Links to Nutrition Sites and FAQs about Seeing an Accredited Practising Dietitian

What's the difference between a Dietitian and Nutritionist? What's an Accredited Practising Dietitian? I've been to a Dietitian before and been unsatisfied with the outcome What happens in an initial appointment? What happens in a review appointment? How often will I need to come back? Can others come along to the appointment? Can I see you after work? Can I pay by credit card? Do I need a referral?

Links to Nutrition Sites

Dietitians
Dietitians Association of Australia www.daa.asn.au

Glycaemic Index
Sydney University GI Research Centre www.glycemicindex.com
GI Symbol Program www.gisymbol.com

Diabetes
Diabetes Victoria www.dav.org.au

Cancer
Cancer Foundation of Victoria www.cancervic.org.au

Heart Health
Heart Foundation of Australia www.heartfoundation.com.au

Depression
Beyond Blue www.beyondblue.org.au

Breastfeeding and Maternal Health
Australian Breastfeeding Association www.breastfeeding.asn.au

Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis Australia www.osteoporosis.org.au

Infertility Information and Support
Monash IVF www.monash.edu.au
Access Infertility www.access.org.au

Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders Foundation of Victoria www.eatingdisorders.org.au

Weight Management
If Not Dieting (Rick Kausman) www.ifnotdieting.com.au

Food Allergy
Royal Prince Alfred Allergy Unit www.cs.nsw.gov.au/rpa/allergy

Physical Activity
Health Dept. WA Physical Activity Program www.findthirty.com.au

Health and Nutrition Fact Sheets and Recipes
Smart Eating (Dietitian's Association) www.smarteating.com.au
Better Health Channel www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au
Nutrition Australia www.nutritionaustralia.com.au

Fruit and Vegetables

Melbourne Market www.marketfresh.com.au
Health Dept. WA Nutrition Program www.gofor2and5.com.au

Grains and Pulses
Go Grains (Bread research Institute) www.gograins.grdc.com.au
Sanitarium Health Food Company www.sanitarium.com.au
Solae Soy Protein www.solaeliving.com

Fish and Seafood
Tasmanian Salmon www.simpleassalmon.com.au
Sydney Fish Markets www.sydneyfishmarket.com.au

Meat (and Iron)
Meat and Livestock Australia www.meat4health.com.au

Dairy Foods
Dairy Australia www.dairyaustralia.com.au

Nuts
Nuts for Health www.nutsforhealth.com.au

Frequently Asked Questions About Seeing an Accredited Practising Dietitian

What's the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?

A nutritionist generally studies for 3 years and learns about nutrients and food. A Dietitian goes on to study for an additional period of time (usually 1-2 years) and learns how to apply the nutrition information to a range of individuals and medical conditions to improve health.

What's an Accredited Practising Dietitian?

An Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) is a member of the Dietitians Association of Australia, and has the qualifications and experience to provide expert nutrition and dietary advice. Claire is a member of the Accredited Practicing Dietitian program.

Not only do APDs have sound tertiary qualifications, they must undergo ongoing training and comply with the Dietitians Association of Australia Code of Professional Conduct. You can identify an Accredited Practising Dietitian by the logo (see above) or by the words 'Accredited Practising Dietitian' or letters 'APD' after their name. Only Dietitians who meet the strict criteria set by the Dietitians Association of Australia are able to display this symbol or use this title.

I've had nutrition advice before and been unhappy with the consultation

Perhaps you weren't seen by an Accredited Practising Dietitian. Maybe you just didn't find the right person for you. Like any profession, Dietitians have different practice philosophies, counselling styles and areas of interest and expertise. You might need to shop around to find the best Dietitian for your individual needs.

We believe at EatWell we have a unique philosophy which is woven into the way we do business. Claire has over 15 years experience in nutrition and health promotion, along with over 5 years of University study. Perhaps more importantly, Claire has 'life experience' which has enriched her counselling skills and approach to helping clients change their lifestyle for the better.

It's not just about nutrition information, that's just a very small part of the experience at EatWell. We will listen to your needs and wants, and work with you to develop a nutrition plan that is unique to you and your lifestyle. Then we'll be there to support you when you need us for motivation, and can help you to identify and address other lifestyle factors which might be related to how you eat.

What happens in an initial appointment?

When you book the appointment you will be given information about our practice and asked to read our privacy policy. Claire will listen to your needs and look at any referrals you may have been given by another health provider. You will then have a discussion with Claire about your current food intake, health, lifestyle, family and work. We may do some measurements as part of the assessment. We will then work on some goals together and provide you with some education and printed materials. Finally we will discuss plans for ongoing support while you put your plans into action (this could be with us or someone else like your GP). Payment is requested at the end of the consultation and you will be given a receipt on the day to take to your health fund. If you like, we can send a letter to your referring health professional to let them know what we have planned.

What happens is a review appointment?

During a review appointment we discuss your progress, any difficulties you may be having implementing your goals, and of course celebrate your success. We can help you to stay motivated, look at ways to manage relapse (which is normal) and offer encouragement and support in a caring and personal manner.

How often will I need to come back?

Our aim is to equip you with the knowledge, skills and confidence to plan and enjoy a flexible healthy eating plan on your own. The time taken to do this varies with each person and nutrition issue. You are the best judge of the level of support you need, so we can see you when you choose.

Can I bring others along to the appointment?

We encourage partners to come along, especially if your partner does the food shopping and cooking. We believe you will be able to focus on the appointment best if you don't bring children, but being a Mum, Claire also understands there are times when this isn't possible or practical. In those instances it is OK to bring a child, but please let Claire know when you book the appointment. We have a few toys in the office to keep your little one busy.

Can I see you after work?

We offer flexible appointment times and can generally see you in the early evening or on a Saturday morning.

Can I pay by credit card?

Yes, we accept payment by credit card, EFTPOS, cash or cheque.

Do I need a referral?

Referrals are not required to claim a health fund rebate, although we recommend you check with your individual health fund. Having said that, we welcome referrals as it enables us to work closely with your GP, which is better for your overall medical care