Deanna Howard-Gonzalez, RD

About Deanna Howard-Gonzalez, RD

Deanna Howard-Gonzalez, RD is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist practicing at her clinic in Fort Walton Beach, FL. She is dedicated to providing high-quality, comprehensive, and patient-centered Registered Dietitian Nutritionist care, registered with The Florida Board of Medicine and practicing under the Florida Statutes, Title XXXII, Chapter 458 (Medical Practice). As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), she provides expert medical nutrition therapy, weight management support, and counseling for individuals managing chronic diseases and digestive health concerns. She serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients. Please call (850) 374-7604 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Deanna RD's approach to nutrition care is rooted in a philosophy of gentle nutrition, with a strong emphasis on intuitive eating. She has been a Registered Dietitian for 24 years, and her extensive experience includes working in various clinical settings, such as Cardiac Rehabilitation, Congestive Heart Failure, and Bariatric Surgery. She also holds a Certification in Diabetes Education, and has experience working with patients dealing with eating disorders. Her journey began with a passion ignited by her own health challenges, which led her to pursue a career dedicated to helping others improve their health and well-being through appropriate nutrition plans. She is a graduate of the University of Central Arkansas and completed her internship at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. Dr. Deanna RD also holds an MBA from South University. She provides consultations primarily in English.

Dr. Deanna RD's dedication extends beyond technical expertise. She approaches each patient with empathy and a commitment to fostering a supportive environment. She understands that nutrition is more than just numbers and data; it's about empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health. Dr. Deanna RD is passionate about helping her patients develop a positive relationship with food and their bodies, which is why she is a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Her experience in various settings, combined with her intuitive eating approach, allows her to provide personalized and effective care for a diverse range of patients.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Conditions Addressed

Dr. Deanna RD addresses a wide range of Registered Dietitian Nutritionist health concerns, including:

• Celiac Disease: A gluten-free diet is crucial for those with celiac disease to heal the gut lining and improve nutrient absorption.
• Diabetes: There are different types of diabetes, each requiring a tailored approach to manage blood sugar and prevent complications.
• Eating Disorders: An eating disorder is a mental health condition affecting how you eat, think about food, and feel about your body.
• Food Allergy: Food allergies happen when your body's immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless food protein as a threat.
• High Cholesterol: High cholesterol is often manageable through diet and lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy fats and exercising regularly.
• Hypertension: Hypertension is a condition where the pressure of your blood in your arteries is consistently too high.
• Impaired Glucose Tolerance: Your blood sugar levels rise more than normal after eating, indicating impaired glucose tolerance and a potential need for lifestyle changes.
• Obesity: Obesity refers to having a significantly higher-than-normal amount of body fat, which can lead to various health issues.
• Weight Gain: Weight gain refers to an increase in body weight, often due to an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure.
• Weight Loss: Weight loss involves reducing overall body weight to improve health and well-being.

Please note: This list highlights some common health concerns that Dr. Deanna RD addresses and is for informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical advice. The range of conditions a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist manages is broad, and this list is not exhaustive. For a comprehensive understanding of how she can assist with your Patient's specific health needs or to discuss any particular symptoms, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans are developed based on individual patient evaluations.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Services Provided

Dr. Deanna RD offers a range of services to support your Patient's health and well-being, such as:

• Blood Sugar Monitoring: Blood sugar monitoring involves regularly checking your blood glucose levels to manage your diabetes.
• Body Fat Analysis: This test helps determine your overall body composition, showing the proportion of fat versus lean mass.
• Continuous Glucose Monitoring: Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) is a system that tracks your blood sugar levels throughout the day and night.
• Insulin Pump Therapy: Insulin pump therapy is a method of managing diabetes by delivering insulin continuously throughout the day.
• Stress Management: Stress can affect your appetite, leading to overeating or undereating, hindering your weight goals.
• Diet Counseling: Through diet counseling, you'll learn practical strategies for healthier eating habits, portion control, and meal planning tailored to your lifestyle.
• Diabetes Prevention: A diabetes prevention program helps you make sustainable lifestyle choices to avoid or delay the onset of diabetes.

Please note: This list highlights some of the key services that may be offered by Dr. Deanna RD. Service availability can change and not all services listed may be appropriate or offered to every patient. The scope of services provided by a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist can vary. For a comprehensive understanding of all available services or to discuss your Patient's specific healthcare needs, it's always best to schedule a consultation. Some specialized procedures or advanced diagnostic tests may require referral to a subspecialist.

All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in Florida and adhere to the ethical and professional guidelines set forth by The Florida Board of Medicine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about care with Dr. Deanna RD:

What is a Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN)?

A Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) is a food and nutrition expert who has completed rigorous academic and professional training. They translate nutrition science into practical advice for healthy living, including medical nutrition therapy for various conditions.

What is the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?

A Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) is a legally protected credential requiring a degree, supervised practice, and passing a national exam. The term "nutritionist" is not as regulated, and its use can vary widely. Registered Dietitians are the most qualified professionals to provide reliable nutrition advice.

What should I expect during my first visit with Dr. Deanna RD?

Your first visit with Dr. Deanna will be a comprehensive nutritional assessment. We will discuss your eating habits, lifestyle, medical history, and personal health goals. Please bring a list of any medications or supplements you are taking, and a food journal if you have one.

Does Dr. Deanna RD accept my insurance?

Many insurance plans now cover medical nutrition therapy, especially for conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and obesity. Please call your insurance provider to verify coverage and if a referral is required.

How can a dietitian help during cancer treatment?

Dr. Deanna RD can help you navigate the nutritional challenges of cancer treatment. She'll create a personalized plan to address side effects like poor appetite and nausea, ensuring you receive the vital nutrients needed to maintain strength and fight the disease. This includes strategies to combat weight loss and maintain overall well-being.

Can you help me lower my cholesterol and blood pressure with diet?

Yes, nutrition plays a critical role in cardiovascular health. Dr. Deanna RD can create a personalized heart-healthy eating plan, such as the DASH or Mediterranean diet, rich in fiber, healthy fats, and key minerals to help manage your cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Can Dr. Deanna RD help with my IBS symptoms?

Dr. Deanna RD is skilled in managing digestive issues like IBS. She can help you identify trigger foods through evidence-based strategies like a low-FODMAP diet, improving your symptoms. She can also provide personalized nutrition plans to support your overall digestive health.

Do you provide nutrition counseling for pregnancy?

Dr. Deanna RD's practice offers prenatal and postnatal nutrition counseling to support a healthy pregnancy and postpartum journey. Key topics include managing morning sickness, ensuring adequate folate and iron intake, managing gestational diabetes, and supporting healthy postpartum recovery and lactation.