Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Riverhead, NY

Photo of Georgette Ravenhall - Morning Bird Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Morning Bird Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Areas of expertise include weight loss, heart health, pre and postnatal nutrition, bariatric surgery and general healthy eating behavior change.
Morning Bird Nutrition is a group of warm and knowledgeable Nutritionists who want to help you meet their goals. If you are feeling frustrated with navigating how to better your health, we would love to help. We offer convenient telehealth services to our clients.
Areas of expertise include weight loss, heart health, pre and postnatal nutrition, bariatric surgery and general healthy eating behavior change.
Morning Bird Nutrition is a group of warm and knowledgeable Nutritionists who want to help you meet their goals. If you are feeling frustrated with navigating how to better your health, we would love to help. We offer convenient telehealth services to our clients.
(516) 613-5863 View (516) 613-5863
Photo of Gigi Ravenhall, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Gigi Ravenhall
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Online Only
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
As a Dietitian and owner of Morning Bird Nutrition, I specialize in helping individuals navigate their unique health journeys, whether it's managing chronic conditions, achieving weight goals, improving routines and meal planning strategies, or simply building a healthier relationship with food. My approach is personalized and evidence-based, focusing on sustainable strategies that align with your lifestyle and goals.
(207) 477-6786 View (207) 477-6786

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Barbara Broggelwirth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Barbara Broggelwirth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Online Only
• Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and ACE Certified Behavior Change Specialist • 10 years’ experience in wellness and comprehensive medical weight management • Expertise in sustainable weight loss, menopause, breast cancer, heart health, healthy aging and bariatric surgery support.
As a dedicated nutrition counselor, my mission is to empower individuals to achieve their health and wellness goals through tailored, evidence-based guidance. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-improvement—whether they’re managing a chronic condition, seeking better energy and vitality, or simply striving to develop healthier habits. They may feel overwhelmed by conflicting information or have tried and struggled with traditional diets. I aspire to be their partner in this journey, offering a supportive space where we can create sustainable, achievable goals together.
• Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and ACE Certified Behavior Change Specialist • 10 years’ experience in wellness and comprehensive medical weight management • Expertise in sustainable weight loss, menopause, breast cancer, heart health, healthy aging and bariatric surgery support.
As a dedicated nutrition counselor, my mission is to empower individuals to achieve their health and wellness goals through tailored, evidence-based guidance. My ideal client is someone who is ready to embark on a journey of self-improvement—whether they’re managing a chronic condition, seeking better energy and vitality, or simply striving to develop healthier habits. They may feel overwhelmed by conflicting information or have tried and struggled with traditional diets. I aspire to be their partner in this journey, offering a supportive space where we can create sustainable, achievable goals together.
(631) 529-6480 View (631) 529-6480
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 Jennifer Clemente, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Jennifer Clemente
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Serves Area
I am a clinically trained, board certified nutritionist specializing in a whole-body approach to health and wellness. Too often, patients are at the mercy of conventional testing methods that overlook many of the symptoms commonly experienced today such as bloating, fatigue, skin conditions, digestive issues, weight gain or loss, brain fog, mood swings, sleep disturbance, pain, sugar imbalance and hormonal issues (to name a few).
I am a clinically trained, board certified nutritionist specializing in a whole-body approach to health and wellness. Too often, patients are at the mercy of conventional testing methods that overlook many of the symptoms commonly experienced today such as bloating, fatigue, skin conditions, digestive issues, weight gain or loss, brain fog, mood swings, sleep disturbance, pain, sugar imbalance and hormonal issues (to name a few).
(646) 679-7940 View (646) 679-7940
Photo of Jacqueline Iannone - The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Miller Place, NY 11764
Do you struggle with losing stubborn weight? Let us guess. You’ve tried numerous diets, calorie counting, cleanses, and meal replacements and although they may help at first, ultimately they all just lead you back to where you started. Do you feel that even when you’re trying to be “good” the scale just seems to reflect otherwise? If this all sounds familiar you are not alone and we are here to help you. It’s NOT you we promise. It’s the vicious cycle of dieting that is exhausting, discouraging, and frankly outdated. This is why at our practice we take a different approach to weight loss, one that’s evidence based AND sustainable.
Do you struggle with losing stubborn weight? Let us guess. You’ve tried numerous diets, calorie counting, cleanses, and meal replacements and although they may help at first, ultimately they all just lead you back to where you started. Do you feel that even when you’re trying to be “good” the scale just seems to reflect otherwise? If this all sounds familiar you are not alone and we are here to help you. It’s NOT you we promise. It’s the vicious cycle of dieting that is exhausting, discouraging, and frankly outdated. This is why at our practice we take a different approach to weight loss, one that’s evidence based AND sustainable.
(631) 869-4069 View (631) 869-4069
Photo of Ann Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN
Ann Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CDN
East Hampton, NY 11937
Meeting with Ann Silver to address your nutritional issues and goals involves allowing Ann a window into your life. Changing one's eating style or food choices is not only about selecting different foods but looking at all aspects of your life that impacts your eating. The questions that need to be explored are why do you eat, when do you eat, where do you eat, how do you eat, what do you eat and how much do you eat.
Meeting with Ann Silver to address your nutritional issues and goals involves allowing Ann a window into your life. Changing one's eating style or food choices is not only about selecting different foods but looking at all aspects of your life that impacts your eating. The questions that need to be explored are why do you eat, when do you eat, where do you eat, how do you eat, what do you eat and how much do you eat.
(631) 284-4815 View (631) 284-4815
Photo of Heather Angelillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CDE, CPT
Heather Angelillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CDE, CPT
Patchogue, NY 11772
In today’s world of conflicting diet trends, finding reliable, science-backed advice can be tough. As a Registered Dietitian, Certified Nutritionist, and Certified Diabetes Educator, I help you cut through the noise and build a sustainable, healthy lifestyle tailored to YOU. My mission is simple: to help you feel better, live healthier, and achieve your wellness goals with confidence. I provide evidence-based strategies that are practical and easy to incorporate into your daily life, whether managing diabetes, weight, or other health needs.
In today’s world of conflicting diet trends, finding reliable, science-backed advice can be tough. As a Registered Dietitian, Certified Nutritionist, and Certified Diabetes Educator, I help you cut through the noise and build a sustainable, healthy lifestyle tailored to YOU. My mission is simple: to help you feel better, live healthier, and achieve your wellness goals with confidence. I provide evidence-based strategies that are practical and easy to incorporate into your daily life, whether managing diabetes, weight, or other health needs.
(631) 734-0268 View (631) 734-0268

