Tag Archive for: healthy lifetstyle

Is Nutrition Really that Important to my Health?

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Yes. Yes, it is!

Nutrition is the foundation on which overall health and wellness is built. People fight diseases, prevent health problems, feel better overall, and live healthier lives with good nutrition. This is why NOAH is committed to the key role our Nutrition Services team plays in our integrated care.

Why nutrition matters

When your body gets the minerals and vitamins it needs, everything works better, especially when those nutrients come from what you eat and drink.

Many people think the main benefit of eating healthier is losing weight. And that can be a wonderful benefit because losing weight can impact someone’s overall health. However, the real benefits are:

  • Reduced high blood pressure
  • Reduced high cholesterol
  • Improved energy level
  • Improved ability to recover from injury or illnesses
  • Better able to fight off illnesses
  • Reduced risk of diseases like heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, diabetes, and more.

During this National Nutrition Month, NOAH’s Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) have shared their expert insights about:

Why? Because they see every day how improving nutrition can improve someone’s life.

How nutrition fits into healthcare

At NOAH, we provide comprehensive, integrated care which means all of our departments and providers work together. And nutrition can greatly impact so many patients at any stage of life.

Some examples:

  • Medical providers might be concerned about a patient’s blood pressure. Nutrition will be one of the ways to make improvements. But many people think they have to change their diet and lifestyle overnight to reach their goals. That isn’t the case. A NOAH RDN will learn about the patient, meet with them, and create a plan together. Maybe nutrition alone can help, or maybe it’s a combination of diet and medication. Regardless, it’s always an important step to take.
  • If a patient has reactions when they eat certain foods like dairy or the gluten often found in many breads, pastas, and cereals, an RDN can help. A patient may be lactose intolerant, or it can depend on how much dairy they have. Similarly, maybe a patient has tested positive for gluten intolerance or celiac disease. These individuals will benefit by adding a RDN to their medical team. There are many delicious options available, and ways to prepare food with different ingredients so patients enjoy what they love and are doing what is best for their health.

Do you have questions for our RDNs? Talk to your healthcare provider at your next appointment and get to know how our Nutrition Services team can help you.

Help and Support for Eating Disorders – Brandon Bolton, RDN

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The earlier an eating disorder is detected, the better the chance for recovery. It’s important to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of disordered eating. The first step towards positive changes is to recognize disordered eating behaviors. The second step is to reach out and tell someone that you trust. You can tell a close friend, family member, or a healthcare professional. Starting this conversation can be challenging, but you’re doing the right thing by asking for help and support and you should be proud of yourself.

The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) website has a screening tool that can help determine if it’s time to seek professional help for an eating disorder. The screening tool can be found here:  https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/screening-tool

Contact the Helpline for support, resources, and treatment options at (800) 931-2237. NEDA has online forums that are available 24/7 for individuals and loved ones looking to connect and communicate about the eating disorder recovery process. They also have a support group finder that can help locate in-person and online support groups.

These support options can be found online here:  https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/free-low-cost-support

The management of an eating disorder requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes a medical doctor, therapist, family members, and a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). How can a Registered Dietitian help? Nutrition counseling is a necessity, and an RDN can help an individual challenge distorted thoughts about:

  • body image and weight.
  • exploring emotions and fears surrounding food and hunger.
  • accomplishing goals without any fear of being judged.

Moving forward, embracing others, and providing strong support are all keys to recovery from an eating disorder. Our Care Team at NOAH are here to help you create & manage your healthy lifestyle habits. Call 480-882-4545 today!