Cheryl Szarko

I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with an online telehealth practice, offering nutrition therapy in many areas, such as cholesterol and blood pressure health, fatty liver disease, diabetes, gut health, weight cycling and yo-yo dieting, and much more - all through a non-diet approach. My passion is helping people break free from food struggles, chronic dieting, and confusing nutrition advice—so they can find true and lasting health without restriction, guilt, or endless dieting cycles.

My Journey to Nutrition

My interest in nutrition began at an early age, though not for the best reasons. Like many, I grew up believing that thinness equaled health and value. This led to years of food preoccupation, dieting, and frustration, never quite knowing what was true or what was another myth. As a young mother, I wanted to nourish my family well but felt overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition messages. This struggle ultimately led me to pursue evidence-based nutrition science so I could help others break free from the same cycle.

My Approach

I specialize in helping people build sustainable health habits—without restrictive diets or unrealistic regimens. I firmly believe that the best path to health is one you can actually live with—one that considers your body, mind, spirit, and lifestyle. My approach is realistic, whole-person focused, and compassionate, meeting you where you are and helping you find freedom from food struggles.

My Training & Expertise

I hold two summa cum laude degrees: BS in Food and Nutrition – The University of Alabama (Roll Tide!) BS in Interdisciplinary Studies (Counseling focus) – Liberty University As a certified biblical counselor (ACBC), I offer a faith-based approach to health for those who desire it, helping clients navigate the deeper heart issues surrounding food, body image, and self-worth.

I created Satisfied! Christian Path to Food Freedom, a faith-based, evidence-backed program that helps women struggling with chronic dieting, weight cycling, body shame, and food preoccupation find peace with food through biblical truth and practical nutrition science.

I completed over 1,200 hours of supervised practice at the James A. Haley VA Hospital, where I co-developed the VA’s first male veteran Intuitive Eating program, now used nationwide. My clinical experience includes outpatient counseling and specialties such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver and thyroid disorders, gut health, geriatrics, and weight management. Most importantly, I was honored to serve our veterans.

More About Me

I am passionate about faith, family, food, and helping others navigate their personal health challenges. I love learning about science, nutrition, theology, and counseling, and I am dedicated to helping people make real, lasting progress in their health without frustration or fads.