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Karissa Stevens, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Karissa Stevens
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Online Only
Karissa has extensive experience working in the outpatient setting with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including disordered eating, emotional eating, management of chronic diseases (ie: diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, auto-immune conditions), PCOS, IBS/GI issues, and more.
Karissa prioritizes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach around nutrition counseling. She understands change is difficult, especially when it comes to something as personal as your relationship with food. Her goal is to build a safe space to explore the physical, mental, and emotional impact of nutrition as it fits into your life.
Karissa has extensive experience working in the outpatient setting with clients experiencing a wide range of concerns including disordered eating, emotional eating, management of chronic diseases (ie: diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, auto-immune conditions), PCOS, IBS/GI issues, and more.
Karissa prioritizes a compassionate, non-judgmental approach around nutrition counseling. She understands change is difficult, especially when it comes to something as personal as your relationship with food. Her goal is to build a safe space to explore the physical, mental, and emotional impact of nutrition as it fits into your life.
(646) 846-9610 View (646) 846-9610
Photo of Jennifer Verola, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Jennifer Verola
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Online Only
My speciality is nutrition, and I am experienced in the prevention and management of a variety of diseases and conditions: nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, heart and kidney diseases, high blood pressure and GI disorders; and experienced in pre and postnatal health and weight loss.
I am interested in the preventive side of healthcare, and truly believe food can be medicine. I view my health as one of the most important things in my life, and I want to encourage my clients to see the value in their health and accomplish their wellness goals. I personally follow a pescetarian, but mostly plant-based diet, and am a huge proponent of any type of movement. I would love to share my knowledge of food and passion for wellness with you, and help you reach your goals.
My speciality is nutrition, and I am experienced in the prevention and management of a variety of diseases and conditions: nutritional deficiencies, diabetes, heart and kidney diseases, high blood pressure and GI disorders; and experienced in pre and postnatal health and weight loss.
I am interested in the preventive side of healthcare, and truly believe food can be medicine. I view my health as one of the most important things in my life, and I want to encourage my clients to see the value in their health and accomplish their wellness goals. I personally follow a pescetarian, but mostly plant-based diet, and am a huge proponent of any type of movement. I would love to share my knowledge of food and passion for wellness with you, and help you reach your goals.
(516) 447-2552 View (516) 447-2552
Photo of Maria Dello - Dellonutritionals-MariaDello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Dellonutritionals-MariaDello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Online Only
She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition.
Maria's proven combination of the most curative nutritional advice and the latest state-of-the-art technologies, coupled with the one-on-one support and daily guidance in her Manhasset office, makes her one of the gems of Manhasset's North Shore. Maria Dello will customize a plan that is right for you. Many North Shore doctors have recommended Maria.
She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition.
Maria's proven combination of the most curative nutritional advice and the latest state-of-the-art technologies, coupled with the one-on-one support and daily guidance in her Manhasset office, makes her one of the gems of Manhasset's North Shore. Maria Dello will customize a plan that is right for you. Many North Shore doctors have recommended Maria.
(516) 973-2985 View (516) 973-2985
Photo of Jessica Kruzan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Jessica Kruzan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10014
Specialties include working with clients that are interested in Disordered Eating, Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Pre/Post Partum, Oncology, Heart Health, Intuitive Eating, Gestational diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Weight Management, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Thyroid Diagnosis, Anti-Inflammation Diets, and other areas.
Jessica specializes in working with PCOS, Disordered/Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Partum, Hormonal Imbalances, and other areas. She believes that a diet should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. She works with her clients to identify their goals, understand their lifestyle and preferences, and create a plan that fits their unique needs. Jessica also recognizes that food is more than just fuel for the body – it is often tied to emotions, memories, and cultural traditions. As such, she helps her clients to build a positive relationship with food.
