Nutrition

Nutrition

 

About Us

Michigan State University Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) provide free, confidential nutrition appointments to MSU Students, faculty, academic, staff, support staff, graduate assistants, retirees, and their spouses/partners.  

Services promote a non-diet and weight-neutral approach using the eating competence model to support health and well-being.  

Common nutrition-related concerns include: 

  • Managing nutrition-related health issues (gastro-intestinal, prediabetes, diabetes, cholesterol, etc.)
  • Eating well with limited time and money
  • Sports nutrition
  • Managing weight and body image concerns
  • Eating disorders and disordered eating behaviors
  • Mindful eating practices
  • Navigating the MSU dining halls*
  • Meal planning
  • Food allergies/intolerances 

*If you have an Eat at State meal plan and have food allergies or intolerances or need to follow a special diet, email Kelsey Patterson, dietitian, MSU Culinary Services, for additional resources and information: patte546@msu.edu. 

To schedule an appointment 

  • Self-schedule by calling 517-353-4660.
  • Students with a referral from Campus Health Services can expect to be contacted to schedule an appointment.

Fees and referrals 

  • Nutrition counseling is a free service.
  • A doctor's referral is not required. 

Location

Nutrition Services is in Olin Health Center on the campus of Michigan State University, 463 E. Circle Drive, East Lansing, MI 48824. Use the Interactive Campus Map to locate Olin and nearby parking options. 

What to expect at your appointment: 

  • Initial Appointment: Appointments are scheduled for 60 minutes. During the initial appointment, information will be gathered to assess health status and nourishment needs. Please bring a list of any nutrition supplements you are taking. There will also be time to discuss any concerns or questions you may have.
  • Future Sessions: The information from your initial session will help your dietitian collaborate with you to meet your unique needs. They will assist you with:
  • Adapting your diet to meet specific nutritional requirements of your current life stages
  • Addressing and resolving any conflicts or anxieties related to weight and improving your relationship with food
  • Advising on the nutritional impacts of any dietary changes or supplement you are considering

 

Nutrition Outreach 

University Health and Wellbeing Registered Dietitians are dedicated to promoting a culture of health and wellbeing so all Spartans can feel their best!   

If you’re interested in a nutrition program for your student group, workgroup, department, or unit please complete our Outreach Request Form: Outreach | University Health and Wellbeing | Michigan State University.  This form helps us better understand your needs and how we can best support your event. 

Please reach out to uhwoutreach@msu.edu with any questions. 

Food and Nutrition Resources at Michigan State University

 

Dining on campus 

Basic Needs Access 

Disordered Eating 

Food can easily become a source of stress and concern, especially when we attempt to resolve cultural messages that urge us to achieve the “perfect” body and diet AND to consume food mindlessly. Constant concern about body weight and shape, fat grams, and calories can start a vicious cycle of body dissatisfaction and obsession. This can take a toll on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. 

Are you concerned about your eating? This free screening tool can help you determine if it is time to seek professional support. 

Our registered dietitians are here to provide nutrition therapy and work to connect you with mental health support and medical care as needed. 

  • Nutrition Services:  Make an appointment by calling: 517-353-4660.
  • Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS): call 517-255-8270 or schedule online
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): call 517-355-4506. 

 

Building a Firm Nutrition Foundation

Whether you’re a student learning to prepare meals after moving away from home or an employee managing health concerns like cholesterol or diabetes, our dietitians are here to help. We customize each program to your group, focusing on practical skills and strategies to support nourishing meals, snacks, and long-term health goals.

Raising Good Eaters

What helps a child become a good eater? This program explores age-appropriate eating behaviors, what to expect as children grow, and how parents can support positive habits while preventing common feeding and eating challenges.

Body Acceptance

Body image and weight concerns can feel challenging at any age. This program will use a size-inclusive approach, focusing on practical skills that help build confidence, body acceptance, and a positive relationship with food.

Cooking Demonstrations

(NOTE: Located in Union Venture Kitchen, space limited to 15-20 participants and requesting group responsible for food costs)

Explore new foods and build cooking skills through simple, everyday recipes designed to support health and wellbeing. Our registered dietitians provide both education and hands-on guidance for an engaging group experience.

Sports Nutrition

Is your team looking to build skills and strategies to fuel training or prepare for an upcoming event? Let our registered dietitians help! This program covers the nutrition basics needed to support optimal sport performance.