Cholesterol Nutritionists and Dietitians in Tyler, TX

Photo of Niesje Buaas - Niesje Buaas - iBalance Wellness LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES, NBC-HWC
Niesje Buaas - iBalance Wellness LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CDCES, NBC-HWC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
To have weight loss, improve your cholesterol numbers, lower your blood pressure, decrease your blood glucose, & impact other health conditions or issues you need an exercise routine, a nutrition plan, & stress management techniques.
Longing to lose weight, restore energy, improve self-esteem and prevent or improve a chronic disease? At iBalance Wellness, we work closely with you to develop your own vision of wellness. Identifying your particular health and wellness goals, empowering you to start with small steps which over time add up to big changes equaling sustainable, healthy outcomes. You are guided supportively, and non-judgmentally to a personalized nutrition and fitness plan for a balance of healthy habits. The coaching process inspires awareness, discovery, and exploration of self to promote lasting improvement in health, happiness, and wellbeing.
To have weight loss, improve your cholesterol numbers, lower your blood pressure, decrease your blood glucose, & impact other health conditions or issues you need an exercise routine, a nutrition plan, & stress management techniques.
Longing to lose weight, restore energy, improve self-esteem and prevent or improve a chronic disease? At iBalance Wellness, we work closely with you to develop your own vision of wellness. Identifying your particular health and wellness goals, empowering you to start with small steps which over time add up to big changes equaling sustainable, healthy outcomes. You are guided supportively, and non-judgmentally to a personalized nutrition and fitness plan for a balance of healthy habits. The coaching process inspires awareness, discovery, and exploration of self to promote lasting improvement in health, happiness, and wellbeing.
(903) 308-5012 View (903) 308-5012
Photo of Dr. Danielle Heard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, DCN, CNS, LDN, CKNS
Dr. Danielle Heard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, DCN, CNS, LDN, CKNS
Serves Area
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist®. She coaches individuals, couples, and groups 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 and men of all ages as well as teenagers.
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist®. She coaches individuals, couples, and groups 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 and men of all ages as well as teenagers.
(903) 205-9352 View (903) 205-9352
Photo of Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CEDS-C
Serves Area
Now accepting new clients! Nutrition DiscoveRD specializes in eating disorder recovery, sports nutrition, managing PCOS, and improving relationships with food and body image after chronic dieting. Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, RDN, LD, CEDS-C, provides personalized, non-diet, weight-neutral care tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether you are seeking support for eating concerns, navigating disordered eating patterns, or looking to optimize athletic performance, our approach emphasizes nutrition education, challenging diet culture, and fostering a positive, sustainable relationship with food and your body.
Now accepting new clients! Nutrition DiscoveRD specializes in eating disorder recovery, sports nutrition, managing PCOS, and improving relationships with food and body image after chronic dieting. Mary-Lauren Shelton Vise, RDN, LD, CEDS-C, provides personalized, non-diet, weight-neutral care tailored to each client’s unique needs. Whether you are seeking support for eating concerns, navigating disordered eating patterns, or looking to optimize athletic performance, our approach emphasizes nutrition education, challenging diet culture, and fostering a positive, sustainable relationship with food and your body.
(972) 808-5209 View (972) 808-5209

