A Little About Me...

Louisa O'Grady- Functional-Nutritionist- Dietitian- Writer


Hey There, I’m Louisa O'Grady!

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist / RDN
Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist / CDCES
Integrative and Functional Nutrition Certified Practitioner Credential / IFNCP

I’m deeply committed to empowering individuals navigating chronic conditions, including Dysautonomia, POTS (a form of dysautonomia), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Mast Cell Activation Disorders, chronic pain, and their associated challenges.

My Story

My wellness journey began in my college years, when I was inspired by my first encounter with a nutritionist for my own chronic symptoms. Her ability to help me improve my quality of life and symptoms through nutrition led me to pursue a nutrition and dietetics degree. Since then, I’ve dedicated myself to supporting individuals struggling with various chronic conditions.

Like many of you, my journey has not gone in a straight line. There have been ups and downs with symptoms. And it took nearly two decades to receive a proper diagnosis of POTS and later hEDS, after initially being dismissed as “just anxiety” or “just migraines.”

Even with a background in healthcare, after COVID hit and my symptoms dramatically worsened, I still experienced massive medical gaslighting. I also spent tens of thousands of dollars in medical costs (sound familiar!?!).

It was so empowering getting a diagnosis and having all of the odd symptoms come together to make sense. Once getting a diagnosis, I believe we are better equipped to find more targeted ways to manage our symptoms. I strongly believe non-medication strategies like nutrition and lifestyle changes have an important role in symptom management.

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Many Interventions Later

Over the years tried many, many different treatments and lifestyle changes to find what worked to help manage my pain, gut health and migraine symptoms (among others). And I tried a ton of interventions with varying success. This journey also led me to study functional nutrition to help learn more about a root cause-based approach to wellness. 

Each person’s symptoms and path are different from one another. But there are commonalities. And using the science we have so far for managing these symptoms, I am hoping to help others to have a more simplified path than I did through my coaching sessions and written content. 

Professional Background 

Beyond my focus on complex chronic conditions, my professional background includes nutrition writing, community presentations, and roles in long-term care, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and medical devices. Notably, I’ve had the privilege of contributing as a dietitian for kidney and liver transplant units, cardiac, geriatric, neurovascular, gastrointestinal and medical intensive care units. Most recently, I’ve also provided support to individuals managing diabetes, using advanced technologies like insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors, and automated insulin delivery systems.

“ My mission is to empower people with chronic conditions to take individualized and practical wellness steps to thrive.”
— Louisa O'Grady —
About- Nutritionist- Dietitian- Shelton- CT

Approach

My approach centers on fostering an authentic and open environment.

We will work closely together to develop a complete nutrition plan that is tailored to your medical needs, personal goals, and lifestyle.  All while respecting your pace and comfort. 

You will get the support, compassion, and expertise you deserve. You know your body the BEST and will NOT be dismissed here!

Some of the areas we can address together include nutrition for symptom management, gut healing, nutrient deficiencies, and food intolerances. 

Philosophy

I believe in the power of food as medicine. And no two individuals are alike. 

Living with a chronic condition can be challenging. But you don’t have to navigate it alone. I understand the impact that chronic conditions can have on your daily life and overall well-being. 

From shopping to preparing food to managing symptoms, we will navigate the challenges together and find ways to get you some of your daily “spoons” back.

I have both personal and professional experience living with chronic conditions. And I value the importance of supporting the whole person to help you get the best outcomes. 

Nutrition and wellness may not eliminate a chronic condition; however, I truly believe small, sustainable changes can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Check Out My Latest Post!

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