FAQ’s for Dietitians and Nutritionist’s
What does a Dietitian do?
A dietitian is an expert in food and nutrition. Health Management Dietitians use their knowledge of nutrition and the human body to provide personalised nutrition advice and support, treat a range of medical conditions, and provide strategies to help individuals improve their wellbeing through diet and lifestyle changes.
Health Management Dietitians can work across a range of areas such as;
- Weight loss and meal plans
- Allergies and intolerances
- Sports nutrition
- Eating disorders
- Paediatrics
- Assess body composition
- Diabetes and chronic disease management
- Fertility and pregnancy
- Aged care
Each person has their own set of circumstances, so our Dietitians will work with you to create a unique and individual plan based on your goals.
What is the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?
A Dietitian has completed a minimum 4-year bachelor’s degree at a recognised University and is governed by Dietitians Australia. Dietitians have completed additional studies in professional practice in the areas of clinical nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, public health, and food service management.
Dietitians must also complete a minimum of 30 hours each year of continuing professional development and adhere to a professional code of conduct. Accredited Practising Dietitians are also the only nutrition professionals recognised by the Australian Government, Private health, NDIS and DVA.
A Nutritionist may have completed a 3-year bachelor’s degree at a recognised University, however, may have also received an online Nutrition certificate or Diploma in Nutrition. Some people call themselves a Nutritionist, even if they have only completed a 6 week online course. A Nutritionist is not legally allowed to provide individual nutrition advice, but rather provide advice general in nature.
In Australia, all Dietitians are Nutritionists, but a Nutritionist is not a Dietitian.
Why should I see a Dietitian? How often?
There are many reasons as to why you may choose to see a Dietitian. Health Management Dietitians can provide you with solutions to everyday nutrition problems or assist with complex medical conditions. Common reasons why people choose to see a Health Management Dietitian include:
- Newly diagnosed chronic diseases (Diabetes, Heart disease, high cholesterol or high bloop pressure, reflux etc)
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Food allergies or intolerances
- Poor appetite
- Sports nutrition for chosen sport/activity
- Fatigue
- Food and behaviour change relating to disordered eating (Binge eating & emotional eating)
At Health Management Dietitians we aim to see you every 1 to 2 weeks in order to help you stay motivated and on track, assist you with any challenges, and help you to achieve your goals. Frequency and duration of appointments may be dependent on the specific goal or outcome.
In your initial consultation, your Health Management Dietitian will gather detailed background information and medical history, current dietary habits, exercise habits, goals and what you hope to achieve through your sessions. A body composition scan and individualised meal plan is also provided in this session. Information gathered during the initial session is used to create a detailed plan to help you to achieve your goals, whilst being individualised to your needs and preferences. Review consultations consist of a body composition scan to track progress over time and highlight changes to body composition. They are also a way to check in, help with accountability and help you problem solve challenges that arise in between appointments.
What is the difference between a ‘Food Allergy’ and an ‘Intolerance’?
Food Allergies: occur when the body’s immune system reacts to a specific food in order to protect the body from harm. An allergic response is created, which in some cases can be life threatening (anaphylaxis).
The most common are eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat & shellfish.
Food Intolerances: a food intolerance is a chemical reaction and does not involve the immune system. It occurs due to the food not being able to be digested by the body. This reaction is not life threatening, however can affect a persons general health and cause discomfort including bloating, changes to bowel motions, abdominal pain, and fatigue. In some cases, food chemicals can cause behavioural changes in adolescent children, headaches and other symptoms.
Common food chemicals and types that people react to include: dairy protein, MSG, food additives and preservatives, Lactose, fructans, fructose and GOS groups of food.
If you have a food allergy or intolerance, you may need to eliminate these foods from your diet, however cutting out some food groups and nutrients can lead to deficiencies, so it is important to work with a Dietitian to ensure these are being replaced with alternative options.
There is currently no reliable or validated clinical blood test available for diagnosing food intolerance. The only way to identify is through strict food elimination diets alongside a Health Management Accredited Practising Dietitian.
Can you test for IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a gastrointestinal disorder that affects one in five Australians. The cause of IBS is not very well understood, however it is thought that genetic changes to the gut microbiome, as well as feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression can all be contributing factors to a person experiencing IBS symptoms.
Symptoms can include:
· Abdominal pain and cramping
· Bloating
· Altered bowel movements including diarrhoea, and constipation,
· Feelings of fullness
Symptoms of IBS can be managed through dietary changes, stress management, and medications, as well as lifestyle modifications. It may be recommended to trial a Low FODMAP Diet or Elimination Diet working alongside a Health Management Dietitian to ensure it is done safely and effectively.