Alanna Cabrero Nutrition

based in brooklyn. available all over.

virtual nutrition counseling and worksite wellness.

My Style

My philosophy is simple. I believe that if you make an effort to eat all types of foods, move your body, and incorporate self-care and joy into your life 51% of the time, the other 49% will naturally fall into place (even if it’s not “perfect”). Bottom line: We can strive to eat well MOST of the time and feel good in our bodies.

I’ve never liked extremes. I don’t believe in excluding foods (if not necessary), having everything liquefied, or never ever ever having sugar again. I don’t think that’s real. I believe in a healthy medium. This way of thinking has allowed me and my clients to reach our goals, enjoy food, and (surprise, surprise) enjoy THE PROCESS.

A few other things you should know about my approach:

I will explain WHY certain foods make you feel dazed and confused or energized and elated. I will not keep you in the dark. By the end of our work together, you will have a better understanding about the foods you eat (or don’t eat).
We are striving for healthy habits, not short-term diets. A habit is an acquired, almost involuntary, behavior pattern. Imagine how freeing it would be if healthy habits were as ingrained as brushing your teeth in the morning?!
I use intuitive and mindful eating concepts in everything I do. I believe it deeply helps our relationship with food and our bodies, and helps us internalize which foods work best for us (rather than focus on external factors ie social media, what your mom said, etc)
As a gastrointestinal dietitian, I focus A LOT on improving gut health and improving digestion
I will provide dietary guidelines and suggestions based on what you are already doing. I am not in the business of turning your life upside down. I am interested in creating healthy habits that will be EASY to integrate into YOUR lifestyle. Hence why I call myself the @LazyNutritionist.
There is NO finger pointing in my programs. You shouldn’t feel guilty or ashamed around food. I believe in focusing on the healthy habits you have already fostered and nourishing those that need a little extra help - no judgement. We can do this together.
I will be your biggest cheerleader. No joke. I want you to succeed. I want you to enjoy eating without all the baggage. I KNOW you can do it!

When your relationship with food changes, everything changes! I promise.

Location

Nutrition counseling and coaching packages are virtual.

CHECK OUT MY SCHEDULE

Languages

English, Spanish, & Spanglish!

Click here for ways to work with me

Credibility

I am originally from Cancun, Mexico. Prior to living in New York, my nutrition journey began in Washington, DC, where I attended American University for a B.S. in Health Promotion and two minors in Business and Dance (ex-Ballet dancer!). Soon after I became a Health Coach certified by Teachers College of Columbia University and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. I completed a second B.S. in Nutrition and Food Science from Hunter College. I accomplished my dietetic internship with Sodexo at New York Hospital of Queens, while simultaneously finishing my Masters in Clinical Nutrition at New York Institute of Technology. I received Alpha Eta honors in Clinical Nutrition from NYIT.

These are the areas of nutrition I treat and am extremely passionate about:

gastrointestinal health - IBS, IBD (Crohn’s, UC), SIBO, Celiac, reflux, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, etc
intuitive eating and creating a healthy relationship with food and our bodies
integrative nutrition - individualized nutrition/diet and dietary supplements
sustainable nutrition - what will work for you in the long term
living healthy with cancer
autoimmune conditions such as IBD and RA
pediatric & family nutrition

Credentials:

MS: Masters of Science in Clinical Nutrition, New York Institute of Technology
RDN: Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics
CDN: Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, New York State
BS: Bachelors of Science in Nutrition & Food Science, Hunter College
HHC: Holistic Health Coach, Institute for Integrative Nutrition
BS: Bachelors of Science in Health Promotion and minors in Dance & Business, America University

Other:

Languages: English (fluent) and Spanish (fluent)
Public Speaking: Brain Center, NYU School of Medicine, Crohn's Colitis Foundation of America, Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation, New York Health & Racquet Club, Woman to Woman Support Group, Gilda’s Club, Rheumatoid Arthritis Foundation, Center for Survivor Wellness, The Latino Commission on AIDS
Publications: Real Simple, Very Well Fit, Everyday Health, Very Well Health, The Healthy, Women's Health Magazine, Muscle and Fitness, Healthy Hand, Max Sports & Fitness, Metro, Fresh Direct
Contributing Author: There’s gotta be a way to feel better than this! Children with Cancer Offer Advice By Rooney & Mansfield
Completed a Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) on Weight Loss & Maintenance at the Beck Institute
Memberships: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Society for Integrative Oncology, Greater New York Dietetic Association

