Cristina Veltri Illien, MHS, MS, RD, CDN

Personality:

Cristina has a very calm demeanor and pays great attention to detail. She will ask you specific questions to really get to know you better before making personalized recommendations.

Background:

Cristina is a Registered Dietitian and a midlevel Associate Dietitian with NY Nutrition Group. She began her academic journey on the pre-medical track at Johns Hopkins University, initially planning to attend medical school. Over time, she discovered a deeper passion for nutrition science and decided to shift her focus. Cristina went on to earn her Master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. This transition allowed her to align her career with her core belief: that the body has an incredible ability to heal itself when properly nourished, and that medications aren’t always the only solution.

Cristina takes a holistic, evidence-based approach to care, designing personalized treatment protocols that evolve alongside each client’s needs. She believes that healing is a dynamic process, and the goals she sets with her clients are intentionally flexible—adjusting as their bodies change and progress over time.

Specialties 

Diabetes/Pre-diabetes/Gestational Diabetes, Hormonal Disorders (PCOS, Thyroid issues), Gut health, Gastrointestinal Issues, Fertility Nutrition, Eating Disorders/Disordered Eating, Heart Health (Cholesterol, Blood Pressure management)

Counseling Philosophy

Cristina firmly believes in educating others to empower them to live healthier lives. She delivers a science-based approach that guides her patients to be less reliant on medications. She also believes in a whole-body approach to health and that it can be achieved not only through proper nutrition, but also through certain self-care practices.

Affiliations

Cristina is an active member of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND), Women’s Health Dietetics Practice Group, Pediatric Nutrition Dietetics Practice Group

Personal Interests

As a native New Yorker, Cristina’s favorite pastime in the city is taking long walks in Central Park. During the summer you can find her at her second home in the South of Italy spending time with her extended family and enjoying delicious Italian food.