What is Nutritional Therapy?
“Treatment based on nutrition including checking a person’s nutrition status and giving the right foods or nutrients to treat conditions” National Cancer Institute (US)
“Nutrition is about eating a healthy and balanced diet. Food and drink provide the energy and nutrients you need to be healthy” Medline Plus
The above definitions are not incorrect, however, nutritional therapy is so much more than simply treating conditions or symptoms.
Nutritional therapy is the promotion of health through personalised nutrition and lifestyle modification. It is a whole body approach to nutrition and lifestyle medicine that addresses the potential underlying causes of ill-health, rather than focusing on symptoms. It aims to correct imbalances in nutrient levels using food and where necessary, supplementation to bring the body back to homeostasis.
Naturopathic nutritional therapy views food as medicine, and applies nutrients from food to positively affect physical energy and well-being.
Food is Data
The information gleaned from nutrients in food after biotransformation instructs our cells, tissues and systems.
Currently we are witnessing a return to the preference for chemical-free foods, along with other dietary and lifestyle measures as an effective answer to many health complaints and common conditions. Nutritional therapy utilises current, evidence-based information to help support people facing many of today’s chronic illnesses, including the rise in autoimmune disorders.
Naturopathic nutritional therapists normally complete 3 years of training incorporating one year of biomedicine as well as many hours of clinical practice. The industry is regulated by BANT, CNHC and ANP and includes regular CPD to ensure up-to-date practice.
Nutritional therapy can be used in conjunction with conventional, allopathic, and most other types of therapy. The integration of nutritional and lifestyle advice alongside other therapies is a sensible route to optimum health.