The significance of nutrition specialists cannot be overstated, as they assist people in reaching their health and wellness objectives by developing personalized programs and providing nutrition education. Among the numerous patients that nutrition specialists may treat are those with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, and other chronic conditions.
Several female nutrition specialists have received notable acclaim for their outstanding abilities and professional accomplishments. Based in Flint, Michigan, Dr. Shan Jackson is one of these big names.
Dr. Jackson is the CEO of Healthy Just Feels Right and NevaDefeated. She serves as the lead nutrition educator for the I.G.N.I.T.E program at the Genesee County Jail, a deputy sheriff, and a board member of Michigan’s Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Wellness.
Dr. Jackson has also made a name for herself in the literary world. She has written several books, including Rainbow Power, Smoothies Recipe Book, DASH Diet Book, Keto Diet Recipe Book, Plant-Based Diet Book, Yummy Tummy Children’s Cookbook, Healthy Just Feels Right: Controlling Your Mood Through Food, and Super Foods for Mental Disorders. These amazing books have become an excellent tool for promoting better lifestyles.
Dr. Jackson’s journey to becoming one of the top female nutrition specialists is really motivating. Success comes to those who embrace challenges. In order to accomplish your objectives, both personal and professional, obstacles force you to step outside of your comfort zone and cultivate fresh viewpoints. This is aptly demonstrated by Dr. Jackson, who put forth a great deal of effort and conquered many obstacles to become the woman she is today.
“Growing up as a southern belle in Helena, Arkansas, and then transitioning to Flint, Michigan, presented its own set of challenges. Flint has experienced significant economic hardships, and I witnessed firsthand how poverty impacts mental health and wellness. These experiences shaped my understanding of the critical link between socio-economic conditions, mental health, and overall well-being.
In my journey, I have also faced the complexities of addressing nutrition and mental health—two topics that many are reluctant to confront. The idea that “food is medicine” often challenges deeply ingrained beliefs, making it a sensitive and, at times, polarizing conversation. Many cities, states, and even countries are not fully prepared to embrace the profound healing power of nutrition as a cornerstone of mental and physical health. However, I firmly believe that the food we consume holds the potential to heal and transform lives without overreliance on medication.
These moments of adversity have only strengthened my resolve to continue advocating for holistic wellness. Balancing the responsibilities of building my career, breaking societal barriers, and staying true to my vision hasn’t been easy, but it has fueled my resilience and determination.
Through it all, I remain committed to driving meaningful conversations about the role of nutrition in health and wellness, ensuring this vital message reaches the communities that need it most,” Dr. Jackson said during a recent interview.
Dr. Jackson’s accomplishments set her apart from others in her industry. She has earned many awards, including the Bryant “BB” Nolden Community Champion Award (2024), My City Magazine Best Educator Award (2023), Claire White Award (2022), and CRIM Active and Healthy Leader Award (2020). Her widespread health initiatives throughout the Caribbean, such as her recognition with Kingston, Jamaica’s “Healthy Just Feels Right Week”—now celebrated annually in May during National Child Month—further demonstrate her extraordinary accomplishments.
Dr. Jackson’s strong educational background has prepared her well for her amazing career success. She holds dual Master’s Degrees in Social Sciences and Criminal Justice from Michigan State University and completed her Ph.D. in 2023, focusing on the impact of nutrition on criminal behavior. She is a Certified Holistic Health Specialist through the Dr. Sears Institute and has numerous certifications in mental health, nutrition, and anti-human trafficking consultancy. Additionally, she has a Master Certification in Health and Wellness and certifications in working effectively with formerly incarcerated individuals.
Dr. Jackson’s accomplishments are too many to list here. She has unquestionably emerged as one of the top female nutrition specialists.