Cholesterol Nutritionists and Dietitians in Henderson County, NC

Photo of Taft Draper - Taft Draper Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, CSCS, CLT
Taft Draper Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, CSCS, CLT
Hendersonville, NC 28792
Each patient that comes in to see me has a story to tell. I listen and address the root causes that guides each person towards a path to health and well-being. We will create an individualized program that includes meal planning and recipes, along with a functional approach to feeling better and getting the results you want. If needed, we can test for food sensitivities using LEAP/MRT, hormones, micronutrient deficiencies, cardiometabolic, and stool testing for gut health. This holistic approach assesses someone's body as a whole to bring balance back into one's life.
Each patient that comes in to see me has a story to tell. I listen and address the root causes that guides each person towards a path to health and well-being. We will create an individualized program that includes meal planning and recipes, along with a functional approach to feeling better and getting the results you want. If needed, we can test for food sensitivities using LEAP/MRT, hormones, micronutrient deficiencies, cardiometabolic, and stool testing for gut health. This holistic approach assesses someone's body as a whole to bring balance back into one's life.
(828) 835-2858 View (828) 835-2858
Photo of Carol Shimberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Carol Shimberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS,RDN, RYT
Online Only
In addition, I provide medical nutrition therapy for chronic health issues such as, diabetes, weight management, women's health issues, obesity, heart disease, high cholesterol, healthy aging, cancer and autoimmune disorders.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
In addition, I provide medical nutrition therapy for chronic health issues such as, diabetes, weight management, women's health issues, obesity, heart disease, high cholesterol, healthy aging, cancer and autoimmune disorders.
My goal is to provide compassionate patient-centered medical nutrition therapy, support and guidance to you as your nutrition coach. I strive to empower my clients to create a healthier lifestyle by providing them with a quality individualized nutrition plan to prevent and treat disease. If you are suffering with a digestive/GI disorder, I can probably help!
(828) 408-0239 View (828) 408-0239
Photo of Diana Laursen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Diana Laursen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CLC, LDN
Serves Area
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 Becca Fleming, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Becca Fleming
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Online Only
Things that I typically focus on include: picky eating, disordered eating behaviors/eating disorders, textural challenges, sensory overload regarding food, FTT, regulating blood results that may have fallen out of the recommended parameters (glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, etc.), and many other topics.
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
Things that I typically focus on include: picky eating, disordered eating behaviors/eating disorders, textural challenges, sensory overload regarding food, FTT, regulating blood results that may have fallen out of the recommended parameters (glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, etc.), and many other topics.
Hello! My name is Becca! I specialize in pediatric nutrition with a focus on eating disorders, picky eating, FTT, supporting neurodivergent children, and many more! My approach is warm, supportive, and rooted in evidence-based practices. I work closely with families to create personalized strategies that help kids feel safe around food, build confidence at mealtimes, and develop a healthy relationship with eating—without power struggles or shame. Whether your child is a selective eater, struggling with food anxiety, or just needs a little extra support, I’m here to help you navigate it with compassion and clarity.
(828) 540-2636 View (828) 540-2636
Photo of Traci S Malone - Traci Malone Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Traci Malone Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Are you feeling frustrated with dieting, following rigid eating plans, or overwhelmed with so much nutrition information out there? 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? I focus on a non-diet health first approach and together we create a personalized nutrition plan that helps you meet your individual nutrition goals. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and families with young children. My services are covered by most BCBS health insurance policies.
Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Are you feeling frustrated with dieting, following rigid eating plans, or overwhelmed with so much nutrition information out there? 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? I focus on a non-diet health first approach and together we create a personalized nutrition plan that helps you meet your individual nutrition goals. I enjoy working with adults, teens, and families with young children. My services are covered by most BCBS health insurance policies.
