Autoimmune Diseases Nutritionists and Dietitians in Amagansett, NY

Photo of Sara Ryba Matty, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Sara Ryba Matty
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
2)Medical Nutrition Therapy for conditions such as; diabetes, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal issues.
My ideal client is an individual that wants to partner with me to set goals and accomplish them together! Whether you want eat healthier, lose weight, tackle a medical issue or a combination of all of them, my job is to put my client at ease and guide them to success. I value the relationships and bonds that are create between me and my clients. Food is a very intimate, cultural, personal issue; and in many ways ends up encompassing almost areas of lives. I thrive off of the trust that my clients and I build together and our ultimate victories, both large and small.
2)Medical Nutrition Therapy for conditions such as; diabetes, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal issues.
My ideal client is an individual that wants to partner with me to set goals and accomplish them together! Whether you want eat healthier, lose weight, tackle a medical issue or a combination of all of them, my job is to put my client at ease and guide them to success. I value the relationships and bonds that are create between me and my clients. Food is a very intimate, cultural, personal issue; and in many ways ends up encompassing almost areas of lives. I thrive off of the trust that my clients and I build together and our ultimate victories, both large and small.
(516) 588-7297 View (516) 588-7297

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Clemente, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Jennifer Clemente
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Online Only
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health. You’re not alone if you feel trapped by symptoms yet routine labs were normal. Or you’ve been given medication, acid blockers, antidepressants or vague advice like “try eating better” without anyone asking why you have symptoms in the first place. I’ve been there too and I know a better way. My approach focuses on finding the root cause of your health concerns through deeper testing to answer key questions: What’s driving the inflammation? Is the gut lining compromised? Is the microbiome balanced? Is the body absorbing nutrients properly?
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health. You’re not alone if you feel trapped by symptoms yet routine labs were normal. Or you’ve been given medication, acid blockers, antidepressants or vague advice like “try eating better” without anyone asking why you have symptoms in the first place. I’ve been there too and I know a better way. My approach focuses on finding the root cause of your health concerns through deeper testing to answer key questions: What’s driving the inflammation? Is the gut lining compromised? Is the microbiome balanced? Is the body absorbing nutrients properly?
(646) 679-7940 View (646) 679-7940
Photo of Molly Ostrander - Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Online Only
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
(718) 550-3694 View (718) 550-3694
Photo of Deborah A. Williams, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Deborah A. Williams
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Online Only
As a Registered Dietitian (RD, CDN), I help clients move beyond diets, confusion, and quick fixes into a sustainable, empowered relationship with food and body. My approach blends evidence-based nutrition with holistic practices rooted in neuroscience, mindset, and embodiment. Together, we uncover patterns that keep you stuck, calm the inner voice of doubt, and build trust in your body’s signals. Clients often arrive frustrated or disconnected; I guide them toward food freedom, body acceptance, and a clear, confident path to lasting wellness.
As a Registered Dietitian (RD, CDN), I help clients move beyond diets, confusion, and quick fixes into a sustainable, empowered relationship with food and body. My approach blends evidence-based nutrition with holistic practices rooted in neuroscience, mindset, and embodiment. Together, we uncover patterns that keep you stuck, calm the inner voice of doubt, and build trust in your body’s signals. Clients often arrive frustrated or disconnected; I guide them toward food freedom, body acceptance, and a clear, confident path to lasting wellness.
(631) 502-7972 View (631) 502-7972

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Andie Stone, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Andie Stone
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
White Plains, NY 10603
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
(914) 534-3971 View (914) 534-3971
Photo of Michael Benjamin Wald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, Acupunc, PhD, MS, Sports
Michael Benjamin Wald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, Acupunc, PhD, MS, Sports
Chappaqua, NY 10514
When I imagine my ideal client, I picture someone motivated, intelligent, and ready for meaningful change—yet often frustrated by confusing, incomplete, or contradictory health information. They may be dealing with chronic symptoms, low energy, inflammation, digestive problems, weight issues, hormonal shifts, or simply the sense that they’re not functioning at their best. Many have already visited multiple practitioners without receiving clear answers, and they come to me looking for a comprehensive, science-based, holistic approach that finally makes sense of their health concerns. My ideal client needs a practitioner who can conne
When I imagine my ideal client, I picture someone motivated, intelligent, and ready for meaningful change—yet often frustrated by confusing, incomplete, or contradictory health information. They may be dealing with chronic symptoms, low energy, inflammation, digestive problems, weight issues, hormonal shifts, or simply the sense that they’re not functioning at their best. Many have already visited multiple practitioners without receiving clear answers, and they come to me looking for a comprehensive, science-based, holistic approach that finally makes sense of their health concerns. My ideal client needs a practitioner who can conne
(914) 873-4416 View (914) 873-4416
Photo of Asal Hakim - Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Pro Nutrition Counseling PLLC- Asal Hakim RD CDN
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CPT
Garden City, NY 11530
, is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling.
