Q. What does a Nutritionist do?

A. Nutritionists create and apply scientific knowledge to promote an understanding of the effects of diet on health and well-being. The Nutrition Society is the learned society in Britain for nutritionists of which Rebecca Amey is a member.

Q. What is Nutritional Therapy?

A. Nutritional therapy is the use of diet to help you manage a health problem, to reach your optimum health, or to improve sports performance. What you eat can directly impact your health and well-being. At Nutrition 4 Dorset we understand that everyone has unique body chemistry and so recommendations are specific to your needs as an individual.

Q. What is the difference between a Nutritionist and a Dietician?

A. There are a number of different titles used to describe professionals working in the field of nutrition. Some confusion arises from the various qualifications available, and institutions involved, but there is a lot of common ground and overlap in the areas of practice.

Nutritionists work in public health and in government, industry, sports, education, media and for charities supporting the collection and communication of information about food and health. Nutritionists also provide general guidance to individuals about eating to support good health. Many dieticians work in hospitals and clinics advising people in need of therapeutic diets, but they also work in many areas of public health through improving food choices.

Q. How do I know if a nutrition consultation would be beneficial to me?

A. Most people will benefit from improving their diet. Even the healthiest eaters may have certain dietary needs that aren’t being addressed. Consultations are suitable for all ages and can help treat a huge range of health problems. People are often surprised at the number of conditions that can be improved by nutrition. For more information click here.

Q. How many consultations / follow-ups will I need?

A. Each client is unique. Some people just require a general diet health check and therefore one consultation is adequate. However if you have specific conditions that you want help with you may need a number of consultations in order to fully investigate your problem and make appropriate changes. Nutrition is a gradual process and you may need time to make the changes that will bring you to your optimum health & fitness.

Q. Is nutrition still suitable for me if I am already seeing a doctor for my health problem?

A. Certainly. Nutrition works safely alongside conventional medicine. It can complement medical treatment and help reduce side effects of medications. We will liase with your doctor regarding your nutritional assessment and programme if necessary.

Q. Can you diagnose food allergies?

A. If a "true allergy" is suspected you will be referred to your Doctor for medical advice. Food allergies are a very serious health condition. We can help you with a diet plan after diagnosis. Food intolerances and sensitivities can be investigated. This can be done using certain diets or using the most accurate tests available.

Q. Do you recommend supplements?

A. Diet is the fundamental part of our programmes and the focus is very much on enjoying healthy food. However, we are all different and short-term supplement use may be beneficial in some cases to help address a particular problem.

Q. Do you carry out telephone consultations?

A. Home visits are the most appropriate arrangement, but when location and time make this impractical then telephone consultations are possible. It is preferable to see you in person for the first consultation but follow-up phone sessions can be arranged if home arrangements are not convenient. Click here for more information.