UNC Neurology is proud to celebrate Natalia Adamson, MS, RD, LDN, ALS dietitian, who has been honored with the 2026 UNC Outpatient Nutrition Award for Excellence in Nutrition Intervention Monitoring. This recognition highlights Adamson’s exceptional commitment to delivering highly individualized, evidence-based nutrition care that aligns with complex medical goals and drives meaningful improvements in patient outcomes.
The award recognizes outpatient nutrition professionals who demonstrate excellence in monitoring and adjusting nutrition interventions to meet the evolving needs of patients with complex conditions. Adamson was selected for her thoughtful, data-informed approach to care, particularly within the ALS clinic, where nutrition plays a critical role in disease management, quality of life, and functional outcomes.
Natalia demonstrates deep knowledge of ALS-specific nutrition needs and translates that expertise into individualized, realistic, and compassionate care for patients and families. ALS, or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, is an invariably deadly and progressive neurodegenerative disorder. The care of ALS is not an easy feat, considering the complexity of the disease and the emotional burden placed on the multidisciplinary care team. Despite these challenges, Natalia consistently advocates for patient dignity, quality of life, and informed choice, educating caregivers, collaborating with the multidisciplinary team, and guiding patients through complex decisions around nutrition and feeding tubes with clarity and empathy. ~Dr. Jorge Almodovar, Medical Director of UNC Hospitals Neurology Clinic
The UNC Outpatient Nutrition Awards honor registered dietitians who demonstrate leadership, innovation, and excellence across ambulatory care settings. Adamson’s recognition underscores UNC Neurology’s ongoing commitment to multidisciplinary, evidence-based care and to advancing best practices that improve the lives of patients and families.