Welcome
Happy Trails Nutrition was founded on a simple idea: nutrition care should be both scientifically rigorous and deeply personalized.
Jen Meijer, PhD, MPH, RD, is a Registered Dietitian whose career began in academic research, identifying molecular markers of metabolic disease and designing nutritional interventions to improve health outcomes.
Through years of research, teaching, and clinical experience, Jen saw firsthand that the most effective nutrition care happens when scientific evidence is paired with practical, individualized support.
Today, Happy Trails Nutrition helps patients of all ages develop sustainable nutrition and lifestyle strategies that support long-term health.
The Philosophy Behind Happy Trails Nutrition
Every person’s health journey looks different. Some patients are working to manage chronic disease, while others are focused on prevention or improving long-term wellness.
Founded in 2024, Happy Trails Nutrition's approach incorporates:
• Evidence-based nutrition therapy grounded in current scientific research
• Respectful, compassionate care for every patient
• Sustainable lifestyle changes rather than short-term diets
• Collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers
The goal is to create a clear, supportive path that helps patients build lasting health habits over time.
Education & Professional Background
Education
PhD in Nutritional Science
University of Michigan
Master of Public Health (MPH) in Nutritional Science
University of Michigan
Bachelor of Science in Cell Biology and Biochemistry
Bucknell University
Dietetic Internship
University of Michigan
CERTIFICATIONS & EXPERTISE
Board Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM)
Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
FODMAP Expert Training
Monash University
Registered Dietitian (RD)
Jen's Previous Work
Before founding Happy Trails Nutrition, Jen spent many years in academic research studying the relationship between nutrition and disease.
Her work has focused on questions such as:
Why does the metabolism of the food we eat change in response to chronic diseases?
How can nutrition be used to improve long-term outcomes of chronic diseases?
Throughout her career, Jen has:
• Published more than two dozen peer-reviewed scientific articles
• Conducted multiple clinical trials in nutritional science
• Served as an Assistant Professor at the Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College
Her research background allows her to translate complex scientific findings into practical nutrition guidance for patients.
Who Happy Trails Nutrition Works With
Happy Trails Nutrition provides nutrition counseling for individuals across the lifespan, including:
• Children and adolescents
• Adults managing chronic diseases
• Individuals with gastrointestinal disease.
• Women during preconception, pregnancy, and postpartum
• Individuals navigating menopause and healthy aging
Happy Trails Nutrition also works closely with primary care providers and medical specialists throughout the Upper Valley to ensure coordinated patient care.
