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
dietitian
Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD

nutrition scholar
Matthew Beke, RDN, LDN

NeuroNutrition Research Study Coordinator
Alyssa Hill
NeuroNutrition Doctoral Student –
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)

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.

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.

Holiday Nutrition Tips
Learn how to enjoy the holiday foods and still maintain a healthy diet.

High Calorie High Protein Snack Ideas
Eating nutritious snacks can help minimize weight and muscle loss and maintain energy levels. Learn how to pack lots of nutrition and calories into smaller portions with these easy snack recipes.

Nutrition Blog
Milestone Achievement: Kaylyn Koons…
The Norman Fixel Institute for Neurological Diseases at UF Health remains committed to advancing research at the intersection of nutrition and…

The Power of Protein for Brain Health
By: Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD Protein is an essential nutrient made of smaller building blocks called amino acids. These amino acids are…

Eating for Energy: Nutrition Tips to Combat…
By: Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a disease that affects how muscles and nerves work together. Over time, it…

Nutrition’s Role in Neurological Diseases
By: Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD Good food choices can help you control your weight and lower your risk for certain diseases. People with…
