Melissa Varela
Specialties
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Emotional eating
- General health
- Gut health
- Healthy aging
- Heart disease
- Heart health
- Help gaining weight
- Help losing weight
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Hormonal health
- Menopause
- Prediabetes
- Weight loss medications / GLP-1s
- Women's health
Approaches
💚
Intuitive eating🥘
Meal planning🧪
Lab testing🤝
Accountability
Identifies as
- Female
Minimum patient age
Patient reviews
“dietitian was very welcoming & encouraging, in assisting me tackle my Type 2 Diabetes. She provided resources, automatically following our initial consultation. She was very personable & a great listener too.“
“A lot of conversation Full backstory/history Knowledgeable Easy to connect with Willing to help and listen Encouraging with health goals“
“Great conversation, I didn't feel judged but I did feel supported! Happy to set realistic measurable short term goals and looking forward to the next meeting!“
About Melissa
Hi, I'm Melissa. I'm a Registered Dietitian with 19 years of experience after graduating from San Diego State University. My clinical work spans hospital settings and menu planning, and I bring an evidence-based, HAES-informed perspective to every client interaction. When I’m off duty, you’ll find me hiking, camping, traveling, or enjoying the beach. I’m passionate about sharing practical nutrition knowledge so you can live healthier and happier without feeling deprived. I meet you where you are and help you make small, sustainable moves that fit your life.
Approach to care
My care philosophy is rooted in evidence-based practice, warm collaboration, and practical action. I believe in partnering with you to translate science into everyday choices, with a focus on long term change rather than quick fixes. I practice Health At Every Size, emphasizing behaviors and well being over weight alone, and I look at the whole person from sleep to stress to movement. Education is central, so you’ll leave each session with clear, doable steps and a sense of empowerment in your own health journey.
Your first session with Melissa
Our first appointment is a welcoming conversation, not a test. We'll start by you telling me what areas of your health concern you and why you decided to seek support. I’ll listen to your routine, daily life, exercise interests, and goals. Together we’ll exchange information, answer questions, and set short and long term goals. We’ll decide when to meet again, and we’ll do it in a low pressure, judgment-free space where you can be yourself and move at your own pace.
Location
📍 SAN DIEGO, California
Education
San Diego State University
Hobbies
hiking, camping, traveling, going to the beach.
Licenses and Certifications
RD - Registered Dietitian