WHY IS FOOD SO IMPORTANT?
“You are what you eat” is an old adage that holds true in today’s changing environment. By analyzing your diet, nutritionists & NDs are trained to address areas of deficiency and to find simple, sustainable ways to improve your energy and overall health. By utilizing foods, herbs and supplements you’ll discover how wonderful you can feel when you feed your body what it needs to ensure balance.
WHAT IS A CERTIFIED NUTRITIONAL PRACTITIONER?
A Certified Nutritional practitioner or CNP is a graduate of the Institute of Holistic Nutrition and has undergone extensive training on the beneficial results humans can achieve by making optimal food choices. This certification is recognized by two of Canada's most respected regulating bodies: The International Organization of Nutritional Consultants (IONC) and the Canadian association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners (CANNP.)
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A CONSULT WITH A NUTRITIONIST?
You will arrive at Hillcrest 15 minutes early to fill in paperwork. During your appointment, your nutritionist will ask you what your health history is, what your health goals are and gather an idea of what you eat on a regular basis. From that, they will give some pointers and meals that are easy to follow. Depending on your level of personal investment, a full meal plan can be devised or a less intensive version will be suggested. Your nutritionist will ensure at all times that you are never outside your comfort zone but will encourage you to try new things.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER MY FIRST APPOINTMENT?
After your first appointment, you will take away the information from your meeting and start implementing suggested changes from your nutritionist. Ideally, you will start feeling better as you take control of your life and have more energy. You will have check-in appointments with your nutritionist to ensure that you are on the right track and to address any issues or concerns at hand or to modify your trajectory if something isn't working.
I CAN'T EAT HEALTHY ALL THE TIME. WILL MY NUTRITIONIST BLAME ME?
We live in a fast paced society and nutritionists understand that food is a difficult thing to modify in your day to day life. It won't be all kale salad! They will work with you to provide meal ideas and tips to help you to improve the food you consume on a day-to-day basis while keeping you on track for your goals. A nutritionist will never blame you or guilt you in any way.
ARE NUTRITIONIST COVERED BY EXTENDED HEALTH INSURANCE?
Nutritionists (CNPs) are not currently covered by OHIP, however, some extended health benefit plans cover a portion of the costs. Check your benefits plan, or call your insurance provider for more information. Be sure to ask how much coverage you have, if there is a deductible per visit, if there is a limit per visit, and when your policy year ends.
