Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, COPD and arthritis, are a leading cause of disability and death around the world. Nutrition has a significant impact on many chronic diseases and conditions. Support from a chronic disease dietitian can manage or eliminate symptoms, while improving overall health and helping you feel more in control of your own health.
Many chronic health conditions are preventable. But once you develop a chronic disease, it can be scary and confusing to know where to turn to for advice and support. With appropriate nutritional strategies, alongside exercise and lifestyle changes, you can often manage the disease, alleviate symptoms, slow disease progression or even reverse your diagnosis.
Nutritional advice for chronic health conditions can sometimes be conflicting, confusing or overly restrictive. Unnecessary food restrictions can potentially undermine your health and your relationship with food, leading to greater problems long-term. Working with a dietitian will focus on including more healthful foods, whilst encouraging you to enjoy eating a range of tasty meals.
For example, risk factors for heart disease include obesity, high blood pressure and uncontrolled diabetes, all of which could be improved through diet and lifestyle changes. Heart disease results from the narrowing of the arteries that supply the heart with blood through a process known as atherosclerosis. Fatty deposits (or plaque) gradually build up on the inside of the artery walls, narrowing the space in which blood can flow to the heart. A diet that is high in fibre, plant foods, protein and unsaturated fats can substantially reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease, as well as reducing other risk factors.
Our chronic disease dietitian specialists will give you evidence-based, personalised support if you’re at risk of, or have been diagnosed with a chronic disease, so get in touch if you’d like to book a consultation!
