Nutrition

The role of the dietitian is to provide you with information and tools to help you take charge of your health. The goal is to help you find a style of eating and exercise that will support your health. Your visit with one of our dietitians may include any of the following options depending on what you need and want.

PROCEDURES/SERVICES (Including, but not limited to)

• An evaluation of your current food patterns or diet considering your health concerns
• Guidelines to help you choose a more healthful pattern of eating
• A meal plan based on your individual nutrition needs
• An evaluation of your blood glucose response to meals and snacks for patients with diabetes

WHO SHOULD SEE A DIETITIAN

• Diabetes
  • Type 1, Type 2 and Gestational Diabetes
• Heart Disease, High Cholesterol, Low HDL Levels,
• High Triglycerides, Congestive Heart Failure
• High Blood Pressure
• Metabolic Syndrome
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
• Digestive Disorders
  • Irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, lactose intolerance, reflux/heartburn
• Weight
  • Diet and exercise tailored to the individual.
  • Regular follow up and weight monitoring.
• Bariatric Surgery
  • Insurance mandated nutrition therapy will be completed 6-12 months prior to the surgery only for patients referred by their Portland Clinic physician.
• Eating Disorders in Adults
  • Initial appointment for evaluation of anorexia and bulimia. Ongoing nutrition therapy is done only in coordination with a psychotherapist.
• Health Maintenance and Disease Prevention
  • You may not be ill now, but you have a family history or a concern about a particular illness and want to make changes to decrease your risk.

HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT WITH THE DIETITIAN

You will get the most from your appointment if you prepare in advance.

1. Contact your insurance company to ask if your policy covers medical nutrition therapy by a licensed dietitian for your diagnosis or concern.
2. Keep a record of everything that you eat or drink for at least 3 days. A form for this is available on our website or use plain lined paper.
3. Include in the record:
   • Time that you eat or drink
   • Food or beverage, describing it as specifically as you can
   • Amount that you eat or drink
4. Bring any vitamins/minerals and herbs that you take.
5. Bring any labels for unusual foods that you eat regularly or that you want to ask about (e.g. meal replacement beverages, protein powder, sports bars).