Heart Health Nutritionists and Dietitians in Reynoldsburg, OH

Photo of Amiee Romans - Authentic Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, LMT
Authentic Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, LMT
Serves Area
Authentic Nutrition's holistic approach to wellness addresses the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction to create lasting change. By recognizing when and how your symptoms began we can use nutrition to improve your overall well-being. Authentic Nutrition is here to help you better understand and treat your personal signs and symptoms in a relaxed and nurturing environment. If you are suffering with gastrointestinal disorders, food sensitivities, weight management, cardiovascular disease or are seeking wellness, we can work together to create an individualized plan to suit your unique needs.
Authentic Nutrition's holistic approach to wellness addresses the underlying causes of disease and dysfunction to create lasting change. By recognizing when and how your symptoms began we can use nutrition to improve your overall well-being. Authentic Nutrition is here to help you better understand and treat your personal signs and symptoms in a relaxed and nurturing environment. If you are suffering with gastrointestinal disorders, food sensitivities, weight management, cardiovascular disease or are seeking wellness, we can work together to create an individualized plan to suit your unique needs.
(614) 412-3705 View (614) 412-3705
Photo of Nijya Noble - NK Fitness and Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
NK Fitness and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Online Only
I’m so excited to share that our family is growing! We’re expecting baby number 2, and I’m incredibly grateful for this new chapter. With that being said, I will officially begin maternity leave on May 1, 2026. During this time: New client onboarding will pause. Response times may be delayed. Limited services may be available (updates to come). I’m committed to keeping you informed about my return date and any service updates. In the meantime, you can stay connected and continue getting culturally inclusive nutrition tips, prediabetes support, and lifestyle inspiration by following me on social media NijyaTheDietitian.
I’m so excited to share that our family is growing! We’re expecting baby number 2, and I’m incredibly grateful for this new chapter. With that being said, I will officially begin maternity leave on May 1, 2026. During this time: New client onboarding will pause. Response times may be delayed. Limited services may be available (updates to come). I’m committed to keeping you informed about my return date and any service updates. In the meantime, you can stay connected and continue getting culturally inclusive nutrition tips, prediabetes support, and lifestyle inspiration by following me on social media NijyaTheDietitian.
(614) 618-3260 View (614) 618-3260

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Brittany Norem, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Brittany Norem
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
Specialities include: Weight management, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, PCOS, Heart Healthy Eating, General Nutrition, High Cholesterol, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Celiac Disease, IBS, Vegetarian and Vegan diets.
Brittany is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Health Loft who works collaboratively with clients to create life-long and sustainable changes. Brittany understands that change takes time and works with client’s to find this balance in nutrition and daily movement. Through open discussion during sessions, client's will learn how to establish daily patterns that ultimately create healthy habits for long-term success. Brittany believes there is no one perfect diet and works with you to find the dietary interventions best suited for your health journey.
(904) 467-7389 View (904) 467-7389
Photo of Haleigh Augspols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Haleigh Augspols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
Specialties include working with clients that have or had a history of Eating Disorders, Picky Eating, Pre-Diabetes, Heart Conditions, High Cholesterol, GERD, Crohn’s Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Ulcerative Colitis, Gout, High Blood Pressure, Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, Underweight Nutrition, Weight Management, Food Allergy
Passionate about nourishing bodies with evidence-based nutrition, Haleigh is a registered dietitian committed to guiding you through the maze of healthy eating. Haleigh loves helping her clients make small changes to their lifestyle that makes a huge difference to their health. Haleigh is dedicated to assisting clients with a mind-body approach to a healthier lifestyle through education on intuitive eating, stress reduction and a whole foods approach. She is a “non-diet” dietitian and strongly supports making changes that work for each person as an individual.
(312) 779-1450 View (312) 779-1450
Photo of Samantha Smith-Bowman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Samantha Smith-Bowman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hello! My name is Samantha Smith-Bowman, and I’m an experienced dietitian focused on the mental health aspects of nutrition. If you know nutrition matters but aren’t sure how to change your habits—or you’ve tried before and nothing seems to stick—you’re not alone. Many plans don’t match how your brain works. Together, we’ll build an individualized approach with small, sustainable steps to support your goals, whether that’s diabetes management, improved labs, disordered eating behaviors, or other medical needs.
Hello! My name is Samantha Smith-Bowman, and I’m an experienced dietitian focused on the mental health aspects of nutrition. If you know nutrition matters but aren’t sure how to change your habits—or you’ve tried before and nothing seems to stick—you’re not alone. Many plans don’t match how your brain works. Together, we’ll build an individualized approach with small, sustainable steps to support your goals, whether that’s diabetes management, improved labs, disordered eating behaviors, or other medical needs.
(503) 476-9782 View (503) 476-9782
Photo of Olivia Jackson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Olivia Jackson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43209
Olivia is a registered dietitian dedicated to helping individuals of all ages take a non-diet approach to nutrition while honoring both their bodies and mental health. She specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, and intuitive and mindful eating, providing a safe space for clients to explore and challenge difficult food beliefs. Olivia believes in meeting clients where they are in their relationship with food and body to support meaningful, lasting change. She enjoys helping clients discover what healthy eating looks like in their own lives and creating a realistic sense of balance.