Asal Hakim is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and CPT. Graduated Cum Laude from Queens College, The City University of New York. Practicing since 2013, Asal Hakim provides medical nutrition therapy and nutritional counseling for individuals with nutrition related health issues. Past work experience from hospital and rehab center.
, is a known health practice that provides nutritional counseling and approaches weight loss & healthy weight weight management in the setting of pre/post bariatric surgery, diabetes, eating disorders, oncology, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disease, gastrointestinal issues and other nutrition related diseases through patient-centered medical nutrition therapy & nutrition counseling.
Asal Hakim is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, and CPT. Graduated Cum Laude from Queens College, The City University of New York. Practicing since 2013, Asal Hakim provides medical nutrition therapy and nutritional counseling for individuals with nutrition related health issues. Past work experience from hospital and rehab center.
(516) 407-7475 View (516) 407-7475
Photo of Maria Dello - Dellonutritionals-MariaDello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Dellonutritionals-MariaDello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Online Only
Maria Dello, Expert in her field & member of NANP owner of Dellonutritionals, located at 75 Plandome Road in Manhasset, NY. Ms. Dello was most recently seen on NBC Channel 4 News and frequently appears on television nutrition segments. She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition. Ms. Dello is dedicated to her passionate goal of teaching, guiding, and educating every individual who walks in her door or visits her website about the benefits of a salubrious lifestyle and diet and has been working in the practice for 20 years now. Maria Dello.
Maria Dello, Expert in her field & member of NANP owner of Dellonutritionals, located at 75 Plandome Road in Manhasset, NY. Ms. Dello was most recently seen on NBC Channel 4 News and frequently appears on television nutrition segments. She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition. Ms. Dello is dedicated to her passionate goal of teaching, guiding, and educating every individual who walks in her door or visits her website about the benefits of a salubrious lifestyle and diet and has been working in the practice for 20 years now. Maria Dello.
(516) 973-2985 View (516) 973-2985
Photo of Barbara Ann Grova, Nutritionist/Dietitian, INHC, AADP
Barbara Ann Grova
Nutritionist/Dietitian, INHC, AADP
East Setauket, NY 11733
I have over 20 years experience in womens hormonal health, weight loss, anxiety and nutrition. I am a 9 year Breast Cancer survivor, treating my stage 2 holistically. I help Survivors recover and prevent reoccurrence. Together we uncover the root cause of your health condition. I will give you a nutrition and lifestyle protocol so your body can heal naturally without medication. I teach you my life’s challenges coping skills. My clients lose an average of 12-15 lbs on my on-line program. I love and support you through every step, holding your hand until you’re ready to flourish on your own! I am very caring, dedicated, compassionate
I have over 20 years experience in womens hormonal health, weight loss, anxiety and nutrition. I am a 9 year Breast Cancer survivor, treating my stage 2 holistically. I help Survivors recover and prevent reoccurrence. Together we uncover the root cause of your health condition. I will give you a nutrition and lifestyle protocol so your body can heal naturally without medication. I teach you my life’s challenges coping skills. My clients lose an average of 12-15 lbs on my on-line program. I love and support you through every step, holding your hand until you’re ready to flourish on your own! I am very caring, dedicated, compassionate
(516) 530-7955 View (516) 530-7955
Photo of N. Merna Timaul - Lifecompass Health & Wellness, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BS, MSc, CHN
Lifecompass Health & Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BS, MSc, CHN
Online Only
I am a Research Scientist, certified Holistic Nutritionist, and Health and Wellness Life Coach. Through years of research and personal experience, I discovered the powerful impact holistic approaches can have on overall well-being. Combining evidence-based science with the healing power of nature became my guiding philosophy, inspiring a new way to approach health challenges from the ground up. My mission is to integrate science and nature for a healthier, more balanced life. This philosophy not only shapes my practice but also fuels my commitment to education, empowerment, and lasting transformation.
