Medical nutrition therapy is the service a registered dietitian provides in a variety of medical cases when referred by a physician. It plays a major role in the treatment of many threatening illnesses including diabetes, hypertension and cancer. A reduction in the need for medication, hospital admissions and complications are all benefits of medical nutrition therapy. It can also improve the quality of life for ill patients.
Assessing a patient’s overall nutrition status is the first step in medical nutrition therapy. After the assessment is complete, a registered dietitian prescribes a personalized course of treatment. Medications, food/drug interactions, physical activity, and current eating patterns are all factors considered in the personalized plan.
Medical Nutrition Therapy Services:
Confidential one-on-one counseling with registered dietitian
Comprehensive assessment of nutrition issues
Treatment, based on individual's interests and needs
Realistic approaches to help reach nutrition goals
Practice “tools” and skills for immediate use
Up-to-date nutrition information
Frequently, patients are referred to Medical Nutrition Therapy for the following:
Weight Management
Hyperlipidemia
Hypertension
Pregnancy – Hyperemesis
Prediabetes and Diabetes
Diverticulitus/Diverticulosis
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Inadequate or Abnormal Weight Gain During Pregnancy
Hypoglycemia
Hypercholesterolemia
Triglyceridemia
Child and Adolescent Issues
Special Needs
Cancer
Kidney Disease/Renal Failure
Immunocompromised States
Nutrition is important throughout your life cycle. It affects growth and development and helps prevent disease. For more information on medical nutrition therapy or to schedule an appointment, call (770) 297-5705.
