Author name: Brittany Sparks

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). I have a wealth of experience and credentials to support my work. My name is Brittany. I am a Registered Dietitian. From the state of California, I now reside in beautiful Denver, Colorado. Food and nutrition are my passions. I take joy in helping others lead healthier and happier lives. Cooking, creating recipes savoring meals capturing food through photography, and spending quality time with my family all bring me fulfillment. Over the years I have dedicated myself to assisting people with their health by providing nutrition therapy, in hospital settings. However, now I find satisfaction in working closely with my clients to help them achieve their nutritional goals. Education and Background I hold the credential of being a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) which was granted to me by the Commission on Dietetic Registration through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. My academic journey includes earning a Bachelor's degree in Clinical Nutrition from the University of California Davis. Following that accomplishment, I completed an internship at New York Presbyterian Hospital located in Manhattan—a distinguished teaching institution associated with Cornell University and Columbia University—where I later gained valuable work experience. The Evolution of My Career Though my career began as a dietitian within healthcare facilities it subsequently evolved when I made the decision to transition into practice back in 2016. This shift allowed me to establish connections, with my clients as we collaboratively worked towards achieving their nutritional objectives. Distinguishing Between Registered Dietitians and Nutritionists It is crucial to understand that while anyone can refer to themselves as a "nutritionist " this term lacks regulation concerning background or expertise level. A Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist possesses training and education in the field of nutrition. This includes obtaining a bachelor's degree in nutrition completing an internship, at a healthcare facility, and successfully passing an examination to become credentialed. As a Kidney Nutrition Specialist, I hold certification as a Board-Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR) from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. I have a passion for addressing kidney disorders and managing nutrition accordingly. Effective nutrition plays a role in preventing, managing, and treating kidney disease. I have contributed articles to the Journal of Renal Nutrition aided in revising chapters of kidney nutrition textbooks and frequently speak on platforms about kidney nutrition. Additionally, I currently serve as the Chair of the National Kidney Foundation Council on Renal Nutrition Spring Planning Committee and play a role as a workgroup leader for The Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics Renal Practice Group & and The National Kidney Foundation Council on Renal Nutrition for the National Renal Diet. In my nutrition services I work with individuals across all age ranges focusing on areas including general nutrition guidance specialized support for kidney disease management diabetes/pre-diabetes management, gout management, kidney stones prevention strategies, plant-based nutrition advice, hypertension management (high blood pressure) heart health support women’s health encompassing pregnancy and lactation concerns, as well as nutritional support for individuals, with celiac disease.