
Alexandra Gardner
MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC, CHES
Aetna
English
About Me
Alex Gardner, MPH, RDN, LDN, CLC, CHES
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist | Maternal & Child Health Specialist
Alex comes from a long line of food lovers. Her passion for food began in childhood, inspired by her grandmother, a chef who taught her how to cook at a young age. She grew up working for her family’s catering company, but it wasn’t until a high school nutrition class that she discovered her true calling—understanding how food impacts the body at a cellular level.
Throughout her education, Alex focused on maternal and child health, serving in various roles such as a nutrition tech at a regional children’s hospital, a nutrition educator and later a dietitian for the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, and a Maternal and Child Health Nutrition Leadership Trainee during graduate school. She deepened her expertise by becoming a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), earning a certificate in fertility and prenatal nutrition from the Early Life Nutrition Alliance, and completing numerous continuing education courses in the field.
In 2024, after giving birth to her daughter—who was later diagnosed with dairy and soy allergies—Alex experienced firsthand the challenges of maintaining a well-balanced, allergen-free diet while breastfeeding. That personal journey has since fueled her passion for supporting other parents navigating infant and toddler food allergies, whether breastfeeding or starting solids.
Alex believes in a personalized, compassionate approach to care. She understands that every person brings a unique set of circumstances—different goals, medical histories, and lifestyles—and tailors each session to meet those individual needs. She also encourages self-kindness, having witnessed how harshly many women judge themselves over food choices.
Alex holds a Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics (2020) and a Master’s in Public Health (2023) from the University of Tennessee. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys experimenting with new recipes, treasure hunting at estate sales, and spending quality time with her family and beloved cats.