
Meet Sara
MS | RD | CSSD | LD | acsm-cpt
Hi, I'm Sara Arnold, the founder of KC Performance Nutrition. As a sports dietitian and former multi-sport athlete, I'm passionate about helping athletes like you reach your full potential. My expertise focuses on performance nutrition while also addressing disordered eating, eating disorders, under fueling, and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs). I understand the unique pressures athletes face, and I combine my expertise with empathy to provide evidence-based strategies that enhance both your physical performance and mental resilience.
My approach goes beyond traditional nutrition counseling. I'm here to help you build a supportive and empowering relationship with your body, food, and movement. My mission is to ensure you feel confident in yourself - both on and off the field.
About sara's training
Years of Expertise in Sports Nutrition & Eating Disorders
I help athletes fuel their bodies, optimize performance, and build a healthy relationship with food. With a science-backed, personalized approach, I empower you to reach your full potential—whether you're training, competing, or recovering.
Education
• Master of Science in Sports Nutrition – University of Central Missouri
• Dietetic Internship – Abilene Christian University
• Bachelor of Science in Dietetics – Missouri State University (Go Bears!)
Credentials
• Registered Dietitian (RD)
• Licensed Dietitian (LD) – Kansas & Missouri
• Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD)
• Certified Personal Trainer (CPT)

How it works
My Approach & Specializations

Sports Nutrition
Customized services for your sport to optimize your training.

Trauma-Informed Care
Compassionate, judgment-free support for every athlete and their unique journey.

Health At Every Size
Fueling performance without dieting—because your body deserves respect.
FAQs
The Most Common Questions
What's the difference between a dietitian and nutritionist?
A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a highly trained nutrition expert with a master’s degree, 1,200 hours of supervised practice, and has passed a national board exam. They must stay up to date with the latest science through ongoing professional education. In contrast, the title “nutritionist” isn’t regulated, and anyone can claim it without formal qualifications or training.
Who do you work with?
We see athletes of all ages, genders, ethnicities, identities, and sport backgrounds.
How do I know if I need your services?
You might be a good fit to work with us if:
• You feel chronically fatigued or notice that your training and recovery are not improving despite your efforts.
• You’re struggling to balance your energy needs with the demands of your sport and daily life.
• You’re a young athlete navigating the challenges of growth, development, and sport performance.
• You want help addressing or preventing issues related to low energy availability (LEA) or relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S).
• You value a holistic approach to health and performance that respects your individuality as an athlete.
• You’re an athlete who suspects or has been diagnosed with an eating disorder.
• You’re an athlete looking to cultivate a more supportive relationship with food and your body.
• You’re seeking a judgment-free, supportive space to explore and address nutrition challenges.
Do you take insurance?
Our goal is to ensure the highest quality and most personalized care that is not at the liberty of insurance companies, therefore we do not accept insurance. A superbill can be requested for submission to your insurance company.
What can I expect during my discovery call?
Your discovery call is a 20-minute phone conversation where we’ll discuss your goals, challenges, and how my services can support you. It’s an opportunity to ask questions and ensure we’re a good match before getting started.
Can I just do the subscription without opting for the package?
Our subscriptions are designed to provide ongoing support and maintenance, but starting with a package ensures that you receive the foundational guidance and personalized strategies needed to address your unique goals. Packages include comprehensive assessments, customized plans, and structured sessions to establish a solid framework for your nutrition journey. Without this initial work, a subscription may lack the depth and tailored approach necessary for meaningful progress. Starting with a package allows us to build a strong foundation, ensuring your subscription is as effective and impactful as possible.
How do I know if I need sports nutrition or eating disorder services?
If your primary concern is optimizing performance or recovery, sports nutrition is the best fit. If you’re experiencing challenges with food, body image, or eating behaviors, our disordered eating and eating disorder services provide the support and strategies you need. Unsure? Book a discovery call to figure out the right service for you.
Can you work with my coach, therapist, or medical team?
Yes! We value collaborative care and can coordinate with your team—including coaches, therapists, or medical professionals—to ensure an integrated and comprehensive approach to your goals.