- You will meet a fellow foodie who will help you better understand and appreciate food.
How many of you have read questionable nutrition advice online or have been advised by friends, family, or co-workers to follow a rigid set of diet rules or to avoid an entire food group altogether? A food group that you would hate to give up – how miserable! There is a lot of confusion and misinformation given to the public, unfortunately, and a dietitian is helpful in sorting out fact from fluff, which always comes as a wave of relief to the client. Contrary to popular belief, dietitians are typically fellow foodies, so expect to gush about your favorite recipes from time to time during sessions.
- Working with a dietitian is a form of self-care for YOU.
Okay, so this may not be like a trip to the spa, but sessions with a dietitian are geared towards getting to know your history, your present behaviors and beliefs regarding food and exercise. Personal health goals are discussed and steps that lead to those goals are developed in a collaborative manner rather than cookie cutter style instructions that are not realistic to your lifestyle and schedule. What’s more, an initial session spans an hour on average. An hour devoted and reserved just for you!
- You will develop a long-term relationship for support and accountability.
Because a dietitian gets to know you on a much deeper level than many other medical practitioners are able, they are your support system for a healthy lifestyle whether or not you have support at home. They celebrate your successes and help you to work through every bump in the road throughout different seasons in your life. The environment is non-judgmental, so you can rest assured that relapses in past behaviors can actually bring forth positive and empowering discussions with your dietitian.
- You will develop a better understanding of yourself.
Instead of wallowing in self-defeat, a dietitian helps you to understand WHY past and present behavior change has been a challenge for you. They encourage you to view these moments as lessons rather than failures. You become more in tune to your triggers and motivating factors surrounding behavior change. You become acutely aware of what your body is telling you, as if you’ve developed a fifth sense. You learn to be mindful and conscious about the decisions you make surrounding food, exercise, and health.
In short, a dietitian is a source of reliable information. They are ready to meet you, learn about you and most importantly learn from you. They are your personal cheer-leader when it comes to healthy living. Who wouldn’t want that?
~Ashley