Meet Meagan Duggan, RD

Bringing Practical, Personalized Nutrition to Gastroenterology Associates

Introduction

Everyone knows nutrition plays a powerful role in digestive health – but knowing what to eat (and what to avoid) can feel overwhelming. That’s why Gastroenterology Associates is excited to welcome Meagan Duggan, Registered Dietitian! With a unique blend of culinary training and clinical nutrition, Meagan brings a practical approach to help patients manage digestive conditions and feel their best. In this blog, Meagan shares her background, her philosophy on nutrition, and what patients can expect to learn from her on their healthcare journey!

Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to become a dietitian?

“I went to college as a chemistry major with plans to go to dental school – repeating the family history – but then I decided I wanted to go to culinary school. So, I went to culinary school at Johnson & Wales University in Charleston.  As I was pursuing that degree I was thinking I didn’t really want to be a chef, but I loved my nutrition classes! So, safe to say, my background in nutrition is very food based.  I have also done a clinical internship, so I have done a little bit of both in my career. Taking this job here at Gastro has really let me use that part of my brain, the meal planning and recipes, and it has been really fun.”

What inspired you to join Gastro and what excites you most about working with GI patients?

“This group has always had such a great reputation! When I worked with the hospital inpatient department, I worked with a lot of the original Gastro doctors – most have now retired – but I always enjoyed working with the group! Recently, I was looking for a change and I saw this job posting and I just jumped on it! I thought, ‘what a great opportunity to work with this group and to do something that is kind of outside of the health system that is really physician-led!‘ That is exciting to me!”

How does nutrition play a role in managing digestive conditions like IBS, reflux, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?

“Nutrition plays a big part in helping manage symptoms and side effects, and so much of that is driven by what you put in your body. Depending on the situation – whether it is constipation or diarrhea – there are different types of fiber or diet changes better suited for each. It’s not the same for everyone. It can all be confusing, but we can break it all down and discuss all your options.”

What are some common nutrition myths you hear from patients that you want to debunk?

“I would say most patients get confused with diverticulosis and diverticulitis – they don’t understand the difference between the two, and the diet is VERY different. Another big one is the low-FODMAP diet. I think it seems more complicated than it really is. I’m working on ways to help patients better understand the process and that it is not a lifelong diet – it’s actually very short-term. So far, I’ve gotten great feedback, and I’m excited to continue building on that.”

What can patients expect during their first visit with you?

“I like to have my ducks in a row before a patient comes in! When I call to schedule, I always ask if there is anything specific they want to cover during the visit. I want to make sure it’s worthwhile and meaningful. Also, I like to learn what a day in their life looks like – when it comes to food – and see if there are any small adjustments we can make. I also enjoy providing sample meal plans, grocery shopping lists, and practical tools so patients leave feeling confident and supported.”

How do you personalize nutrition plans for patients with different lifestyles, preferences, or restrictions?

“It really depends on the person and the condition they’re managing. Someone with Celiac disease may only need one educational visit, while others may benefit from follow-up visits as they work toward specific goals. I know many people have personal reasons for being vegan, vegetarian, or dairy-free, and I always want to understand the “why.” This way, I can truly tailor recommendations to fit the patient – not the other way around.”

What is something you want patients to know in hopes they will come see you?

“I am a normal person—and I really enjoy food! I always say I like food so much that I majored in it. I think people worry they’ll hear a lot of “no,” but that’s not my style. I want to meet patients where they are, make it personal, and offer realistic recommendations. My goal is to give patients the information they need to make informed decisions about their diet in a way that works for them.”

Conclusion

Meagan’s approach to nutrition is realistic, personalized, and approachable. Focusing on education, flexibility, and practical tools – she helps patients feel confident about their food choices. Whether you’re managing a digestive condition or just want nutrition advice that fits real life, Meagan Duggan, RD, is here to help. To learn more about nutrition services or to schedule an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Associates today.

Meagan Duggan, RD

Text (864) 589-6714 or call (864) 232-7338 to request an appointment!