What is a nutritionist? I get this question a lot, actually! The field of clinical nutrition began in the 1940s to treat individuals with specific nutritional deficiency diseases such as scurvy and pellagra. Within the next 20 years, we recognized that certain doses of nutrients could not only treat, but prevent, illness. Science continues to uncover the therapeutic role of nutrition in the prevention and treatment of disease. My field has evolved into a practice that is increasingly incorporated into mainstream medical treatment.
Why should you see a nutritionist? Your medical doctor(s) have spent many years in school taking classes, most of which did not include nutrition. And more often then not, a general practitioner won’t link disease with diet. They may write a prescription for a drug without exploring nutritional options. Some doctors DO understand the importance of diet and healing. For example, your cardiologist may recommend losing weight to help reduce your risk of heart disease, or your gastroenterologist may suggest abstaining from acidic foods, but they simply cannot guide or support you in this effort. This is where a nutritionist comes in. Nutritional therapy is a complementary therapy that can be utilized right alongside of mainstream medicine.
When should you see a nutritionist?
• If you are in pain, have low energy, are gaining weight, not sleeping well, have digestive upset, or hormonal issues, I will attempt to find the root of the problem, help you heal with food, suggest lifestyle changes, offer support, and provide supplements.
• If you have an actual diagnosis, nutritional education will greatly speed up your recovery and help you stay healthy for a lifetime.
• If you have seen all of the doctors and had all of the tests and have taken all of the medications and still have unresolved health issues, I will explore different avenues to help you find the cause of your problems. Lives can be transformed just by making some useful dietary changes and by taking a few pointed supplements.
How does a nutritionist work with people? Nutritionists in private practice advise people on health, well-being, and diet on a one-to-one basis or in a group/class setting. The premise is that everyone has an individual level of optimum nutrition, with diverse nutritional requirements. Together we will find yours.
In my practice, I will meet with you in person or virtually, for a complimentary initial consultation. Here we will discuss your current and future health goals. I'll explain how I work to help you heal and feel better. Every person is different and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. That’s what makes nutritional therapy unique, necessary, and successful.
If you’ve forgotten just what it feels like to actually feel good, it’s time to make an appointment. Contact me for your complimentary consultation now.