Work Experience:

(2012-Current) Founder and CEO Alanna Cabrero Nutrition, PC
(2016-2019) Head gastroenterology dietitian at NYU Langone Ambulatory Care Center
(2016-2018) Affiliate Registered Dietitian at NYHRC
(2009-2016) Adult and pediatric oncology dietitian and research nutritionist at Columbia University Medical Center
(2012-2015) Nutrition Program Director for NYHRC
(2010) Gastroenterology dietitian at Mount Sinai

Articles I’ve contributed to:

Good Housekeeping. 8 Best Fiber Supplements of 2023.
American Heart Association. Papaya's milky texture packed with nutrients.
Real Simple. Bad News: These 8 Foods Are Among the Worst for High Cholesterol.
The Healthy. Prebiotics vs. Probiotics: What’s the Difference?
Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Questions answered by Expert.
Very Well. The 8 Best Bone Broths of 2022, According to a Dietitian
Very Well. The 7 Best Immune-Supporting Supplements, According to a Dietitian
Women’s Health Magazine. The 17 Most Filling Snacks Ever, According To Nutritionists
Every Day Health. 5 Holiday Recipes for People Who Are Lactose Intolerant
Fresh Direct. I Heart The Mediterranean Diet.

Services

Virtual Nutrition Counseling.

This means that all sessions are online, through your favorite video app such as Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype, etc. The convenience takes nothing away from an office visit, except the commute! Whether you are in Brazil, Amsterdam or the southern most part of Brooklyn, our meetings will be personal and intimate – I wouldn't have it any other way. You can find more information on the the one-on-one counseling I offer here.

Worksite Wellness.

Interested in bringing wellness and a conscious health environment to your workplace? Me too! ACN offers group as well as individual interventions to create meaningful changes in your workplace while improving productivity and mental stamina. Win, win! More details below:

a) Workshops - 50-60 minute presentations based on a specific topic – in person or virtual, including Q&A. You can take a look at the topics I offer along with more in-depth descriptions here.

b) Dietitian on demand – a virtual Q&A room. Access to an in-house dietitian for any nutrition-related questions. This can be done via email and/or internal chat system ie Slack.

c) Wellness Day(s)- 30-40 minute one-on-one nutrition sessions (in person or virtual), including short summary of suggestions post-visit. An opportunity for employees to schedule a consult with an in-house dietitian and receive an individualized nutrition protocol.

complimentary Non-Gimmicky Nutrition and Health-Related Hub.

You can opt-in to ACN’s monthly newsletter where I provide food tips, quick and easy family-friendly recipes, and my personal take on the latest nutrition trends. You will also be the first to hear about giveaways and promotions. Follow me on LazyNutritionist for additional support, meal prep ideas, and general food hacks.

Based in Brooklyn. Available all over.

KIND WORDS FROM past clients:

Alanna was such a pleasure to work with! She is extremely knowledgeable, collaborative, and creative in her approach to nutrition coaching. I appreciated the emphasis she places on the brain-gut connection, especially in treating IBS and food sensitivities. After working with Alanna through my reintroduction phase of the Low FODMAP diet, I felt equipped with a variety of tools to better manage my symptoms, while continuing to eat a varied and exciting diet.

Zoe T. Brooklyn, NY

I have had consistent diarrhea and pain for the majority of my life. I have tried multiple diets to help, but have never been able to figure out trigger foods or how to manage my symptoms. Within two weeks of beginning to work with Alanna, I had far less pain and much more solid bowel movements. Alanna helped me to realize that it isn’t necessarily a particular food that upsets my stomach, but instead the “bucket” effect of foods that might add up throughout an entire day of eating. She also helped me to think of appropriate, quick meals during a very busy time in my life.

Discussing digestive problems is often unpleasant and stressful, especially for those of us who have struggled with trying to curb them for so many years. Alanna is thoughtful and caring, and made me feel far more comfortable talking about these issues. I would absolutely recommend Alanna's services!