Specialties include working with clients that are interested in Disordered Eating, Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Hormonal Imbalances, PCOS, Pre/Post Partum, Oncology, Heart Health, Intuitive Eating, Gestational diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Weight Management, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Thyroid Diagnosis, Anti-Inflammation Diets, and other areas.
Jessica specializes in working with PCOS, Disordered/Eating Disorders, Infertility Nutrition, Pre/Post Partum, Hormonal Imbalances, and other areas. She believes that a diet should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. She works with her clients to identify their goals, understand their lifestyle and preferences, and create a plan that fits their unique needs. Jessica also recognizes that food is more than just fuel for the body – it is often tied to emotions, memories, and cultural traditions. As such, she helps her clients to build a positive relationship with food.
(508) 469-5018 View (508) 469-5018
Photo of Anne Suelzer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Anne Suelzer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions (IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
Specialties include Vegan/Vegetarian, Anti-inflammatory Nutrition, Heart Health, Hormonal Imbalances, GI Conditions (IBS and IBD), GERD (Acid Reflux), Diabetes, Crohn’s, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Kidney Disease, Weight Management, High Cholesterol, Ulcerative Colitis, Psychiatric Diagnosis, Hyper/Hypo-Thyroidism, Candida Overgrowth.
Anne is passionate about working collaboratively with clients to help them make healthy and sustainable diet changes that support their lifestyle and hormonal health. She understands food’s crucial role in balancing hormones and believes in the power of evidence-based research to guide her practice. Anne is particularly interested in the gut-brain connection and how it influences overall well-being. She emphasizes the importance of consuming whole foods that nourish the body and believes that access to nutritious food should be available to all.
(332) 244-2046 View (332) 244-2046
Photo of Diane Morgenroth, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Diane Morgenroth
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Online Only
I specialize in eating disorders as well as management for diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, heart disease, and digestive disorders.
My educational approach allows patients to obtain sound nutrition advice while focusing on individual needs and concerns. I provide a supportive therapeutic atmosphere to help implement healthy lifestyle choices. I work with individuals and families who wish to optimize physical energy, increase mental clarity, strengthen immunity, reduce cravings, improve digestion and fat burning, overcome mood swings, eliminate anxiety over food and body issues. I help clients achieve and maintain their health goals.
I specialize in eating disorders as well as management for diabetes, high cholesterol, hypertension, heart disease, and digestive disorders.
My educational approach allows patients to obtain sound nutrition advice while focusing on individual needs and concerns. I provide a supportive therapeutic atmosphere to help implement healthy lifestyle choices. I work with individuals and families who wish to optimize physical energy, increase mental clarity, strengthen immunity, reduce cravings, improve digestion and fat burning, overcome mood swings, eliminate anxiety over food and body issues. I help clients achieve and maintain their health goals.
(516) 537-9566 View (516) 537-9566
Photo of Roberta Gershner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Roberta Gershner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Ossining, NY 10562
Are you looking for an experienced Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist in Westchester County who can customize an eating plan for your unique needs, whether it's to Lose Weight, provide Medical Nutrition Therapy for many diseases (like Diabetes, Renal Disease, Heart Disease) or just Feel Better and Prevent Disease?
I participate in many Health Insurance Plans, have two offices (Ossining, NY and Cortlandt Manor, NY) and offer extended hours -- making it more affordable and convenient for you to get the nutritional counseling you need. We discuss the practicalities of meal planning and eating healthy when on the go,
Are you looking for an experienced Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist in Westchester County who can customize an eating plan for your unique needs, whether it's to Lose Weight, provide Medical Nutrition Therapy for many diseases (like Diabetes, Renal Disease, Heart Disease) or just Feel Better and Prevent Disease?
I participate in many Health Insurance Plans, have two offices (Ossining, NY and Cortlandt Manor, NY) and offer extended hours -- making it more affordable and convenient for you to get the nutritional counseling you need. We discuss the practicalities of meal planning and eating healthy when on the go,
