Neuro-Nutrition program
The Neuro-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
Professor
Wendy Dahl, PHD
Assistant Professor / MS-DI Program Director
Jeanette Andrade, PhD, RDN, LDN, FAND
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
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.
Smoothies are an easy way to increase the calories you eat! Learn how to combine nutrient-rich ingredients to create delicious, high-calorie smoothies.
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.
MS & Nutrition
Nutrition plays an important role in the management of multiple sclerosis (MS). While no specific diet can cure or stop the progression of MS, nutrition strategies can help manage symptoms, reduce comorbidities, support overall
health, and potentially influence inflammation and immune function.1
Nutrition & PD
Parkinson’s disease is a neurological disorder that affects movement. It can impact the digestive system, muscle function, and overall well-being. Proper nutrition is important in managing symptoms, maintaining energy, and improving overall well-being.
Nutrition Blog
By: Carly Gruneberg Nutrition Guidance Provided by: Kaylyn Koons, MS, RD, LD/N Nutrition as we Age When it comes to brain health, your…
By: Mallory Bachmann Nutrition Guidance Provided by Emily Truscott, MS, RD, LD Mediterranean Diet Background As the name suggests, the…
By: Lauren Bryan Reviewed by a registered dietitian. When it comes to eating for long-term health, vegetables are one of the most powerful…
