Faculty and Staff - Cindy Heiss, PhD, RD, CDCES
Cindy Heiss PhD, RD, CDCES
Associate Professor
Building 11, Rm 240
(805) 756-2095
cheiss@calpoly.edu
Expertise:
Diabetes Management, Obesity/Obesity Interventions, Glycemic Control, Nutrition Counseling, Medical Nutrition Therapy
Education:
- PhD in Nutrition, Texas Woman's University, Denton, TX
- MS in Human Nutrition, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
- BS in Dietetics, Summa Cum Laude, Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, TX
Research and professional interests:
My current research focus is on factors that influence the glycemic and satiety responses to a refined/simple carbohydrate load. Specifically how postprandial exercise influences the glycemic response in those with and without diabetes, and how added protein and fat in the form of peanut butter influences the satiety and glycemic responses. Additionally, I am pursuing research on the effect of added resistant starch on the glycemic response to rice. I previously received a USDA grant to increase Hispanic representation in Dietetics and to enhance cultural competency and Spanish language proficiency among dietetics majors. I am currently co-authoring a textbook on Narrative Medicine to improve learning and patient outcomes.
Professional Affiliations:
- Registered Dietitian (#15380)
- Licensed Dietitian, State of Texas (#DT83051)
- Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- American Association of Diabetes Educators
- Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (#21800523)
- Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Texas Nutrition College Bowl Coordinator
- Council on Undergraduate Research 2011-present
- Quality Matters Certification (Blended Learning Design)
- TeamSTEPPS Master Trainer Certificate (Patient Safety) Agency for Healthier Research and Quality
- Denver Dietetic Association Board of Directors and Fundraising Committee (past)
- Colorado Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (past)
- Missouri State Dietetic Association, Annual Meeting Planning Committee (past)
- Southwest Missouri Dietetic Association (past)
- Dietetic Practice Group - Nutrition Research, Dietetic Educators of Practitioners (past)
- Previously Licensed Bone Densitometrist (State of California)
- The Pullman Dietetic Association - Secretary/Treasurer (past)
- Commission on Dietetic Registration, Obesity Interventions Certificate Program, Facilitator
