Autoimmune Diseases Nutritionists and Dietitians in Rockland County, NY

Photo of Stacy Seslowsky - Heal From Food , Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Heal From Food
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Serves Area
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
I know what it feels like to be frustrated & sad about your physical condition. One pill after another is not the answer. Through 20 years of education and experience in nutrition and functional medicine, I have learned how to find the root cause of imbalance and work together with patients using an online platform to transform and restore good health. Health & weight issues are most often related to gut, hormone, or immune imbalance. A uniquely designed food and lifestyle modification plan can & will change your health status. Do not lose hope. My process works for even the most challenging of cases.- Stacy Seslowsky, RD, LDN, MS
(904) 899-4955 View (904) 899-4955
Photo of Janet Zarowitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Janet Zarowitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Serves Area
"Has it been a while since you felt well? Are you looking to manage your symptoms in the short term + heal in the long term?" As an Integrative and Functional Nutritionist + Certified LEAP Therapist, I work to uncover underlying root causes for your health conditions. A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health. Whatever the root cause, I blend whole-food therapies, targeted nutrition supplements, + lifestyle changes to support your body's ability to heal + feel better. My approach is thorough + detailed. I utilize current health information, lab work, food logs, + track your historical health record and symptoms.
"Has it been a while since you felt well? Are you looking to manage your symptoms in the short term + heal in the long term?" As an Integrative and Functional Nutritionist + Certified LEAP Therapist, I work to uncover underlying root causes for your health conditions. A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health. Whatever the root cause, I blend whole-food therapies, targeted nutrition supplements, + lifestyle changes to support your body's ability to heal + feel better. My approach is thorough + detailed. I utilize current health information, lab work, food logs, + track your historical health record and symptoms.
(914) 595-2833 View (914) 595-2833

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Janet Levine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Janet Levine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
(914) 326-3060 View (914) 326-3060
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 Robin Decicco, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Robin Decicco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CHHC
Online Only
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
I am an expert in the areas of weight loss, label reading, gluten-free and other food allergies and teaching mindfulness related to eating patterns.I create meal and lifestyle plans to reduce symptoms of inflammatory conditions, gastrointestinal and neurological disorders, forms of cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. My program empowers individuals, families and groups to make smarter, more informed food decisions, leading to health, balance and longevity. I promote overall health through assisting clients and making informed food decisions by combining the most recent scientific findings with specific interventions that lead to health and balance.
(201) 289-5984 View (201) 289-5984
Photo of Leslie Anders, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Leslie Anders
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Hartsdale, NY 10530
My practice focuses on helping patients create and sustain new eating and lifestyle behaviors that can effectively improve their medical conditions, support immunity, increase energy and well being. I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions. I provide accurate information regarding the impact of nutrition on a patient's medical condition(s). This is the cornerstone in creating permanent and effective nutrition/lifestyle changes.
My practice focuses on helping patients create and sustain new eating and lifestyle behaviors that can effectively improve their medical conditions, support immunity, increase energy and well being. I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions. I provide accurate information regarding the impact of nutrition on a patient's medical condition(s). This is the cornerstone in creating permanent and effective nutrition/lifestyle changes.
(914) 269-8948 View (914) 269-8948
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 Heather Angelillo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CDE, CPT
Heather Angelillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN, CDE, CPT
Online Only
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
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 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
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 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 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 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 Dr. Danielle Heard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
Dr. Danielle Heard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
(212) 535-3160 View (212) 535-3160
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 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 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
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 Linda Arpino, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, FAND
Linda Arpino
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, RD, CDN, FAND
Rye Brook, NY 10573
The Life Focus Nutrition Centers are a comprehensive nutrition practice specializing in individual adults, teen and children nutrition. Expertise in weight management, diabetes, cholesterol and cardiac management, cancer prevention, gastrointestinal diseases (food sensitivities,IBS, crohn's, colitis, sports nutrition,and pregnancy related issues. Additionally, for childhood nutrition (autism, failure to thrive, picky eaters, and food allergies guidelines are available . Our focus is to educate diverse cultures based on food prefereces. Healthy food choices for you and your planet!
The Life Focus Nutrition Centers are a comprehensive nutrition practice specializing in individual adults, teen and children nutrition. Expertise in weight management, diabetes, cholesterol and cardiac management, cancer prevention, gastrointestinal diseases (food sensitivities,IBS, crohn's, colitis, sports nutrition,and pregnancy related issues. Additionally, for childhood nutrition (autism, failure to thrive, picky eaters, and food allergies guidelines are available . Our focus is to educate diverse cultures based on food prefereces. Healthy food choices for you and your planet!
(914) 758-0789 View (914) 758-0789
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.