(828) 592-2592 View (828) 592-2592

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Avance Nutrition-Onsite And Virtual Services - Avance Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Avance Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CDCES
Charlotte, NC 28204
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
At Avance Care Nutrition, our highest priority is your health and well-being. Partner with one of our dietitians and your healthcare team to meet your health and wellness goals. We can partner with you to: reach a healthier weight without deprivation with a personalized, flexible lifestyle and eating plan, improve your relationship with food and your body, learn to listen to your body’s cues for hunger and fullness, reduce your risk for developing chronic conditions like heart disease or manage chronic conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure, with fewer medications.
(984) 789-5087 View (984) 789-5087
Photo of Megan Byrd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Megan Byrd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211
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.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
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.
Megan provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling for PCOS, infertility, prenatal/postpartum nutrition, anti-inflammatory diets, picky eating, blood pressure, cholesterol, cardiovascular health, weight management, diabetes, food sensitivities, vegan/vegetarian diets, and overall wellness.
(346) 572-9634 View (346) 572-9634
Photo of Brie Mills, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Brie Mills
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I became a registered dietitian in 2010 and most recently earned my CDCES (Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist) credential to support clients with prediabetes and diabetes. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people improve their relationship with food and manage their health conditions. I stay current with the latest research to better equip my clients with the knowledge and tools they need for personal success. With that said, it’s all about personalization and no one-size-fits-all approach. I do not believe in restrictive diets or eliminating foods you love, but discovering the joy of healthy eating.
I became a registered dietitian in 2010 and most recently earned my CDCES (Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist) credential to support clients with prediabetes and diabetes. I have dedicated my professional career to helping people improve their relationship with food and manage their health conditions. I stay current with the latest research to better equip my clients with the knowledge and tools they need for personal success. With that said, it’s all about personalization and no one-size-fits-all approach. I do not believe in restrictive diets or eliminating foods you love, but discovering the joy of healthy eating.
(980) 374-3114 View (980) 374-3114
Photo of Emily Paeth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Emily Paeth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
Emily practices out of Health Loft and specializes in working with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Plant Based Diets, Digestive Issues, Body Image Concerns and other conditions. She strongly believes that all foods fit and strives to help clients in their food freedom journey. Using a weight neutral and non-judgemental approach, Emily believes that health is multifactorial and will work to see you as a person, rather than a diagnosis. Emily has spent the majority of her career in higher levels of care for eating disorder treatment (RES, PHP, IOP) treating various eating disorders diagnoses.
(754) 325-3311 View (754) 325-3311
Photo of Sarah Helmick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Boone, NC 28607
Waitlist for new clients
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 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 Rachel Murray, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, CSCS, LD
Rachel Murray
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, CSCS, LD
Charlotte, NC 28209
I help people build a healthier relationship with food while also meeting their real-life nutrition needs and goals. My approach is grounded in science, but always uniquely tailored to fit the needs of my clients - no one-size-fits-all solution. Sessions are collaborative and judgment-free, and I tailor strategies to your schedule, preferences, culture, and budget so they are realistic and sustainable. While I specialize in athletes and active individuals of all ages, my skills extend to serve a wide variety of nutrition needs. My goal is for you to leave our sessions feeling more confident, informed, and empowered.
I help people build a healthier relationship with food while also meeting their real-life nutrition needs and goals. My approach is grounded in science, but always uniquely tailored to fit the needs of my clients - no one-size-fits-all solution. Sessions are collaborative and judgment-free, and I tailor strategies to your schedule, preferences, culture, and budget so they are realistic and sustainable. While I specialize in athletes and active individuals of all ages, my skills extend to serve a wide variety of nutrition needs. My goal is for you to leave our sessions feeling more confident, informed, and empowered.
