Elena Paravantes, MS, RD

Founder & Publisher of Olive Tomato | Registered Dietitian Nutritionist |
Nutrition Writer & Food Editor

Elena Paravantes, MS, RD

With over 25 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Nutrition Writer, Educator and Food Editor, Elena Paravantes is a recognized authority on the Mediterranean Diet, Cuisine, Lifestyle and wellness. She is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, with the U.S. Commission on Dietetic Registration. Combining her extensive professional experience with personal roots in Greece, Elena’s expertise goes beyond theoretical knowledge, this way of eating has been a part of her life since childhood, she has been raised on the Mediterranean Diet. As the founder and publisher of OliveTomato.com, an online publication dedicated to the authentic Mediterranean diet and its science-backed health benefits, Elena has been publishing for more than 15 years. She has collaborated with prestigious institutions such as Yale University, Loyola University, and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and has contributed to media outlets including CNN, Men’s Health, Prevention, and U.S. News & World Report. As the founder of OliveTomato.com, the authoritative resource on the Authentic Mediterranean diet, and the author of The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook for Beginners (with over 150,000 copies sold), Elena brings a wealth of knowledge, credibility, and firsthand experience, combining her extensive clinical background, global expertise, and deep-rooted passion for the Mediterranean diet to provide authentic, science-backed guidance. She has helped thousands of individuals and organizations adopt healthier lifestyles through her expert guidance and recipes, empowering them to embrace the Mediterranean diet and its numerous health benefits.
Elena’s career spans clinical dietetics, food and nutrition consulting, and education, as a lecturer at the American College of Greece, mentored future nutrition professionals, and developed courses on nutrition and wellness. She is a sought-after speaker, having been invited to present at international conferences and universities on topics related to Mediterranean nutrition, health, and lifestyle. Elena was named Recognized Dietitian of the Year by the International Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and served as President of the International Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Experience

  • Founder & Publisher, Olive Tomato, Founded and developed an online publication focused on the traditional Mediterranean diet and evidence-based nutrition.
  • Food and Nutrition Consultant, Specializes in Mediterranean diet, wellness, and longevity education. Provides presentations and workshops and collaborates with organizations and companies on nutrition education and content.
  • Health Editor, Olive Oil Times
  • Lecturer & Campus Dietitian, American College of Greece
  • Food & Nutrition Editor, Men’s Health & Prevention Magazines (Greece)
  • Food & Beverage Director, Starbucks Greece
  • Dietitian, Private Practice
  • Clinical Dietitian, Aramark

Selected Presentations

  • Application of the Mediterranean Diet: An International Perspective, Mediterranean Diet Roundtable, New York City, USA
  • Nutrition and Diet in Greece and the Impact of the Financial Crisis,” Yale School of Public Health
  • Mediterranean Diet, Our Legacy, Our Future, TEDx, Crete
  • Going Global: Entering the World of International Nutrition and Dietetics, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Atlanta, U.S.A

Expertise

Mediterranean diet research and education, nutrition writing and editing, clinical nutrition, and public speaking. Elena translates complex nutrition science into accessible, practical guidance, with a particular focus on the traditional Mediterranean diet and lifestyle, healthy aging, and disease prevention.

Education

  • Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Sciences in Psychology, University of Illinois at Chicago
  • Master of Science in Health Management, University of Cincinnati

Leadership & Volunteer Positions

  • Former President, International Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • Board Member, International Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • Member Value Committee, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • Media Representative, International Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • Delegate, European Federation of the Associations of Dietitians and International Confederation of Dietetic Associations.

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