Nutrition and Good Health
A number of major health problems particularly coronary (heart) disease, obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes, are related to eating habits. While scientists still have much to discover concerning nutrition and nutrition related disorders, what is known encompasses a large body of knowledge. When put to proper use, this knowledge can promote better health, positively impact treatment and even help prevent many disorders.
Saint Anthony recognizes the importance of diet and nutrition in maintaining and regaining personal health and offers nutritional counseling services. We also have a Registered Dietitian on staff to help answer your questions and provide counseling. See sidebar for more information about Registered Dieticians.
Therapeutic and Preventive Treatments
- Therapeutic diets are usually ordered for individuals directly under a physician’s care, such as a patient in a hospital or someone recovering from heart surgery. For these patients, nutritional counseling involves the physician, patients, family members and a Registered Dietitian. When a special diet is ordered by a physician, a Registered Dietitian can help answer concerns and questions regarding ingredients, amounts and preparation.
- Preventive nutrition is aimed at individuals who are in good health – and want to stay healthy. A Registered Dietitian can help the healthy individual plan and follow through with a nutrition program that incorporates the most up-to-date information and knowledge. The individual’s personal needs, lifestyle and grocery shopping habits are other aspects of a healthy diet that a Registered Dietitian can address.
Appointments for counseling are usually made through a physician’s referral. Consultations can be scheduled weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Generally, initial consultations are scheduled for one hour, with follow-up sessions scheduled as needed. There is no standard scheduling pattern. The patient’s needs are the primary factor in setting consultation sessions. A fee is charged for nutritional counseling. To determine insurance coverage, each individual should check with his/her insurance company. A referral order from the physician is recommended, but not mandatory.
Outpatient Nutrition Services are offered in the Saint Anthony Medical Center. To make an appointment, or for more information, call the outpatient Registered Dietitian at 219.757.6283. |