MaryGrace Webb, MA, RD, CDN, CDCES, FAND
Member-At-Large of the CT Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 2019-2020
What inspired you to become a RDN?
I had always been interested in a career in health care but wanted one that involved preventing as well as treating disease. Becoming an RDN was the perfect fit for me.
Where do you work now and where have you worked in the past?
I work for Sodexo as a Corporate Nutritionist on various nutrition research, writing, and program development projects. I started my career as a Clinical Dietitian in hospitals in Connecticut, California, and New York. I also was fortunate to have been a Senior Nutritionist for 11 years at Weight Watchers International, where I helped develop the original “points” program.
What is your favorite recipe/food?
I love lobster! At least once a year I enjoy boiled lobster dinner with fresh sweet corn, a crisp green salad, and a big ice cream cone for dessert. Preferably all eaten outdoors near the ocean on a warm summer day.
General tip for improving diet?
Identifying the dimensions of eating beyond nutrition – emotional, cultural, spiritual, social, economical, etc. – has always been very important to me. I have tried to understand “why” clients choose to eat a certain way and incorporate these needs into the guidelines for “what” to eat. Food is so much more than macro- and micro-nutrients. When you acknowledge why you eat, you can understand how to improve your diet in ways that benefit your personal needs.
If stranded on island-what one food or beverage you would want an unlimited supply of?
Natural peanut butter! I eat it every day. Add whole grain bread, fruit, yogurt, and honey and I can live on that island indefinitely (hopefully I would also be able to catch a lobster for dinner occasionally).
What is the best part of your job?
I enjoy working from home now as it gives me the flexibility to care for my aging mom. I also like to keep learning, and the field of nutrition is so dynamic. There is always something new to study.
Where do you want to see the RDN/NDTR profession in 10 years?
I would hope RDNs/NDTRs become leaders in the areas of nutrigenomics and integrative and functional medicine using credible, evidence-based research.
Anything else you would like to add?
I am grateful to all the wonderful friends and mentors who encouraged and supported me over the years. I love being an RDN, and I want to help those just starting their careers to enjoy this amazing profession as much as I have.