(914) 215-1228 View (914) 215-1228
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes. Kristin offers a positive approach to nutrition by focusing on building a healthy relationship with food, making lifestyle changes, goal setting and problem solving to overcome barriers. She believes in staying positive, and that it’s never too late to make lifestyle changes that can lead to a healthier life. Kristin became a dietitian after the experience of caregiving in high school for her grandmother.
(332) 249-8428 View (332) 249-8428
Photo of Abby Walker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
Abby Walker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CPT
West Hempstead, NY 11552
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles.
Your health journey is deeply personal, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you’ve been struggling with digestive discomfort, thyroid imbalances, blood sugar issues, or challenges with weight, there is hope. Healing isn’t about restriction or willpower; it’s about understanding your body’s unique needs and giving it the nutrition it needs.
My heart is in helping people just like you break free from the discomfort, frustration, and uncertainty that come with health struggles.
Your health journey is deeply personal, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. If you’ve been struggling with digestive discomfort, thyroid imbalances, blood sugar issues, or challenges with weight, there is hope. Healing isn’t about restriction or willpower; it’s about understanding your body’s unique needs and giving it the nutrition it needs.
(516) 969-8564 View (516) 969-8564
Photo of Kristal Pilavas, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, RD, CDCES, CLC
Kristal Pilavas
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CDN, RD, CDCES, CLC
New York, NY 10001
Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
I have worked as a clinical nutritionist/dietitian and nutrition coordinator in NYC since 2010 at Isabella Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care, BronxCare Health System and NewYork Presbyterian Hospital Center. I work with a variety of conditions and all ages.
Kristal provides nutrition care and counseling for patients and specializes in diabetes, gestational diabetes, perinatal nutrition, heart disease, weight management and more.
I have worked as a clinical nutritionist/dietitian and nutrition coordinator in NYC since 2010 at Isabella Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing Care, BronxCare Health System and NewYork Presbyterian Hospital Center. I work with a variety of conditions and all ages.
(646) 553-4006 View (646) 553-4006
Photo of Sofia Colantuono, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Sofia Colantuono
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
3 Endorsed
New York, NY 10011
She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is passionate about helping others build a positive relationship with food and their bodies. Nutrition is not one-size-fits all, and Sofia believes in the importance of having a client-centered approach and providing personalized nutrition care. Her past experiences have driven her desire to help others reach lifestyle changes in a sustainable and practical way.
She also works with clients interested in Heart Health, Body Image concerns, vegan/vegetarian diets, and others areas.
Sofia is passionate about helping others build a positive relationship with food and their bodies. Nutrition is not one-size-fits all, and Sofia believes in the importance of having a client-centered approach and providing personalized nutrition care. Her past experiences have driven her desire to help others reach lifestyle changes in a sustainable and practical way.
(612) 324-6528 View (612) 324-6528
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
Weight loss, fatigue, high cholesterol, cancer and more! - My 30-plus yrs of clinical experience allows me to expertly provide holistic care for all manner of health issues. Advanced blood and other forms of testing is available as Zoom, Phone & Facetime consultations. My BloodDetective approach compares you results and concerns to "health people" and not merely "average" like regular drs do; hidden causes and solutions are often uncovered allowing exacting nutritional suggestions. As a dietitian, dc, nutritional specialist, masters degree in nutrition, sports nutritionist with two board certifications I am qualified to help!
Weight loss, fatigue, high cholesterol, cancer and more! - My 30-plus yrs of clinical experience allows me to expertly provide holistic care for all manner of health issues. Advanced blood and other forms of testing is available as Zoom, Phone & Facetime consultations. My BloodDetective approach compares you results and concerns to "health people" and not merely "average" like regular drs do; hidden causes and solutions are often uncovered allowing exacting nutritional suggestions. As a dietitian, dc, nutritional specialist, masters degree in nutrition, sports nutritionist with two board certifications I am qualified to help!
(914) 873-4416 View (914) 873-4416
Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians

