Jordan Stapleton, MS, RD, is breaking new ground as the nutritionist for the Houston Astros at just 27 years old. Her path into nutrition began early, driven by personal health challenges and a desire to help others.
Stapleton’s interest in nutrition began when she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in sixth grade. A turning point came when she met a dietitian who also had type 1 diabetes. “I didn’t know it was a job,” she recalls. From that moment on, she knew she wanted to become a dietitian and help others manage their health through nutrition.
Stapleton earned her bachelor’s degree in nutrition from Florida State University and her master’s degree in clinical nutrition from the University of Memphis, gaining diverse experience in clinical settings, long-term care and sports nutrition along the way.
Prior to joining the Astros in January 2024, Stapleton enjoyed a successful but opportunistic career with the Indianapolis Indians, the Triple-A affiliate of Major League Baseball’s Pittsburgh Pirates, as well as stints with Liberty University’s Olympic sports teams and the New York Mets’ MLB minor league system. “When the Astros reached out to me, it was unexpected but an easy decision,” Stapleton said, noting the team’s strong commitment to diversity and excellence.
In her role with the Astros, Stapleton is an integral part of the coaching staff. She oversees food operations and coordinates with catering services to ensure the team has proper nutrition while on the road. She also often offers personalized nutrition advice through impromptu conversations with players and coaches. “I prefer natural, casual conversations. They’re busy, so quick advice is usually the best way to reach them,” Stapleton explains.
As one of only two African-American nutritionists in MLB, Stapleton feels a strong sense of responsibility. “There aren’t a lot of nutritionists like me,” she says. “It’s inspiring to be able to network with other Black nutritionists and share my journey. As a Black woman, I put a lot of pressure on myself because I have to be the best.”
Stapleton’s day is a constant cycle of planning, executing and adapting. She arrives at work early to handle paperwork and spends pre-game hours connecting with players to ensure they’re fuelled and ready to go. She focuses on balanced nutrition based on evidence-based recommendations to support performance and recovery.
Off the ballfield, Stapleton enjoys watching movies, watching hit reality shows like “The Real Housewives of Potomac” and “The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City,” and making time for Reformer Pilates, which improves cardiovascular endurance, posture, body awareness and mental focus. Maintaining a work-life balance keeps her energized and passionate about her work, which is very important to Stapleton.
Stapleton is excited about the future: “I’m excited to be a part of something as monumental as making it to the World Series, and I’m always looking to learn and grow,” she said. Her journey with the Astros is just beginning, but Stapleton is ready to tackle whatever comes next with the same enthusiasm and dedication that got her here.
Stapleton’s story is a beautiful blend of personal challenge, professional dedication and a deep love of both nutrition and sports. As he continues to break new ground with the Astros, he remains a powerful example of how passion and perseverance can shape a fulfilling career.
#HoustonAstros #Nutritionist #WomenInSports #ChalkTalk #MLB #LeanIn #InsightNewsSports
