Medical Nutrition Therapy/Nutrition Counseling for . . . . .

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) commonly referred to as nutrition counseling, is an evidence-based therapeutic approach that uses nutrition interventions to manage specific medical conditions or diseases. It involves the assessment of an individual's nutritional needs and the creation of a personalized nutrition plan to help manage, prevent, or treat health issues. MNT is typically provided by registered dietitians (RDs) or other qualified healthcare professionals and is often a key component of managing chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and more. 

Key Components of MNT:

1. Nutrition Assessment: A thorough evaluation of an individual's medical history, dietary habits, and nutritional status. This includes looking at lab values, anthropometric measurements (like weight and body composition), and lifestyle factors.
2. Diagnosis and Goal Setting: The healthcare professional works with the patient to establish specific, measurable, and achievable nutrition-related goals tailored to the patient's condition and overall health needs.
3. Nutritional Intervention: A personalized nutrition plan is developed to address the identified issues. This could involve:
   • Modifying macronutrient intake (carbohydrates, proteins, fats)
   • Managing micronutrient deficiencies
   • Recommending meal timing or portion control
   • Adjusting dietary patterns to optimize health

4. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular follow-up to track progress, adjust the nutrition plan as needed, and ensure the patient is meeting their health goals. This might include blood tests, weight measurements, or assessing symptom changes. 

Conditions Often Managed with MNT:

• Diabetes Mellitus: MNT focuses on managing blood sugar levels, typically through carbohydrate counting, portion control, and balancing meals.
• Cardiovascular Disease: MNT may involve a heart-healthy diet (e.g., reducing saturated fats, increasing fiber, managing cholesterol).
• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Specialized plans to limit certain nutrients (e.g., potassium, phosphorus) and maintain electrolyte balance.
• Gastrointestinal Disorders: MNT might involve low FODMAP diets or gluten-free diets for conditions like IBS or celiac disease.
• Obesity: Weight management strategies, including calorie-controlled diets and healthy eating patterns, are often part of MNT.

Benefits of MNT:

• Helps prevent or manage complications associated with chronic diseases.
• Improves overall nutritional status and quality of life.
• Supports better disease outcomes and minimizes reliance on medications.
• Encourages a sustainable approach to healthy eating that aligns with personal preferences and lifestyle.

MNT is different from general diet advice because it is tailored to an individual's specific health condition, ensuring that the interventions are both safe and effective. Get started by clicking here to book your appointment!

Preparing for your first Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) session is important to make the most of your time with the dietitian and ensure that the plan you receive is personalized and effective. Here are some steps you can take to get ready:

1. Gather Your Medical Information

• Medical History: Complete our online intake form listing any current or past medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, kidney disease).
• Medications: Complete our online intake form listing listing any medications, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements you are taking. Include dosages and how often you take them.
• Lab Results: If you have recent lab results (e.g., blood sugar levels, cholesterol, blood pressure, kidney function), upload a copy of them to share with the dietitian.
• Allergies or Food Sensitivities: Complete our online intake form listing any food allergies or intolerances, as well as any foods that you avoid for personal or cultural reasons.

2. Keep a Food Journal

• Track Your Diet: For at least 3–5 days before your appointment, write down everything you eat and drink, including portion sizes and meal times. If you're tracking over a weekend, try to include both weekday and weekend eating habits to give a full picture.
• Note Symptoms: If you have any symptoms related to your condition (e.g., bloating, fatigue, high blood sugar levels, digestive issues), jot these down, along with when they occur relative to meals.

3. Know Your Goals and Concerns

• Prepare Questions: Think about any specific concerns you have regarding your diet or health, and write them down. For example, you might have questions about managing blood sugar, weight loss, food cravings, or how to make healthy choices while dining out.
• Set Goals: Identify what you want to achieve from the session. For instance, are you looking to manage a chronic disease, lose weight, improve athletic performance, or address digestive issues? Having clear goals will help guide the conversation and allow your dietitian to tailor the plan to your needs.

4. Be Ready to Discuss Your Lifestyle

• Eating Habits: Be honest about your eating habits, including any challenges you face (e.g., time constraints, emotional eating, disordered eating habits). This information will help the dietitian create a realistic, sustainable nutrition plan.
• Physical Activity: Share details about your exercise routine, including how often you exercise, the type of exercise, and any limitations (e.g., if you have joint pain or fatigue).
• Sleep and Stress: Mention any sleep issues or stress that might affect your health, as these can impact your nutrition and overall well-being.

5. Be Open and Honest

• Lifestyle Factors: The more openly you share about your lifestyle (including challenges with food choices, cooking habits, or emotional eating), the better your dietitian can help. Don't worry about judgment—dietitians are trained to help you work through these issues in a non-judgmental and supportive way.
• Cultural Preferences: If you follow any particular cultural or religious dietary practices (e.g., vegetarian, halal, kosher), make sure to mention these, so your plan can be designed to respect those preferences.

6. Prepare for Possible Follow-Up Sessions

• MNT is usually a process that requires monitoring and adjustments. Be ready for the possibility of follow-up sessions where you'll review your progress and make changes to your plan. Setting realistic expectations is key to your success.

7. Be Ready to Discuss Your Support System

• Family or Social Support: If you have family members or friends who are involved in your eating habits or who could support you with your goals (e.g., grocery shopping, meal prep), mention that. Having a support system can help with adherence to dietary changes.

8. Bring a Positive Attitude

• Acknowledge that making dietary changes can take time and effort. Be open to learning and making gradual adjustments that align with your health goals. A positive, collaborative mindset will help you and your dietitian work together to achieve the best results.

During Your Appointment:

• Take Notes: It can be helpful to take notes during your session, especially if the dietitian gives you new information or recommendations.
• Ask for Clarifications: If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask questions or ask for explanations. Your dietitian is there to help you understand the changes and how they relate to your health.

After the Appointment:

• Follow the Plan: Implement the dietary changes and track your progress. Keep a journal of how you’re feeling, any symptoms, and how you’re adapting to the new eating habits.
• Stay in Touch: Make sure to schedule follow-up appointments as needed and reach out to your dietitian with any questions or concerns between sessions.

By being prepared, you’ll make the most of your first MNT session and set yourself up for success on your nutrition and health journey.

• Independence Blue Cross 
• Amerihealth
• Independence Administrators 
• Amerihealth Administrators 
• AETNA 
• Highmark - 
• CIGNA 
• Blue Cross & Blue Shield 
• Federal Employees Benefits Plan (FEBP_

Please contact your insurance provider to verify your benefits. Most insurance plans will cover nutrition counseling when  medically necessary. 

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• Click here to read the bios of our registered dietitians.