Olivia is a registered dietitian dedicated to helping individuals of all ages take a non-diet approach to nutrition while honoring both their bodies and mental health. She specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, and intuitive and mindful eating, providing a safe space for clients to explore and challenge difficult food beliefs. Olivia believes in meeting clients where they are in their relationship with food and body to support meaningful, lasting change. She enjoys helping clients discover what healthy eating looks like in their own lives and creating a realistic sense of balance.
(708) 332-8474 View (708) 332-8474
Photo of Jordan Ouellette, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Jordan Ouellette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219
My name is Jordan Ouellette, and I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, and co-owner of Nutrition Empowered, LLC. I work with men and women who want to improve their relationship with food, and eat a diverse range of foods in order to feel their best mentally and physically. At Nutrition Empowered, LLC, our dietitians are Health at Every Size-aligned, and centered around building sustainable habits that fit into your current lifestyle. Other specialties include general nutrition and wellness, weight concerns, diabetes management, cholesterol and hypertension, IBD/IBS, fertility, PCOS, and fertility/pre and postnatal nutrition.
My name is Jordan Ouellette, and I am a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, and co-owner of Nutrition Empowered, LLC. I work with men and women who want to improve their relationship with food, and eat a diverse range of foods in order to feel their best mentally and physically. At Nutrition Empowered, LLC, our dietitians are Health at Every Size-aligned, and centered around building sustainable habits that fit into your current lifestyle. Other specialties include general nutrition and wellness, weight concerns, diabetes management, cholesterol and hypertension, IBD/IBS, fertility, PCOS, and fertility/pre and postnatal nutrition.
(380) 201-9642 View (380) 201-9642
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Specialties include Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, Emotional Wellbeing, Wellness Counseling, Heart Healthy Nutrition, General Nutrition, IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Vegan, Vegetarian diets.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(346) 666-7394 View (346) 666-7394
Photo of Kali Morgenstern, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LD
Kali Morgenstern
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MEd, RD, LD
Serves Area
Living a healthy lifestyle and achieving your body composition goals should not be complicated! My approach to nutrition and fitness is simple and sustainable - creating habits that you can realistically commit to for the long term. Rather than looking for a quick fix, I help my patients implement ways to accomplish their health and body composition goals that are non-restrictive, balanced, and backed by science. Whether it’s diet, fitness or both, I ensure my patients have the tools they need to feel successful.
Living a healthy lifestyle and achieving your body composition goals should not be complicated! My approach to nutrition and fitness is simple and sustainable - creating habits that you can realistically commit to for the long term. Rather than looking for a quick fix, I help my patients implement ways to accomplish their health and body composition goals that are non-restrictive, balanced, and backed by science. Whether it’s diet, fitness or both, I ensure my patients have the tools they need to feel successful.
(440) 553-8556 View (440) 553-8556
Photo of Ashley Fitzgerald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
Ashley Fitzgerald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I’m a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist specializing in vegan and vegetarian diets. Having lived plant-based and gluten-free for over ten years, I understand both the benefits and the challenges of this lifestyle. Through personalized Zoom consultations, I provide support ranging from nutrition counseling to custom meal plans. My services cover weight management, balanced eating, meal prep strategies, and more specific areas such as sports nutrition, digestive health, pregnancy, and menopause. Every consultation is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and needs so that you can save time and feel confident in your choices.
I’m a plant-based dietitian and nutritionist specializing in vegan and vegetarian diets. Having lived plant-based and gluten-free for over ten years, I understand both the benefits and the challenges of this lifestyle. Through personalized Zoom consultations, I provide support ranging from nutrition counseling to custom meal plans. My services cover weight management, balanced eating, meal prep strategies, and more specific areas such as sports nutrition, digestive health, pregnancy, and menopause. Every consultation is tailored to your goals, lifestyle, and needs so that you can save time and feel confident in your choices.
(832) 653-9698 View (832) 653-9698
Photo of Rachel Green - Vitality Nutrition Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Vitality Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about dismantling diet-culture and connecting folks with accessible and inclusive nutrition care. I love to help clients find peace with food and build a respectful and trusting relationship with their bodies. In our sessions, clients will focus on building sustainable changes and can expect a collaborative approach to achieving their goals!
Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist passionate about dismantling diet-culture and connecting folks with accessible and inclusive nutrition care. I love to help clients find peace with food and build a respectful and trusting relationship with their bodies. In our sessions, clients will focus on building sustainable changes and can expect a collaborative approach to achieving their goals!
(614) 414-2032 View (614) 414-2032
Photo of Demi Evrigenis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Demi Evrigenis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
Specialities include: Type 1 Diabetes, Pre-Diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Digestive Issues, PCOS, General Lifestyle and Nutrition, Mindful Eating, High Cholesterol, Weight Management, Heart Health, and High Blood Pressure.
Demi is a registered dietitian who is dedicated to enhancing overall health and wellness. Specializing in aiding those with diabetes, gut health issues, PCOS, as well as renal and thyroid issues using a holistic approach. Beyond evaluating dietary practices, Demi considers lifestyle elements such as sleep, stress, and attitudes towards food. Combining nutritional expertise with empathy, she guides individuals towards improved health journeys. Recognizing the uniqueness of each path, Demi tailors personalized nutrition plans, targeting underlying health issues.
