Meet the Founder of Nutritional Weight & Wellness

Darlene Kvist, MS, CNS, LN

Nutritional Weight & Wellness was founded over 25 years ago by Darlene Kvist, MS, CNS, LN—an educator, counselor, and visionary who believed deeply in the healing power of real food nutrition.

Throughout her career, Darlene helped countless individuals transform their health by addressing the root causes of chronic and complex conditions. Known for her sharp problem-solving skills and compassionate approach, she walked alongside her clients every step of the way, offering guidance, encouragement, and practical solutions tailored to each person’s unique needs.

Darlene’s passion for nutrition education extended far beyond the counseling room. Since 2004, she hosted the popular Dishing Up Nutrition radio show on myTalk107, sharing evidence-based nutrition advice with listeners locally and nationwide.  While no longer a radio program, the show lives on today as the Dishing Up Nutrition podcast, continuing her mission of real food nutrition education and reaching listeners around the world.

Professionally, Darlene was a licensed nutritionist and held the Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS) credential through the American College of Nutrition, a respected organization dedicated to advancing nutrition science. She also served on the Minnesota Board of Dietetics and Nutrition Practice, helping shape professional standards within the field.

Above all, Darlene was known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering integrity. She was a mentor to many and had a remarkable ability to make people feel heard, supported, and empowered. Her leadership shaped not only Nutritional Weight & Wellness as an organization, but also the lives and careers of those who worked alongside her.

Darlene passed away on October 11, 2025, but her legacy lives on. Her vision, values, and dedication to real food nutrition continue to guide everything we do at Nutritional Weight & Wellness. We remain committed to honoring her life’s work by helping others achieve better health—one real food choice at a time.

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