Exploring Life & Business with Kathryn Durston of Naturally Good Nutrition

Today, we’d like to introduce you to Kathryn Durston, RDN.

Kathryn, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
After playing sports throughout high school and graduating, I wanted to keep up with my nutrition and fitness. I decided to start consistently doing yoga and strength training, where my passion for health and wellness began to flourish.

I originally was going to college at Michigan State University to get a degree in Art and Design, and in between semesters, I found a job at a local apple orchard selling fresh produce. During my shifts, I realized I loved talking to people about food and the benefits of what they were eating.

That following summer, I ended up doing a work share on a local farm called Schuler Farms. While working at the farm, I further developed my understanding of fresh fruit and vegetables, local agriculture, and holistic health.

I had always felt pulled to do a job that involved helping people, so when I discovered what a dietitian does, I knew that was right for me. At the same time, my family was having many battles with their health, including chronic heart issues and diabetes. Watching my family go through these hardships further solidified my passion for helping people take control of their health and reducing their risk for chronic illness.

After finishing my first degree, I went to Western Michigan University for my second and received my Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics. I completed over 1,200 clinical hours and passed a 125-question board exam to become a registered dietitian in May 2023.

While this was all taking place, I struggled with chronic dieting, poor gut health, and body image issues. During my journey towards becoming a dietitian, I learned about the harmful effects of chronic dieting. I discovered the power of mindful eating and how to heal my relationship with food to support my gut and overall health. I’m extremely passionate about helping people learn to love their bodies again and nourish themselves with food without guilt!

I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, so even as a dietitian, I knew I wanted to open my practice. I started Naturally Good Nutrition, a nutrition counseling practice in West Michigan. Through my practice, I help a wide variety of patients with various health concerns and goals, including gut health, performance nutrition, chronic illness, and overall wellness.

I want my patients to feel the healthcare support many don’t receive from traditional practitioners. I was tired of hearing from people that they weren’t being listened to or heard. Naturally Good Nutrition is an inclusive practice that helps patients of every shape, size, and background.

In the past year, I’ve had the pleasure of speaking at two universities, including Purdue University, and multiple live conferences about nutrition-related topics. I’ve been featured in major publications, including Eat This, Not That! And Everyday Health. I’ve had the pleasure of working with amazing nutrition and supplement brands, including Resbiotic and Purity Coffee.

Additionally, I’ve hosted community events partnering with local businesses and hope to continue to do more this year. In my first year as a dietitian, I also won the Michigan Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Public Relations Dietitian of the Year award.

Let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
It has not been a smooth road! Becoming a dietitian requires intensive schooling and clinical hours. I could only work a part-time job on the weekends, leaving me with barely any days off. It was exhausting and expensive, but I’m glad I didn’t take any shortcuts to get there.

Once I started my business, I had to learn how to prioritize work-life balance. You must put a lot of effort into marketing and building relationships when you have a brand-new business. In March and February this year alone, I networked with over 20 local businesses and entrepreneurs. I basically did anything I could to get my name out there!

Lastly, I’m extremely empathetic, so working one-on-one with patients can easily drain my energy. I put my all into every counseling session, making sure my patients feel comfortable and supported. I know that health concerns and symptoms can be debilitating, and I do my very best to find the root cause of their issues and resolve them for good.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My business, Naturally Good Nutrition, is a virtual nutrition counseling practice in West Michigan that focuses on personalized, evidence-based support. I use my knowledge and expertise as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist to provide my patients with the tools they need to eliminate their symptoms and feel the best they’ve ever felt.

I help with a wide variety of conditions, including chronic gut symptoms, disordered eating habits, performance nutrition, chronic illness, and overall health and well-being. I also partner with a lab testing company to offer my patients micronutrient, stool, and hormone tests, to name a few.

My nutrition philosophy focuses on a non-diet approach, mindful eating, and regaining trust with your body. I help many patients who are struggling with their relationship with food, body image, and emotional eating. In my practice, we focus on the nutrients you can add to your diet and simple lifestyle habits to reach your health goals.

Naturally Good Nutrition is a weight-inclusive practice that accepts everyone regardless of size, gender, weight, race/ethnicity, ability, and more. I’m here to support and validate my patients. This is an inclusive practice where your feelings matter!

My process includes a 15-minute discovery call to determine whether we’re a good fit. Then, I’ll have you book an initial nutrition assessment to discuss your medical history, past diets, and current symptoms. Together, we’ll create a tailored plan and actionable goals for you to accomplish. Lastly, you’ll book follow-up appointments to stay on track.

All my patients have access to my patient portal, which includes food and mood journaling, messaging support, lifestyle recommendations, protocol notes, PDF handouts, and meal-planning inspiration. You’ll leave my sessions feeling confident about mealtimes and grocery shopping! Each session is done 100% virtually from the comfort of your home.

Who else deserves credit for your story?
I absolutely need to give credit to my parents. They have been my cheerleaders since the beginning, sticking with me through multiple career changes and big life moments. They believed in me before I believed in myself, and I can never thank them enough.

I also need to credit my boyfriend and friend group. I’m surrounded by truly amazing, genuine people who lift me and encourage me to overcome self-doubt.

Lastly, I’d like to give a huge shout-out to my team members. I wouldn’t have the success I have today if it wasn’t for everyone who helped me out behind the scenes. I couldn’t do it all on my own!

Pricing:

• Initial Nutrition Assessment: $99
• 30-Minute Follow-Up: $49
• 60-Minute Follow-Up: $75

Contact Info:

• Website: https://naturallygoodnutrition.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naturallykat, https://www.instagram.com/naturallygood.nutrition
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/katdurston/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-durston-rdn-bb38ab1aa/