How does nutrition affect heart health?

Nutrition plays a significant role in heart health, affecting conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Consuming too much saturated and trans fats can raise "bad" cholesterol levels, potentially leading to clogged arteries and heart disease. In addition, high-sugar and refined carb foods, common in the American diet, are often high in calories but low in nutrients. Abundant consumption of such foods can lead to conditions such as weight gain and diabetes, which put extra strain on the heart. Excess sodium intake is yet another dietary component that can impact heart health. Consumption of too much sodium can raise blood pressure, making the heart work harder. Conversely, eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats helps support heart health through the maintenance of healthy cholesterol levels and the reduction of inflammation.

What diet is best for heart health?

In general, experts recommend a plant-based diet high in fiber, healthy fats, and lean protein as the best nutrition approach to a heart healthy diet. 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 blood pressure and positively impact heart health; 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 heart conditions or high cholesterol levels due to the high levels of saturated and trans fats such diets can include.

What foods increase one's risk of heart disease?

Foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, can have a very negative impact on heart health. In addition, sweets, high-sugar drinks, and refined carbohydrates like white bread and pasta are usually good to avoid in order to positively impact heart health. Replacing saturated fats with unsaturated fat alternatives, such as consuming lean fish high in omega-3 fatty acids instead of red meat, is often a good strategy, as is replacing highly-processed and sugar-rich foods with alternative carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Why should someone with heart disease see a dietitian?

Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so individuals with heart disease may greatly benefit from seeing a dietitian to improve their cardiac health. Dietitians can help clients identify foods that support heart health, such as whole grains, as well as help clients eliminate foods that can place a strain on the heart when consumed in large quantities over time, such as saturated and trans fats. Dietitians can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support heart health, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with heart disease, such as kidney conditions or diabetes.