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Anne Suelzer, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Anne Suelzer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
5 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75243
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.
(469) 960-5661 View (469) 960-5661
Photo of Yun Rose Ze, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
Yun Rose Ze
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
McKinney, TX 75071
I specialize in food allergies, diabetes, eating disorders, weight management, and pediatric nutrition, addressing issues like high cholesterol, food sensitivity, GERD, gut health, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and pregnancy nutrition.
Yun Ze (Rose) is a passionate dietitian who focuses on disease prevention and disease management. Rose strives to provide her clients with non-judgmental, wholesome and evidence-based research that will set them up for long-term success.My professional journey into nutrition started when I pursued nursing in Singapore. I found the food choices and variety to be subpar in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and even grocery stores! This set me on a path to learn more about how nutrition impacts one's life and longevity.
I specialize in food allergies, diabetes, eating disorders, weight management, and pediatric nutrition, addressing issues like high cholesterol, food sensitivity, GERD, gut health, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and pregnancy nutrition.
Yun Ze (Rose) is a passionate dietitian who focuses on disease prevention and disease management. Rose strives to provide her clients with non-judgmental, wholesome and evidence-based research that will set them up for long-term success.My professional journey into nutrition started when I pursued nursing in Singapore. I found the food choices and variety to be subpar in schools, hospitals, nursing homes, and even grocery stores! This set me on a path to learn more about how nutrition impacts one's life and longevity.
(469) 905-6561 View (469) 905-6561
Photo of Araceli Vázquez, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CDCES
Araceli Vázquez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, CDCES
Richardson, TX 75081
I provide individualized medical nutrition therapy helping you to manage your blood sugars, cholesterol levels, weight gain or weight loss as well as behavior modification to accomplish your nutritional needs.
Are you ready to start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle? Whether you have a specific medical condition such as Diabetes, Hypertension, Eating Disorders, or are in need of Family Nutrition or individual consultation for weight management or malnutrition, I am the best choice for your nutritional needs. ¿Está listo para comenzar su viaje hacia un estilo de vida más saludable? Ya sea que tenga Diabetes, Hipertensión, Trastornos Alimenticios, o si necesita una consulta Individual o Familiar para manejo de su peso o malnutrición, soy la Nutrióloga que usted necesita.
I provide individualized medical nutrition therapy helping you to manage your blood sugars, cholesterol levels, weight gain or weight loss as well as behavior modification to accomplish your nutritional needs.
Are you ready to start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle? Whether you have a specific medical condition such as Diabetes, Hypertension, Eating Disorders, or are in need of Family Nutrition or individual consultation for weight management or malnutrition, I am the best choice for your nutritional needs. ¿Está listo para comenzar su viaje hacia un estilo de vida más saludable? Ya sea que tenga Diabetes, Hipertensión, Trastornos Alimenticios, o si necesita una consulta Individual o Familiar para manejo de su peso o malnutrición, soy la Nutrióloga que usted necesita.
(972) 499-5243 View (972) 499-5243
Photo of Kimberly Young, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Kimberly Young
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, Digestive Health, PCOS, Inflammatory Conditions, Fatty Liver and Cholesterol Lowering.
My approach is focused on dietary and lifestyle modifications with a primary focus on whole food. I utilize a wide range of diagnostic tools and customize results oriented programs based on your goals. My ideal client is looking for a sustainable balanced lifestyle and improvement of chronic conditions. Flex spending/HSA accounts are accepted. I can provide a Super Bill for insurance purposes. All sessions exclusively online.
Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, Digestive Health, PCOS, Inflammatory Conditions, Fatty Liver and Cholesterol Lowering.
My approach is focused on dietary and lifestyle modifications with a primary focus on whole food. I utilize a wide range of diagnostic tools and customize results oriented programs based on your goals. My ideal client is looking for a sustainable balanced lifestyle and improvement of chronic conditions. Flex spending/HSA accounts are accepted. I can provide a Super Bill for insurance purposes. All sessions exclusively online.
(214) 305-2422 View (214) 305-2422
Photo of Jody Halouska, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Jody Halouska
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CDCES
Dallas, TX 75204
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
Specialties include Diabetes and Pre-diabetes, Bariatrics (pre and post operation), Weight management, High Blood Pressure, High Cholesterol, Heart Conditions, Underweight Nutrition, Intuitive Eating, PCOS, Prenatal/Post Natal Nutrition, Gastrointestinal, GERD, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism, Kidney disease, liver disease, and Sports Nutrition.
Jody is a passionate advocate for health, wellness, and feeling your best. Jody is committed to empowering individuals to make positive and sustainable lifestyle changes. Jody strives to provide personalized guidance to help clients achieve their health goals and create a harmonious relationship with food. Recognizing that each individual's relationship with food is unique, Jody works to create a supportive and non-judgmental environment where clients feel empowered to explore their dietary preferences, navigate challenges and cultivate sustainable habits that align with their goals and values.
(872) 259-7074 View (872) 259-7074
Photo of Martha McHenry - Smart Plate Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CDE
Smart Plate Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD, CDE
Dallas, TX 75243
High Cholesterol?
We are a group of weight loss and diabetes experts with over 20 years experience with what works! We offer individualized weight loss programs, evidence-based Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes management plans, DNA Testing, state of the art Muscle Mass Analysis; customized Meal Planning, and the latest science to help you reach your goals.
High Cholesterol?
