Natalie Watlington, provincial health department spokeswoman
In 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that about 80% of deaths that occurred in low- and medium-income countries resulted from chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.
Prevention is better than cure. To decrease the number of people being diagnosed with chronic illnesses in our communities, the provincial health department has placed a significant focus on wellness for a healthier person, family, and overall community.
Our dieticians are one of the key professions in our health-care setting who play a crucial role in assisting people living with chronic illnesses to take control of their health.
Dieticians are experts in the science of nutrition with vast knowledge and understanding of the importance of nutrients and their functioning in the human body.
They are qualified and legally regulated health professionals who work in the public sector such as hospitals, clinics, and communities as well as privately to assess, diagnose and treat dietary and nutritional problems using scientific evidence.
Dieticians do not work in isolation, but form part of a multi-disciplinary team, where patients are referred by doctors, nurses, allied health and community based services, for nutrition therapy and counselling.
Where clients require specific nutrition therapy in the form of supplementation, it is then prescribed to the client based on their individual needs.
This, in essence, plays a vital role in patient wellness and the management of lifestyle disease.
To create awareness on healthy eating habits, our dieticians across the province share practical tips to consider when planning a healthier eating lifestyle and fitness schedule.
