Meredith Nitka, RD

Meredith Nitka, RD is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) dedicated to empowering patients with proactive, comprehensive care at her clinic in Naples, FL. Registered with The Florida Board of Medicine, she practices under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice), and is committed to partnering with individuals of all ages seeking proactive health management and nutritional guidance. As a featured provider on weprevent.org, she understands that Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are your primary partners in preventive care, collaboratively creating personalized long-term health plans, coordinating essential screenings, and providing expert medical nutrition therapy and wellness counseling to empower you to achieve and maintain optimal well-being. She approaches her work with a dedication to collaborative, evidence-based medicine, fostering a supportive environment where patients feel empowered to take an active role in their long-term health.

Dr. Meredith RD is a dietitian in Naples, FL, specializing in preventive care. Her practice emphasizes the importance of proactive health management, recognizing the critical role of nutrition in overall well-being. She works closely with patients to develop personalized plans that integrate nutritional strategies with lifestyle modifications, promoting lasting health improvements. Patients should call (239) 624-8250 to confirm if she is currently accepting new patients. Dr. Meredith RD provides consultations primarily in English.

A key part of the WePrevent mission is building your personalized prevention roadmap. Dr. Meredith RD is a vital partner in this journey, focusing on proactive strategies to protect and enhance your long-term health.

By working together, you and Dr. Meredith RD can create a clear, actionable plan to address your unique risk factors and health goals.

A proactive approach to health involves understanding and managing potential risks. Dr. Meredith RD provides expert care for a range of conditions, focusing on early detection and effective management to support your long-term wellness. Common areas of focus include:

• Chronic Depression (Dysthymia): Early detection of chronic depression is key to preventing its negative effects on your eating habits and overall health, which a registered dietitian can help manage through nutrition therapy.
• Gas-Bloat Syndrome: Addressing gas and bloating proactively can help you avoid more serious digestive problems, highlighting the importance of preventive nutrition strategies.
• Cystic Fibrosis: Cystic fibrosis affects the pancreas, making it harder to absorb vital nutrients, so consistent medical nutrition therapy helps minimize deficiencies and prevent associated health issues.
• Diabetes Type 1: Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks insulin-producing cells, making early diagnosis and careful management crucial for preventing long-term complications.
• Skin Allergy: Managing food allergies through dietary changes guided by a registered dietitian can significantly reduce the frequency and severity of skin allergy symptoms.
• Iron Metabolism Disorders: Early detection of iron metabolism disorders, often through simple blood tests, allows for timely intervention and prevents potentially serious consequences down the line.
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome can significantly impair daily functioning, making early recognition of symptoms and lifestyle modifications, such as dietary changes, important for disease management and preventing long-term health issues.

This list highlights some common health concerns and is for informational purposes only. The best way to understand your personal health and create a prevention plan is to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Taking proactive steps is central to long-term health. Dr. Meredith RD offers a range of key preventive screenings and services designed to provide crucial insights into your health and support your well-being:

• Point of Care A1C Testing: By getting a Point-of-Care A1C test, you can gain valuable insights into your blood sugar control, facilitating early diagnosis and treatment of diabetes, thereby minimizing long-term complications.
• Detoxification Evaluation: A detoxification evaluation is a proactive step toward optimizing your health by identifying potential sources of inflammation or metabolic stress that may lead to chronic disease.
• Behavior Modification: Empower yourself with new skills and techniques to overcome behavioral barriers and achieve long-term health and wellness.
• HeartAware Online Risk Screening: Proactively assess your risk factors for heart disease with the HeartAware Online Risk Screening and take steps towards prevention.
• Allergy Testing: Take charge of your health by undergoing allergy testing to uncover hidden sensitivities and prevent future reactions.
• Weight Loss Management: Partner with a registered dietitian to develop a weight management strategy that's right for you, supporting healthy habits and reducing the risk of weight-related complications.
• Obesity Counseling: Empower yourself with knowledge and tools to manage your weight effectively, reducing your risk of developing obesity-related health problems.

Service availability can change, and not all services listed may be appropriate for every patient. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services and to create your personalized screening plan, please schedule a consultation.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) in Florida.

Dr. Meredith RD is dedicated to partnering with Caregivers/Support Systems to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how a proactive approach can make a tangible difference in a Client's life:

• By proactively addressing potential warning signs of chronic depression, a client gained valuable tools to maintain positive eating habits and overall well-being, reducing the risk of future challenges.
• Following a registered dietitian nutritionist's personalized plan, a client experienced significant reductions in gas and bloating, finding relief and improved digestive well-being. This proactive approach empowered them to confidently enjoy meals without discomfort, promoting overall health and peace of mind.

These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results may vary and depend on many factors specific to each patient. She will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.

Here are answers to some common questions about proactive Registered Dietitian Nutritionist care with Dr. Meredith RD:

What is the difference between a Registered Dietitian (RD) and a nutritionist?

A Registered Dietitian (RD or RDN) is a credentialed healthcare professional with rigorous training and supervised practice, providing evidence-based nutrition advice. The term "nutritionist" is not regulated, so it's essential to confirm the credentials of any nutrition professional. An RD provides reliable, science-backed guidance.

What can I expect during my first visit with Dr. Meredith RD?

Your first visit with Dr. Meredith RD will be a comprehensive assessment. We will review your health history, eating habits, lifestyle, and personal health goals. This is the first step in creating a realistic and sustainable personalized nutrition plan for you.

I have IBS and other digestive issues. How can you help?

Dr. Meredith RD can act as a "food detective," helping identify trigger foods that may be contributing to your IBS and digestive issues. Often, strategies like a low FODMAP diet are used to significantly reduce symptoms like bloating, gas, and discomfort, improving your overall quality of life.

I have a food allergy or sensitivity. How can a dietitian assist?

Dr. Meredith RD can help identify hidden sources of allergens in foods, plan a balanced and varied diet that avoids the trigger food, and ensure you are still getting all the necessary nutrients.

How can nutrition help lower my high cholesterol and blood pressure?

Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing high cholesterol and blood pressure. Dr. Meredith RD can create a personalized plan emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, while also teaching strategies to reduce sodium and unhealthy fats. This natural approach is an effective way to prevent heart attack and stroke.

Can you help with nutrition during pregnancy?

Yes, proper nutrition is crucial during pregnancy for both the mother and baby's health. Dr. Meredith RD can provide personalized guidance on key nutrients, healthy weight gain, and managing potential pregnancy-related issues like gestational diabetes or nausea.

I have chronic kidney disease. How important is my diet?

A specialized renal diet, guided by Dr. Meredith RD, is crucial for managing chronic kidney disease. It's a primary treatment, not just supportive care, and helps control protein, sodium, and potassium levels to preserve kidney function and potentially delay dialysis.

Do you work with patients who have eating disorders?

Yes, RDs are a crucial part of the eating disorder treatment team. Dr. Meredith RD works collaboratively with therapists and physicians to help patients heal their relationship with food, establish regular eating patterns, and achieve nutritional rehabilitation in a supportive, non-judgmental way.

1726 Medical Blvd Ste 101
Naples FL 34110
Phone: (239) 624-8250

Meredith Nitka, RD is regulated by the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice) in Florida and is licensed by The Florida Board of Medicine.

National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1205537909

Registration can typically be verified through The Florida Board of Medicine website or by direct inquiry.

The information on this profile, provided by weprevent.org, is for general informational purposes and to help you connect with preventive health partners. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the physician named. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) like Dr. Meredith RD are skilled in helping patients create proactive health plans. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. It is always recommended to maintain open communication with your registered dietitian nutritionist (rdn) about all aspects of your health and your personalized prevention plan.