When most people hear the word dietetics, their minds jump straight to food restrictions, calorie counting, and weight loss plans. But dietetics is a science, a calling, and a powerful tool for healing—far beyond the confines of what’s on your plate.

🌱 The Science Behind the Plate

Dietetics is rooted in biochemistry, physiology, and evidence-based medicine. Dietitians don’t just tell you what to eat—they understand how nutrients interact with your body, how chronic diseases alter metabolism, and how tailored nutrition can support recovery, resilience, and longevity.

• Managing diabetes through carbohydrate education
• Supporting cancer patients with therapeutic nutrition
• Preventing heart disease with lipid-lowering strategies
• Enhancing gut health through microbiome-friendly foods

💬 Nutrition is Communication

Dietetics is also about listening. A skilled dietitian doesn’t just hand over a meal plan, they explore your lifestyle, culture, beliefs, and emotional relationship with food. They help you rewrite your food story with compassion and clarity.

• Culturally sensitive nutrition advice
• Mental health support through intuitive eating
• Empowering clients to overcome disordered eating patterns

🧠 Beyond the Body: Dietetics and Mental Health

Food affects mood, cognition, and emotional wellbeing. Dietitians are increasingly working in mental health settings, helping clients manage anxiety, depression, and ADHD through nutritional strategies that support brain function and hormonal balance.

• Omega-3s for mood regulation
• Gut-brain axis and fermented foods
• Stabilizing blood sugar to reduce emotional volatility

💪 Empowering Through Education

Dietetics is about empowerment. It’s not about telling people what they can’t eat, it’s about showing them what they can do with food to reclaim their health, energy, and joy.

Whether you’re recovering from illness, managing a chronic condition, or simply seeking to thrive, dietitians are your allies in health, not food police.

 

Refer to an empower dietitian today.

 

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The Truth About Malnutrition

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Malnutrition is a serious and often overlooked health issue, especially among older adults. It’s not just about eating too little, it’s about not getting the right nutrients. Alarmingly, nearly 50% of older Australians, whether in aged care or living independently, are either malnourished or at risk of malnutrition.

Importantly, malnutrition can affect anyone, regardless of body size. Even individuals who are overweight or obese may be nutritionally compromised.

 

What Is Malnutrition?

Malnutrition occurs when the body doesn’t receive enough energy, protein, vitamins, or minerals to function properly. It can result from:

• Insufficient food intake
• Poor dietary choices
• Difficulty absorbing or utilising nutrients

Over time, these deficiencies can lead to serious health complications.

 

Spot the Signs Early

Early identification is key to preventing long-term health impacts. Common signs of malnutrition in older adults include:

• Unintentional weight loss
• Reduced appetite or fluid intake
• Difficulty swallowing
• Digestive issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation)
• Slow wound healing or pressure injuries
• Muscle weakness or fatigue
• Recent illness or hospitalisation
• Cognitive decline affecting eating habits

 

Quick Screening Tool: Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST)

The Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST) is a simple, evidence-based way to identify those at risk. It involves just two questions about recent weight loss and appetite.
👉 Download the MST here 

 

Why Older Adults Are Vulnerable

Malnutrition in older adults often develops gradually due to:

• Reduced appetite or sensory changes
• Difficulty chewing or swallowing
• Chronic health conditions and medications
• Cognitive decline or depression
• Social isolation or financial hardship
• Limited mobility or frequent hospitalisations

These factors can make it harder to maintain a balanced diet and adequate nutrition.

 

The Cost of Delayed Intervention

Without timely support, malnutrition can lead to:

• Loss of muscle mass and strength
• Increased risk of infections and falls
• Poor wound healing
• Fatigue and cognitive decline
• Longer recovery times
• Greater dependence and risk of hospitalisation

 

Dietitians Make a Difference

Timely referral to a dietitian can significantly improve outcomes. Dietitians provide:

• Comprehensive nutritional assessments
• Personalised dietary plans
• Practical nutrition education
• Support for appetite and weight stabilisation
• Improved healing, energy, and independence

 

Accessible Support

We offer flexible options to suit your needs, including:

• In-person consultations
• After-hours telehealth appointments

 

Key Takeaway

Malnutrition isn’t always visible, but its impact is profound. By raising awareness, encouraging early screening, and referring to dietitians, we can help older adults live healthier, more independent lives.

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