Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians in Hickory, NC

Photo of Mandy Huffman Nix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Mandy Huffman Nix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Serves Area
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 Anna Lor, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Anna Lor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Serves Area
Whether you want more energy, better performance, weight management, or a healthier relationship with food, I offer personalized plans and one-on-one counseling tailored to your goals.
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Whether you want more energy, better performance, weight management, or a healthier relationship with food, I offer personalized plans and one-on-one counseling tailored to your goals.
You’re here because you’re ready for a change, but with all the conflicting advice out there, it’s hard to know where to start. Maybe you’re struggling with low energy, inconsistent eating habits, or balancing your health goals with a busy life. I’m here to help you cut through the noise and create a personalized plan that works for you. Together, we’ll build sustainable habits that fit your lifestyle, whether it’s feeling more energized, improving performance, or simply finding joy in food again. You deserve to feel confident, supported, and in control of your health—and I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
(910) 597-4190 View (910) 597-4190
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

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Ashka Shah - Spice and Balance Nutrition, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH
Spice and Balance Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH
Online Only
I provide support on the following services: General Nutrition Counseling, Weight Management, Vegan & Vegetarian Nutrition, Diverse & Cultural Diets, Diabetes & Blood Sugar Management, PCOS & Hormonal Health
Hi, I’m Ashka, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Spice and Balance Nutrition. I obtained my Master's of Public Health in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of North Carolina. As a dietitian experienced with culturally diverse cuisines, I specialize in incorporating your favorite comfort foods into a personalized, balanced nutrition plan that honors your traditions and tastes. As a lover of both science and flavor, I combine evidence-based practices with creative meal ideas to help you spice up your plate and balance your life. My approach is compassionate, judgment-free, and designed to meet you where you are.
I provide support on the following services: General Nutrition Counseling, Weight Management, Vegan & Vegetarian Nutrition, Diverse & Cultural Diets, Diabetes & Blood Sugar Management, PCOS & Hormonal Health
Hi, I’m Ashka, a Registered Dietitian and founder of Spice and Balance Nutrition. I obtained my Master's of Public Health in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of North Carolina. As a dietitian experienced with culturally diverse cuisines, I specialize in incorporating your favorite comfort foods into a personalized, balanced nutrition plan that honors your traditions and tastes. As a lover of both science and flavor, I combine evidence-based practices with creative meal ideas to help you spice up your plate and balance your life. My approach is compassionate, judgment-free, and designed to meet you where you are.
(336) 203-9228 View (336) 203-9228
Photo of Christina Marie Overstreet - Food Full Circle, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Food Full Circle, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Through my practice, Food Full Circle, I strive to help you reconnect to the intuitive wisdom of your body through holistic nutrition counseling, so you can nourish your body & soul. Taking a holistic (whole-person/whole-picture) approach is crucial for meeting health & wellness goals. I incorporate mindfulness principles as well as integrative & functional nutrition in order to help people from all walks of life optimize their health. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you find yourself constantly thinking about food, always counting calories, or shaming yourself when you eat certain foods, I'd love to help!
Through my practice, Food Full Circle, I strive to help you reconnect to the intuitive wisdom of your body through holistic nutrition counseling, so you can nourish your body & soul. Taking a holistic (whole-person/whole-picture) approach is crucial for meeting health & wellness goals. I incorporate mindfulness principles as well as integrative & functional nutrition in order to help people from all walks of life optimize their health. This is nutrition for EVERY body, full-circle. If you find yourself constantly thinking about food, always counting calories, or shaming yourself when you eat certain foods, I'd love to help!
(704) 275-0714 View (704) 275-0714