We are a group of weight loss and diabetes experts with over 20 years experience with what works! We offer individualized weight loss programs, evidence-based Diabetes and Pre-Diabetes management plans, DNA Testing, state of the art Muscle Mass Analysis; customized Meal Planning, and the latest science to help you reach your goals.
(972) 893-9042 x1 View (972) 893-9042 x1
Photo of Stacie Vanessa Ellis - Excellis Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD
Excellis Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LD
Cedar Hill, TX 75104
Dr. Stacie Ellis, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in weight loss/gain, eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, performance/sports nutrition, nutrition for aesthetic demanding sports/fields, and medical nutrition therapy for many chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalance, and much more. Excellis Nutrition offers one-on-one consultations/coaching, group classes, cooking classes, and partners with a number of organizations including athletic teams, non-profit, and corporate. Contact Dr. Ellis today to find out how Excellis Nutrition can help you!
Dr. Stacie Ellis, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian with over 10 years of experience. She specializes in weight loss/gain, eating disorders, emotional/stress eating, performance/sports nutrition, nutrition for aesthetic demanding sports/fields, and medical nutrition therapy for many chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, hormonal imbalance, and much more. Excellis Nutrition offers one-on-one consultations/coaching, group classes, cooking classes, and partners with a number of organizations including athletic teams, non-profit, and corporate. Contact Dr. Ellis today to find out how Excellis Nutrition can help you!
(469) 410-3519 View (469) 410-3519
Photo of Gay Riley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CCN, FMN, LD
Gay Riley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CCN, FMN, LD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Gay Riley. As a functional nutritionist my job is to guide you to "take control of your health". Whether you are managing a chronic medical condition, struggling with physical symptoms you cant seem to resolve, or striving to acheive a health and fitness goal I can help. We look for the source of the symptom (s), using your history, lifestyle, who you are, genomics and advanced tests to design a personalized plan just for you. We create realistic long term plans with food, nutrition and lifestyle to help you reach your goals naturally. You will be amazed at how easy it can be. www.netnutritionist.com/success-stories/
My name is Gay Riley. As a functional nutritionist my job is to guide you to "take control of your health". Whether you are managing a chronic medical condition, struggling with physical symptoms you cant seem to resolve, or striving to acheive a health and fitness goal I can help. We look for the source of the symptom (s), using your history, lifestyle, who you are, genomics and advanced tests to design a personalized plan just for you. We create realistic long term plans with food, nutrition and lifestyle to help you reach your goals naturally. You will be amazed at how easy it can be. www.netnutritionist.com/success-stories/
(800) 692-9711 x1 View (800) 692-9711 x1
Photo of Katie Whitson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Katie Whitson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
3 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
Katie Whitson is a dedicated HAEs-aligned Registered Dietitian with a deep passion for fostering healthy, sustainable relationships with food and movement. She embraces a non-diet approach, focusing on the connection between nutrition and mental health. Katie employs evidence-based strategies to meet patients where they are in their care, empowering them through active involvement and personalized support. Her mission is to inspire lifelong, transformative changes by blending consistency, structure and creativity in every aspect of her practice.
(551) 288-6517 View (551) 288-6517
Photo of Kelly Minarick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Kelly Minarick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
Kelly Minarick is a Registered dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Kelly takes a weight-inclusive and person-centered approach to nutrition. She helps her clients become champions of their own bodies by encouraging mindful and attuned eating practices. She takes a non-diet approach to wellness and encourages balanced living and gentle nutrition. Kelly works with her clients to find a way of eating that works for them as an individual by taking their personal preferences, access to food, health history, lifestyles, and more into account.
(331) 246-0318 View (331) 246-0318
Photo of Summer L Lamons, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Summer L Lamons
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT
Dallas, TX 75225
Summer specializes in both weight management and therapeutic diet modification. She provides private one on one nutrition analysis, education, meal planning, and menu development. Whether you need to lose weight or if you're faced with a serious condition or illness, Summer will create the ideal plan for you.
Summer specializes in both weight management and therapeutic diet modification. She provides private one on one nutrition analysis, education, meal planning, and menu development. Whether you need to lose weight or if you're faced with a serious condition or illness, Summer will create the ideal plan for you.
(214) 919-5364 View (214) 919-5364
Photo of Lemond Nutrition - Lemond Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LPC-A, RDN, LD
Lemond Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LPC-A, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Lemond Nutrition is proud to be one of the most trusted private nutrition practices among families and doctors in the Dallas and Lubbock areas. After seeing a need for comprehensive nutrition assistance specifically for children and families— Angela and Jeff Lemond founded the company in 2009. Lemond Nutrition has helped hundreds of people find a nutritious and healthy lifestyle. We are honored daily to be a continued resource for people in need.
Lemond Nutrition is proud to be one of the most trusted private nutrition practices among families and doctors in the Dallas and Lubbock areas. After seeing a need for comprehensive nutrition assistance specifically for children and families— Angela and Jeff Lemond founded the company in 2009. Lemond Nutrition has helped hundreds of people find a nutritious and healthy lifestyle. We are honored daily to be a continued resource for people in need.
(972) 430-6067 View (972) 430-6067
Photo of Terry Brown - Brown Nutrition and Wellness Consulting, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MBA/MPH, RD
Brown Nutrition and Wellness Consulting, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MBA/MPH, RD
Online Only
