Author:

Kristi Veltkamp

Kristi is one of the outpatient dietitians in Spectrum Health’s Nutrition Services. She did her undergraduate degree in Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and then went on to complete her master’s degree and dietetic internship at Northern Illinois University. Kristi’s interest in nutrition sparked while competing in basketball as a collegiate athlete. She is always seeking new ways to fuel the body, mind and soul. Her job includes a wide variety of responsibilities, including 1:1 outpatient nutrition counseling (specializing in sports nutrition and weight management), teaching nutrition classes, and media opportunities. She can usually be found outside biking, or inside reading or catching up on favorite shows. When asked what she eats, Kristi states “Real whole foods with 80% good and 20% fun. There are no diets. Just eating food the way we were made to eat it”.

Posts from Kristi Veltkamp

Bored with breakfast?

Try these morning staples from around the globe.

What’s the healthiest cooking oil?

Olive or vegetable? Canola or coconut? A dietitian explores the upsides—and downsides—of the many options.

Popcorn power

The go-to movie munch packs nutritional benefits when you sprinkle on these butter alternatives.

Cook up a veggie powerhouse

Try these culinary medicine techniques to enhance the nutrients in your favorite vegetables.

The best of broth worlds

A good broth will deliver on flavor—and it may also boost nutrition.

Rise and dine

Optimize your breakfast game with smart food swaps and meal timing.

Spice it up

Your go-to herbs and spices are good for more than just a flavor boost—they can also help fight disease and inflammation.

Milk, demystified

Whole, 2% or 1%? Cow's milk or plant-based? Here's what you need to know when weighing the many options.

Dive into DASH, MIND or Mediterranean

These three diets are heralded for their many benefits, including an ability to help fight disease and inflammation.

Top tips for smart sips

Nix the beverages laden with artificial sweeteners, added sugars and caffeine—and make water your drink of choice.

Behold, the mushroom

They aren't often the prettiest food, but many varieties can promote a healthy gut and strengthen the immune system.

Make it homemade—and healthier

With just a few simple ingredient swaps, you can boost the nutritional content of your favorite snacks and meals.