with Registered Dietitian Laura Downer
Get to know Laura
Whether you're here for yourself or your child, you're in the right place if you're looking for a dietitian that can bring simplicity and peace of mind back to eating.
Credentials:
Bachelor's of science in nutrition, University of Arkansas (woo pig!)
Registered Dietitian, Vanderbilt University Medical Center Dietetic Internship
Experience:
Maternal & Infant Nutrition + Clinic Management, Nashville Metro's Mobile WIC Clinic
Public Health Education & Research, Vanderbilt University Medical Center Heerman Lab
IBS Management + Low FODMAP Diet, completed training with Monash University
Countless hours of continued education, 1:1 nutrition counseling
and many more being human that eats, too
From conception to early childhood, through picky eating phases that feel like they'll never end, or digestive discomfort that seems to interrupt everything, I've met my clients where they are at and saw them through to the other side to meet their health goals.
Approach to Care
I consider you the expert on yourself or your child. Consider me the nutrition expert. In our sessions, we'll share our combined expertise to create habits that are sustainable, enjoyable, and uniquely tailored to YOU.
I take time to listen to your goals and to what progress looks and feels like from your perspective. It's your goals, your symptoms, and your definition of progress that guides our sessions. Not interested in weighing yourself? No problem! I practice a weight neutral approach to care, so we won't talk about it unless you want to.
For those with chronic digestive discomfort, I've been there. Finding the right treatment for your symptoms can feel like a shot in the dark--often an expensive and confusing one. I'm here to expedite the process and provide clear, effective treatment strategies so that you're back to feeling your best (physically and mentally!) as soon as possible.
I enjoy problem solving with my clients, and I believe there's no challenge that can't be overcome with some creativity and intentionality. Together, we'll set goals that you're genuinely excited to start. We'll ditch the unsustainable "solutions," fad diets, and quick fixes to create lasting habits instead.
I provide evidence-based, Medical Nutrition Therapy that's backed by research and delivered through a holistic, individualized, and relational lens.
It's my goal to make eating a simple and enjoyable experience for everyone through all of life's stages.
“Laura creates a space where I feel empowered to make sustainable changes. Her guidance is not just about nutrition but also fostering a healthier mindset, and I truly appreciate her compassionate and personalized approach.”
- Jess
Where it all began
Spending a season during undergrad in a children's hospital in Valparaiso, Chile opened my eyes to the direct effect maternal health has on newborns. Working with a dedicated and diverse healthcare team to reverse some of those negative effects inspired me to become an advocate for those who may not always have what they need to advocate for themselves. Through education, compassion, and empowerment, I equip my clients with the tools they need for the health they deserve.
Living in Chile also paved the way for me to learn Spanish. Becoming a fluent Spanish-speaker has opened up many opportunities to be an advocate for those who have limited access to healthcare. Making nutrition care accessible for all is a core value of mine, and the heart behind Buena Nutrition.
¿Hablas español? ¿Conoces a alguien que se beneficiaría de la atención nutricional? Ve mi pestaña "Español"
Offline
Outside of work, it's highly likely that I'm out rock climbing, skiing, or biking with my husband. We met at the climbing gym in Nashville and after unsuccessfully trying to set up our roommates, began climbing together and shortly after started dating. We're now based out of Louisville, Colorado where all of our most favorite activities are available right outside our door. When we're able to get away for a vacation, we gravitate towards Central & South America where climbing is rich and the culture even richer! On a rainy day back in the states, you can find me nerding out over sourdough fermentations or my own craft beer home brews.
El Chaltén, Patagonia
Rocky Mountain National Park