Nutrition program

The nutrition program at UF focuses on how a healthy diet can support individuals with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and ALS. Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) provide personalized guidance to help manage symptoms such as difficulty swallowing and weight loss, emphasizing the importance of nutrient-rich foods and specific dietary strategies. The program aims to improve overall health and potentially slow disease progression for patients.

Nutrition Care team

nutrition scholar

Matthew Beke, RDN, LDN

Matt Beke

NeuroNutrition Research Study Coordinator

Alyssa Hill

NeuroNutrition Doctoral Student –

Kaylyn Koons

Kaylyn Koons

about the nutrition program

Expanding Patient Support & Outreach

The nutrition program is committed to expanding access to nutrition resources for Fixel patients through:


Monthly Nutrition Blog Posts – Covering essential diet and nutrition topics for neurological health.
Educational Materials & Recipe Guides – Providing practical dietary recommendations.
Participation in Multi-Disciplinary Clinics – Engaging with the ALS Clinic, HD Education Day, and more.
Collaborations with Fixel Communications & Brain & Life Magazine – Increasing awareness of the dietitian’s role in neurology.

Increasing Patient Contact & Impact

Since starting at Fixel in August 2024, Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD has more than doubled her patient consultations across multiple neurological disease categories.

She continues to network with providers at Fixel to enhance nutrition referrals and improve patient outcomes.

(See Image 1: Growth in Patient Contact Hours)

Image 1: Growth in Patient Contact Hours

Research & Continuing Education

The nutrition team remains actively engaged in neuro-nutrition research and continuing education, ensuring they stay at the forefront of dietary science in neurological care.

Active Research Areas:

  • Nutrition and its impact on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Parkinson’s disease, Lewy body dementia (LBD), and deep brain stimulation (DBS).

Conference & Symposium Participation:

  • South Florida Parkinson’s Symposium
  • Hope & Help Symposium
  • NEALS Conference

Collaboration & Education:

  • Engagement with UF’s Master of Science and Dietetic Internship (MSDI) program.
  • Ongoing collaboration with dietitians in neurology across various organizations.

Learn More & Get Involved

For the latest insights on nutrition and neurological health, explore our Nutrition Blog and patient resources.

Contact Fixel Services for appointments and referrals.

Interested in the latest research? Stay updated by attending upcoming symposiums and educational sessions.

Nutrition is a key player in neurological care—let’s fuel brain health together!

resources

Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean diet is a plant-based diet that emphasizes consuming fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and whole grains. These nutrient-dense foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and fatty acids.

Med Diet

High Calorie Smoothies


Smoothies are an easy way to increase the calories you eat! Learn how to combine nutrient-rich ingredients to create delicious, high-calorie smoothies.

smoothies

Nutrition Blog