conditions. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish like salmon, have been shown to reduce inflammation, as have fruits and vegetables that contain anti-inflammatory nutrients as well as fiber that can support a healthy gut microbiome.

What diet is best for autoimmune diseases?

Due to the diverse types and symptoms of autoimmune diseases, there is no single best diet for all individuals with these conditions. However, evidence suggests that certain diets can benefit specific autoimmune diseases. For instance, individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often benefit from consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3-rich fish like salmon, various fruits, and leafy vegetables. Conversely, foods that promote inflammation—such as sodas, processed meats, white flour, sugary snacks, and deep-fried items—can exacerbate RA symptoms. Keeping a dietary journal to track food intake and symptoms can help individuals with any autoimmune condition identify which foods affect their autoimmune symptoms and make necessary changes.

Does nutrition counseling work for people with autoimmune diseases?

Nutrition counseling can be highly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune diseases, especially when other symptom management strategies have not been effective. A dietitian can help clients identify foods that exacerbate their autoimmune symptoms and develop a plan to reduce or eliminate these foods while maintaining their nutritional needs. Additionally, dietitians often have specific expertise in working with clients with certain autoimmune conditions closely linked to dietary intake, such as type 1 diabetes. In these cases, dietitians may be able to provide specialized guidance and create a tailored nutrition plan for the client based on their expertise.