Dr. Terry Brown, DCN, MBA, MPH, RD, LD, CNSC is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience in clinical nutrition, education, and healthcare leadership. In addition, she has a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from Rutgers School of Health Professions. Dr. Brown has a passion for helping clients achieve their healthcare goals.
Dr. Terry Brown, DCN, MBA, MPH, RD, LD, CNSC is a registered dietitian nutritionist with more than 20 years of experience in clinical nutrition, education, and healthcare leadership. In addition, she has a Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition from Rutgers School of Health Professions. Dr. Brown has a passion for helping clients achieve their healthcare goals.
(469) 523-6311 View (469) 523-6311
Photo of Gina Tran Holmes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Gina Tran Holmes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Online Only
Have you spent years trying to “fix” your eating habits or your body but nothing seems to work? Are you totally confused about what to eat? Are your days super busy and it’s hard to find time to eat? Want to eat in a way that feels good and doesn’t stress you out? I get it! I help people discover the joy in eating and pursue well-being without focusing on their weight. As a non-diet dietitian, my goal is to help you stop dieting and obsessing about food and your body, and start living a joyful life with sustainable health, peace, and balance.
Have you spent years trying to “fix” your eating habits or your body but nothing seems to work? Are you totally confused about what to eat? Are your days super busy and it’s hard to find time to eat? Want to eat in a way that feels good and doesn’t stress you out? I get it! I help people discover the joy in eating and pursue well-being without focusing on their weight. As a non-diet dietitian, my goal is to help you stop dieting and obsessing about food and your body, and start living a joyful life with sustainable health, peace, and balance.
(214) 856-7917 View (214) 856-7917
Photo of Bella Fleps, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Bella Fleps
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
I'm Bella, a Registered Dietitian based in the suburbs of Chicago, specializing in an anti-diet approach that promotes intuitive eating and inclusivity. My counseling philosophy emphasizes embracing all foods without guilt and fostering balanced, enjoyable eating habits. I believe in empowering individuals to listen to their body's cues for hunger and fullness, guiding them toward a positive relationship with food that supports sustainable health and wellness.
I'm Bella, a Registered Dietitian based in the suburbs of Chicago, specializing in an anti-diet approach that promotes intuitive eating and inclusivity. My counseling philosophy emphasizes embracing all foods without guilt and fostering balanced, enjoyable eating habits. I believe in empowering individuals to listen to their body's cues for hunger and fullness, guiding them toward a positive relationship with food that supports sustainable health and wellness.
(331) 316-8380 View (331) 316-8380
Photo of Heather Ritter, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Heather Ritter
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75206
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.
(346) 248-2577 View (346) 248-2577
Photo of Natalie Larsen, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Natalie Larsen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Dallas, TX 75248
Natalie was born and raised in the Chicago area but has lived in Wisconsin, Georgia, and Florida before ultimately finding her way back to the windy city. She received her first degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in communication science and disorders and spent the early days of her career working in special education. As a former gymnast, Natalie always had a passion for food, nutrition, and its effect on athletic performance. She became a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and went on to receive her second degree in nutrition and dietetics from Dominican University in Chicago.
Natalie was born and raised in the Chicago area but has lived in Wisconsin, Georgia, and Florida before ultimately finding her way back to the windy city. She received her first degree from University of Wisconsin-Whitewater in communication science and disorders and spent the early days of her career working in special education. As a former gymnast, Natalie always had a passion for food, nutrition, and its effect on athletic performance. She became a personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine and went on to receive her second degree in nutrition and dietetics from Dominican University in Chicago.
(331) 204-1676 View (331) 204-1676
Cholesterol Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the blood that is essential for forming healthy cells and ensuring regular body functions. Although cholesterol often has a negative reputation, it plays a crucial role in our health. There are several types of cholesterol, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The balance between these types is more important than eliminating cholesterol entirely. In general HDL is considered to be the "good" form of cholesterol, while LDL is considered to be the "bad" form associated with conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. Individuals with high levels of LDL cholesterol circulating in their blood are at an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, as a result of plaque build-up on the interior of the body's arteries.

How does diet affect cholesterol?

While many individuals with high cholesterol are prescribed medications to help lower their levels, lifestyle changes—especially dietary modifications—are considered the first line of treatment. Reducing the consumption of foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as fatty meats, cream, butter, and pastries, helps lower cholesterol. Conversely, consuming sufficient fiber, healthy fats (like those found in salmon and nuts), and low-fat proteins can help lower LDL levels and improve cardiovascular health.

What diet is best if you have high cholesterol?

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

Why is it useful to see a dietitian if you have high cholesterol?

Dietitians are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have high cholesterol can be greatly beneficial. They can help construct a diet that lowers cholesterol and promotes a healthier lifestyle. Dietitians can assist clients in identifying foods that are low in cholesterol and those that support overall health. They can also help hold clients accountable for their nutrition and provide resources for other lifestyle modifications that support blood cholesterol reduction, such as exercise, smoking cessation, and alcohol consumption reduction. Additionally, dietitians can assist in managing other chronic diseases often associated with high cholesterol, such as kidney conditions, diabetes, and heart disease.