March has passed, but the focus of National Nutrition Month continues to resonate as interest in healthy eating grows across the country.

University of Illinois Extension nutrition educator Caitlin Mellendorf is sharing how nutritionists can help tailor your diet to meet your specific needs.

Mellendorf (left) explains that dietitians and nutritionists assist with a range of health concerns, offering guidance on how to address them through nutrition.

For those worried about cost, Mellendorf suggests checking with your insurance provider or healthcare office to see if nutritionist services are available.

Research backs up their value. A 2020 study from the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics found that people with diabetes who consulted a nutritionist reduced their A1C levels—a measure of blood sugar—by 0.5-2% more than those who didn’t. Nutritionists also help prevent conditions like heart disease and obesity through practical dietary changes.