Weight Loss/Weight Management 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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Mandy Huffman Nix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Mandy Huffman Nix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morganton, NC 28655
Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
Through diet recall, nutrition testing, counseling, addressing food-related symptoms, and pinpointing nutrition-related issues we will develop an individualized nutrition plan to help you live your best life.
Whether you are seeking weight management, blood sugar control, discovering the root cause of GI distress, addressing food sensitivities, or meal planning, my passion is helping you achieve your wellness goals and to feel your best.
Through diet recall, nutrition testing, counseling, addressing food-related symptoms, and pinpointing nutrition-related issues we will develop an individualized nutrition plan to help you live your best life.
(828) 439-0724 View (828) 439-0724
Photo of Jordan DeBoard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Jordan DeBoard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Online Only
Hi, I’m Jordan! I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and I work with adults (18+) in North Carolina who are ready to find healing and freedom with food and their bodies. While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
Hi, I’m Jordan! I’m a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and I work with adults (18+) in North Carolina who are ready to find healing and freedom with food and their bodies. While I specialize in eating disorder recovery, I also support people navigating PCOS and other hormonal concerns, diabetes, sports nutrition, and intuitive eating.
(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 Morgan Rossi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morgan Rossi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support in building an intentional relationship with their body. I specialize in disordered eating dynamics that involve binge eating, fear of body changes, struggles with body image, and anxiety around food. I am additionally passionate about working with folks who experience sensory sensitivities, low appetite and/or trauma-associated food dysregulation. I create a space that celebrates queerness and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support in building an intentional relationship with their body. I specialize in disordered eating dynamics that involve binge eating, fear of body changes, struggles with body image, and anxiety around food. I am additionally passionate about working with folks who experience sensory sensitivities, low appetite and/or trauma-associated food dysregulation. I create a space that celebrates queerness and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
(828) 522-9371 View (828) 522-9371
Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians
Why is nutrition important for weight loss?
Dietitians often identify diet and exercise as the two key factors in achieving weight loss goals. To lose weight, individuals must consume fewer calories than they expend, making a supportive diet essential. Foods that are satiating, such as the healthy fats found in nuts or fish like salmon, can help keep individuals full longer and reduce overall intake. In contrast, foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates are quickly burned by the body and can lead to excessive caloric intake. These examples highlight the importance of overall nutrition choices, beyond just calorie counting, in weight loss. Additionally, a well-balanced diet can help reduce symptoms of conditions associated with obesity or being overweight, such as high blood sugar and hypertension.

What diet is best for weight loss?
There is no single best diet for weight loss; instead, dietitians often advocate for adopting overall lifestyle changes that support sustainable weight loss rather than extreme, short-term diets. Generally, dietary changes that include more plant-based foods and those low in added sugars and saturated fats are recommended. One example of such a diet is the Mediterranean-style diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean sources of animal protein. Specific dietary patterns may also be tailored to the client's underlying health conditions. For instance, individuals with hypertension or high cholesterol might benefit from the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which focuses on heart-healthy foods.

What foods should I avoid for weight loss?
When aiming for weight loss, dietitians generally advise against consuming high-calorie and highly-processed foods, such as fried foods, fatty meats, sugar-rich desserts or baked goods, refined carbohydrates like white bread, and candy. Additionally, beverages such as sodas and high-calorie coffee drinks can negatively impact weight loss goals. Instead, nutrition professionals recommend incorporating foods that contribute to satiety and overall health, including fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Focusing on adding these nutrient-dense foods, instead of taking away certain foods, can support a healthier lifestyle and help individuals both meet their nutritional needs while also achieving their weight loss goals.

How can a dietitian help with weight loss?
Dietitians assist with weight loss by helping clients develop and implement lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and exercise routines, that support sustained weight management. They will work with clients to create personalized weight loss plans and hold them accountable for meeting their goals. Dietitians may also address the psychological aspects of weight loss, promoting positive self-esteem and self-worth. Many encourage clients to keep a food diary or journal to track their diet and provide ongoing guidance as the client makes the recommended lifestyle changes. Additionally, dietitians may coordinate with other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors, to address any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes.