Simple Changes in Nutrition Can Make a Difference in Your Health

By Mary Hunt, MS, RDN

As we spring forward and the signs of nature’s beauty are all around us, what a wonderful time to pause and reflect on our self care! Along with good sleep, keeping physically active, managing our stress and connecting with others, good nutrition is one of the main pillars of health!

Following a healthy dietary pattern may not only delay the progression of chronic disease such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, it can improve your mental clarity, help regulate your appetite and blood sugar, decrease anxiety levels and boost your energy level and mood! Some studies suggest a “good dietary pattern” may be as effective as an antidepressant! Other benefits include strengthening your immune system, decreasing inflammation and delaying cognitive decline. With obesity on the rise and affecting 42% of our population, making healthy food choices and understanding how healthier choices and behaviors can work for you, may be the key to long term weight management success.

The problem is we are bombarded with information from the internet, social media, friends, family, coworkers, the daily news, it’s hard to know what to believe! Keto, intermittent fasting, good carbs, no carbs, omega 3’s, what supplements to take?…. It can be so confusing.

Nutrition is a complex science, not an opinion! Nutrition recommendations are constantly changing as research continues to evolve. Along with Dr. West, I like to base my practice on evidence based information. Yet, also taking into account the 35 years of experience I have had empowering and educating my clients, and most importantly, consideration of your individual lifestyle, food preferences, challenges and specific needs.

A nutrition consultation is a wonderful opportunity to take advantage of your concierge membership benefits at Eileen West, MD and Associates. It typically lasts 45 minutes, and an appointment can be made on my website. Prior to your consultation, you will complete a registration form which asks questions about your usual intake, activity level and nutrition concerns. Once gathering more information during our session about your family and medical history, I would like to help you come up with 1 or 2 easy, enjoyable, and sustainable goals.

I can provide quick and easy meal and snack suggestions, help you interpret food labels, navigate the grocery aisles, modify recipes, or discuss healthier options when eating out and traveling. I like to focus on the joy of gaining health and strength, and not on the number on your scale!

Self care and taking time for your health care needs is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Let me help you find new foods you can get excited about!

“To eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art” –Francois de La Rochefoucauld

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Mary Hunt is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has been serving the Fairfax and Washington metropolitan area since 1987. Her approach focuses on empowering her patients with optimism and providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to achieve healthier eating habits as well as overall improved health and wellness. We’re proud to have her as part of our team!

Members of Eileen West, MD and Associates are eligible to receive a complimentary nutrition consultation with Mary at your convenience. Simply call our office to schedule your appointment.