WHAT IS NUTRITIONAL THERAPY?

Nutritional Therapy is a complementary therapy which is evidence-based, meaning that all the techniques and recommendations made are based on safe and proven scientific research. Nutritional Therapists are trained in anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology in the context of good health, illness and how food interacts with our bodies. Their focus is on personalising nutrition to suit your individual needs.

Evidence tells us that the foods that we consume can either support good health or contribute to symptoms of ill health or disease. Food can influence how our bodies function physically, including our ability to think clearly and how we feel emotionally. How different foods affect different people varies greatly. Nutritional therapy therefore helps people to understand which way of eating is right for them as unique individuals.

How does Nutritional Therapy Work?

WHO CAN BENEFIt FROM NUTRITIONAL THERAPY?

In short, everyone. Nutritional Therapy is relevant both for individuals looking to enhance their health and wellbeing and for those with chronic conditions wishing to work with or ‘consult’ a nutritional therapist in collaboration with other suitably qualified healthcare professionals. Practitioners consider each individual to be unique and recommend personalised nutrition and lifestyle programmes rather than a ‘one size fits all’ approach.

CAN NUTRITIONAL THERAPY REPLACE MY DOCTOR?

No. Practitioners never recommend nutritional therapy as a replacement for medical advice and always refer any client with ‘red flag’ signs or symptoms to their medical professional. They will also frequently work alongside a medical professional and will communicate with other healthcare professionals involved in the client’s care to explain any nutritional therapy programme that has been provided.

IS IT WORTH GOING TO A NUTRITIONAL THERAPIST?

Yes, absolutely. Nutritional therapists are trained specifically in diet, nutrition, lifestyle and wellness. Many doctors and GPs are not trained in these areas.

A healthy diet and lifestyle are crucial for:

• Maintaining health

• Optimising health – going from ‘feeling ok’ to ‘feeling fantastic with loads of energy and great sleep’

• Managing chronic diseases

• Disease prevention

A Registered Nutritional Therapist or Nutritionist can also provide:

• Personally tailored nutrition and lifestyle advice

• Guidance navigating food allergies, sensitivities, weight loss/maintenance, overall nutritional understanding

• Guidance on lifestyle habits such as exercise