“Let’s focus on creating an environment where all young people feel valued and supported in developing lifelong healthy habits”: Exploring Topics in Nutrition with an Atlanta Pediatric Nutritionist
Question #1: What inspired you to become a pediatric nutritionist? I would love to hear about what kind of experiences and education led you into this field, and what a typical day looks like.
I decided early in my college career to become a Registered Dietitian, driven by my longstanding interest in healthcare and, in particular, the powerful role of nutrition in preventing and managing chronic diseases and medical conditions. To become a Registered Dietitian, one must complete an undergraduate degree in Dietetics, earn a Master’s degree, and complete over 1,000 hours of supervised practice before becoming eligible for licensure. I have spent the majority of my career in a pediatric hospital setting, working closely with other medical professionals to support patient care for a variety of medical conditions. Most recently, I have transitioned to private practice, where I work with a wide range of children, adolescents, and young adults with medical nutrition concerns.
Question #2: What advice would you give to teens about cultivating healthy eating habits?
Keep it simple and focus on just 1–2 goals you feel confident you can stick with over time. For example, you might aim to eat at least one fruit and one vegetable each day. Look for small, healthy habits you can build into your current routine — small changes do add up over time!
Question #3: How do you approach picky eaters or kids with food aversions?
I usually recommend a low-pressure, positive approach. It’s the caregiver’s role to provide regular opportunities for children to explore new foods, but it’s the child’s job to decide whether or not to eat them. One of the most common challenges I see is that, understandably, caregivers stop offering new foods because they anticipate rejection. But picky eating is a process that takes time and patience — consistency is key. Offering small portions of new foods alongside familiar favorites, without pressure or bribes, helps build trust and comfort over time. For families feeling stuck, working with a pediatric registered dietitian or other health professional who specializes in this area can make a big difference in developing a personalized plan.
Question #4: What are the most common nutrition issues, or public health challenges, that you see impacting teens and kids in Georgia?
Food insecurity is a major challenge in Georgia, with about 1 in 5 children experiencing hunger. Without reliable access to nutritious, affordable food, it’s difficult for kids and teens to build healthy habits or thrive in school, sports, and daily life. Addressing food insecurity is the critical first step in supporting children’s health, ensuring they have the fuel they need to grow, learn, and develop lifelong positive habits.
Question #5: What changes would you like to see in how we support kids' health and nutrition? Also, how can I, as a peer, influence other youth and teens to lead a healthy lifestyle?
I would love for us to place less emphasis on weight as a measure of health and instead focus more on supporting healthy habits for all kids and teens, regardless of body size. As a peer, I believe it’s especially important to promote body-positive messaging and to avoid language that could contribute to weight stigma or shame. Encouraging balanced eating, joyful movement, good sleep, and emotional well-being benefits everyone, no matter their weight. Let’s focus on creating an environment where all young people feel valued and supported in developing lifelong healthy habits.