I am a Research Scientist, certified Holistic Nutritionist, and Health and Wellness Life Coach. Through years of research and personal experience, I discovered the powerful impact holistic approaches can have on overall well-being. Combining evidence-based science with the healing power of nature became my guiding philosophy, inspiring a new way to approach health challenges from the ground up. My mission is to integrate science and nature for a healthier, more balanced life. This philosophy not only shapes my practice but also fuels my commitment to education, empowerment, and lasting transformation.
(929) 706-2877 View (929) 706-2877
Photo of Alexandra (Lexi) Orlan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Alexandra (Lexi) Orlan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! I'm a Columbia University-trained Registered Dietitian. I specialize in gentle weight loss, gut health and digestion, diabetes, gestational diabetes, pregnancy nutrition, bariatric nutrition, and heart health. When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences.
Nearly 95 percent of my insurance clients pay $0 out of pocket for their sessions! I'm a Columbia University-trained Registered Dietitian. I specialize in gentle weight loss, gut health and digestion, diabetes, gestational diabetes, pregnancy nutrition, bariatric nutrition, and heart health. When we work together I'll give you the tools needed to feel confident in your food choices and in control around food. I'll guide you through creating a plan that works for YOU, based on your body's needs, lifestyle, and food preferences.
(732) 379-1434 View (732) 379-1434
Photo of Lana Zinger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Lana Zinger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Whitestone, NY 11357
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
(646) 362-7135 View (646) 362-7135
Photo of Cristina Veltri Illien, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Cristina Veltri Illien
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience.
My goal? To discover why women are disproportionately affected by these issues and to empower them with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. At Ceres Nutrition, transforming women’s health with root-cause solutions is my mission. Together, we will uncover and address the underlying causes of your symptoms that may have been missed by your doctor.
From navigating PCOS and other hormonal imbalances, to combating fatigue, autoimmune conditions, and relentless digestive issues, I’ve witnessed firsthand the common struggles that many women experience.
My goal? To discover why women are disproportionately affected by these issues and to empower them with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive. At Ceres Nutrition, transforming women’s health with root-cause solutions is my mission. Together, we will uncover and address the underlying causes of your symptoms that may have been missed by your doctor.
(347) 846-2831 View (347) 846-2831
Photo of Lisa R. Young - Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
Dr. Lisa Young Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, CDN, LDN
New York, NY 10028
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
Do you want to eat healthier, lose weight, or simply feel better? Yes, it's possible and I can help you. I am an internationally recognized registered dietitian nutritionist, adjunct professor at NYU, & author of Finally Full, Finally Slim & The Portion Teller Plan. I counsel adults, children and families on weight loss, a range of medical nutrition issues, wellness, and behavior modification (VIRTUAL appointments available.) I design individualized programs unique to YOU based on your health & medical needs, lifestyle, and food preferences. As a seasoned professional, I focus on the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit.
(347) 970-8559 View (347) 970-8559
Photo of Ashley Beale, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
Ashley Beale
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
Hi! My name is Ashley (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian based out of New York City. I am the owner of Ashley Beale Nutrition where I practice through a weight-inclusive, all-foods-fit, and trauma-informed approach. I respect and appreciate body diversity, knowing that no two individual’s needs are alike. I believe in a collaborative relationship with my clients where we work together to find what works best for them. Whether you are working on your recovery from an eating disorder or learning how to navigate food with a chronic illness, there is no “right” way to start this journey.
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Photo of Abigail Rapaport, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Abigail Rapaport
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
(646) 362-3908 View (646) 362-3908
Photo of Lellieth Keize, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Lellieth Keize
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
New Rochelle, NY 10801
Struggling with diabetes, weight, or digestive issues? I help clients uncover the root causes of symptoms—like inflammation, hormone imbalance, or gut dysfunction—and create personalized, sustainable plans that fit real life. With 16+ years as an RDN and CDCES, I guide you with evidence‑based, functional nutrition so you can lower A1C, improve digestion, boost energy, and feel confident in your health again.
Struggling with diabetes, weight, or digestive issues? I help clients uncover the root causes of symptoms—like inflammation, hormone imbalance, or gut dysfunction—and create personalized, sustainable plans that fit real life. With 16+ years as an RDN and CDCES, I guide you with evidence‑based, functional nutrition so you can lower A1C, improve digestion, boost energy, and feel confident in your health again.
