Beyond Weight Loss: Other Reasons To Work With A Nutritionist

People often work with nutritionists when they want to lose weight. However, this is far from the only reason to work with a nutritionist. These professionals are trained to help people who want to improve their diet and health—and that does not always go hand-in-hand with weight loss. Here are some other situations in which you may want to work with a nutritionist.

You're struggling with poor digestion.

Do you often have gas, bloating, diarrhea, and other digestive symptoms? If you're having trouble figuring out what's causing these symptoms and how to control them, then you'll want to make an appointment with a nutritionist. They will often put you on an elimination diet, which is a diet in which you eliminate all possible allergens and irritants and then add them back to your diet one at a time. Throughout this process, you and your nutritionist can discover what foods are causing or contributing to your irritable digestion. Then, based on the results, they can design a diet for you that will better meet your nutritional needs and prevent digestive irritation.

You have nutrient deficiencies.

Have you recently had blood work done that revealed you're deficient in one or more nutrients? You could just take supplements to raise your levels of those nutrients, but long term, it is often better to learn to eat a diet that fully meets your nutritional needs. A nutritionist can work with you to find a balance of foods and meals that supply more of the nutrients you're deficient in, as well as all of the other nutrients you need for ongoing health. This can help guard against future deficiencies, and it is often cheaper than taking supplements for the rest of your life.

Nutrition-related diseases run in your family.

Do you have a family history of type II diabetes, heart disease, or another disease that is related to diet and nutrition? If so, it is a good idea to see a nutritionist early on. They can design a diet for you that will help minimize your risk of also developing these diseases. Or, if you are in the early stages of one of these conditions, the nutritionist can help you make dietary changes that help keep the condition from worsening.

Nutritionists do a lot more than help people lose weight. If you are in any of the situations above, it is a good idea to work with a nutritionist. Contact a nutritionist to learn more.