Farmington Hills resident Julie Feldman says there's an easy way to cut through all the conflicting and confounding advice about how to maintain a healthy weight. 

"I'm a strong believer in education," the North Farmington graduate says. "I think it's empowering." 

A registered dietitian since 2000, Feldman went into private practice after having her second daughter eight years ago. Since then, she has used a combination of education and her own personal experience to help clients with problems ranging from celiac disease to eating disorders. 

She is the author of Food News You Can Use and Ecology of Food and Nutrition Journal, consults for food and beverage companies, including Coca-Cola, and is a media representative for the Michigan Dietetic Association.

Feldman admits she was overweight as a kid, and comes from a family of people who struggle with weight issues. As a result, she said, "I really practice what I preach."

She said she stays away from recommending meal plans or counting carbs, and instead, talks with clients about food and how it affects them, no matter what the season. 

"The ice cream truck drives by every day in the summer, and that's a challenge," she said. "People are more likely to eat out, because they work more." 

Feldman recommends having a good amount of dietary fiber; she says combining fiber and protein creates "a filling and satisfying way to eat" for adults and children. People need to eat every three or four hours, she added, noting, "Skipping meals never works."

Clients never step on a scale in Feldman's office; instead, she takes a detailed history that includes a discussion over their attitudes, beliefs and approaches related to food. 

"I want to help them live their best life," she said. "That's my ultimate goal, that they develop a healthy relationship with food and with their body." 

Learn more by contacting Feldman at realnutrition@ymail.com.