Meet Our Dietician!

At Jemez Public Health, we believe in not just providing services but also fostering a genuine connection with our clients. This week, we’re excited to introduce you to one of the heartbeats of our team, Amaiah Saavedra, MS, RDN, LDN, CDM, CFPP—a passionate and experienced dietitian who is dedicated to guiding clients toward healthier, more empowered lives.

A Passion Rooted in Family and Culture

Amaiah’s journey into the world of nutrition is deeply personal. Growing up in a family that loved to cook and experiment with new flavors, she was introduced to the importance of food at an early age. Spending time with her grandparents, Amaiah learned about the healing power of food through home remedies, which sparked her curiosity about the science and culture behind what we eat.

After high school, Amaiah pursued her passion at New Mexico State University, earning a bachelor’s degree in human nutrition and food science. From there, her career began in long-term care facilities, where she worked as a dietary manager. Inspired by the dietitian she worked under, she pursued further education, earning a second bachelor’s degree in dietetics from the University of New Mexico and later a master’s in nutrition from Keiser University Florida.

Today, Amaiah brings over a decade of experience to her practice, having worked in diverse settings across New Mexico, including long-term healthcare, hospitals, outpatient clinics, home visits, and adult daycare centers. For Amaiah, nutrition is much more than food and water—it’s a blend of culture, emotions, love, science, and wellness.

Helping Clients Feel Empowered

When it comes to working with clients, Amaiah’s approach is rooted in empathy and understanding. She believes in helping individuals feel empowered, not overwhelmed, as they navigate their health journey.

"The first step is to listen," she shares. "I work with my clients to understand their strengths and weaknesses, and from there, I help them use their strengths to overcome challenges."

Amaiah also recognizes the struggles of a busy lifestyle, which can make prioritizing health difficult. Her advice? Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters to you and ask yourself: “Am I healthy? If not, who can help me achieve better health?” By making time for yourself, she believes that everyone can set the foundation for a healthier, balanced life.

Goals for Clients: Support, Relief, and Progress

Amaiah’s ultimate goal is to provide her clients with a sense of relief and continuous support on their journey. She hopes every person who walks through her door leaves feeling that they have a reliable partner in their pursuit of health.

"I want my clients to know that they can always come back to me for guidance," she explains. "Together, we’ll work toward a healthier life, no matter where they are on their journey."

Making Nutrition a Priority

As for her advice to those who may be unsure about making nutrition a priority, Amaiah keeps it simple: “Do you want to feel better?” It’s a powerful question that helps clients recognize the importance of nutrition in their overall well-being.

Taking the First Step

If you're thinking about starting your own journey to better nutrition, Amaiah says the first step is simple: show up. "Be honest with yourself and with me, and together, we’ll build a healthier life for you," she says, welcoming everyone who’s ready to take the leap.

Nervous About Your First Appointment?

Many clients worry about their first appointment, but Amaiah reassures them: "Don't be nervous. I'm here to help you, answer your questions, and provide you with the tools you need to build a better you."

Nutrition Tip to Start Today

And lastly, Amaiah’s best piece of advice for anyone looking to make a simple, yet impactful change? "Trust your gut!" Without good nutrition, you can’t sustain life. To feel truly healthy, it’s essential to nourish your body with wholesome food and drinks that fuel your well-being.

To set up an appointment or for more information, contact Amaiah by phone at (575) 834-7207 or via email at  Amaiah.Saavedra@jemezpueblo.us