Medical Nutrition TherapyNutrition can have a preventative and life-changing impact on many medical co-morbidities. If you have recently been told by your physician you have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or you may be pre-diabetic weight loss, and lifestyle changes can be the next step in improving your medical health. Alongside a full review of medications, any lab work you have available, dietary eating patterns, and behaviors, medical nutrition therapy can make a life-changing difference in your health and well-being.
Diabetes Nutrition TherapyDiabetes is an epidemic affecting about 25 million people in the US. According to the Department of health and mental hygiene of NYC, almost half a million New Yorkers have Diabetes, 200,00 people have yet to be diagnosed, and its nearly doubled in the last 10 years. Whether you have Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, or Pre-diabetes, nutrition is a component that cannot be overlooked. Poorly controlled diabetes increases your risk for many serious health problems. Some problems include:
- Eye complications, including glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy and blindness.
- Foot complications such as gangrene, ulcers or vascular disease.
- Heart problems such as ischemic heart disease.
- Hypertension (high blood pressure) causing heart attacks or strokes.
- Neuropathy - nerve damage, poor healing of wounds, amputations
- Nephropathy - uncontrolled blood pressure leading to kidney disease.
Diabetes and Nutritional AssessmentsNutritional management can vary by type of diabetes and medication regimen, but is always critical in establishing well-managed blood sugar. A nutrition assessment will include an in-depth diabetic teaching of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins and how the appropriate ratio between each will impact your blood sugar. Clients will participate in trending and monitoring blood sugar through their personal logs and food journals. Extensive education will be provided on treating hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia and will achieve a better understanding of carbohydrates and its relationship with exercise, stress, mood, and health status.
If you have taken the first step to start personal training, commit to the full package and improve your diet as well. The right balance of nutrition and exercise will take your health to a new level and help you to feel your best.
Nutrition for Seniors Bone health, weight management, and healthy eating is crucial as we age. Age is a risk factor for many medical problems as our metabolism changes. In general, a diet low in calories and sodium and higher in protein, calcium, and anti-oxidants becomes even more necessary. A diet low in sodium is critical for most seniors with high blood pressure or heart disease. A combination of Strength training and aerobic activity is the optimal plan for an energetic and vibrant lifestyle.
Nutrition and Family CounselingA family support system is a powerful influence in any lifestyle changes. Have you ever told your family, "I am going on a diet!" and they continue to surround you with specific foods you were trying to avoid. Some of the most successful weight loss stories stem from family and friends who are there with you every step of the way. This support system is willing to put aside some unhealthy choices they are making for the best of your health.
Consider trying to begin the journey with a close friend or family member that is on the same page as you. Talk with each other and motivate each other to stay on track. Family counseling is a valuable nutrition service available that can be effective in getting everyone on the same page.
Supermarket Tours The type and quality of food that you choose can make a big difference in your diet. If you've ever struggled to make healthy choices at the supermarket, a tour may be a good idea for you. How many breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are you cooking that week and for how many people? What will I need to make my diet and week run smoothly without stressful food planning?
The key is, always start with a list, make a plan for your week, and never go to the supermarket hungry! With just a little planning it can be easy to make your next supermarket trip a success. We offer guidance and one-on-one tours at your local supermarket!
Prenatal Nutrition and Pregnancy Pregnancy is the one time in a woman's life in which everything you eat will directly affect another person's life. Adopting a healthy, well-balanced diet is beneficial for your health and energy during pregnancy as well as providing the primary source of nutrition for the baby and its growth and development. In the first trimester, a healthy, regular, well-balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, lean protein, and water are recommended.
In the second and third trimester, an additional 300 kcal and an approximate 75-100 g protein is needed for proper fetal growth, and lactation post delivery (but further individual specifics should be discussed with your provider or dietitian). Throughout pregnancy, iron, calcium, and folic acid are critical elements, with a limitation on fish high in mercury, raw or uncooked meats, soft cheeses, sprouts and unpasteurized dairy products.
Get started now for an individualized meal plan specific to your lifestyle and routine that will help you feel great and get your baby's future off to the right start.
The Difference Between a Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist A Registered Dietitian is a nutrition expert who separates fact from fads using evidence-based medicine and scientific research. RD's utilize this information to help implement healthy eating plans for each individual's nutritional needs. Professional requirements include a Bachelors Degree in Dietetics, completion of a supervised practice program, the passing of a registration exam as well as maintain continuing education for re-certification.
A nutritionist is not a recognized credential and therefore anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. Many are knowledgeable and studied nutrition but have not completed the necessary experienced practicum to be credentialed. This varies on a state by state basis.