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Dietary Services

What does a dietitian do?

Dietitians are trained in food and nutrition and aim to promote optimal nutrition. They advise people about their nutritional requirements and how to eat the correct foods for their health and lifestyle.

Dietitians also keep the public and other groups informed about health, food and nutrition issues.

When you have a consultation with a dietitian about your own health concerns, the dietitian completes an assessment of your needs and then makes suggestions about a dietary treatment plan.

Why would I need to access this service?

What you eat and drink can have a big effect on your health. It is possible that your health concerns and issues can be improved substantially by eating differently.

What is the process for referral to a dietitian at Oxford Clinic?

Your doctor can refer you to our dietitian but a doctor’s referral is not necessary. If you would like to see our dietitian, you are welcome to ring Oxford Clinic directly to make an appointment.

What is to be expected from the consultation?

Once you have an appointment time, you will usually be mailed a food, drink and symptom diary to keep for a week before your appointment. You will need to bring this with you to the first appointment as it helps the dietitian know more about your usual way of eating and drinking, without you needing to remember it all.

The assessment involves asking you about your health concerns, previous surgery or medical treatments, family history, supplements and medications you have taken or currently take, diets you have previously tried and your current diet, exercise and lifestyle.

Then a dietary plan is discussed and information given and talked through on how to make any necessary changes to your diet. This will often include additional information on recipe books, useful reading books, websites and support groups.

How many times would you usually see a dietitian?

Most people find that two or three consultations are sufficient to be on the right track with their diet.

Useful Web Site Links:

http://www.dietitians.org.nz