Rita Vargas

About Rita

Rita is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN, LDN) and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) with over 20 years of experience in nutrition and health care. Her background includes extensive work in weight management and chronic disease management, with a current focus on anti-inflammatory nutrition, functional nutrition, and disease prevention. Diagnosed with a homozygous MTHFR gene mutation, Rita brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her practice. Through her own health journey, she achieved lasting symptom resolution—an experience that deeply shapes her compassionate, patient-centered approach. Rita’s professional experience spans hospitals, outpatient clinics, and community-based settings. She finds the greatest fulfillment in one-on-one counseling, partnering with individuals to achieve their health goals through sustainable, realistic nutrition strategies tailored to their unique needs.

Approach to care

Rita believes that food is medicine and a powerful tool for healing, restoring balance, and supporting long-term health. Her approach is rooted in evidence-based nutrition while honoring the unique biology, lifestyle, and goals of each individual. Guided by both professional expertise and personal health experience, Rita provides compassionate, patient-centered care, partnering with clients to create practical, sustainable strategies that support lasting wellness.

Your first session with Rita

Your telehealth nutrition appointment is designed to be comfortable, supportive, and highly personalized. We’ll begin with a comprehensive nutrition assessment, reviewing your health history, current concerns, lifestyle, and personal goals. Sessions are patient-centered and collaborative, offering one-on-one education and counseling tailored specifically to your needs and focused on sustainable, long-term behavior change. Each appointment concludes with clear, realistic goal setting, so you leave with confident next steps and a practical plan to guide you between visits.

Education

Rita holds a Bachelor of Science in Food Science and Human Nutrition and a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a concentration in Health Promotion and Wellness.

Hobbies

A true food enthusiast, Rita enjoys all things food—including cooking, baking, and exploring new restaurants. She loves spending time outdoors through gardening, running, camping, and walking her two dogs. In her free time, she also enjoys sports and making memories with her sons, especially through active, outdoor adventures.

Licenses and Certifications