Nutrition Counselling Nutritionists and Dietitians in Nelson, BC

Photo of Chantal Hayes, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Chantal Hayes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Online Only
Do you feel like you’re drowning in a sea of diet culture or at war with your body? Have you lost count of all your external food rules? If you’ve been thinking about getting off the diet rollercoaster but aren't sure how to go about it, I’m so glad you’re here. I would be honored and grateful to guide you back to your intuitive roots, to deeply nourish your body, mind, and soul. If you want to start listening to your internal cues and break free from the deprivation and guilt cycle, let's work together towards making you feel empowered and liberated from the constant stress and anxiety associated with dieting.
Do you feel like you’re drowning in a sea of diet culture or at war with your body? Have you lost count of all your external food rules? If you’ve been thinking about getting off the diet rollercoaster but aren't sure how to go about it, I’m so glad you’re here. I would be honored and grateful to guide you back to your intuitive roots, to deeply nourish your body, mind, and soul. If you want to start listening to your internal cues and break free from the deprivation and guilt cycle, let's work together towards making you feel empowered and liberated from the constant stress and anxiety associated with dieting.
(548) 639-2145 View (548) 639-2145
Nutrition Counselling Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is nutrition counselling?
Nutrition counselling refers to the services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) that focus on diet and nutrition. Individuals often seek nutrition counselling to make diet-related lifestyle changes, especially after being diagnosed with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. However, nutrition counselling is not limited to these cases, and it can often benefit anyone looking to improve their overall health. Nutrition counsellors also often address other aspects of a healthy lifestyle within sessions, such as advising on physical activity, chronic disease management, and mental health. They provide guidance and motivation, often adopting a holistic approach to support clients in achieving their health and wellbeing goals.

Who should see a nutrition counsellor?
Many people can benefit from seeing a nutrition counsellor; however, individuals with (or at risk of developing) chronic medical conditions or who have specific dietary challenges (for example, IBS, Crohn's disease, etc.) may find a nutrition counsellor particularly helpful. Nutrition counsellors are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have a chronic condition can be greatly beneficial. Nutrition professionals can help clients understand how their diet impacts their symptoms and suggest strategies to improve overall health. Additionally, dietitians can coordinate with other medical professionals, such as primary care physicians or specialty physicians, to help support the client's overall health.

What happens during a nutrition counselling session?
Nutrition counselling is fundamentally focused on a client's individual health goals. The initial session with a nutrition professional typically involves an evaluation, during which the dietitian seeks to understand the client's reasons for seeking nutrition counselling. This session typically includes discussing the client's health history, current eating habits, lifestyle, and specific nutrition counselling goals. In follow-up sessions, the client and dietitian will typically review progress toward these goals, and the dietitian may examine the client's food intake and suggest areas for improvement. They may also educate the client on diet-related topics, such as ensuring adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables or reducing sodium intake. Additionally, nutrition counsellors can help clients stay accountable for other lifestyle changes that support overall health, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, or moderating alcohol consumption.

What should I look for in a nutrition counsellor?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from managing medical conditions to addressing lifestyle concerns like weight loss or specific dietary requirements. When looking for a nutrition counsellor, it is essential to find someone with expertise in the area of nutrition relevant to your needs. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals in your area to determine the best fit. Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, making it important to look for a professional with RD credentials. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you may be interested in seeking out an RD with specialised expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR), as these credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area.