Who is this Guy?
Hello everyone! My name is Chase Merfeld, and I’m a Registered Dietitian based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. I’m beyond excited to launch Chasing Your Health—a blog dedicated to practical nutrition tips, lifestyle guidance, and inspiration to help you live your healthiest life. Whether you’re looking for simple meal ideas, ways to stay active, or motivation to take control of your well-being, you’ll find it all here.
I grew up in the breathtaking Black Hills of South Dakota, surrounded by rugged landscapes, endless hiking trails, and a deep appreciation for the outdoors. That upbringing shaped my perspective on health and wellness, teaching me that movement, fresh air, and a connection to nature are just as important as the food we eat. Those values continue to influence my approach as a dietitian, and I can’t wait to share more about how they fit into a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Since 2017, I’ve been happily married to my wonderful wife, Kristi, and together we’re raising our incredible son, Trey. Trey holds a special place in my heart; he was diagnosed with Acute Myeloid Leukemia just 17 days after birth. Today, at almost five years old, he is a thriving little boy, and we are deeply grateful for every moment with him. I’ll often share stories of his journey on this blog, highlighting his milestones and the insights I’ve gained along the way.
My path to becoming a Registered Dietitian wasn’t a straight line. I initially pursued a Biology Pre-Med degree, but after shadowing an RD at the end of 2011, everything clicked. That experience ignited a passion that led me through more schooling, a master’s degree, and, of course, plenty of student loan debt. But every step of the journey was worth it because it brought me to this fulfilling career. I’ve been lucky to learn from extraordinary RDs who have shaped my professional journey, reinforcing my belief in the motto #RDsSaveLives.
As someone who struggled with being overweight as a child, I understand the overwhelming societal stigmas that come with it. Those struggles don’t just disappear—they shape how we view food, exercise, and self-care as adults. Nutrition can feel like a constant mental tug-of-war: Should I eat that donut? Should I have another helping? The stress of those decisions can distort our body image and lead to frustration when we make less healthy choices. My hope is that this blog will serve as a supportive space for those facing similar struggles, offering realistic guidance on nutrition and lifestyle changes.
I’ve long wanted to create a platform where I could share my knowledge and perspective, inspired by a Canadian RD blogger whose work I admire. My goal is to help people see nutrition as an integral part of a healthy lifestyle—not just a quick fix or a fleeting fad diet. And let’s be real: I don’t get it right all the time. I’m human! Sometimes, you just crave chocolate or fast food, and that’s okay. It’s all about balance, not perfection. Through this blog, I’ll share evidence-based insights, my personal experiences, and a bit of my own perspective on what it means to live well.
Thank you for being here and joining me on this journey! My goal is to build a community where we can explore the ever-evolving world of nutrition together. While the main focus of this blog will be on nutrition and lifestyle, I’ll also be sharing my other passions—photography, hiking, and the vibrant happenings in Sioux Falls and beyond. Additionally, my wife and I are excited to introduce our brand, Chasing Your Health, where we’ll be offering specially designed clothing that reflects our mission of wellness and balance.
As we kick things off, it’s important to highlight that February is Heart Month, and I’m honored to support the Go Red for Women movement. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, but with the right knowledge and lifestyle changes, it’s preventable. Throughout this month, I’ll be sharing tips and advice on how to keep your heart healthy—from the foods you eat to the habits you cultivate. Let’s work together to raise awareness and take action for a heart-healthy future.
Stay tuned for exciting content, and feel free to share your thoughts or heart health tips in the comments below!
