Dietitian in Point Cook
Dietitians specialise in food, diet management, and nutrition for people who may be affected by health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, cancer, heart disease, renal disease, gastrointestinal diseases, and food allergies.
Seeing a dietitian in Point Cook can significantly reduce the risk of developing chronic disease through education about a balanced diet.
The role of a dietitian
Dietitians are university-qualified nutrition professionals. They translate nutrition science into practical, personal advice that fits your health needs, food preferences, culture and lifestyle.
Other reasons people see a dietitian
- pre-diabetes
- high cholesterol or high blood pressure
- irritable bowel syndrome or coeliac disease
- nutrition during pregnancy and breastfeeding
- fussy eating and nutrition for children
- vegetarian or vegan eating that meets nutritional needs
Your first appointment with a dietitian in Point Cook
Expect questions about your health history, current eating habits, lifestyle and goals, and a look at any recent test results. Together you develop a practical plan, which might include meal ideas, tips for reading food labels and realistic targets. Follow-up visits track progress and adjust the plan.
Bring along
- recent blood test results
- a list of medicines and supplements
- a food diary covering a few days, if you can
- any referral letter from your GP or specialist
Australian Dietary Guidelines
The guidelines recommend a wide variety of foods from the five food groups each day: vegetables and legumes, fruit, grain foods (mostly wholegrain), lean meats and alternatives, and milk, yoghurt and cheese or their alternatives. Drinking plenty of water and limiting foods high in saturated fat, added sugar and salt also support long-term health.
Reading food labels
The Nutrition Information Panel lists nutrients per serve and per 100 g. Comparing products per 100 g makes it easier to choose options lower in saturated fat, sugar and sodium, and the ingredients list shows what a product contains in order of weight.
Eating well on a budget
Frozen and canned vegetables, legumes, oats and seasonal fruit are affordable, nutritious staples. Planning meals and cooking in batches also helps cut cost and waste.
Funding
Private appointments do not require a referral. People with a chronic condition such as diabetes may be eligible for Medicare rebates on some visits through their GP’s chronic condition management plan, and extras cover can also contribute.
Common questions
Will a dietitian put me on a strict diet?
No. The focus is on realistic changes that suit your health needs and the way you like to eat, so the plan can be kept up over time.
How many appointments will I need?
It depends on your goals and health needs. Some people need only a few, while others benefit from ongoing support.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
A dietitian’s training includes medical nutrition therapy for health conditions. The title nutritionist is not regulated in the same way, so training varies.
Can a dietitian help with diabetes?
Yes. A dietitian can explain how food affects blood glucose and plan meals that fit your medicines, activity and preferences.
Are supplements necessary?
Most people can meet their needs through food, although some need supplements, for example during pregnancy or with certain health conditions.
Is it worth bringing someone along?
It can help to bring the person who does most of the cooking or shopping in your household.
Is fruit unhealthy because of its sugar?
No. Whole fruit contains fibre, vitamins and minerals, and two serves a day are recommended for adults.
Do I need to cut out carbohydrates?
Not usually. Wholegrain and high-fibre carbohydrate foods, in suitable amounts, fit most healthy eating plans, including for diabetes.
Are detox diets necessary?
No. The liver and kidneys already remove waste products, and restrictive diets can make it hard to meet nutritional needs.
Good to know
Fees
Fees vary between Allied Health services. Ask about fees when you book, or email [email protected].
Our team
Meet the doctors and Allied Health professionals who work at Point Cook Doctors.