Work with a food scientist

Working with a food scientist is likely the best choice for individuals seeking root-cause, highly individualized nutrition therapy; especially when standard approaches have fallen short. Working with a food scientist can offer a deeper, more personalized pathway to healing and long-term health. Both food scientists and registered dietitians play important roles in nutrition and health. The key difference lies in training focus, clinical approach, and depth of biochemical and systems-level analysis.

Dr. Molina has an M.S. in Food Science and Human Nutrition and is trained in the biochemistry, physiology, and functional properties of food at the cellular and molecular level. This background, coupled with her Doctorate in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (DAOM), allows for a deeper focus on how nutrients, food structure, medicine, and bioactive compounds interact with metabolism, hormones, inflammation, and the gut microbiome. While dietitians are trained to provide nutrition counseling based on established dietary guidelines & medical nutrition therapy protocols, their education emphasizes population-based dietary recommendations. Food scientists can provide a more individualized approach using chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, nutrition, and engineering to help clients better understand food composition and processing, which ultimately impact health. Food science–based nutrition therapy puts the focus on nutrient bioavailability and absorption, micronutrient (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants) effects at the cellular level, food matrix effects and metabolic signaling, gut microbiome interactions, and the functional and therapeutic use of whole foods.

Dr. Molina offers four comprehensive nutrition therapy programs, delivered in person or virtually for flexible, individualized care.

Nutrition Therapy Offerings

Woman sitting cross-legged with a bowl of fresh vegetables and fruit in front of her, smiling at the camera.

  • A Guided Reset for Whole-Food Living

    Program Overview: The 21-Day Purification is designed to help clients remove common dietary stressors, stabilize blood sugar, and establish sustainable whole-food habits. This program focuses on education, structure, and practical guidance; making it ideal for those who want a clear starting point without lab testing.

    Ideal for:

    • Individuals new to nutrition therapy

    • Those wanting to transition to a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet

    • Clients seeking a gentle reset without testing or long-term commitment

    Includes:

    • Whole-food nutrition guidelines and meal framework

    • Elimination of inflammatory and ultra-processed foods

    • Grocery lists and meal planning guidance

    • Education on hydration, digestion, and mindful eating

    • Includes supplementation to optimize digestion during the 21-day program

    Outcome: Clients leave with improved energy, reduced cravings, digestive support, and a solid foundation for long-term nutrition success!

  • Metabolic Reset & Sustainable Weight Management

    Program Overview: This program provides a personalized, data-driven approach to metabolic health. Using SpectraCell micronutrient testing, nutrition recommendations are tailored to correct deficiencies, optimize metabolism, and support lean body mass.

    Ideal for:

    • Weight loss or weight gain resistance

    • Early metabolic dysfunction

    • Insulin resistance or pre-diabetes

    • Clients ready for structured accountability

    Includes:

    • SpectraCell micronutrient testing with interpretation

    • Personalized nutrition therapy plan

    • Bi-weekly 1:1 nutrition sessions

    • Bi-weekly body composition analysis (if in-person, virtual clients will need a home body composition analyzer)

    • Blood sugar regulation and metabolic education

    • Lifestyle coaching (sleep, stress, movement)

    • Supplement recommendations based on lab data

    Outcome: Improved body composition, increased energy, reduced inflammation, and improved metabolic markers!

  • Comprehensive Metabolic Rehabilitation

    Program Overview: This extended program allows for true metabolic reprogramming, addressing root causes of weight gain and chronic disease. The longer duration supports habit formation, nutrient repletion, and progressive adjustments as the body adapts.

    Ideal for:

    • Obesity

    • Eating disorders

    • Type 2 diabetes

    • Cardiovascular disease

    • Long-standing metabolic dysfunction

    • Clients needing deeper, long-term support

    Includes:

    • SpectraCell micronutrient testing with interpretation

    • Personalized nutrition therapy plan

    • Bi-weekly nutrition and lifestyle coaching sessions

    • Bi-weekly body composition analysis (if in-person, virtual clients will need a home body composition analyzer)

    • Advanced metabolic and cardiovascular nutrition strategies

    • Long-term behavior change support

    • Re-testing and plan refinement

    • Supplement recommendations based on lab data

    Outcome: Sustained fat loss, improved cardiometabolic health, better glycemic control, and long-term lifestyle transformation!

  • Gut Healing & Immune Support

    Program Overview: The Microbiome Reset is a targeted gut-healing program focused on restoring microbial balance, strengthening the gut barrier, and calming immune activation. The GI-MAP test provides insight into pathogens, commensals, inflammation, and digestive function.

    Ideal for:

    • Indigestion, bloating, or reflux

    • Food sensitivities or intolerances (that have been established or an IgG/IgE combination test can be added for $299 to establish food sensitivities or intolerances)

    • Environmental or seasonal allergies

    • Autoimmune or inflammatory conditions

    Includes:

    • GI-MAP testing with detailed interpretation

    • Optional IgG/IgE combination test add-on for $299 if needed

    • Personalized gut-supportive nutrition plan

    • Targeted elimination and reintroduction strategy

    • Probiotic and supplement recommendations based on lab data

    • Lifestyle support for gut-brain axis health

    • Education on food triggers and tolerance building

    Outcome: Improved digestion, increased energy, reduced inflammation, and improved metabolic markers!