Clinical nutrition

What is Clinical Nutrition?

Clinical nutrition is a medical specialty that studies the effects of food and nutrients on health and disease. This specialty focuses on using scientifically based nutrition plans to prevent illness, support treatment, and improve overall health. Specialists in this field are medically trained and understand how nutrition affects the body, interacts with medications, and influences various health conditions.

Role of a Clinical Nutrition Specialist

A clinical nutritionist evaluates a patient’s nutritional status, reviews their medical history, and identifies any risks or nutrient deficiencies. After the assessment, the specialist develops a personalized nutrition plan tailored to the patient’s health needs and lifestyle. Because this specialty is medically based, the specialist is qualified to manage nutrition in complex situations such as chronic diseases or during medical treatments.

Cases That Can Benefit From Clinical Nutrition

• Diabetes, including type 1, type 2, and prediabetes
  
  
• Obesity, underweight, or malnutrition

• Pre- or post-bariatric surgery nutrition

• Heart disease, high cholesterol, or high blood pressure
  
  
• Thyroid disorders
  
  
• Gastrointestinal problems such as digestive inflammations or malabsorption
  
  
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or insulin resistance

• Osteoporosis or joint inflammation

• Selective eating or feeding behavior issues in children

• Eating disorders or anorexia nervosa in adolescents

• Autism or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children

• Immune-related conditions

• Food allergies

• Alzheimer’s disease or Dementia
  
  
• Pregnancy and lactation for specialized nutritional support
  
  
• Sports or developmental nutrition for children and athletes
  
  
• General nutrition guidance for disease prevention and wellness