How can I benefit from nutritional medicine?

There are countless ways in which changing your diet boosts your health, increases your vitality and even improves your mood.  Many medical conditions can be treated successfully.  Acute conditions such as colds, flu, inflammation and gastro-intestinal problems often respond quickly to nutritional medicine, the benefits often seen in days.  Chronic conditions may take weeks to months to respond, with more subtle improvement.

What can Nutritional Medicine help?

Nutritional medicine is often used as an adjunct to other therapies such as Medical Herbalism and can be useful for many conditions:

• allergies and intolerances including food sensitivities, asthma and hay fever
• digestive complains including IBS, indigestion, constipation and bloating
• fatigue, poor concentration and lack of energy
• poor immunity and increased susceptibility to infection
• skin disorders such as acne, eczema and psoriasis
• anxiety, stress, irritability, mood swings, depression and insomnia
• hormonal imbalances including PMS, PCOS, menopausal and infertility issues
• cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure and cholesterol
• childhood development disorders such as dyslexia, poor concentration, hyperactivity and ADHD
• chronic diseases including arthritis, rheumatism and diabetes

How do I know if a nutrition consultation is suitable for me?

All of us can obtain huge benefits from improving our diets.  Even those of us who eat healthily may have specific dietary needs that we aren't addressing.  Consultations are suitable for all age groups and can help treat a vast range of health problems.  People are often surprised at the number of conditions that can be improved by nutrition.

How many sessions will I need?

This is very personal.  Some people will require only a general diet health check and one session is adequate.  However, if you have specific conditions that you want to treat you will need a number of consultations in order to investigate your problem and ake appropriate changes.  Nutrition is a gradual process and you may need time to implement the changes that will bring you to opimum health.

I am already seeing a doctor for my condition.  Is nutritional medicine still suitable for me?

Definately.  Nutrition works safely alongside conventional medicine.  It can complement medical treatment.

Will I have to take supplements?

Diet is the fundamental part of the treatment and the focus is very much on enjoying the pleasures of healthy food.  However, we are all very individual and short-term use of herbs or supplements may be necessary in some cases to help address a particular condition.

Can you diagnose food allergies?

Food allergies can be life threatening and if a 'true allergy' is suspected, you will be referred for medical advice.  However, intolerance and sensitivity to food can be investigated.  This can be carried out with a detailed analysis of the diet and using specialised diets.

What happens during the consultation?

The first consultation will take one hour and will include taking detailed notes of any health problems together with a medical and family history.  You will be asked to complete a food diary prior to your visit, noting all food and drinks taken including any snacks and supplements.  This will help in your diagnosis.

The follow-up consultations are aimed at educating you as to why certain foods may or may not be beneficial for you.  You will be provided with dietary recommendations designed for you and given support and advice in order to make the suggested dietary transition as easy as possible.  You will also be provided with personalised shopping guidance at local grocery and health food status.