Nutrition
Nutrition is defined as `the science of foods and the nutrients and other substances they contain, and of their actions within the body (including ingestion, digestion, absorption, transport, metabolism, and excretion)'. A broader perspective includes the social, economic, cultural, and psychological implications of food and eating. On the whole people realize that their food habits affect their health but foods are often chosen for other reasons. Food brings pleasures, traditions and associations as well as nourishment. The challenge is to combine favourite foods and fun times with a nutritionally balanced diet.
The balance of foods selected over time can make an important difference to health. Scientific studies have shown that elements in food can affect health down to the body's cellular level. A few other contributing factors to a healthy cellular level are exercise, stress management and regular sleep. Depriving the body of any of these factors will impair physical and mental well being.
Optimal health requires water, carbohydrates, fats, protein, vitamins, minerals and other micronutrients fed to the body. No nutrient works alone and each is dependent on the presence of others for its effect.
The nutritionist will analyse each individual's nutritional needs and will work with the client to develop a personalised dietary plan. This will include discussing diet history, health history and laboratory tests results. Strengths and weaknesses will be taken into consideration. The nutritionist will support and help educate the client throughout the process of achieving the goal.
A nutritionist can assist many things including:
◊ Improving energy levels
◊ Increasing, reducing and/or maintaining weight
◊ Gastro-intestinal function
◊ Cardiovascular disease
◊ Diabetes
◊ Food allergies & intolerance
◊ Coeliac disease
◊ General well-being
Treatment $95.00/hour
If prescribed, dietary supplements are an additional cost.
Many health funds recognise nutritionist and some rebates are available.