Frequently Asked Questions

Why is nutrition important?
Our bodies perform millions of actions and reactions each day that are fueled entirely by what we eat. Proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins consumed in our food build the walls of our cells, our skin, muscle, and bones. Ideally everyone would eat food in its natural state and absorb all of the nutrients needed to keep one’s body running smoothly. Yet all too often what we eat has a negative impact on our overall health. Discovering the optimal balance of nutrients for your body will ensure that you have the building blocks necessary for good health and mental acuity.

What is nutrition therapy?
Nutrition therapy is a natural, individualized approach to health that supports the body as a whole. By recognizing that every system in the body is connected, we can effectively address underlying issues, rather than treating symptoms. Initial recommendations may include: dietary changes, nutritional supplementation, removal of certain foods to rule out sensitivities and education in food preparation and shopping.

What are some examples of health issues treated by nutritional therapy?
Acid reflux, blood sugar regulation, fatigue, weight loss/gain, irritable bowel syndrome, allergies, fatigue, depression, and hormonal imbalances are all common causes for people to see nutritional therapy. Often people who are fighting chronic illness or recovering from injury seek nutritional advice to support the body’s natural healing ability.

Are there benefits for people who don’t have any major health concerns?
Nutrition therapy can be preventative, as well as therapeutic. It is a simple and effective way to maintain good health and avoid illness. People often seek nutritional support to increase athletic stamina, to prepare for pregnancy, to increase their energy levels, or simply to adopt a more healthful lifestyle. Our bodies are efficient and adaptable machines. Yet they are challenged by stress, processed foods, lower nutrient contents in the soil, and toxins in our environment. Nutritional therapy corrects resulting imbalances, ensuring optimal health and performance.

What does an initial consultation involve?
Before your first consultation, you will complete an in-depth questionnaire and a three day food journal. During the consultation your health goals and concerns will be identified, and your health history and eating habits reviewed. Your nutritional therapist will conduct an exam using reflex analysis and other manual tools to assess digestive function, blood sugar balance, mineral absorption, hydration and more. Your visit concludes with recommendations for dietary changes and supplementation, as needed.

Why do some people need supplements?
Nutritional supplementation is an effective way to help re-establish balance quickly and predictably. Similar results can often be achieved over the long term through dietary modifications. However, because the nutritional content of food is impacted by everything from soil quality to cooking methods, supplementation is often used to target specific needs more quickly.

What about follow-up visits?
Typically a follow-up visit is scheduled 30-45 days after the initial consult to measure progress and make adjustments as needed. Some body systems, including the immune and endocrine systems, cannot be effectively assessed by your nutrition therapist until digestion, blood sugar, minerals, fats and hydration are properly balanced. Once you are consuming and absorbing what you need for your body to function optimally, you may decide to come in once or twice a year to be sure you stay on track.

What about detoxing or cleansing?
Detoxification therapies can significantly improve health. However, it is important that digestion and all elimination pathways are functioning optimally so toxins can exit the body quickly during a cleanse. Consequently, detoxification typically is not addressed during the first two visits.

What other services are offered?
Nourishing Health also offers instruction in food preparation and preservation, personal shopping coaching and group lectures.