What is Nutritional Therapy?
Nutritional Therapy is a holistic and evidence-based approach to healthcare that recognises the powerful role of nutrition in promoting and maintaining health. It is rooted in the belief that the foods we consume have a profound impact on our overall wellbeing and that a personalised, whole-foods-based approach can be a cornerstone of good health.
Key principles of Nutritional Therapy
Personalised approach: Nutritional Therapy acknowledges that each person is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. It tailors dietary recommendations to individual needs.
Holistic Approach: It considers not only the nutrients we consume but also factors such as lifestyle, environment, genetics and emotional wellbeing when evaluating a person’s health.
Root Cause Resolution: Nutritional Therapy aims to identify and address the root causes of health issues, rather than merely alleviating symptoms. This approach aligns with the principles of Functional Medicine.
Food as Medicine: Nutritional Therapy views food as a powerful tool for healing and maintaining health. It focuses on real, whole foods and seeks to optimize nutrient intake.
Evidence-Based Practice: Recommendations are based on the latest scientific research, ensuring that the approach is both holistic and effective.
Functional Testing for Nutritional Therapy
Functional testing plays a crucial role in Nutritional Therapy by providing valuable insights into your health. These tests may include assessments of nutrient levels, hormonal balances, food sensitivities and digestive health. By utilising Functional Medicine’s evidence-based approach, I can determine which tests are most appropriate for your individual needs, ensuring that my nutritional & lifestyle recommendations are finely tuned to address the root causes of your health concerns.
Common imbalances and symptoms
Many individuals may benefit from Nutritional Therapy to address imbalances and symptoms such as:
- Digestive Issues: Frequent bloating, gas, indigestion, constipation or diarrhoea may indicate an imbalance in the gut microbiome, food intolerances or inflammatory bowel conditions. Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), acid reflux, heartburn, gluten intolerance and food intolerances are common digestive issues that vary in their severity.
- Low Energy: Persistent fatigue, lack of focus and a general sense of low energy could be linked to imbalances in blood sugar, nutrient deficiencies, or chronic inflammation.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Irregular menstrual cycles, Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis or symptoms associated with menopause might signify hormonal imbalances that can be addressed through nutritional support.
- Weight Management: Struggles with weight management, including unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight, can be related to imbalances in metabolism and nutritional intake.
- Skin Issues: Skin conditions like acne, eczema or psoriasis can often be linked to underlying inflammation and imbalances in the diet.
- Autoimmune Diseases: Nutritional Therapy can be a valuable component in managing autoimmune diseases such as Type 1 Diabetes, Psoriasis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hashimoto’s, Fibromyalgia and others, by reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system.
- Blood Sugar Imbalances: Conditions like metabolic syndrome, Pre-diabetes, Type 2 Diabetes, Gestational Diabetes, thyroid imbalances and various autoimmune diseases can lead to fluctuations in blood sugar levels, causing a range of health issues.
- Mood Disorders: Anxiety, depression, mood swings, or irritability may be influenced by imbalances in neurotransmitters and nutritional deficiencies.
How Nutritional Therapy can help you
As a BANT registered, insured and certified Nutritional Therapist I offer services rooted in a holistic, evidence-based approach based on Functional Medicine principles. Here’s how Nutritional Therapy can benefit you:
- Personalised Nutrition Plans: I create individualized nutrition plans to address the root causes of your health concerns. Your unique dietary needs and preferences are taken into account.
- Identifying Imbalances: Through functional assessments and evidence-based approaches, I can identify nutritional imbalances or deficiencies that may be contributing to your symptoms.
- Lifestyle Guidance: I provide recommendations that align with Functional Medicine principles, guiding you towards sustainable, positive changes in your diet and lifestyle.
- Collaborative Approach: We work together to understand your health history, concerns and goals, developing a comprehensive plan for your wellbeing.
My goal is to empower you with the knowledge and tools needed to take control of your health through nutrition. By addressing the root causes of your health issues, we aim to promote long-term wellbeing and improve your quality of life.
To explore how Nutritional Therapy can benefit you and to embark on your journey towards better health, please feel free to get in touch with me. I look forward to assisting you in Re-finding Your Balance and in achieving your health and wellbeing goals through a holistic, evidence-based approach.