dietitian and nutrition specialist
Dr. Katherine M. Manuel, Ph.D., RD, LDN, EIM, FAND is an experienced registered dietitian and nutrition specialist dedicated to helping people make practical, sustainable choices for better health. With advanced degrees in Nutritional Sciences and Applied Exercise Science, along with specialized training in exercise prescription, she brings a comprehensive approach that considers both nutrition and physical activity. She earned her Ph.D. and M.S. in Nutritional Sciences from Howard University, an M.S. in Applied Exercise Science from Concordia University Chicago, and a B.S. in Nutritional Sciences with a Dietetics emphasis from Howard University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.
With decades of experience in nutrition care, education, and wellness, Dr. Manuel has worked with individuals across a wide range of healthcare settings. She currently serves as a Consulting Dietitian at The Bariatric and Hernia Institute, where she helps support nutrition care for individuals undergoing surgical weight-loss procedures. She also serves as Interim Chair and Program Director within the Department of Nutritional Sciences at Howard University and teaches Exercise Prescription through the University of Connecticut. Her previous clinical experience includes caring for individuals in medical/surgical, cardiac, bariatric, orthopedic, intensive care, and other healthcare settings.
Dr. Manuel takes an evidence-based approach to nutrition and is particularly experienced in weight management, bariatric nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, exercise, and wellness. Her research and professional work have explored topics including weight management after bariatric surgery, nutrition support, obesity, diabetes, food insecurity, nutrition-related health disparities, and the role of exercise in supporting long-term health. She has also shared her expertise as a speaker, educator, consultant, and nutrition resource through healthcare organizations, universities, community health programs, health fairs, and professional events.
Dr. Manuel is committed to continuing her professional development and staying current with advances in nutrition and wellness. She is a licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist in Maryland and the District of Columbia, has been a Registered Dietitian since 2000, and holds Exercise is Medicine certification through the American College of Sports Medicine. She is a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and has received honors including the Outstanding Dietetics Educator Award and Howard University Faculty of the Year Award. Through her combination of clinical experience, nutrition expertise, education, and compassionate guidance, Dr. Manuel helps individuals better understand their nutritional needs and take meaningful steps toward healthier living.
