Bio: As a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and certified personal trainer (CPT), Griffin understands how what you eat and how you move are critical components to achieve optimal health. With more than a decade of experience in nutrition, Griffin enjoys teaching clients to improve their daily habits to experience the benefits of good nutrition and consistent movement. Her areas of expertise include bariatrics, weight management, diabetes, hypertension and family nutrition.
Griffin is currently a doctoral student in the doctor of clinical nutrition (DCN) program at University of Western States. She is taking her knowledge and expertise to the next level and will graduate as a functional nutrition doctor. Griffin earned a Master of Science in human nutrition and a Bachelor of Science in dietetics from The Ohio State University.
Why did you choose UWS?
I was excited to find out that UWS was offering a brand new online two-year DCN program. The program length and format were a great fit with my busy lifestyle.
What sparked your interest in pursuing a doctorate in clinical nutrition?
After working as a registered dietitian in the outpatient clinical setting, I knew there had to be more to offer patients to help them optimize their health. Through research, I stumbled upon functional medicine and its focus on uncovering and treating the root cause of health concerns. As I learned more about functional medicine, I began to incorporate some of its principles into my patient encounters, such as prioritizing gut health and emphasizing quality sleep.
What has been the most surprising or eye-opening part of attending UWS?
It is great to have individuals from all over the country with different professional backgrounds in my cohort. We each bring our own set of strengths and experiences to the program. I have learned so much from my colleagues over the last few terms.
Do you have a professor or specific course that has impacted your growth the most?
Gut health is foundational in functional medicine. Dr. Dana Elia taught the GI class that provided great information on how gut health is connected to every other body system. It was fun to learn about how great of an impact you can make on client health through improving their gut health.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
As a former NCAA Division I track athlete and current youth track coach, I am very interested in combining sports nutrition with functional medicine. I recently started my private practice prior to beginning the UWS DCN program, Generations Nutrition & Wellness
What is your favorite activity to destress?
I enjoy reading or watching home improvement shows on TV. Our professors have stressed the importance of making sure we take time to do things that bring us peace and joy. We as practitioners need to practice what we preach, and I am still working on improving my skills in this area.
