Before launching Empower Nutrition, I spent a few years working as a clinical dietitian in the hospital setting. Day after day, I saw patients admitted for heart disease, diabetes, chronic kidney disease, among others — and almost every chart included a consult for “dietary education.”

What stayed with me most were the conversations I had with patients. So many told me, “I wish someone had explained this to me sooner.” They were sick and lacked nutritional guidance and support.

When I transitioned to outpatient care, I finally had the chance to work closely with patients — to monitor progress, celebrate small wins, and offer true accountability. But even through education and encouraging dietary guidelines, I noticed one recurring challenge:

People didn’t just want the knowledge — they needed help translating it into something practical.

That’s when I knew I wanted to build something different. Empower Nutrition was born from a desire to bridge that gap — to provide not only evidence-based support, but truly personalized meal plans and programs that make nutrition practical, realistic, and sustainable for everyday life.

Because lasting change doesn’t come from information alone — it comes from support, empathy, and a plan you can actually follow.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
• Bachelor of Science in Foods and Nutrition, San Diego State University.
• Dietetic Internship and CDR Credentialing Exam.
• Master in Dietetics Administration (MDA), Utah State University.

Clinical Background Across Multiple Levels of Care
• 4 years of clinical experience including Med-Surge, ICU, Pediatric Weight Management, Outpatient Oncology, Home Infusion, and Long-Term Care.
• Skilled in motivational interviewing, ADIME documentation, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Culturally Inclusive Care
• Fully bilingual in English and Spanish.
• Accounting for cultural foods in each individual.

What’s the difference between a Registered Dietitian and a “nutritionist”?

It’s important to understand that “dietitian” and “nutritionist” are not interchangeable terms. The title “registered dietitian” is protected and requires CDR certification, while “nutritionist” is less regulated in many states. Some states permit individuals to use the title “nutritionist” with minimal or no formal training, while others have specific requirements. This distinction affects both educational pathways and career opportunities.

Fun Fact — When I’m Not Working…
You’ll likely find me training for Hyrox, cooking a new recipe, watching a show, or reading a good book.

• Patient-centered approach — I listen with empathy and meet you where you are.

• Support without judgment — Life happens, and we adapt and change your plan as we go.

• Clear and realistic action steps — providing you with a “why” of science-backed information for your goals.

• Accountability that feels encouraging, not pressuring — a win is a win.

• Personalized nutrition that fits your culture, preferences, and lifestyle — Because health shouldn’t require sacrificing who you are.

Yes! I work for a telehealth platform called Nourish that accepts insurance. Most patients pay $0 out of pocket!

Check your coverage benefits here and make sure to add Gabriela Czapek as your referral source when signing up.

Unfortunately some insurance plans only cover a certain number of visits or disease states. If so, we are still able to work together through my offered self-pay services.