Home > Blog > Food Connects Us: Nutrition Counseling at Project Open Hand
By Kayla Kamen, RD

At Project Open Hand, one of the most critical services we offer is tailored nutrition counseling, which helps clients learn about the role nutrition plays in disease management. Our team of Registered Dietitians (RDs) help to promote healthier eating, teach innovative condition management, and work to provide the education necessary so that our clients can feel better overall. 

Why See an RD? 

A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a food and nutrition expert. They can help support the treatment of a health problem and learn how to eat healthier, such as: 

  • Personalized Nutrition Plans: Whether it be to manage diabetes, heart disease, or another condition, an RD will create an individualized plan tailored to a person’s needs. 

  • Managing Chronic Diseases: Many chronic diseases, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease, can be improved with the right diet. An RD can help a person understand how food plays an important role in managing these conditions. 

  • Learning About Food: An RD will educate on how different foods might affect a person’s body, such as which foods give energy, and which ones are good for the heart. 

  • Support and Motivation: Sometimes, making healthy changes can be hard. An RD provides support and helps a person stay accountable and on-track with their goals. 

Nutrition Classes: Learn and Connect with Others 

In addition to RD support, Project Open Hand also offers nutrition classes. These classes are a great way to learn new things about food and health while connecting with other people. For clients, we offer classes both online and in-person in San Francisco and the East Bay.  

By attending these classes, a client can ask an RD questions, connect with others who are on the same health journey, and get practical tips that can be used every day to support their health. Whether it’s making meals at home or finding new foods to try, clients leave with knowledge that can be used immediately.  

Some examples of previous classes include: 

  • Managing Diabetes through Diet: Learn how to control blood sugar levels and manage diabetes with the right foods. 

  • Heart-Healthy Eating: Discover which foods are good for your heart and how to lower your risk of heart disease. 

  • Meal Planning and Budgeting for Healthier Eating: Tips on how to plan healthy meals without spending too much money. 

  • Cooking for Special Diets (Gluten-Free, Low-Sodium, etc.): Learn how to make meals that fit your special dietary needs. 

  • Mindful Eating Practices: Understand how to listen to your body and eat in a way that makes you feel your best. 

  • Cooking Classes: Cook new recipes along with the RDs that are based on POH offerings. This is an opportunity to learn new skills and ingredients, as well as discuss substitutions and more! 

For Our Clients: Why Join a Class? 

Our nutrition classes are more than just learning about food. They are a chance to meet others, ask questions, and get answers from our expert RDs. Whether you’re new to healthy eating or want to learn more, these classes can help you feel more confident in your ability to make healthier choices and navigate the kitchen. 

This National Nutrition Month, take the opportunity to focus on your health. Sign up for a class or schedule a one-on-one session with one of our RDs today! Fill out an inquiry form and a member of our Nutrition Team will get in touch with you. Fill out an inquiry form and a member of our Nutrition Team will get in touch with you. 

Oakland

1921 San Pablo Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
(510) 622-0221
Email Us

San Francisco

730 Polk Street
San Francisco, CA 94109
(415) 447-2300
Email Us