What Is Nutritional Counseling?

Nutritional counseling is a therapy that focuses on improving health through proper nutrition. The goal is to help people achieve a healthy lifestyle. It identifies and addresses nutritional deficiencies that contribute to health problems.
 

Who Can Benefit From Nutritional Counseling?

Nutritional counseling can benefit anyone. It can help improve one’s health through better nutrition. However, it is especially helpful for individuals with specific health concerns that dietary changes can improve.

Below are some examples of people who may benefit from nutritional counseling:
 

• People with diabetes or prediabetes. These people need help managing their blood sugar levels through diet.

• Overweight or obese people who want to lose weight

• Individuals with digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome or inflammatory bowel disease. They may need help identifying trigger foods and developing a diet that supports gut health.

• Athletes or people who are physically active. Those who want to optimize their nutrition for better performance and recovery.

• People with food allergies or intolerances who need help identifying safe and healthy food options

• People with heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol who require diet modification to support heart health

• Pregnant women needing guidance on proper nutrition for a healthy pregnancy and baby

What Happens During Nutritional Counseling Session?

Your dietitian or nutritionist will begin by asking questions about your diet and lifestyle. They may also measure your height, body mass index, and weight to assess your nutritional needs. They will then use the information to develop a personalized nutrition plan. 

It will entail specific recommendations on food choices, portion sizes, and meal timing. They may also guide you on how to read nutrition labels, make healthy choices when eating out, and prepare healthy meals at home.

What to Look for in a Nutritional Counselor

It is vital to look for someone qualified and experienced in nutrition. Doing so will get you the best outcome. Registered dietitians or RDs with degrees in nutrition and dietetics can help. 

You can be sure that they have a license and a completed internship and passed the national certification exam. You can benefit from their training to provide evidence-based nutrition. The specialist will also advise and hold high ethical and professional practice standards.

How to Prepare

Gather information about your diet and health history before a nutritional counseling session. It may include keeping a food diary for a few days to track your eating habits. You must note any symptoms or health concerns. Remember to bring any relevant medical records or lab results to the session.

It is also helpful to come to the counseling session with an open mind and a willingness to make changes. Nutritional counseling may involve making changes to your current eating habits. It may be challenging at first. However, improved health and wellness benefits are well worth the effort.

Seek Nutritional Counseling 

It is vital to seek nutritional counseling. Get help from a professional. Take this crucial step to improve your health through proper nutrition. It is a safe and natural way to live a healthy life.

For more about nutritional counseling, visit Kestner Health + Wellness at our office in Nashville, Tennessee. Call (615) 646-6700 to book an appointment today.