Kyra B. Brooklyn, NY

I cannot recommend Alanna Cabrero Nutrition enough. When I started working with Alanna, I was experiencing a range of issues that my gastroenterologist had yet to be able to identify: significant depletions in energy, muscle weakness, and varying stomach/intestinal symptoms after eating. Some days I would be okay, and other days I would feel as though I couldn’t function. I had no idea what I could eat. My GI doctor, who I greatly trusted, recommended that I work with Alanna to figure out the dietary side of things, while she and I continued to work on pinpointing medical causes.

Nearly a year after beginning to work with Alanna, I feel so much better, and so much more knowledgeable about how to manage my diet to support my health. I have gone from describing most of my days as bad to describing most as good. I know how to schedule my meals throughout the day to support digestion as well as so many other pointers for improving my energy and digestive health. I have also been able to wean off of the supportive medications and more intensive supplements that I was taking, with no adverse effects.

For the majority of my time working with Alanna, we met every 2-3 weeks. She provided feedback on the food journal I kept in the interim. Alanna saw me through starting (and then eventually stopping) a low-dose antidepressant to suppress GI symptoms, SIBO testing, various scans, and antibiotic treatment. She helped me navigate a gastroparesis diet, then a low-FODMAP diet, and then a low-sulfide/ low-histamine diet. During our coaching sessions, Alanna and I would discuss my symptoms and diet, and talk through modifications and adaptations. Alanna would also follow up with my GI doctor and review or clarify any medical updates with the GI doctor.

Alanna is extensively knowledgeable. Throughout our discussions, she would provide specific recommendations and analysis grounded in research. Combined with this is Alanna’s supportive manner. Although our sessions were all virtual, Alanna is so warm and engaging that you feel as though you are in the room with her. Overall, the virtual sessions were extremely helpful, making it much easier for me to fit sessions with Alanna into a busy schedule. Bottom line: if you are having GI - dietary - nutrition-related issues and you have the opportunity to work with Alanna, you should absolutely work with her.

- S. B. New York, NY.

When I decided I needed the support of a nutritionist for ongoing IBS issues that became worse after pregnancy, I expected someone to help me conduct an elimination diet, give me a strict regimen that excluded cheese, and to send me on my way. This couldn't have been further from the truth working with Alanna.

Alanna focused on making tweaks to my diet that were sustainable and worked within my lifestyle. In less than 3 months, my diet has improved, I haven't suffered from major IBS symptoms (bloating, cramping, gas, sluggishness) and most importantly, I've learned what my triggers are and how to manage them without completely eliminating things I love from my diet.

Also important to note is that she didn't separate mind from body. She really tried to understand what was going on with me as a whole human and helped bring to light non-diet related issues that could be impacting my overall health (hello sleep!).

I can not recommend her enough.

- J. B. New York, NY.

Over a year ago I was losing weight and suffered bouts of diarrhea. I was diagnosed with IBS and was feeling very frustrated. My Gastroenterologist recommended Alanna. Alanna helped me follow a specialized diet that evaluated my food intolerances. The FODMAP diet was not easy at first. Alanna helped me structure it with specific meal suggestions and I gradually gained back some weight. I have seen a vast improvement in my symptoms and I attribute it to Alanna’s patience and skill. The telehealth sessions were easy to follow and certainly saved traveling and in these uncertain times, a welcome approach. I highly recommend Alanna to anyone who is dealing with gut issues. She will put you at ease and get you on the right path to better health.

- M. B. New York, NY.

ACN was highly recommended by a friend. From our first meeting, I was making better food choices which led to a more comfortable weight. Alanna provided great resources such as snack ideas, meal planning templates, feedback on my food/symptom journal, and helped reset my mindset and behavior. The virtual sessions felt like we were in person - the connection was always good and Alanna's smile brightens up anything and everything. Alanna is very knowledgeable, sympathetic, warm and practical. She gave feedback and guidance without judgement. I have already recommended her. She's amazing!!!

- J. H. New York, NY.

I chose Alanna based on the recommendation of my rheumatologist. After working with Alanna for a few weeks, my bloating went down and I identified which foods made my gut feel good and which made it feel like trash. I cut out dairy and opted to replace all my milk with oat milk. I stopped eating late at night. Alanna suggested to keep track of what I was eating and to reach out to her if I was having any issues. I liked having her around in case I needed some advice or coaching. She sent me a ton of recipes and tips in order to maintain a healthy lifestyle while not giving up the foods that I enjoy. The biggest thing Alanna helped me with was mindful eating. I have always had trouble overeating and not listening to my body. Alanna encouraged me to take a breath and chew my food fully when eating. Sounds small, but it made a huge difference for me. I would WHOLEHEARTEDLY recommend Alanna’s services! She’s a wonderful human being and a fantastic coach.