(502) 218-4378 View (502) 218-4378
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43221
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.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Michael Hershey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Michael Hershey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
Online Registered Dietitian. I help you reach nutrition, weight loss, blood sugar or health goals with personalized approaches for your goals and preferences. Health insurance accepted! I am in network with Anthem, Aetna, Cigna, Medical Mutual of Ohio, Medicare, and United Healthcare. Most clients pay $0 out of pocket!
(216) 678-7935 View (216) 678-7935
Photo of Kristina Stravinskaite, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristina Stravinskaite
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Kristina (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who has dedicated her life to helping individuals who are healing their relationship with food and body. Her expertise expands to helping individuals recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting and co-occurring mood disorders. Kristina believes in weight inclusive care, anti-diet approach and Health at Every Size. Kristina strives to create a safe environment for growth and healing by utilizing trauma informed principles. Kristina approaches health from emotional, physical, and mental well being.
Kristina (she/her) is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor who has dedicated her life to helping individuals who are healing their relationship with food and body. Her expertise expands to helping individuals recovering from eating disorders, disordered eating, chronic dieting and co-occurring mood disorders. Kristina believes in weight inclusive care, anti-diet approach and Health at Every Size. Kristina strives to create a safe environment for growth and healing by utilizing trauma informed principles. Kristina approaches health from emotional, physical, and mental well being.
(224) 432-6416 View (224) 432-6416
Photo of Adrienne Raimo - One Bite Wellness, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CHHP, CLT
One Bite Wellness, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CHHP, CLT
Online Only
Adrienne is an integrative & functional dietitian and health coach who helps clients navigate complex health issues with a holistic, root-cause approach. She works in Columbus, Ohio, and beyond, offering personalized support that goes far beyond one-size-fits-all nutrition advice. With over a decade of experience, Adrienne has guided individuals through nutrition counseling, lifestyle change, cooking education, and corporate and medical wellness programs. Her work integrates whole-food nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and functional nutrition principles to support concerns related to digestion, hormones, weight + more.
Adrienne is an integrative & functional dietitian and health coach who helps clients navigate complex health issues with a holistic, root-cause approach. She works in Columbus, Ohio, and beyond, offering personalized support that goes far beyond one-size-fits-all nutrition advice. With over a decade of experience, Adrienne has guided individuals through nutrition counseling, lifestyle change, cooking education, and corporate and medical wellness programs. Her work integrates whole-food nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and functional nutrition principles to support concerns related to digestion, hormones, weight + more.
(614) 887-7969 View (614) 887-7969
Photo of Diane Christine Casey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Diane Christine Casey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Columbus, OH 43221
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
You found the complete package! I am a licensed dietitian, certified health coach/personal trainer who also holds a certificate in Plant-Based Nutrition from Cornell University. I focus on helping clients prevent or reverse disease through lifestyle practices: eating, exercise, stress management & sleep. I love to empower clients to implement new habits that enable health goals to be reached. Since inflammation is the root of all disease, there is a major focus on reversing inflammation through how we eat and live. I provide the most personalized anti-inflammatory diet available by using the MRT blood test & micronutrient analyses.
(614) 503-1797 View (614) 503-1797
Photo of Jennifer Lattur, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES
Jennifer Lattur
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES
Online Only
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks.
Sometimes it can feel like you’re fluctuating between “good” days and “bad” days: one minute you’re organized and proud of your food choices, the next it seems everything’s falling apart. Worse, everyone has an opinion on what you should eat without knowing what’s going on in your life. You’re not alone! My mission is to provide judgment-free nutrition counseling and support, whether you want to manage a chronic disease or just have more energy. Changing isn’t easy but I'm here to listen to and support you; we’ll uncover your motivations, set realistic goals, and plan for setbacks.
(330) 621-0184 View (330) 621-0184
Photo of Heather Ritter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Heather Ritter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
Heather is passionate about working collaboratively with her clients to help them heal their relationship with their body and food. She works with clients to facilitate changes that will improve overall quality of life. She believes that food and nutrition should not only support someone’s physical health, but their social, emotional, and mental health as well. Her own experiences have fueled her particular interest in intuitive eating, disordered eating and HAES aligned care. She loves working alongside clients to find creative ways to make food both nourishing and enjoyable.
(312) 374-5399 View (312) 374-5399
Photo of Melissa Horstman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Melissa Horstman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
Specialties include Type 1&2 Diabetes, weight management, high blood pressure and heart health, PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), GI disorders, and overall health and wellness
Melissa is a dedicated Registered Dietitian who strives to build rapport with her clients and fully understand their nutritional challenges and needs while fostering a positive relationship with food and self-kindness. She enjoys helping others achieve positive changes in their mental and physical health through nutrition counseling and education. Melissa is particularly passionate about working with individuals struggling with eating disorders, disordered eating, and the connection between nutrition and mental health.
(469) 436-4959 View (469) 436-4959
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.