Functional Nutrition Consultations for Lactating Parents

in-office and virtual 90-minute private consultation - starting at$170

In-office and Virtual 60-minute Follow-up private consultation - starting at $135

For lactating parents, we accept the following insurances: Aetna PPO/POS, Tricare West, UCSD HMO, Cigna PPO, Anthem PPO, Blue Shield PPO, Blue Cross PPO and United Healthcare PPO/HMO **Pending Insurance Verification. All HMO plans require a referral from your primary care provider. Please call our office if you have questions about getting your HMO approval.

Unfortunately, we are unable to bill insurance for non-lactating parents, so all appointments will be an out of pocket expense.

If this fee is unaffordable, we have a foundation that provides reduced-fee consultations. Please contact our office for more information (info@sdbfc.com).


Is your baby’s gas, fussiness, and digestive discomfort causing you to feel overwhelmed and stressed out?

At San Diego Breastfeeding Center, we understand that feeding your baby is about more than just nutrition; it’s about fostering comfort and connection. Our functional nutrition services are here to support you in uncovering the root causes of your baby’s digestive challenges, including navigating food intolerances that may be contributing to their discomfort. 

Together, we’ll explore gentle, effective strategies to ease discomfort, help your baby thrive, and bring peace of mind to your parenting journey. Let us help you turn feeding time into a happier, healthier experience for both you and your little one.

Welcome to Functional Nutrition Counseling at the San Diego Breastfeeding Center

Robin Kaplan, IBCLC, Functional Nutrition Counselor

As a seasoned lactation consultant, with over 15 years of experience, I understand the challenges that nursing parents face when their little ones are struggling. My empathetic approach is deeply rooted in personal experience and in the principles of functional nutrition. Functional nutrition is an evidence-based, holistic, and personalized method that optimizes diet and nutrients to treat the root causes of illness/symptoms and restore health.

Say goodbye to uncertainty and hello to making empowered health decisions for you and your child.

  • I help lactating parents navigate the complexities of postpartum nutrition through personalized meal plans, nutrient recommendations, curated recipes, and compassionate guidance. Parents are empowered to make small but impactful changes in their diet and lifestyle habits. As we work together to optimize your health we're not just focusing on you. This work also nurtures the symbiotic relationship between you and baby, which allows you to build an understanding about the direct influence of your well being on your little one's gut health and development. By combining my expertise in lactation consulting and functional nutrition, you will receive holistic solutions that promote healing, reduce inflammation, and support both you and your baby.


My 4-Step Functional Nutrition Consultation Process: Nurturing Your Journey to Wellness

  • Our journey begins with a comprehensive initial consultation, where we'll delve into your medical history, symptoms, and goals. This is an opportunity for us to get to know each other, understand your unique needs, and explore the symbiotic relationship between your diet and your symptoms and/or baby's symptoms.

  • Next, I'll conduct a thorough evaluation, including an analysis of your food journal to gain insight into your body's responses to different foods. By examining the interplay between your diet, mood, and digestive health, we'll uncover potential triggers for inflammation and discomfort, recognizing how your food choices impact both you and your baby.

  • Based on our evaluation, we'll collaboratively develop a personalized Plan of Care tailored to your specific needs and goals. This comprehensive plan may include dietary recommendations, supplement suggestions, lifestyle modifications, and personalized meal plans to support your journey to optimal health, taking into account the symbiotic relationship between your nutrition and your baby's well-being.

  • With your personalized Plan of Care in hand, we'll embark on the implementation phase of our journey together. Through ongoing guidance and support, we'll work together to navigate any challenges, fine-tune your approach, and celebrate your successes along the way, recognizing how your dietary changes positively influence your symptoms and/or baby's symptoms.


Who Would Benefit from a Functional Nutrition Consultation?

  • Adults with chronic inflammation, immune conditions, and/or gut/digestion challenges

  • Adults and/or babies experiencing diarrhea, constipation, or other uncomfortable bowel movement symptoms

  • Babies with colic, reflux, possible/identified food intolerances, digestion discomfort, and yeast

 If you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or worried about your baby's health, you're in the right place. Let's embark on this journey together, nurturing your family's health from the very start.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is functional nutrition?Functional nutrition focuses on addressing the root cause of health concerns using personalized dietary and lifestyle strategies.

    How is functional nutrition different from conventional nutrition counseling?

    Functional nutrition considers your entire health history, lifestyle, and individual needs to create a customized plan for long-term wellness.

  • What happens during the initial consultation?
    During the initial session, we'll discuss your health history, current concerns, dietary habits, and goals to create a personalized plan.

    How should I prepare for my consultation?
    You'll be asked to complete an intake form and to complete my 5-day food journal. 

    What types of plans or recommendations will I receive?
    You’ll receive an explanation of what I think might be the root causes for your symptoms (or your baby’s symptoms), tailored meal plans, supplement suggestions (if needed), and practical strategies for lifestyle adjustments.

    Can you help me with meal planning?Absolutely! I’ll provide you with tailored meal plans and practical tips that fit your dietary needs, preferences, and time constraints, making healthy eating easier for you and your family.

  • How much does a consultation cost?
    Pricing is listed on our website. Feel free to reach out for more details about packages or payment options.

    Are consultations covered by insurance?
    For lactating parents, yes—consultations are typically covered since all recommendations will be made within the context of supporting lactation.

    Can consultations be done virtually?
    Yes! We offer virtual consultations for your convenience, so you can meet with me no matter where you live—even outside of San Diego!

    How long does each session last?
    Initial consultations typically last 90 minutes, with follow-ups lasting 60 minutes.

  • How soon will I see results?
    Ideally within 2-3 weeks, although results vary based on individual needs, health history, goals, and consistency. Some clients notice changes within weeks, while others may take longer.  

    Do I have to follow a restrictive diet?
    Hopefully not! Functional nutrition emphasizes balance and sustainable changes that work for your lifestyle.

  • How often will I need follow-up sessions?
    Follow-ups are typically scheduled every 2–4 weeks, depending on your progress and needs.

    Will I receive ongoing support?
    Yes, ongoing support and adjustments are part of the process to ensure you stay on track toward your goals.

  • Could my diet cause my baby to be fussy or have an allergic reaction?
    In some cases, certain foods in your diet may affect your baby, particularly if you or they have a sensitivity or allergy. During our consultation, we’ll explore any potential triggers and develop a plan to support both your and your baby’s needs.

    Will I need to completely change my diet?
    Hopefully not! My goal is to create a sustainable plan that works for your lifestyle. While some adjustments may be needed, we’ll focus on adding nourishing foods rather than restricting unnecessarily.

    How will this appointment help my baby's reflux?

    Reflux in babies can sometimes be influenced by dietary factors, feeding practices, or sensitivities. During our consultation, we’ll assess your diet and your baby’s symptoms to identify potential triggers. I’ll provide personalized recommendations that may help reduce reflux and improve your baby’s comfort.

  • I am already working with a lactation consultant.  Will I need to stop working with her?

    Not at all! My role is to provide complementary support that works alongside your current lactation consultant. Think of me as an additional member of your lactation care team, collaborating to support your breastfeeding journey.

To book a Functional Nutrition consultation, use the link below.