- Spencer L. New York, NY

I began working with Alanna officially about two weeks postpartum. I had experienced digestive issues post emergency c-section surgery. She was an invaluable resource to me during a time that was quite traumatic. I was able to improve my digestion and increase my energy. I was incredibly grateful for her extensive knowledge in this area. The work I did with Alanna allowed me to take a more relaxed and intuitive approach towards food and nutrition. I’ve been a lifelong healthy eater but I found myself struggling to eat at all during the postpartum period due to lack of time as a new mom but also fear that I would continue to gain more weight – Alanna helped me through it all. I looked forward to our calls and always felt very encouraged, I had been used to very strict dieting in order to shed any unwanted weight or simply maintain a lean physique. Working with Alanna has changed my relationship with food for the better. I would highly recommend Alanna. Her relaxed approach coupled with tactical solutions as well as immense knowledge on digestion make it possible to meet your goals.

- Alexandra. New York, NY.

I contacted Alanna to help me adjust my eating habits and diet in order to reduce my cholesterol level. Alanna took the time to answer my questions and concerns but she was also very sensitive to my habits and constraints so that she could provide advice that was specifically tailored to me. She is very knowledgeable and has extensive expertise, but she makes everything easy and encouraging and is never dogmatic or doctrinaire. Thanks to her useful advice and encouragements, I have really changed the way I cook, eat and enjoy food. I have become more conscious and focused on what I eat and it has made me more relaxed about food choices and about my health. In only a few months, my cholesterol has gone down and I feel healthier than ever! I am enthusiastically recommending Alanna!

- Philippe L. Brooklyn, NY

I started working with Alanna to lose weight before my wedding. I loved her program because it was different from all the ones I had tried before. It was all about balance and feeling well, the weight came off naturally. I lost 20 pounds and never felt deprived or had to stick to some unrealistic diet. I kept my social life, still went out to restaurants and parties, but with moderation and was now empowered to make better choices. Our sessions were very helpful to keep me on track, teach me better habits and monitor my progress. Here, I learned how to eat, what to eat, and more importantly how to combine these new habits into my daily life for weight loss and maintenance, as well as for energy, better sleep and overall better health.

- Leslie P. New York, NY

I learned about ACNutrition through her awesome and easy to make meals. I started to implement them in my life. Later on I had challenges feeding my baby girl of 5 months, Antonia. She was struggling gaining weight due to her milk allergy. ACNutrition provided me with great guidance that over time has helped Antonia gain weight, establish a healthy and easy food routine, and also allowed me to gain trust in myself.. Last but not least, her flexible formats for meetings and support are very suitable with my lifestyle. I liked the practical approach to food as well as Alanna's personalized service and very friendly persona.

- Laura N. Amsterdam, NL

I believe Alanna is a great professional. I have followed her social media for a long time and have found her advice and approach towards nutrition innovative and cutting edge. Alanna was great in listening to what I wanted to accomplish during the program. She was always on top of my goals, and looking for ways to help me achieve them from a very respectful, feasible, and thoughtful perspective. It has been a wonderful experience, so much I decided to continue with it for a longer term. Alanna has changed my approach to food, but also to life style; so that the changes I make come from a healthy and sustainable place. I would recommend her program "con ojos cerrados" (with eyes closed).

- Monica A. Bogota, CO

I met Alanna a few years ago when she worked at NYU. She was very helpful then and I thought of her when I was seeking additional information. Alanna was immediately helpful suggesting healthy foods, food combinations and snacks that I incorporated into my diet that I found very satisfying, further diversifying my diet. She is extremely attentive and therefore her suggestions result in solutions. She is very clear, professional and pleasant to work with.

- Lorraine. New York, NY

I started the 3-week challenge because I don't believe in diets and I liked the ‘change in habits’ approach much better. It has helped introduce new food choices, making my food more balanced, and attractive to eat. Alanna is very professional and knowledgeable; however what I liked the most was her flexibility to adapt the program to my fast-paced lifestyle, taking into account my different needs and making a personalized plan just for me.

