20 Years of Helping Bariatric Patients Succeed
For the past 20 years, I’ve specialized in helping bariatric patients navigate one of the most transformative health journeys of their lives.
Bariatric surgery can bring incredible hope — improved health, renewed confidence, and the chance to finally feel in control again.
But surgery is only the beginning.
Long-term success comes from learning how to nourish your body, build sustainable habits, and adapt as your journey evolves. That’s where the right guidance and support makes all the difference.
Hi, I'm Dana!
I have spent 15 years working as a Bariatric Dietitian at a Bariatric Surgery Center of Excellence, collaborating closely with surgeons, nurses, psychologists, and the entire care team.
During that time, I:
• Guided thousands of bariatric patients through every phase of their journey
• Developed nutrition education resources for patients
• Led bariatric nutrition initiatives within the clinic
• Trained other dietitians in the complexities of bariatric nutrition
Through this experience, I saw firsthand what it takes to be successful on this journey and how much ongoing support patients truly need.
Why I Created My Coaching Programs
Many bariatric patients receive only limited nutrition guidance after surgery — often just a packet of information and occasional follow-up visits.
But the reality is that the bariatric journey involves:
Daily food decisions
Changing hunger and fullness signals
Varying portion sizes
Evolving lifestyle habits
... and we need to stay on top of them!
I created the Bariatric Jumpstart and Bariatric NextStep coaching programs to provide the guidance, structure, and support patients deserve throughout every phase of the journey.
My goal is simple: To help you meet your weight loss goal, change body composition, and create a lifestyle change with nutrition and movement to maintain results long-term.
A Few Fun Facts
In my free time, I love exploring our surroundings in our new home in Phoenix, Arizona, with my husband and two children.
We love hiking, swimming, and trying new foods.
When we’re not outside, I love to cook, attempt yoga, and roam the aisles of Target.
Education
MASTER OF SCIENCE
Nutrition and Wellness
Benedictine University - Lisle, Illinois
DIETETIC INTERNSHIP
University of Houston - Houston, Texas
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE
Dietetics and Nutrition, Fitness & Health
Purdue University - West Lafayette, Indiana
Professional Activities
FEATURED SPEAKER
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The Bariatric Symposium (2024 & 2025)
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Advocate Health Obesity Awareness Symposium (2013, 2015, 2016)
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Midwestern University & Illinois Osteopathic Medical Society Event (2017)