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Patrick Zeoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Patrick Zeoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28277
From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help.
I invite any interested person to speak with me about their nutrition goals and needs. I love helping people see how their nutrition goals can be achieved and how they can build the healthy lifestyle they are searching for.
From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help.
I invite any interested person to speak with me about their nutrition goals and needs. I love helping people see how their nutrition goals can be achieved and how they can build the healthy lifestyle they are searching for.
(704) 686-8547 View (704) 686-8547
Photo of Rima Kleiner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IFNCP, CLT
Rima Kleiner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, IFNCP, CLT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help busy people who are struggling with low energy, stubborn weight loss, bloating and other GI issues, food allergies/sensitivities, high blood sugar and cholesterol and hormone and metabolic imbalances.
As a functional and integrated Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, I help busy people who are struggling with low energy, stubborn weight, bloating and other GI issues, food sensitivities and metabolic and hormone imbalances feel energized throughout the day, lose weight without dieting and, ultimately, live fully doing the things they love.
I help busy people who are struggling with low energy, stubborn weight loss, bloating and other GI issues, food allergies/sensitivities, high blood sugar and cholesterol and hormone and metabolic imbalances.
As a functional and integrated Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, I help busy people who are struggling with low energy, stubborn weight, bloating and other GI issues, food sensitivities and metabolic and hormone imbalances feel energized throughout the day, lose weight without dieting and, ultimately, live fully doing the things they love.
(336) 814-9706 x1 View (336) 814-9706 x1
Photo of Angela Gallo Wilkinson - Total Nutrition Technology, Inc, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, LDN
Total Nutrition Technology, Inc
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28262
We specialize in weight loss, health management, sports performance as well as hormone management and functional nutrition.
We have a comprehensive approach that addresses the entire individuals needs. Starting with an extensive assessment & followed by a custom-built nutrition plan & life-style guidelines. We ensure it fits both your lifestyle & dietary objectives. Our goal is to not only help you attain your goal but more importantly how to sustain your results.
We specialize in weight loss, health management, sports performance as well as hormone management and functional nutrition.
We have a comprehensive approach that addresses the entire individuals needs. Starting with an extensive assessment & followed by a custom-built nutrition plan & life-style guidelines. We ensure it fits both your lifestyle & dietary objectives. Our goal is to not only help you attain your goal but more importantly how to sustain your results.
(704) 457-7716 View (704) 457-7716
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28269
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Melissa's specialties include eating disorders, disordered eating, HAES, intuitive eating, mindful eating, habituation, weight management, behavioral health nutrition, healthy aging, and general nutrition.
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
Photo of Gina Marie Gilchrist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Gina Marie Gilchrist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Charlotte, NC 28227
Specialties include pediatric and adolescent weight management; meal planning; motivational interviewing; adult nutrition; non-fad approach
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.
Specialties include pediatric and adolescent weight management; meal planning; motivational interviewing; adult nutrition; non-fad approach
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 Kerri Holmquist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Specialties include Eating disorders, Disordered Eating, Gastrointestinal Disorders (IBS), Diabetes, Diabetes, Pregnancy Nutrition, and Weight Management.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
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
Individual specialties include chronic disease management (diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disease, etc.), weight management, emotional eating and eating disorders, and family nutrition (pediatrics).
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.
Individual specialties include chronic disease management (diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disease, etc.), weight management, emotional eating and eating disorders, and family nutrition (pediatrics).
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 Cassandra 'sandy' Nance (Integrative And Functional Rd), Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT
Cassandra 'sandy' Nance (Integrative And Functional Rd)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help clients get to the root cause of stubborn weight loss through advanced testing, personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.
As a dietitian, my goal is to help those individuals who have tried very little or who have tried everything, resolve their nutrition related issues through an integrative and functional approach. In addition I use my clinical experience with advanced testing to further help my client's resolve their health concerns.
I help clients get to the root cause of stubborn weight loss through advanced testing, personalized nutrition and lifestyle recommendations.
As a dietitian, my goal is to help those individuals who have tried very little or who have tried everything, resolve their nutrition related issues through an integrative and functional approach. In addition I use my clinical experience with advanced testing to further help my client's resolve their health concerns.
(920) 933-8020 View (920) 933-8020
Photo of Emma A Johnson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, RDN
Emma A Johnson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LDN, RDN
Online Only
Whether it is weight loss or weight management, managing a chronic condition, or developing a healthy relationship with food, Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC offers a variety of services and programs designed to meet your needs.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
Whether it is weight loss or weight management, managing a chronic condition, or developing a healthy relationship with food, Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC offers a variety of services and programs designed to meet your needs.
Are you constantly struggling with your weight? Uncertain how to eat for YOUR body? Sick and tired of following "trendy" diets that get you nowhere? There is oftentimes a disconnect when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle; we know what’s good for our bodies, but we don’t always act accordingly. Emma Johnson, Nutritionist LLC aims to mend the gap between knowing and doing, by catering to each individual's unique circumstances.
(704) 285-2447 View (704) 285-2447
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 Kelly Diamond, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Diamond
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28277
I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
My nutrition philosophy is one that looks at the total person with nutrition, lifestyle, clinical needs, and prevention. I can steer you to appropriate health recommendations with my experience as a Registered Dietitian and Fitness Instructor. If you have BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD insurance, you may have FREE sessions with me.
I invite you to a NEW health journey, whether weight loss or nutritional/clinical needs, WE will meet your GOALS!
My nutrition philosophy is one that looks at the total person with nutrition, lifestyle, clinical needs, and prevention. I can steer you to appropriate health recommendations with my experience as a Registered Dietitian and Fitness Instructor. If you have BLUECROSS BLUESHIELD insurance, you may have FREE sessions with me.
(617) 855-6890 View (617) 855-6890
Photo of Jennifer Rawlings - My RDN Coach, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
My RDN Coach, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Online Only
I treat adults and children with metabolic diseases, diabetes, and obesity without dieting, restriction, or counting calories or macros.
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
I treat adults and children with metabolic diseases, diabetes, and obesity without dieting, restriction, or counting calories or macros.
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
(704) 931-5449 View (704) 931-5449
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 Nicole Mobley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Nicole Mobley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
3 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 Morgan Rossi, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Morgan Rossi
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
While I have experience working with a wide variety of EDs and disordered eating patterns, I especially enjoy working with those experiencing distress from emotional eating, burn-out, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder. I am additionally passionate about supporting queer folks and those who identify as neurodivergent. My practice is fundamentally based in harm reduction, curiosity, and an individualized care approach.
While I have experience working with a wide variety of EDs and disordered eating patterns, I especially enjoy working with those experiencing distress from emotional eating, burn-out, ARFID, and Binge Eating Disorder. I am additionally passionate about supporting queer folks 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.