- Abril A. Cancun, MX

The bottom line is this: the work we did together was so helpful and healing and I'm experiencing those wonderful effects months after we stopped working together. I realize that so many things we talked about have stayed with me and helped me when I needed it most. I've lost 8 lbs and feel amazing. I cook healthy vibrant meals and bring them with me wherever I go. Today at lunch, I brought my leftovers of bean, brown rice and collard greens. I'm not kidding!! And... I had baby carrots and hummus for a snack! So there you have it. Thank you so much for everything. Your faith and energy in me has helped me so much. Thank you!!"

- Nia H. Los Angeles, CA

Thanks to her dedication, knowledge and sharp intuitiveness as to what works for ME, Alanna has integrated all smiles in every aspect of my personal wellbeing through practice, experimentation, and learning. It is she that should be patting herself on the back for consistently delivering priceless guidance in every nutritional regard to my SELF.

- Andre A. Cuernavaca, MX

Working with Alanna has made a huge impact in my life. I'm learning about vegetables and grains I never knew existed and how eating can affect how I feel and how my body reacts. My energy level has increased and I am learning to cook for the first time in my life (the right way!). Alanna is so helpful in walking you through the process and supporting you along to incorporate these healthy habits into your everyday life.

- Gaby G. Miami, FL

Working one on one with Alanna was a great way to get myself motivated to have healthy eating (and life-style) habits during that "oh so difficult fall-to-winter holiday time period!" I continue to apply everything I learned in my sessions with Alanna, and I frequently reference our conversations. Alanna helped me target specific goals and personalized health concerns. It was great to share my progress and accomplishments, set new goals, and achieve them.

- Maria-Jose F. Rockleigh, NJ

Alanna is very well-informed and has a way of giving you a whole new perspective on food and nutrition. By tackling a new food group each session, you really delve into the properties of foods and their effects on your body. So, no matter how much you think you know, I would still recommend Alanna's programs for their wholistic nature and grassroots approach to healthy living.

- Laura L. Copenhagen, DK

FAQ

How long are the sessions?

Initial sessions are 75 minutes. Follow-ups vary. They can range from 45 to 50 minutes depending on the session or package you’ve signed up for.

Where do we meet?

Alanna Cabrero Nutrition, PC is all about convenience, which is why the program is VIRTUAL. Most sessions are done over the phone, Zoom, FaceTime, WhatsApp, or Skype. We can talk on your lunch break, during your commute, or after your kid’s bedtime. If it’s scheduled 24 hours in advance, it’s happening!

How frequent do we meet?

Frequency is dependent on the type of session and/or package you’ve joined. Power sessions are more flexible and can be scheduled within a 2-4 week timeframe. Coaching packages are more structured and beneficial for people who are working through a food elimination exploration, who need additional support, and possibly accountability. Sessions are scheduled every 2 weeks. You can find more information on each type of service here.

Do you need to prepare anything before we start working together?

Prior to starting a nutrition session/package, you will be asked to fill out an in-depth Confidential Initial Assessment. Be ready to answer questions about your lifestyle, nutritional habits, and medical health history. During the sessions, I would strongly suggest taking notes.

What is the cost?

It varies. More detailed information is found here.

Does ACN accept health insurance?

No, I do not take insurance. However, I can provide a SuperBill, which you can present to your healthcare provider or submit unders flex spending. The SuperBill includes diagnosis codes, the time we spent together, CPT codes, and the amount you paid along with all my professional info. If your insurance provider covers out of network nutrition sessions or if you have Flex Spending through your work, they may reimburse part or all of the session cost. I would suggest calling your insurance provider before we meet for more information on your specific coverage. If the cost is the ONLY THING that is deterring you from making a commitment to your health, please email me and we can talk about a payment plan.

Ask & Contact

Haven't quite figured out if Alanna Cabrero Nutrition, PC is right for you? That's okay! Sometimes it helps to ask additional questions. Shoot me an email at alanna@alannacabrero.com to help answer any questions and/or schedule a complimentary discovery call (10 minutes). If you already know what session or coaching package you would like to join, please jump ahead to Work With Me and schedule your session!