Ottawa Nutritionist, Julia Davie, answers the most commonly asked questions about Holistic Nutrition, what to expect during a nutrition consultation, and what kind of conditions can be supported through by Holistic Nutrition services.
Q: What is Holistic Nutritionist?
A Holistic Nutritionist is a natural health consultant who uses a holistic approach to evaluating and making recommendations for their clients. Rather than focus on one aspect of a person, or using a one size fits all approach, Holistic Nutrition addresses the biochemical individuality of each person. For example, each client has a unique main health concern, healthy history, lifestyle and dietary patterns. The Nutritionist takes these individual concerns into account when providing evidence-based dietary, supplement and lifestyle recommendations. Holistic Nutritionists also create customized meal plans and recipes to support the implementation of their clients protocols.
Q: What is happens during a Nutrition Consultation?
Prior to your appointment, the Nutritionist will ask the client to complete an intake form which includes a health questionnaire and diet journal. Holistic Nutritionists use this information, along with the information they obtain from your consultation, as the basis upon which they make their recommendations.
During the first consultation, the nutritionist will review the forms and ask pertinent questions including the client’s individual nutrition goals, main health concerns, motivation, health history, and diet. The nutritionist will then provide individualized dietary, supplement and lifestyle recommendations that address the client’s main health concern and support overall health.
Following the nutrition consultation, the client is given an individualized nutrition protocol, sample meal plan, and any relevant handouts. A follow-up consultation is scheduled for 4-6 weeks after the initial appointment. At this time the nutritionist will assess the client’s progress, make changes to the protocol as needed, and provide additional recommendations.
Q: Why is individualized nutrition important?
Research and experience have shown us that the traditional approach of “one size fits all” to wellness doesn’t always work. One diet may be healing for one individual and aggravating for another. One food may be medicinal for one person, and allergenic for another. A Registered Holistic Nutritionist carefully listens to each client and works with them to meet their needs with customized recommendations that are specific to their personal health history, goals, and level of motivation.
Q: What kind of health issues can a nutritionist help me with?
Most people don’t realize just how important nutrition is. Medical professionals typically treat illness with a variety of drugs but rarely consider a patient’s diet. In actuality, when it comes to addressing a chronic disease or health concern, diet is one of the first things that should be considered! Food is the one thing we consume every day that has a direct and profound effect on every aspect of our health. What we eat, and digest, has an impact on every single bodily system. For this reason, holistic nutrition services benefit anyone and everyone, and can be used to improve any disease, and support any life stage.
Here are some examples of conditions and life stages that benefit from holistic nutrition:
Allergies
Skin Issues such as acne, eczema and hives
Digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn and irritable bowel syndrome
PMS / Menopause
Anxiety / Depression
Autoimmune conditions
Nutrient Deficiencies
Fatigue
Preconception Nutrition
Prenatal Nutrition
Postnatal Nutrition
Fertility Nutrition
Pediatric Nutrition
Cardiovascular Disease
Celiac and gluten intolerance
Blood sugar imbalance / Diabetes
Joint Pain / Arthritis
*Note, this is not an exhaustive list! As mentioned above, every condition or concern would benefit from Holistic Nutrition Consulting.
Q: Will a nutritionist in conjunction with, or help me implement a diet recommended by another healthcare provider?
Absolutely! Nutritionists are able to work in conjunction with Medical Doctors, Naturopathic Doctors, Clinical Pharmacists, Midwives, Physical Therapists, Acupuncturists, Massage Therapists, Yoga Instructors and more! It is not uncommon for a clinician to prescribe a certain diet for their patient to follow. This may include, but is not limited to, the anti-inflammatory diet, elimination diet, low FODMAP diet, anti-candida diet, paleo diet, or even just a whole foods diet. The nutritionist is able to answer specific questions the client has about the recommended diet and create a meal plan that reflects the dietary recommendation. Also, if a client is struggling to comply with a diet, a nutritionist will provide support and accountability.
Q: Can appointments be done virtually?
If you live locally to Ottawa, I am able to provide one on one in person consultations. For everyone else, or for those who prefer it, I provide virtual appointments over video chat or by phone!
Q: Great! How can I schedule my appointment?
To schedule an appointment please do not hesitate to reach out. I am available by phone or email.