Dedication Health

09/21/2026

September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a good time to take a closer look at the numbers that show up on your cholesterol test.

LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and other values can tell your physician a lot about your cardiovascular health, especially when they are considered alongside your medical history and other risk factors.

Together, this information helps guide decisions about whether cholesterol should be monitored or whether lifestyle changes, medication, or additional evaluation may be appropriate.

Learn more: https://www.dedication-health.com/cholesterol-testing-understanding-your-numbers-and-cardiovascular-risk/

Cholesterol levels explained: Learn what LDL, HDL, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol mean and how they affect cardiovascular risk.

09/17/2026

Everyday food choices can influence the gut microbiome, the community of microorganisms that helps with digestion, supports immune function, and contributes to overall health.

A balanced, nutrient-rich diet provides the nourishment these beneficial microbes need to thrive and helps support a healthy digestive system.

Learn more: https://www.dedication-health.com/how-nutrition-supports-a-healthy-gut/

The food you eat does more than provide energy and nutrients. It also helps shape the trillions of microorganisms that live in your digestive tract and make

09/01/2026

Please join us in welcoming Karen Raden to Dedication Health!

Karen is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Clinical Nutritionist with more than 25 years of experience in clinical and functional nutrition. Throughout her career, she has helped individuals better understand how nutrition can support their health, address specific concerns, and become a more effective part of managing their overall well-being.

Her extensive background includes digestive and metabolic health, including prediabetes and diabetes, as well as women’s health and menopause, healthy aging, body composition, cardiovascular health, weight management, and nutrition support for individuals using GLP-1 medications. She also has extensive experience working with individuals with complex medical histories and nutritional needs.

“I am particularly passionate about helping patients understand how nutrition can support both how they feel today and how they age over time. My goal is to help each patient better understand their body, feel confident in their nutrition choices, and develop realistic strategies that support both current health and long-term well-being.” - Karen Raden, MS, RD, CCN

Welcome, Karen!

08/19/2026

Small changes in your everyday diet can lead to lasting improvements in your health.

These small adjustments are easy to make and can be especially helpful for managing or preventing conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes.

https://www.dedication-health.com/healthy-food-swaps-that-support-health-and-longevity/

08/06/2026

These 5 types of hobbies can help you build a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

07/04/2026

Happy Independence Day! We wish you and your family a safe, healthy, and Happy 4th of July weekend! 🇺🇸

06/23/2026

Summer brings longer days, outdoor meals, travel, and more time in the sun. A few simple habits can help you stay hydrated, protect your skin, handle food safely, and know when to take a break from the heat.

Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the season! ☀️

Summer brings so many things to enjoy: longer days, outdoor meals, vacations, family gatherings, and more time in the sunshine. But as temperatures rise, it

05/26/2026

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Jonathan Williams and Dr. Yolandra Johnson to Dedication Health!

Beginning June 1, Dr. Williams and Dr. Johnson will join the Dedication Health team, bringing advanced digestive health expertise, extensive clinical experience, and a shared commitment to patient-focused care.

Their addition marks an exciting step for Dedication Health as we expand personalized care into Gastroenterology. Both Dr. Williams and Dr. Johnson bring exceptional experience, strong academic backgrounds, and a thoughtful approach to patient care, and we are grateful to have them join our practice.

Dr. Jonathan Williams is board-certified in Gastroenterology and brings several years of experience caring for patients on Chicago’s North Shore. He completed fellowship training in Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition at Loyola University Medical Center and has extensive experience providing consultations and endoscopic procedures for a wide range of digestive health concerns. A Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine and multiple-time teaching award recipient, Dr. Williams is committed to providing prompt, comprehensive care while helping patients feel informed and actively involved in their health.

Dr. Yolandra Johnson is a board-certified gastroenterologist who has called Chicago home for more than 25 years. She earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and her medical degree from New York Medical College before completing her internship and residency at Yale University–New Haven Hospital, followed by a gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Chicago. After fellowship, Dr. Johnson entered private practice, where she has built a rewarding career caring for patients on the North Shore. A Senior Clinician Educator at the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, she is excited to join Dedication Health to offer concierge gastroenterology services rooted in timely, collaborative, and highly personalized care.

Please join us in giving Dr. Jonathan Williams and Dr. Yolandra Johnson a warm welcome!

Learn more about Dr. Williams: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-jonathan-williams/

Learn more about Dr. Johnson: https://www.dedication-health.com/dr-yolandra-johnson/

04/29/2026

Eating well can begin with small, thoughtful choices on your plate. Adding more colorful vegetables and fruit, including a good source of protein, and choosing whole grains or high-fiber carbohydrates when possible can help make meals more balanced and nourishing.

This graphic shows one simple example of what a balanced plate can look like. Over time, balanced eating can help support energy, digestion, heart health, blood sugar, and overall well-being.

https://www.dedication-health.com/a-balanced-eating-plan-for-better-health/