Melanie Larson, RD, MS

Bio

I am originally from Georgia and traveled here in 1995 to join forces with the "Land of Fruits and Nuts" (no pun intended). I graduated form the University of Georgia with a Degree in Nutrition followed by a Masters Degree from Sonoma State University in Exercise Science.

My philosophy on Health comes from a perspective of total balanced wellness - Body, Mind and Spirit. I had a private practice in Sonoma/Marin for 5 years before joining the Health Education Department at Kaiser Permanente in 2003. I found that in private practice, I was limited to a small population of people who were "image oriented". My desire to help inspire people to heal themselves through lifestyle improvements has been fulfilled as a Dietitian here at Kaiser Permanente. I am forever amazed at the resources and opportunities for health improvement that are offered here beyond just modern medicine.

I have had some amazing opportunities along my professional journey. I have spoken nationally for the Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research and internationally at Oxford University on the topic of Diabetes. I most recently became a Certified Diabetes Educator. I love teaching Diabetes Education classes for Kaiser Permanente in addition to teaching Nutrition at Santa Rosa Junior College. Teaching gives me the opportunity to improve my knowledge and to enhance awareness for making choices around health behavior change.

I am happily married with two amazing children Cadence, six years old and Sammy, four. I enjoy the outdoors, running, cycling, cooking, but most of all nurturing relationships with my family, friends, my church, my patients and students.

My Medical Specialty

More details about my specialty:

I specialize in Diabetes Education as well as Eating Disorders and motivating behavior and lifestyle Change. As a former competitive cyclist, I also specialize in Sports Nutrition.

My specialty interests and affiliations within my field:

I have my Masters Degree in Exercise Science and I am a Certified Diabetes Educator.

Current projects or research:

I am currently working on educating other Dietitians and allied health professionals about giving physical activity recommendations. I will be presenting this information at the American Dietetic Association national convention in November.

Great health resources that I refer to:

eatright.org
active.com
You on a Diet, Dr Oz
Nutrition Action Health Letter
Eating Right (magazine)
Cooking Light

Interests

Hobby Photos & Links:

Cadence Following in my Footsteps

Family & Friends

People in my life:

I am happily married to Coburn Larson. He is in the financial services industry working for Northwestern Mutual Financial Services. He is my best friend and an incredible father. We make a great team.

My children and people I care about:

I never thought being a mother could be so rewarding. My family is at the forefront of my mind and I feel so blessed to have been given such joy throught their existence.

Photos of my Family & Friends:

Coby and I in Wyoming

Cadie And Sammy

Travel

Favorite place in the world:

Jackson Hole, WY is where my heart resides. My parents began taking my family there 25 years ago. They now have a home there and we visit every summer. It is definitely God's Country. The mountain air is so pure and the Grand Teton Mountain Range bring tears to my eyes every single time I am graced with their beauty.

One of my recent trips:

In the spring of 06 I went to Oxford England to present at an event called the Oxford Roundtable.

A Photo of One of My Favorite Places:

Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

Trip Photos:

Oxford, England

Other Links & Photos