Individuals with chronic health conditions or those recovering from an injury or surgery can benefit from seeing a nutrition specialist. This healthcare professional is an expert in the field of nutrition and dietetics, which are fields of study and practice that focus on the science of food, nutrition, and its impact on human health.
When choosing the right nutrition specialist, it’s important to find a professional who is qualified, experienced, and can meet your specific needs. Below, we talk about how you can choose the right nutrition specialist for you.
Determine Your Goals and Needs
Consider the specific reasons why you need a nutrition specialist, as these are unique to you. Do you have a medical condition that you are managing with medication that is causing you to experience uncomfortable side effects and you want to boost your health through specialized dietary management instead? Or do you want to give your body all the nutrients it needs to optimize your recovery from injury or surgery? Perhaps you just want to drop some weight that you’ve been struggling with on your own? Understanding your specific goals and requirements will help you find a nutrition specialist with the right expertise.
Check Online and with Healthcare Professionals
You can search online for “nutrition specialists in Sherman, TX” or “nutritional therapy in Sherman, TX” to see which facilities are offering the service near you. Additionally, ask for recommendations from your primary care physician or other specialists who can make a referral to the right nutrition specialist. If you have health insurance, check if nutrition counseling services are covered and if there are any preferred providers within your network. Understanding your insurance coverage can help you make an informed decision and minimize out-of-pocket expenses.
Check the Nutrition Specialist’s Credentials
Credentials are very important, as they ensure you are seeing a licensed and trained medical professional. Look for nutrition specialists who are registered dietitians (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDN). These professionals have completed specific educational requirements, and internships, and passed a national exam, making them qualified to provide evidence-based nutrition advice and guidance safely and effectively.
Check Their Experience and Specializations
There are nutrition specialists who are focused on helping patients achieve their ideal weight. However, if this is not your goal, consider the nutrition specialist’s experience and areas of expertise in helping patients with your specific goals. Assess whether their experience aligns with your specific needs. For instance, if you need nutritional advice for a restricted diet, such as a lactose-free, gluten-free, or vegan diet, you want to see a nutrition specialist who has experience with such diets.
Evaluate Their Communication Style
Effective communication is crucial when working with a nutrition specialist. Look for someone who listens attentively, explains complex concepts in a clear manner, and encourages active participation in your nutrition plan. A good nutrition specialist should be approachable, supportive, and adaptive in their recommendations to your unique circumstances.
Assess Compatibility with the Nutritional Specialist
Schedule an initial consultation or phone call with the nutrition specialist to assess your compatibility. It’s important to feel comfortable discussing your dietary habits, goals, and concerns openly. A positive and supportive rapport can contribute to a successful working relationship.
Nutritional Therapist in Sherman, TX
At Carrus Behavioral Hospital, we offer nutritional therapy both as an outpatient and inpatient service. Our licensed and qualified nutrition specialists understand the critical role nutrition plays in overall health. We will guide you throughout your treatment and ensure your body is in peak nutrition. For any questions or to schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (903) 870-2600. We look forward to serving you.