(980) 449-2310 View (980) 449-2310
Photo of Cheryl Buckley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Cheryl Buckley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, MBA , LDN, MS
Charlotte, NC 28210
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
I help individuals overcome dysfunction in their bodies from a holistic approach. I specifically target gut health, look at your lifestyle, nutrition, symptoms, and imbalances in your body, and create a personalized nutrition plan to help improve your overall well-being. Please visit my website for more information. Https://www.cherylbuckley.com
(704) 665-0042 View (704) 665-0042
Photo of Kelly Diamond, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Diamond
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28277
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
Are you tired of trying different diets in hopes it will help you reach your goals? Staying in the same cycle only to have an outcome of defeat? My approach is to get you out of that comfort zone and coach you to a healthier lifestyle with no pills, no shakes, and focus on FOOD first. I can test your metabolism with science based technology and customize a nutrition plan that will fit YOUR lifestyle and won't defeat you! I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
(617) 855-6890 View (617) 855-6890
Photo of Viktoria Reed, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Viktoria Reed
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN, LDN
Online Only
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
My ideal clients are individuals seeking support to improve their health through evidence-based, personalized nutrition. They may feel overwhelmed by symptoms, medical needs, or lifestyle challenges and want realistic, sustainable guidance. I help them by meeting them where they are and focusing on education rather than restriction. Together, we explore the “why” behind symptoms and behaviors and build practical strategies that fit their daily life, goals, and needs for lasting, meaningful change.
(708) 578-5773 View (708) 578-5773
Photo of Nicole Mobley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Nicole Mobley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
Hi, I'm Nicole Mobley! I am a Registered Dietitian and owner of Nutrition with Nicky. As an insurance-based provider, I ensure accessible care, making it easier for clients to prioritize their well-being. Most clients are covered 100% with not out of pocket costs. I am committed to empowering lasting change, while focusing on practical real-life solutions that promote balance.
(980) 340-4516 View (980) 340-4516
Photo of Joy Metevier, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSN, RDN, LD
Joy Metevier
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSN, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202
Joy is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with more than 15 years of experience, primarily serving as a dietitian for the U.S. Army. Her clinical background centers on eating disorders, and she’s passionate about helping clients define their own values around food, weight, and movement. She also facilitates eating-disorder recovery support groups through the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, supporting individuals and families throughout recovery.
Joy is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with more than 15 years of experience, primarily serving as a dietitian for the U.S. Army. Her clinical background centers on eating disorders, and she’s passionate about helping clients define their own values around food, weight, and movement. She also facilitates eating-disorder recovery support groups through the National Alliance for Eating Disorders, supporting individuals and families throughout recovery.
(410) 873-9844 View (410) 873-9844
Photo of Gina Marie Gilchrist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Gina Marie Gilchrist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28227
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. Gina’s passion is counseling pediatric and adolescent patients and their families, however, she also enjoys and has experience working with adults and seniors. She loves to wear many hats and utilizes her creativity in the field as she has presented on various nutrition topics for colleagues, communities, and corporations. She enjoys writing and upheld a nutrition column in Silent Sports Magazine while residing in Chicago.
(704) 327-0257 View (704) 327-0257
Photo of Allie Richardson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Allie Richardson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28210
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
Do you or a family member have stress or anxiety around food, eating or body image? Do you notice yourself feeling anxious about what may be served for dinner? Do you ever feel discouraged because the last diet you tried "didn't work"? If you are a person that struggles with an eating disorder, chronic dieting, body image dissatisfaction, over/under eating, or emotional eating, I am here to help and you are not alone in this journey. I believe you can love your body and food simultaneously. It is possible for you to have a healthy relationship with food and your body so you can enjoy your life again.
(406) 770-2158 View (406) 770-2158
Photo of Alex Hussey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Alex Hussey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Charlotte, NC 28203
I’m a registered dietitian with a private practice that supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, chronic dieting, and body image issues - for the folks I work with, food feels hard. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space for all individuals to share and process their experiences - my style is warm, accessible, and not without humor. I regularly integrate nutrition science with body-based (somatic) practices and therapeutic coaching to help my clients learn to nourish themselves from the bottom up, with confidence.
I’m a registered dietitian with a private practice that supports individuals struggling with eating disorders, chronic dieting, and body image issues - for the folks I work with, food feels hard. I strive to create a safe, judgment-free space for all individuals to share and process their experiences - my style is warm, accessible, and not without humor. I regularly integrate nutrition science with body-based (somatic) practices and therapeutic coaching to help my clients learn to nourish themselves from the bottom up, with confidence.
(704) 237-6539 View (704) 237-6539
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
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.