Stuck between the food you want to eat and what you think you should eat? But what about the food you need to eat? Food, nutrition, and health shouldn’t be this complicated. A nutritionist can break down the myths, simplify the science, and support your long-term health goals.
You need to find the right ‘nutrition expert’ and avoid the pseudo online ‘experts’, fad diets, and lucrative headlines. Thankfully, I can help you out. So, let’s unpack the how, why, and when of seeing a nutritionist right here in Australia.
Where to Find a Nutritionist in Perth, Australia?
Option one: You’re always welcome to our health clinic, Wellness Zone.
Option two: Ask friends, family, or colleagues for recommendations or do a simple Google search. However, before choosing a nutritionist, here are a few things you should keep in mind.
Check the Expert’s Credibility
- Do a quick background check: Read their website and bio, and make sure they hold relevant qualifications (a degree or extensive experience in nutrition or clinical nutrition is ideal).
- Check professional directories: Look for membership in reputable bodies such as the Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
- Look for specialisations: Nutritionists often have niche expertise, like women’s health, gut health, fertility, or chronic disease management. Choose one whose focus matches your goals.
- Think holistically: Nutrition is just one piece of the wellness puzzle. Consider visiting an integrated wellness centre, such as Wellness Zone, to access complementary services, including acupuncture, remedial massage, and stress management therapies, for complete mind-body support.
Should Everyone See a Nutritionist?
Don’t doubt my intentions if I instinctively say yes. There’s no doubt that eating healthy is the right approach. However, what’s ‘healthy’ for you depends on your lifestyle, metabolism, hormones, and gut.
A qualified clinical nutritionist is trained to understand all of that, plus to consider everything from hormones and digestion to energy and mood. With research-backed strategies, they can support health goals, manage symptoms, and prevent chronic conditions.
While the struggles between calories and kale matter, what you need is a realistic diet plan that supports your whole life, not just the next few plates.
When to See a Nutritionist?
Your mind, body, or soul might be giving you signs that you’re blatantly ignoring. Here are some common red flags worth considering:
- Lethargy is your BFF: You seem to be always tired, and caffeine isn’t fixing it.
- Unpredictable digestion: Bloating, constipation, reflux, etc., are common occurrences.
- Weight fluctuations: Sudden weight loss or gain without trying.
- Mental and emotional roadblocks: Fluctuating and unpredictable mood, focus, or sleep cycle.
- Managing a health condition: Conditions from PCOS and diabetes to menopause and autoimmune disorders need personalised nutrition plans.
What to Check or Collect Before Your Visit
To help you meet your health goal, we’ll need in-depth information about your health, habits, and more. You can consider the following list to expedite the whole process.
- Health insurance: Some private health funds in Australia offer rebates for nutrition consultations; it’s worth confirming before you book.
- Medical records: Recent pathology or blood test results, list of medications or supplements you’re taking.
- Current meal plan: Your generic meal plans, what you prefer, avoid, or are allergic to. A detailed record of what you’ve eaten or drunk in the past 3-4 days. This helps nutritionists to spot patterns or triggers.
Important
Don’t cheat and eat perfectly before your visit, because our diagnosis and the subsequent nutrition plan should be based on your real habits, not your best behaviour ones.
What to Expect During Your Nutritionist Appointment
The overall process may differ from clinic to clinic. However, the process we at Wellness Zone follow is:
- Comprehensive review: To understand your health history, diet, lifestyle, and goals.
- Test: We use the gold standard portable indirect calorimetry machine (ECAL) to measure your Resting Metabolic Rate, Respiratory Quotient (RQ), and Mitochondrial Efficiency.
- Personalised plan: A nutrition plan tailored to your current needs, including a full individualised meal plan with recipes, supplement recommendations, and lifestyle strategies.
- Follow-ups: Track progress to analyse what’s working, what’s not, and fine-tune your plan accordingly.
Sometimes the First Step is Just Asking for Help
Don’t wait for a health scare to prioritise your nutrition. Instead, pay attention now to avoid a health crisis. Food is powerful indeed, but it’s even more powerful when it’s tailored to you. So, let’s get the equation between food, health, and you just right, balanced.
If you’re still confused or need some more assistance, connect with us. Discuss your health and wellness goals with me, and let’s take the first step together.
Book a Free SessionFAQs About Seeing a Nutritionist
1. Do you need a referral to see a dietitian or nutritionist in Australia?
No, you don’t usually need a referral to see a dietitian or nutritionist. You can book directly with a practitioner or wellness clinic. However, if your doctor recommends nutrition support, bring that referral as it can help your nutritionist coordinate with your GP or specialist.
2. Are nutritionists in Australia covered by health funds?
Yes, you can claim nutritionist services from the majority of health funds, depending on your level of cover and individual health fund requirements.
3. Can a nutritionist help with fertility, hormones, or gut health?
Yes, many nutritionists, including myself, Lorraine English, specialise in menopause and gut health. Nutritional therapy can play a powerful role in improving hormonal balance, supporting fertility, and restoring gut health. If you’re seeking targeted help, look for a practitioner with experience in these specialties.
4. Will I have to give up all my favourite foods?
Absolutely not. Good nutrition is about balance, not punishment. Your nutritionist will help you find realistic ways to enjoy the foods you love while still supporting your health goals.
5. What if I have dietary restrictions or allergies?
Don’t worry, nutritionists regularly work with clients who have allergies, intolerances, or who follow specific diets (such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or FODMAP). You’ll receive a tailored plan that respects your needs and keeps your meals enjoyable.
6. How many sessions will I need?
That depends on your goals and health concerns. Some clients only need one or two sessions for guidance, while others benefit from ongoing support over a few months. Your nutritionist will outline a personalised plan after your first appointment.
