Celiac Disease Nutritionists and Dietitians in Brainerd, MN

Photo of Jessica Carter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CDCES, IFMCP
Jessica Carter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CDCES, IFMCP
Online Only
My ideal clients are adult women and teenage athletes who sense something is off — their skin, energy, hormones, or performance isn't where it should be. Many are also thinking longer term, about longevity and healthspan, and how the choices they make now shape how they feel and function for decades to come. They're ready to look deeper, and I help them do that through a functional, integrative approach that gets specific to them — not a generic plan, but a real strategy built around their whole picture.
My ideal clients are adult women and teenage athletes who sense something is off — their skin, energy, hormones, or performance isn't where it should be. Many are also thinking longer term, about longevity and healthspan, and how the choices they make now shape how they feel and function for decades to come. They're ready to look deeper, and I help them do that through a functional, integrative approach that gets specific to them — not a generic plan, but a real strategy built around their whole picture.
(218) 209-4527 View (218) 209-4527

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Tara Zauhar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CSSD
Tara Zauhar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CSSD
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55442
I take a client-focused approach and have experience with nutrition counseling, eating disorders, weight management, women's health and fertility as well as sports nutrition. I will work with my client to help them reach their goals and be your biggest supporter. I will be there to answer questions, give (honest) feedback and if you want assistance in making lifestyle adjustments, I am your person!
I take a client-focused approach and have experience with nutrition counseling, eating disorders, weight management, women's health and fertility as well as sports nutrition. I will work with my client to help them reach their goals and be your biggest supporter. I will be there to answer questions, give (honest) feedback and if you want assistance in making lifestyle adjustments, I am your person!
(952) 243-5506 View (952) 243-5506
Photo of Laura Szondy, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CSOWM
Laura Szondy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CSOWM
Coon Rapids, MN 55433
We serve adolescents and adults seeking support with:​ healthy lifestyle meal planning, weight management​, medication side effects​, chronic medical conditions​, diabetes and cardiac conditions​, food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances​, eating disorders and disordered eating​, and relationship with food concerns​.
We serve adolescents and adults seeking support with:​ healthy lifestyle meal planning, weight management​, medication side effects​, chronic medical conditions​, diabetes and cardiac conditions​, food allergies, sensitivities, and intolerances​, eating disorders and disordered eating​, and relationship with food concerns​.
(763) 314-4634 View (763) 314-4634
Celiac Disease Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers a significant immune response within the body. This response damages the small intestine, specifically targeting the villi—small projections within the gut that are crucial for nutrient absorption. The destruction of these villi leads to malabsorption of essential nutrients, resulting in symptoms such as malnutrition, osteopenia, gastrointestinal distress, and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals. Fortunately, most individuals with celiac disease can manage their symptoms effectively by following a gluten-free diet, which often includes alternatives like rice-based products.

What foods are not allowed if you have celiac disease?
Since gluten is present in foods containing wheat, barley, or rye, consuming products with these ingredients can trigger celiac disease symptoms. Common sources of gluten include bread, pasta, baked goods, crackers, and cereal products. However, gluten can also be found in unexpected places, such as certain milk-based products, salad dressings, processed meats, and energy/nutrition bars. To avoid accidental gluten consumption, individuals with celiac disease should check ingredient labels and be aware of ingredients derived from gluten-containing grains, such as malt from barley.

What diet is best for people with celiac disease?
A gluten-free diet is the most effective way to manage the symptoms of celiac disease. The increasing availability of "gluten-free" products, along with the abundance of naturally gluten-free grains such as rice, potatoes, oats, quinoa, and corn, has made it easier to maintain a gluten-free lifestyle. Other than reducing or eliminating the consumption of gluten, however, there is no single diet that is best for individuals with celiac disease. Even without gluten, individuals can consume a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and high-quality sources of protein. Indeed, consuming foods rich in vitamins and minerals is particularly important for those with celiac disease, as they often experience nutrient deficiencies due to malabsorption issues prior to diagnosis.

How can a dietitian help with celiac disease?
Dietitians can help with celiac disease by providing guidance on how to maintain a healthy gluten-free lifestyle. They can provide tips on how to avoid gluten-containing foods, including foods that may be at high-risk of gluten contamination. They can also offer substitution recommendations that ensure clients still consume enough healthy grains within their diet, and they can help clients navigate other resources that may be helpful in the management of their disease. In some cases, a dietitian may assist in identifying a gluten sensitivity; although registered dietitians (RDs) can't officially diagnose celiac disease, they may be particularly familiar with celiac disease symptoms and be able to help clients connect to a medical professional for further testing and treatment if they suspect a client may have the condition.