How a dietitian can overhaul your health
If you think dietitians are just for weight loss or counting calories, think again. Qualified dietitians are health professionals trained in assessing, diagnosing and treating diet and nutrition-related problems. Their experience can guide you in the right direction to make food and drink choices that align with your health goals and help you to feel your best from the inside out.
We asked Osler Health to explain why people see dietitians and why it’s well worth booking an appointment.
1 Digestive health support
Bloated? Gassy? Always uncomfortable after eating? Seeing a dietitian can help identify potential triggers, optimise your gut health, and achieve a balanced diet without unnecessary restrictions. Even without symptoms, evidence shows the importance on building a healthy gut. For instance, about 70% of the immune system is housed in the gut. A balanced gut microbiome helps regulate immune responses and fight off harmful pathogens.
2 Managing health conditions
Whether it’s diabetes, heart disease, gastrointestinal disorders, or food allergies, dietitians are experts in therapeutic diets that help to manage and treat chronic conditions. A good dietitian will work closely with your medical team to support treatment with evidence-based nutrition.
3 Facing disordered eating & eating disorders
Disordered eating can range from abnormal eating patterns to extreme restriction or compulsive behaviours. Dietitians are among the many experts who can play a vital role in helping people establish a solid foundation for long-term eating disorder recovery. Vanessa McNamara, a clinical dietitian at Osler Health with 25 years of experience, has a special interest in helping teens and young adults to feel empowered by their food choices, educating them on the value of balance and adequate nutrition, and encouraging a positive relationship with food. She works side by side with GP’s, psychologists, and psychiatrists, and is the Chairperson of the Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association. If someone in your household is struggling with disordered eating of any kind, an experienced dietitian can work alongside your doctor and deliver holistic support.
4 Achieving healthy weight goals
Forget crash diets. A healthy weight is one where you achieve physical and mental wellness. Dietitians can help you find sustainable, nourishing ways to reach or maintain a healthy weight, all while focusing on long-term health – not short-term fads. One of the key areas to address is a healthy mindset, not just a healthy plate.
5 Helping children with sensory preferences
Are your child’s sensory preferences interfering with their growth, nutrient intake and meal time dynamics? Dietitians can support you in dealing with extreme fussy eaters and children with strong food aversions. The objective is for children to develop a healthy relationship with food, and teaching them how to eat through play and positive experience. If you’re dreading meal times, a dietitian can help get you back on track.
6 Boosting your mood & protecting your brain
Our brain is our primary survival organ and, as a result, is the most nutrient-demanding. A dietitian can help you identify nutrient-rich foods that support your brain function and emotional wellbeing. Food and mood are linked! Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, polyphenols and tryptophan are essential for brain health and regulation. Deficiencies in these nutrients have been associated with increased risk of depression and anxiety. If you’ve been feeling foggy or experiencing low mood, dietary changes can help you feel more energised and clear-headed.
Vanessa McNamara is based at Osler Health’s Star Vista clinic. Vanessa has coordinated short programmes to address specific dietary needs. Find more details at osler-health.com/services/dietitian
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