How can dietitians support you?
If there is one thing Gemma Prendergast wants people to know this National Nutrition Week it is this: “dietitians are not the food police”.
Gemma has been a senior dietitian with ACH Group for the past two years and has formerly worked with AFLW team the Adelaide Crows during their premiership year in 2019.
“There is this perception that a dietitian is there to tell you what you can and can’t do – that is not the case, we are there to work with you,” she said.
“Even the smallest adjustments in nutrition can do wonders to improve people’s quality of life, and in some cases, completely transform their life.
“My role is to get to know you and to provide advice on things that they can do that fit within their budget, lifestyle and personal preferences.”
3 tips for improving your nutrition
Gemma said there were so many simple steps people can take to improve their nutrition to support their physical and mental health.
Calcium isn’t just milk
You can get calcium through salmon, sardines, tofu and leafy greens which is great to support bone health.
Eat regularly
Aim for three base meals every day.
Add more protein
You can get calcium through salmon, sardines, tofu and leafy greens which is great to support bone health.
Learn more about eating well to age well and explore the ways you can improve your diet to fit with your personal tastes, abilities and lifestyle.
Small adjustments can lead to big changes overtime
“The small adjustments people make can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol, can raise energy levels and improve the quality of sleep,” she said.
“A big part of a role of the dietitian is to ensure that the nutrition changes that are made are practical and repeatable, so they become routine and habit.”
Gemma said older South Australians may be surprised with how many avenues there are to receive support from an ACH Group dietitian.
People can be referred via their GP as part of a chronic disease management plan, through the Commonwealth Home Support Program via My Aged Care or through a Home Care Package (or Support at Home Program) by speaking with their care manager or care partner.
National Nutrition Week
National Nutrition Week is an annual campaign championed by Nutrition Australia. The theme of inspiring a connected and nourished Australia encourages us to slow down, share, and appreciate food – from where it comes from to the enjoyment of eating together.
Food is more than fuel. It’s a story, a tradition, a connection.
Key messages are:
- Food connects us – to culture, community, and nature
- Eat with gratitute – appreciate where food comes from, the effort behind it, and the journey from earth to place
- Enjoy eating together – sharing meals nourishes us socially, culturally, emotionally and physically
- Mealtimes matter – encourage conversation and connection, from the playground or workplace to the dinner table
- Grow, cook, share – food brings us together. Plant something, cook with family and friends, or get family involved.
- Nourish the moment – slowing down, tasting, and enjoying each mouthful.
Learn more about National Nutrition Week.
Supporting you to achieve your health and wellbeing goals
Good nutrition can help to decrease your risk of memory loss, maintain your strength and feel better as you age.
Support your health with advice and support from ACH Group’s dietitians who will work with you to develop a realistic and tailored nutritional plan.
Contact us today to find out more.
