The Cost of Seeing Someone Not Qualified in Nutrition

The Cost of Seeing Someone Not Qualified in Nutrition

As a gastro dietitian, my training allows me to understand the intricate workings of the digestive system and its crucial role in overall health. The digestive system is responsible for absorbing essential nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, which are vital for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Remember the old ad: “Them bones, them bones need calcium”? It’s spot on!

The Importance of Qualified Expertise

In midlife, many women face changes due to reductions in hormone levels during perimenopause and menopause. Historically, weight loss diets often targeted cheese and milk, cutting out these valuable sources of calcium and vitamin D due to their fat content. This approach overlooks the nutritional importance of these foods.

Unfortunately, some individuals turn to unqualified sources for dietary advice. This can be dangerous, as these “nutri bollocks” practices often lead to the elimination of crucial nutrients. For example, cutting out dairy and gluten might provide temporary relief from symptoms but at the cost of long-term health.

The Risks of Unqualified Advice

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Eliminating entire food groups can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, crucial for bone health. Over time, this can result in conditions like osteopenia and osteoporosis, leading to weak and brittle bones.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Your hormones work in tandem with the nutrients you consume. Women who have had early hysterectomies often face hormonal imbalances if not provided with hormone replacement therapy. Combining this with dietary deficiencies exacerbates the risk of weakened bones.

The Real Cost

Women who follow unqualified advice can suffer from debilitating health issues. The combination of hormonal changes, nutrient deficiencies, and misguided dietary practices can significantly impact overall health and quality of life.

The Moral of the Story

Nutrition is a complex science, and while everyone has opinions on it, not everyone has the specialist training to provide the best advice. As a gastro dietitian, my role is to provide evidence-based, scientifically sound guidance that protects and enhances health. Avoiding “nutri bollocks” and seeking qualified professionals is essential for long-term well-being.

Stay informed and prioritize qualified advice to protect your health!