Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Haywood County, NC

Photo of Diana Laursen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Diana Laursen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Waynesville, NC 28786
I know firsthand that health isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s also about being proactive. As a dietitian and a mom of four, I understand the challenge of juggling it all—busy schedules, family meals, and finding balance in the chaos. That’s why I am passionate about making nutrition both practical and powerful. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s a tool for longevity, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s stabilizing blood sugar, supporting hormonal health, or creating high-protein, low-calorie meals that fit a hectic lifestyle, my goal is to help folks make smart, informed choices that work in real life.
I know firsthand that health isn’t just about reacting to problems—it’s also about being proactive. As a dietitian and a mom of four, I understand the challenge of juggling it all—busy schedules, family meals, and finding balance in the chaos. That’s why I am passionate about making nutrition both practical and powerful. Food isn’t just fuel—it’s a tool for longevity, energy, and well-being. Whether it’s stabilizing blood sugar, supporting hormonal health, or creating high-protein, low-calorie meals that fit a hectic lifestyle, my goal is to help folks make smart, informed choices that work in real life.
(828) 576-5748 View (828) 576-5748
Photo of Michelle Rizzi Shelfer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Michelle Rizzi Shelfer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Serves Area
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
(828) 337-5148 View (828) 337-5148
Photo of Traci S Malone - Traci Malone Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Traci Malone Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Are you looking for a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body or hoping to better manage a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or PCOS?
Areas of specialty include weight concerns, disordered eating, diabetes, heart disease, and PCOS, focusing on a positive nutrition approach vs strict and rigid eating. I am also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor.
Are you looking for a positive and sustainable relationship with food and your body or hoping to better manage a health condition such as diabetes, heart disease, or PCOS?
Areas of specialty include weight concerns, disordered eating, diabetes, heart disease, and PCOS, focusing on a positive nutrition approach vs strict and rigid eating. I am also a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor.
(828) 592-2592 View (828) 592-2592

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Sarah Helmick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
I have become particularly interested in PCOS, perimenopause and menopause recently and enjoy working with these populations.
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
I have become particularly interested in PCOS, perimenopause and menopause recently and enjoy working with these populations.
I enjoy working with a number of individuals including those who are looking to improve their relationship with food and their bodies, let go of beliefs about food that are preventing them from living a full life, and those who are struggling with chronic health concerns and wanting to learn more about nutrition habits that can be supportive to their well being.
(828) 516-9602 View (828) 516-9602
Photo of Jordan DeBoard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Jordan DeBoard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Online Only
While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
My approach is conversational, relaxed, and centered around you. Think of me as a guide in the passenger seat—you’re in control of your journey, and I’m here to support your goals along the way.
While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
My approach is conversational, relaxed, and centered around you. Think of me as a guide in the passenger seat—you’re in control of your journey, and I’m here to support your goals along the way.
(828) 457-8851 View (828) 457-8851
Photo of Maggie G Gartman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Maggie G Gartman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, IFNCP
Online Only
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
Hello! I am an Integrative & Functional Registered Dietitian specializing in Gut, Inflammatory and Metabolic Conditions. I believe in the power of food as medicine and root-cause methodology to support my patients optimal health, to prevent and manage chronic diseases, and to promote wellness. My approach utilizes an expanded toolkit of evidence-based Integrative and Functional Nutrition practices and can be employed to support a wide range of conditions. I offer advanced functional nutrition testing for food sensitivities, micronutrient deficiencies and stool testing.
(984) 230-9334 View (984) 230-9334
Photo of Growing Inward Nutrition Collective, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Growing Inward Nutrition Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Asheville, NC 28803
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
(626) 605-1838 View (626) 605-1838
Photo of Kendra Leanne Gaffney - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in North Carolina and virtually across the nation! We practice under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
(828) 348-5822 View (828) 348-5822
Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks.
Individualized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is your pathway to feeling in control of your PCOS… not the other way around. Together, we’ll work on restoring regular periods, easing frustrating symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and cramps, and building confidence in food and lifestyle choices that actually support your hormones.
I’m Lauren, a holistic Registered Dietitian who supports women with PCOS in their 20s through early 40s achieve regular periods with less pain, bloating, and fatigue so they can regain control of their cycles, improve fertility outcomes, and protect their future health against PCOS-related risks.
Individualized 1-on-1 nutrition counseling is your pathway to feeling in control of your PCOS… not the other way around. Together, we’ll work on restoring regular periods, easing frustrating symptoms like bloating, fatigue, and cramps, and building confidence in food and lifestyle choices that actually support your hormones.
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition characterized by hormonal imbalance, leading to symptoms such as irregular or absent periods, weight gain, excess hair growth, infertility, and acne. The exact causes of PCOS are not well understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors, including stress and nutrition.

How is PCOS treated?
PCOS is typically treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes. Many individuals with PCOS are prescribed birth control medication to help regulate the abnormal hormone levels associated with the condition. With regard to lifestyle modifications, healthcare professionals often recommend maintaining a balanced, healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity. This is particularly important for women diagnosed with obesity or diabetes, as weight loss and improved insulin regulation can significantly alleviate PCOS symptoms.

What diet is best for people with PCOS?
In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutritional approach to managing PCOS. Because women diagnosed with PCOS are at a higher risk of specific conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and heart problems, a diet that helps prevent such conditions can be highly effective. The "Mediterranean diet," characterized by the consumption of lots of healthy fats, vegetables, beans, and whole grains is one common diet with evidence supporting its efficacy in preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. In addition, other lifestyle modifications that support weight management and healthy insulin levels—such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction—are often also incorporated into PCOS treatment.

What foods should people with PCOS avoid?
Due to the high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance characteristic of PCOS, experts typically advise individuals with PCOS to avoid foods that cause large blood sugar spikes, such as sugary snacks and refined carbs like white bread. Instead, they recommend consuming foods rich in healthy fats, whole grains, and fiber, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Individuals with PCOS may also find that certain foods trigger their symptoms. Therefore, identifying and avoiding these specific foods can be important for reducing symptom severity on an individual level.