(475) 258-8349 View (475) 258-8349
Photo of Jennifer Maeng, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC
Jennifer Maeng
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, CNSC
Online Only
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and a Master of Science Degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. Jennifer completed her Dietetics Internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital and went on to specialize in adult clinical nutrition at New York Presbyterian Columbia University Medical Center and NYU Langone Health.
(929) 226-6108 View (929) 226-6108
Photo of Rebecca Tolan Cruse, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rebecca Tolan Cruse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Massapequa, NY 11758
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
(914) 825-6699 View (914) 825-6699
Photo of Madeline Rose Alfiero, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RD, MS, RYT-275
Madeline Rose Alfiero
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RD, MS, RYT-275
Online Only
I specialize in: weight management (weight gain/obesity), PCOS, endometriosis, acne, high cortisol, fertility struggles, eating disorders, binge eating disorder, disordered eating, emotional overeating, insulin resistance/pre-diabetes, IBD/IBS and autoimmune disease(s.
Hi, Im Maddie! I am a Registered Dietitian, a Certified Confidence Coach and Mindfulness Nutritionist as well as a Yoga and Pilates instructor. Health and wellness is not just something that I preach but, it's what I practice on a daily basis. I offer single coaching sessions covered by insurance or purchased through private pay. Whichever you choose, you’ll get expert advice and completely customized support! My mission is to help you feel strong, healthy, sexy and confident so you can live your most fun and fearless life!
I specialize in: weight management (weight gain/obesity), PCOS, endometriosis, acne, high cortisol, fertility struggles, eating disorders, binge eating disorder, disordered eating, emotional overeating, insulin resistance/pre-diabetes, IBD/IBS and autoimmune disease(s.
Hi, Im Maddie! I am a Registered Dietitian, a Certified Confidence Coach and Mindfulness Nutritionist as well as a Yoga and Pilates instructor. Health and wellness is not just something that I preach but, it's what I practice on a daily basis. I offer single coaching sessions covered by insurance or purchased through private pay. Whichever you choose, you’ll get expert advice and completely customized support! My mission is to help you feel strong, healthy, sexy and confident so you can live your most fun and fearless life!
(561) 823-5081 View (561) 823-5081
Autoimmune Diseases Nutritionists and Dietitians
What are autoimmune diseases?
Autoimmune conditions are diseases characterized by the over-activation of the body's immune system. There are many types of autoimmune diseases, each varying in symptoms, severity, and affected areas. Widely known autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, Addison's disease, and scleroderma. While the causes of autoimmune diseases are often unknown, many people manage their symptoms with medications (such as anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive drugs) and lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise modifications.

How can nutrition help with autoimmune diseases?
While there is little evidence to suggest that autoimmune conditions can be cured through diet, many individuals with autoimmune conditions may benefit from nutrition changes to reduce autoimmune symptoms. Since autoimmune conditions are characterized by high levels of inflammation, including anti-inflammatory foods in one's diet may be particularly important for those with autoimmune conditions. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish like salmon, have been shown to reduce inflammation, as have fruits and vegetables that contain anti-inflammatory nutrients as well as fiber that can support a healthy gut microbiome.

What diet is best for autoimmune diseases?
Due to the diverse types and symptoms of autoimmune diseases, there is no single best diet for all individuals with these conditions. However, evidence suggests that certain diets can benefit specific autoimmune diseases. For instance, individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) often benefit from consuming foods with anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3-rich fish like salmon, various fruits, and leafy vegetables. Conversely, foods that promote inflammation—such as sodas, processed meats, white flour, sugary snacks, and deep-fried items—can exacerbate RA symptoms. Keeping a dietary journal to track food intake and symptoms can help individuals with any autoimmune condition identify which foods affect their autoimmune symptoms and make necessary changes.

Does nutrition counseling work for people with autoimmune diseases?
Nutrition counseling can be highly beneficial for individuals with autoimmune diseases, especially when other symptom management strategies have not been effective. A dietitian can help clients identify foods that exacerbate their autoimmune symptoms and develop a plan to reduce or eliminate these foods while maintaining their nutritional needs. Additionally, dietitians often have specific expertise in working with clients with certain autoimmune conditions closely linked to dietary intake, such as type 1 diabetes. In these cases, dietitians may be able to provide specialized guidance and create a tailored nutrition plan for the client based on their expertise.