Instructor: Dianne Porter

Biography: Dianne earned a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. Her philosophy is that nutrition isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. The body, mind and spirit are all actively involved and overlap in the pursuit of wellness. Diet, exercise, stress reduction, beliefs and spiritual renewal are all integral to finding the wellness formula that's right for each individual at a given point in his/her life. Dianne's holistic approach seeks to integrate dietary, environmental, lifestyle and genetic factors in an effort to improve general health and wellness.

Prior to relocating to Central Oregon, Dianne spent nearly 20 years in Alaska working in public relations and marketing. She is a passionate cook and enjoys the abundance of fresh, clean food available in Central Oregon. She and her husband enjoy the outdoors with their two dogs.

Classes by this instructor

7-Ingredient Meals: Soups & Salads

Get excited about dinner with these seven ingredient (or less) dishes that you can have on the table in 30 minutes. In this hands-on culinary class, discover simple ways to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, while taking the challenge out of weeknight meal planning. Learn timesaving tips and prep methods. Nutritious, delicious, and quick are what will be happening in your kitchen with Butternut Squash Soup, Roasted Pear & Celery Salad, and Roasted Broccoli Salad.
Sunday, May 4, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Cleanse and Restore: Foods, Habits, and Herbs for Detoxification

Imagine relieving fatigue and improving sleep. Imagine resolving skin issues and improving digestion. Imagine reducing food cravings and shedding weight. These are all symptoms of an overburdened liver in need of detoxification support. In this class you'll learn how toxins accumulate in the body and how detoxification works. You'll learn which foods and herbs enhance your body's natural detoxification and simple activities and habits that are detoxification supportive.
Thursday, May 15, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Culinary Herbs 101

Explore the special vibrancy and nutrition that culinary herbs add to our foods with Integrative Nutritionist Dianne Porter. Learn to appreciate the aroma and flavor of culinary herbs as we explore their historical uses and their science-based medicinal applications. Class includes hands-on cooking with fresh herbs and delicious recipes. On the menu: chicken sage and garlic sausage patties, rosemary farinata, and za'atar roasted cauliflower.
Sunday, May 18, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Digestion 101: Healing from Chronic GI Issues

Are you suffering with gut issues? Gas and bloating, chronic constipation, food sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome, etc.? In this class, you'll learn about your body's gut anatomy, how digestion is supposed to work and common signals your body is sending you to let you know what's wrong. You'll discover foods to include, foods to avoid, and lifestyle support that can help. You'll also learn when to seek help for further diagnostics. If you're ready to turn your gut issues around, this class is for you.
Thursday, May 22, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Healthy Blood Sugar Full Series

High blood sugar affects an estimated 35% of Americans and is on the rise. This class offers those with pre-diabetes a chance to balance blood sugar levels through diet and lifestyle adjustments - and prevent their condition from becoming diabetes. The second class in the series will put you in the kitchen, to learn to cook some healthy, but delicious recipes, that help manage your blood sugars. Students may register for the full series, or either of the two standalone classes.
August 7-9, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Healthy Blood Sugar Series: Balancing Blood Sugar with Nutrition

Did you know that an estimated 35% of Americans struggle with high blood sugar? If you're one of them-or want to prevent pre diabetes from progressing-this class is for you! Join Holistic Nutritionist Dianne Porter for this eye-opening class on how to balance blood sugar naturally through smart dietary choices and simple lifestyle adjustments. You'll discover which foods spike blood sugar, which ones help stabilize it, and how to pair foods for optimal glucose and insulin control. Plus, you'll gain practical tips for making healthier choices while dining out. Empower yourself with the knowledge to take control of your health and prevent diabetes before it starts.
Thursday, August 7, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Healthy Blood Sugar Series: Healthy Cooking for Blood Sugar Balance

Did you know that one in three Americans are pre diabetic? The good news-pre diabetes is a wake-up call, not a life sentence! In this hands-on culinary class, you'll discover how to take charge of your health with delicious, blood sugar-friendly meals. Learn to transform your breakfast, lunch, dinner, and even dessert into nourishing, satisfying dishes that support balanced blood sugar. Taught by holistic nutritionist Dianne Porter, you'll leave empowered to make simple, tasty changes that can have a lasting impact on your well-being.
Saturday, August 9, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Healthy Weeknight Takeout

Skip the takeout and master your favorite flavors at home! In this hands-on culinary class, you'll learn how to create healthier versions of classic Mexican, Asian, and Indian dishes-perfect for any night of the week. With easy-to-follow techniques, fresh ingredients, and bold spices, you'll craft delicious, guilt-free meals that are both gluten and dairy-free. Plus, you'll save money while enjoying homemade dishes packed with flavor. Get ready to elevate your home cooking with these quick and satisfying recipes. All recipes will be prepared gluten and dairy-free as well as low-glycemic. Please contact the instructor with any additional food sensitivities.
Sunday, July 27, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Improving Lab Test Results Through Nutrition

Have you ever wondered how what you eat may influence your annual lab tests results? You are what you eat, as the saying goes. Join Integrative Nutritionist Dianne Porter and examine common lab tests such as the complete metabolic panel, complete blood count, lipid panel, and key essential nutrients. We'll explore what these results mean to your health and discover how you can use your diet to create positive changes in your labs - and your health!
Thursday, June 5, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Mediterranean Sampler

Enjoy camaraderie, cooking, and culinary adventure in this cooking class. We'll work in teams to create a Mediterranean Sampler and share appetizers, an entr�e, and dessert with regional wine pairings. On the menu: Hummus and veggies; Prosciutto-wrapped dates; Cod in saffron broth with chorizo and potatoes; Lemon-anise biscotti; Regional wines. All recipes will be prepared gluten and dairy-free as well as low-glycemic. Please contact the instructor with any additional food sensitivities.
Sunday, July 20, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Nutritional Support for Healthy Blood Pressure

Did you know 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has high blood pressure-and only half have it under control? If you're looking to manage your blood pressure naturally or take a proactive approach to heart health, this class is for you! Join Holistic Nutritionist Dianne Porter for a practical, science-backed session on the dietary and lifestyle factors that influence blood pressure. You'll discover the key nutrients your body needs, the role of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and which healthy fats support optimal cardiovascular function. Take charge of your health and learn how simple, sustainable changes can make a big difference.
Thursday, September 18, 2025 | 10:00am-12:00pm PDT | Bend

Sauces From Around the World

Bring a world of flavors to your dinner table with easy gluten-free and dairy-free classic sauces that draw from various ethnic traditions. Gain mastery of the following sauces: Mexican Mole Sauce, Thai Coconut Curry, Mediterranean Caper Sauce, and Spanish Romesco Sauce. These sauces are bursting with flavor while accommodating common dietary restrictions.
Sunday, August 17, 2025 | 2:00pm-5:00pm PDT | Bend

Veggies for Breakfast

A whopping 90% of us don't consume enough vegetables each day. Veggies help with weight loss, blood sugar regulation, skin, hair, and nail health and are cancer-protective. Swap the bagel for one of these veggie-filled breakfasts and get a head start on getting the recommended servings of vegetables each day. On the menu: Cauliflower Bake, Sausage Egg Cups (meatless option available), and Sweet Potato Hash. Please contact the instructor with any additional food sensitivities.
Sunday, June 1, 2025 | 11:00am-2:00pm PDT | Bend