Jan Walker

About Jan

Jan has been a nutrition specialist for over 25 years. She spent 18 years at Boston Children’s and currently works at Denver Health and Hospital Authority, where she counsels children, adolescents and adults. Jan has been quoted in Time, Newsweek, National Geographic, Woman’s Day, Family Circle and the Boston Globe. She has given numerous talks in public and academic settings. She has an avid interest in the arts and was the nutrition consultant for the Boston Ballet School for 15 years, and currently for the San Francisco Ballet School. She graduated with honors in biochemistry from Bryn Mawr College, and prior to pursuing her graduate degree at Cornell University, took an artistic hiatus and studied opera and piano at Peabody Conservatory. Given the depth and breadth of her experience, Jan views nutrition as a liberal arts subject and enjoys pursuing what she calls a “Renaissance Approach” for educating, nurturing, and mentoring her patients.

Approach to care

As a Clinical Nutrition Specialist, my approach to care is rooted in evidence-based practice, personalized nutrition, and a deep commitment to supporting each individual’s unique health journey. I take a holistic view of health, considering medical history, lifestyle factors, cultural background, and personal goals to develop tailored nutrition interventions. I believe in empowering patients through education, collaboration, and consistent support. Whether managing chronic conditions, navigating complex dietary needs, or optimizing overall wellness, I aim to create realistic, sustainable plans that fit into everyday life. Compassion, active listening, and trust-building are at the core of every interaction I have with my patients, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and motivated. Ultimately, my goal is not just to improve nutritional status but to enhance overall quality of life through informed, compassionate, and patient-centered care.

Your first session with Jan

In our first session together, we’ll spend some time getting to know each other, especially your health and nutrition goals. I’ll ask about your medical history, current health concerns, typical eating habits, lifestyle, and anything else that might help me understand the full picture of your well-being. We’ll talk about what you’re hoping to achieve—whether managing a health condition, improving your energy levels, feeling better day to day, or working toward a specific goal like weight loss or athletic performance. We will design a nutrition plan that fits you — something practical and realistic that works with your lifestyle. I’ll also give you some tips or resources to get started and answer any questions you might have. By the end of our session, you’ll have a clearer direction and some tangible steps to take. We’ll also chat about how we’ll check in on progress and what future sessions might look like. It’s all about building something sustainable that helps you feel your best.

Location

📍 Ithaca, New York

Education

Bryn Mawr College A.B., Cornell University M.S.

Hobbies

Hiking, my dogs!, music, fiber arts

Licenses and Certifications