Kelly Gleason, MS, MAEd. she/her

Nutritionist & Health Educator

Kelly is a passionate nutritionist with a strong academic and professional background in nutrition education and health sciences. She holds a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from Northern Illinois University, where she also earned her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics & Wellness with honors. Kelly's diverse experiences range from teaching nutrition at the undergraduate level to designing and implementing community wellness programs. Her work reflects a commitment to making nutrition science accessible and empowering, helping individuals of all ages foster improved relationships with food and well-being.

Kelly’s expertise extends beyond the classroom, with certifications in diabetes prevention, food safety, and yoga instruction. She has contributed to community outreach programs, led professional development workshops, and collaborated on research projects focused on integrating food science with education.

My Approach

My approach to nutrition is rooted in intuitive eating, a Health at Every Size® (HAES) framework, and a weight-neutral philosophy. I believe that health isn’t determined by weight, but by fostering an attuned and supportive relationship with food and the body. Through my practice, I support clients in developing trust in their bodies, honoring hunger and fullness cues, and breaking free from the harmful effects of diet culture.

I emphasize mindful eating, guiding clients to be present and attuned to their eating experiences, helping them cultivate a more compassionate approach to nourishment. By focusing on well-being over weight, I encourage clients to make peace with food and their bodies. My weight-neutral approach creates a non-judgmental space where clients can explore their health goals without unnecessary pressure.

Through individualized care, I help clients embrace sustainable, life-enhancing movement and holistic health practices that honor their unique bodies and lifestyles. I firmly believe that everyone deserves to feel good in their bodies, and my compassionate, evidence-based approach reflects this philosophy.

Areas of Expertise

  • Attuned and mindfulness based eating & self-care

  • Non-diet, weight neutral, body inclusive approach to well-being 

  • LGBTQ+ welcoming & affirming care

  • Nutritional counseling of all ages across the lifespan

  • Experienced facilitator of nutrition support groups

  • Health At Every Size (HAES®) Expert:

    • As a HAES® dietitian expert, I am committed to practice and advocate for: size inclusivity, health enhancement, respectful care, eating for well-being, and life-enhancing movement. Check out the Association for Size Diversity's statement of the HAES® Principles here.

Specialized Training

  • Certificate of Graduate Study in Eating Disorders, Northern Illinois University

  • Certified Lifestyle Coach from the National Diabetes Prevention Program

  • 200 Hour Yoga Teacher Training

  • Certificate of Sustainable Food Systems

Education

  • Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics, Northern Illinois University

  • Master of Arts in Elementary Education, University of Phoenix

  • Bachelor of Science in Nutrition, Dietetics & Wellness, Northern Illinois University

  • Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Emphasis Business & Mathematics, Arizona State University

Publications

  • Regan, M., Prange, N., Muzaffar, H., Furr, K., Mesic, J., Brynteson, K., Roseno, A., Berry, C., & Duffrin, M. (2021). FoodMASTER Small Bites: Creating Videos to Introduce Food and Nutrition Science Lessons. Food & Nutrition

  • Mesic, J., Furr, K., and Duffrin, M. (2020). Utilizing Food and Nutrition to Create Authentic Mathematics Learning. Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo.

  • McCartney, G., Furr, K., and Duffrin, M. (2019). Simplifying Science with FAN Cards: Creating and Utilizing Mini Food Science Lessons to Excite Learner Curiosity. Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo.