Things You Should Know About Working With a Nutritionist
There's more to hiring a nutritionist than you think.
— -- intro: Kim Kardashian recently revealed to Entertainment Tonight that she hired a nutritionist to help her learn how to cook and eat more healthfully after she gained 15 pounds.
Up front I have to say that I'm a nutritionist/RDN with a private practice, so I'm biased on this matter, but I've seen one-on-one counseling work wonders for my clients, from breaking weight-loss plateaus to improving athletic performance, upping energy, boosting immunity, digestive health, sleep and mood, and transforming skin and hair.
If you're thinking of working with a nutritionist or dietitian, here are six things you should know.
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quicklist: 1category: Things You Should Know About Working With a Nutritionisttitle: It's more complex than it seemsurl:text: Nutrition is far more involved than calories in versus calories out. I often see clients who aren't getting results because they aren't eating enough, or the timing and/or balance of their meals isn't in line with their body's optimal needs. Others are eating healthfully, but are unknowingly taking in more than they need to get to -- and stay at -- a healthy weight. After assessing your eating routine, an experienced nutritionist or dietitian will probably know right away what's holding you back from reaching your goals, and can guide you in the right direction. In terms of a strategy, I talk with my clients to determine what's best. Some want a structured plan, complete with personalized meal plans, recipes, and grocery lists. Others do better with simple, concrete goals to work on, such as making specific changes to their usual meals, or modifying their meal timing. Be clear about what feels right for you: If you don't respond well to structure, a structured eating plan isn't going to work.
quicklist: 2category: Things You Should Know About Working With a Nutritionisttitle: Follow-up is criticalurl:text: In my private practice, if weight loss is the goal, I ask clients to commit to working together for a minimum of one month. For some, follow-ups involve weekly check-ins, while others send me a food journal every day for 30 days. Your nutritionist or dietitian needs to ensure that the strategy you've agreed upon is right for you. For example, if you dine out or travel often, or you have very limited free time, a plan that requires you to cook at home won't be a good fit. Also, he or she may need to tweak your plan or approach based on feedback from you regarding your results and how you're feeling. Follow-ups are also an opportunity to ask questions, prepare for challenging situations, learn about new tools, resources, or products, and feel supported. A one-time visit can't possibly offer everything you need to succeed.
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