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Meet Carla

Lover of Good Food, Pickleball & Pugs

Dr. Carla Johnston with her pug in South Carolina
My Passion and Practice: Women Who Want to Age Dynamically!

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Are you a woman passionate about aging dynamically and living life to its fullest potential?

 

As a clinical nutritionist and certified health coach, I partner with women who want more than just a healthy meal plan. Together, we explore every part of what's on life's plate—nutrition, movement, health status, environment, sleep, connection, and life's purpose—to create a holistic, personalized action plan aligned with your goals and aspirations.

 

Whether you want to set new health goals, navigate a current illness, or are balancing life as a caregiver, my one-on-one consultations provide tailored support and guidance to help you thrive.

 

This is a space where you can explore your health journey. You may be interested in learning more about weight management, improving sleep, caregiver burnout, concerns about recent lab results, and ways to make physical movement fun again.

 

Or perhaps you're living an active, healthy lifestyle and want to keep enjoying life while minimizing your risk of illness.

 

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Education
& Background

Degrees
of Education

Licenses

& Certifications

Professional

Organizations

Doctor of Clinical Nutrition (DCN)

Maryland University of Integrative Health

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Master of Science (M.S.), Herbal Medicine

Maryland University of Integrative Health

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Master of Arts (M.A.), Applied Sociology

University of Maryland Baltimore County

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Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Health Administration and Policy

University of Maryland Baltimore County

Certified Nutrition Specialist

American Nutrition Association® (ANA)

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Licensed Nutritionist

Maryland Board of Dietetic Practice

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Master Certified Health Coach

Dr. Sears Wellness Institute

Certified Nutrition Specialist Logo
ANA-Membership Badge
Approach

Behind Carla's Approach
to Nutrition

Food and nutrition are undoubtedly significant influences on health and aging. I felt the need to expand the term Nutrition to the concept of Nourishment. What we put on our plates at mealtimes is essential; for me, so is what is happening in and around us. I wanted the conversation to expand from only looking at one's meal plate and began to "Nourishing what's on life's plate." It allowed for deeper conversations and exploring one's challenges and goals. I have found that providing education on the digestive system's influence on overall health is incredibly valuable. Most are fascinated to learn about the microbiome, gut-brain communication, and the impact of sleep on the gut, the influence of the digestive system on our mood and emotional health, to name a few.

 

Our uniqueness invites us to reflect on these influences and adapt accordingly. Food choices influence our health, especially as we age. And I submit that if one is not living the life they imagined or having difficulty with a life transition such as retirement or even the loss of a partner, or the addition of a medical diagnosis making life challenging- the conversation and exploration needs to go beyond "eat this, not that."

 

That is the goal of my practice- one that provides space to create a fulfilling life in the presence of these conditions. The flexibility and possibility of Both/And.

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This concept of Both/And has played a significant role in my personal, academic, and professional life. It has allowed me to experience that everything is on a continuum, everything is dynamically moving and nothing is static. There is a wisdom to aging with countless opportunities to continue learning and growing. Challenges don't necessarily negate happiness or joy. Anxiety doesn't cancel out laughter or amusement. All are part of life and health- both mental and physical – mind and body.

 

Learning is a process whether you wish to expand on your success or create new habits. Having the tool of exploring your Both/And can provide valuable insights when cultivating possibilities. Acknowledging what is and what you are moving toward is often helpful, even in the face of upset, discomfort, and challenges. What is your Both/And?

Get in Touch

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© 2026 by Carla Johnston. 

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