Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians in Chattanooga, TN
I am a well-rounded Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has worked in a variety of capacities over the past 10 years. These include working in private practice, clinical inpatient & outpatient, bariatric, Diabetes management, Eating Disorder recovery, integrative and functional wellness, and sports nutrition. Having lived in TN, CA, NV, Alaska, CO, and now GA, I have worked with individuals in all walks of life. I love spending time with my family, running, and doing anything outdoors, though these days, eating well gives me the energy to keep up with my twin toddlers.
I am a well-rounded Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has worked in a variety of capacities over the past 10 years. These include working in private practice, clinical inpatient & outpatient, bariatric, Diabetes management, Eating Disorder recovery, integrative and functional wellness, and sports nutrition. Having lived in TN, CA, NV, Alaska, CO, and now GA, I have worked with individuals in all walks of life. I love spending time with my family, running, and doing anything outdoors, though these days, eating well gives me the energy to keep up with my twin toddlers.
Online Dietitians and Nutritionists
Many diets have us thinking about what we need to remove from our life. My approach focuses on what you can add to your life. My goal is to provide you a sustainable, personalized roadmap to achieve your health goals. Together, we will target your unique needs by setting practical, achievable goals that empower change toward a healthier you.
Many diets have us thinking about what we need to remove from our life. My approach focuses on what you can add to your life. My goal is to provide you a sustainable, personalized roadmap to achieve your health goals. Together, we will target your unique needs by setting practical, achievable goals that empower change toward a healthier you.
Weight Loss/Weight Management Nutritionists and Dietitians
Why is nutrition important for weight loss?
Dietitians often identify diet and exercise as the two key factors in achieving weight loss goals. To lose weight, individuals must consume fewer calories than they expend, making a supportive diet essential. Foods that are satiating, such as the healthy fats found in nuts or fish like salmon, can help keep individuals full longer and reduce overall intake. In contrast, foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates are quickly burned by the body and can lead to excessive caloric intake. These examples highlight the importance of overall nutrition choices, beyond just calorie counting, in weight loss. Additionally, a well-balanced diet can help reduce symptoms of conditions associated with obesity or being overweight, such as high blood sugar and hypertension.
What diet is best for weight loss?
There is no single best diet for weight loss; instead, dietitians often advocate for adopting overall lifestyle changes that support sustainable weight loss rather than extreme, short-term diets. Generally, dietary changes that include more plant-based foods and those low in added sugars and saturated fats are recommended. One example of such a diet is the Mediterranean-style diet, which emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and lean sources of animal protein. Specific dietary patterns may also be tailored to the client's underlying health conditions. For instance, individuals with hypertension or high cholesterol might benefit from the DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), which focuses on heart-healthy foods.
What foods should I avoid for weight loss?
When aiming for weight loss, dietitians generally advise against consuming high-calorie and highly-processed foods, such as fried foods, fatty meats, sugar-rich desserts or baked goods, refined carbohydrates like white bread, and candy. Additionally, beverages such as sodas and high-calorie coffee drinks can negatively impact weight loss goals. Instead, nutrition professionals recommend incorporating foods that contribute to satiety and overall health, including fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and whole grains. Focusing on adding these nutrient-dense foods, instead of taking away certain foods, can support a healthier lifestyle and help individuals both meet their nutritional needs while also achieving their weight loss goals.
How can a dietitian help with weight loss?
Dietitians assist with weight loss by helping clients develop and implement lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and exercise routines, that support sustained weight management. They will work with clients to create personalized weight loss plans and hold them accountable for meeting their goals. Dietitians may also address the psychological aspects of weight loss, promoting positive self-esteem and self-worth. Many encourage clients to keep a food diary or journal to track their diet and provide ongoing guidance as the client makes the recommended lifestyle changes. Additionally, dietitians may coordinate with other healthcare professionals, such as medical doctors, to address any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes.