Nutrition Assessment

Findings during the initial interview are evaluated by the nutritionist, discussed with the client, and shared with the team members. Assessment of initial nutritional status includes an interview by the nutritionist to gather information concerning:

  • usual food, beverage, and supplement intake
  • current weight and recent weight changes
  • physical problems with eating (dental health for example)
  • the need for a nutrition-focused physical examination (and performance of the exam if needed)
  • biochemical laboratory testing to validate observations and findings
  • presence of diarrhea or constipation
  • possible interactions between medications and nutritional status or individual nutrients
  • medical issues that may affect or be affected by nutrition
  • presence of nutritional risk factors related to family history (bipolar disorder, diabetes, etc)
  • subjective symptoms felt by the client to be affecting intake or nutritional status (frequent nausea or extreme fatigue, among others)

Results of laboratory tests will be evaluated and discussed when they are complete. They will then be integrated into goal-setting and determining a treatment plan. The client's priorities and preferences will be an integral part of goals and treatment planning.

Reassessment and follow-up will occur at appropriate intervals for discovering if nutritional status has changed in the desired direction. For example, it may take one to several weeks for a supplement to promote a change in an enzyme level.

Contact our Personal Advocate to help you to find the right provider for your needs.