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Meet Mercedes Waugaman - Your Nutrition Partner
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
You deserve the support of a nutrition expert.
Good news – you found me !
Hi, I’m Mercedes Waugaman, a registered dietitian based right here in Jacksonville, Florida.
You might not know this, but the training to become a registered dietitian is extensive. Not only do I have both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in nutrition, but I also completed a 1,200-hour supervised practice internship.
This extensive training is what sets registered dietitians apart from social media “gurus” or “influencers.” Nutrition is personal and complex; that is why cookie-cutter recommendations don’t work long term.
I launched PureVital nutrition so that I can help people just like you to find peace and vitality in your life through doable nutrition changes.
In addition to launching my own private practice, I work as a clinical dietitian at a leading hospital in Jacksonville. There, I offer nutrition support for patients with heart disease, diabetes and other health conditions.
Whether it is in my hospital role or with my private clients, I’m interested in providing much more than just information. My goal is to keep working with you until you feel empowered to take charge of your own health and are confidently putting sustainable habits into practice. I find my work to be deeply fulfilling and rewarding; there is both an art and a science to finding the best plan of action for each person.
Outside of work, I love to spend time playing golf and listening to podcasts – especially if it is an episode that will help me stay up to date with the latest nutrition topics. I enjoy time with my family and keep an active lifestyle to foster my own wellness.
Training and experiences
-
Bachelor’s Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of North Florida
(Honors) -
Master’s Degree in Clinical Nutrition from Northeast College of Health Sciences
(Honors) - Supervised Practice at The Florida Department of Health
- Registered Dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Licensed Dietitian in the state of Florida
- English and Spanish speaking
Personalized Guidance
Receive individualized, evidence-based nutrition advice tailored to your unique needs and goals.
Comprehensive Programs
Explore our 3-month program designed to provide a thorough health assessment and ongoing support through personalized meal plans and follow-up sessions.
Grocery Shopping Tour
Join Mercedes for an informative and fun supermarket tour, where you'll learn to make healthy choices and understand nutrition labels.
Nutrigenomix Service
Uncover the secrets of eating according to your genes with our specialized Nutrigenomix service.
Accessible Online Resources
Expand your reach with our online resources, ensuring convenient access to nutritional guidance.
Bilingual Support
Benefit from Mercedes' bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish, adding a personal touch to your wellness journey.
At PureVital Nutrition, our mission is to provide evidence-based nutritional guidance that empowers individuals and communities to make informed choices for optimal health. Join us on this journey to create a healthier world through balanced and sustainable dietary habits.
Why Choose Us
The Nutrition Professionals
Advanced Expertise:
Registered Dietitians are THE nutrition experts! My training and experience include both a bachelor's degree and master’s degree in nutrition, an extensive 1,200-hour supervised practice internship and the passage of our national board exam.
I have experience helping clients to be able to manage a diverse range of health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, disordered eating and fueling for a healthy pregnancy.
And as a dietitian, I stay up-to-date on the latest nutrition research and trends and complete continuing education hours each year.
Personalized Action Plan:
You are unique; your nutrition wellness plan should be, too!
As a PureVital Nutrition client, you’ll enjoy a completely personalized plan crafted to fit your unique needs, preferences, and health goals. Our focus is on fostering a positive relationship with food for results that last (and that help prevent disease).
You will value the opportunity to ask questions and express yourself during your 1:1 appointments - you won’t feel rushed!
Not a “quick fix”
Working with a registered dietitian goes far beyond a meal plan. So many factors influence how you feel and what you’re struggling with – and I’ve got the science-backed recommendations to help you feel your best.
In order to offer you solutions that last, I explore your whole life! From your busy work schedule to your family history, how much you like to cook and your favorite flavors, I consider it all so that you feel really good about what you’re working on…and enjoy the sustainable results!
Accessible and Inclusive:
You have the option to choose between in-person or virtual sessions and access our online resources designed for diverse lifestyles.
My bilingual support in English and Spanish ensures that language is never a barrier.