Whether you want to control your weight, manage a chronic disease or reduce your risk of health problems as you age, nutrition can play a crucial role in improving your overall well-being. But no matter what your nutrition goals may be, it's key to take a personalized, sustainable approach, according to Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci, MS, RDN, the director of clinical nutrition at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.
“Nutrition is about so much more than just weight loss. Our registered dietitians support individuals with all types of health conditions, dietary needs, lifestyles and preferences—enhancing overall health while ensuring their nutritional needs are being met in a way that fits their age and stage of life.”
Here’s how Torrance Memorial’s team of registered dietitians can help people manage common health conditions and improve wellness:
Cancer
Erica Drost, MS, RDN, LDN: “The American Institute for Cancer Research’s nutrition-focused recommendations for cancer prevention emphasize a diet rich in plant-based foods while limiting red/processed meats and highly processed foods high in saturated fats, sodium and added sugar. Dietitians develop personalized nutrition plans to help patients manage the side effects of treatment, maintain strength and energy, and promote recovery.”
Diabetes
Andrea Guastamacchio, RDN, CDCES: “Lifestyle modification is the cornerstone of diabetes management. Dietitians support patients in managing diabetes by creating individualized meal plans, helping manage challenges, monitoring progress and adjusting plans to promote long-term success. For patients with prediabetes, dietitians help prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes by providing tailored nutrition strategies to improve insulin sensitivity, maintain healthy blood sugar levels and support weight management. Also, dietitians work with pregnant women to manage blood sugar levels and support a healthy pregnancy.”
Disordered Eating
Michele Manarino, MS, RDN: “Nutrition is a cornerstone of treatment for disordered eating, with dietitians working alongside doctors and therapists in a multidisciplinary approach. Dietitians provide personalized guidance to help individuals restore balanced nutrition, develop a healthy relationship with food, and support physical and emotional recovery. By addressing the physical and psychological aspects of eating disorders, dietitians play a crucial role in the recovery journey, empowering patients to reclaim their health and well-being.”
GI and Metabolic Disorders
Noel Le, RDN: “Dietary changes tailored to individual needs can alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal and metabolic disorders by more than 50%, offering significant relief and supporting overall well-being for people with irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease and gastroesophageal reflux disease.”
Heart Health & Hypertension/Hyperlipidemia
Rebecca Tran, MS, RDN: “Dietary patterns like the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets—which are rich in fiber and healthy fats and low in saturated fat and sodium—have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels and support overall heart health. Dietitians encourage heart-healthy food choices by educating people about fats and cholesterol, sodium intake and other dietary risk factors.”
Immune Support
Kenny Lin, RDN: “A well-balanced diet is essential for strengthening the immune system and enhancing the body’s ability to fight off pathogens. Nutrient-rich foods provide vital vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other micronutrients that support immune function. Dietitians support immune health by assessing nutrient intake, recommending nutrient-dense foods and supporting gut health.”
Kidney Disease
Frank Albano Jr., MS, RDN: “When kidney function becomes inefficient, proper nutrition guided by a registered dietitian is essential to prevent additional strain and optimize remaining kidney function. Dietitians play a critical role in tailoring dietary recommendations to the patient’s specific stage of kidney disease, helping alleviate the burden caused by waste and excess nutrients from the foods consumed. For individuals with kidney disease, managing the intake of certain nutrients is crucial to preserving kidney function, enhancing quality of life and reducing the risk of progression to kidney failure.”
Older Adult Nutrition
Rebecca Tran, MS, RDN: “Dietitians ensure older adults have adequate calcium, vitamin D and protein intake through food or supplements, helping strengthen bones, preserve muscle mass and reduce the risk of fractures. Aging often brings challenges such as reduced appetite, difficulty chewing or changes in digestion and nutrient absorption. Dietitians provide practical solutions, such as recommending easy-to-eat, nutrient-dense foods and addressing conditions like lactose intolerance or vitamin D insufficiency.”
Pediatric Food Allergies
Kristen Hung, MPH, RDN: “Dietitians play a key role in ensuring that pediatric nutrition needs are met, even when food allergies are involved. Dietitians help parents and caregivers navigate allergen-free foods rich in essential nutrients, ensuring the child’s diet remains balanced and nutritious.”
Sports Nutrition
Kenny Lin, RDN: “Nutrition is crucial for athletic performance, providing the energy, strength, endurance and recovery necessary to excel. Key factors to consider in sports nutrition include pre- and post-exercise meals, hydration and electrolyte balance—elements vital for optimizing performance and preventing fatigue or injury.”
Weight Management
Hannah Bodenhamer, MS, RDN: “Balanced, regular meals help regulate blood sugar, sustain energy and prevent weight fluctuations. Nutrient-dense foods offer anti-inflammatory benefits, lower chronic disease risk, and can prevent or reverse metabolic syndrome. Dietitians work with adults to develop sustainable nutrition plans tailored to individual needs, preferences and health goals. Dietitians also promote healthy habits in children and adolescents to support growth and development while addressing weight concerns.”
Women’s Health
Marissa Minderler, MS, RDN: “Dietitians help women navigate specific health challenges, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and menopause. Dietitians provide guidance on managing insulin resistance and supporting energy levels and hormonal balance for women with PCOS. During menopause, dietitians emphasize calcium and vitamin D intake for bone health, recommend phytoestrogen-rich foods like soy to alleviate hot flashes, and encourage heart-healthy eating patterns to manage increased cardiovascular risk. Tailored nutrition strategies can also help reduce weight gain and manage mood swings during this transition.”
If you have questions or want to learn more about how to build a healthy and nutritious lifestyle, contact the Torrance Memorial Nutrition Services team at 310-891-6707.
A Nutrition Program for Every Body
Whether you’re looking for a medical nutrition program tailored to a specific health condition or want some guidance and motivation as you pursue your health goals, Torrance Memorial Medical Center offers two programs that can help.
Nutrition Education & Wellness (NEW) Program
The NEW program is designed for people who need guidance, support and motivation on their nutrition journey. With no physician referral required and options for all needs and budgets, the team will provide tailored recommendations for meal planning, grocery shopping, food journaling, mindful eating and other strategies tailored to your goals, lifestyle and preferences.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Program
The MNT program takes a therapeutic approach to treating medical conditions and their symptoms using a specially tailored diet. A physician referral is required, and services may be covered by insurance. “From one-on-one consultations to classes to support groups, we have something for everybody and every budget—and we can help you find the right dietitian for your needs,” says Rodriguez-Brindicci.
