The reasons for pursuing dietary changes are compelling. Studies show a 30% decrease in cardiovascular events like stroke and heart attack with proper dietary changes. Additional benefits include:
Less reliance on medication
Lower blood pressure
Weight loss
Decreased cancer risk
Improvement in mood
Our program teaches these dietary techniques. We base our curriculum on recommendations from the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association. These organizations have designated specific dietary measures for improving overall cardiac health and for the treatment of high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol and to reduce excess weight.
Furthermore, many patients voice a desire to do more than take medication. They are frustrated by today’s medical environment, which mostly fails to incorporate diet into plans for disease prevention and treatment. The North Suffolk Cardiology Nutrition Program provides an answer to these patient concerns.
Available through our program, we provide individual consultations and group classes. Individual consultations target common disease states such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes and obesity. Christina Nee, RDN, CDN, and Karina Ellis, MS, RDN, CDN, will provide education on the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet and strategies to implement based on individual nutrition needs. Group classes will cover various topics (cooking, grocery shopping, food labels and food safety) to aid in further management of cardiovascular disease.
For patients interested in a more individual experience, we also offer one-on-one introductory counseling and follow-up sessions. Interested patients should ask one of our doctors or staff during any visit or call (631) 941-2000.
REGISTERED DIETITIAN
Our Nutrition Program has become an excellent tool for our patients to lead a healthier life. Our dietitian works with patients to create a personalized nutrition plan based on their needs and helps make positive lifelong eating and behavior changes.
 |
Christina is a New York State Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist and received her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics at Long Island University, Post Campus, where she went on to complete her dietetic internship. She has a rich background in providing nutrition education at the group level with individuals of all ages. |
 |
Karina Ellis, MS, RDN, CDN Karina is a Registered Dietitian, New York State Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist. Karina received her bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics and her master’s degree in clinical nutrition from Immaculata University, PA. She completed her clinical dietetic internship at The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where she recognized her strong passion for working with cardiac patients. Karina has a background in nutrition counseling for a variety of age groups as well as teaching individual cooking experiences. Karina is looking forward to working closely with her patients to help them meet their nutrition goals and improve their lifestyle. |