Medical nutrition therapy involves using specific dietary plans designed by registered dietitians or nutritionists to manage disease and improve overall health. As lifestyle-related illnesses rise in India, medical nutrition is gaining recognition as a vital component of healthcare.
Nutrition in Disease Management
Chronic diseases topping India's health issues like diabetes, heart disease, obesity and certain cancers have strong India medical nutrition aspects. Lifestyle and dietary modifications along with medications can help control these conditions. Medical nutrition assists physicians in prescribing nutrient-dense, balanced diets tailored to a patient's needs. For diabetics, low-glycemic whole foods can stabilize blood sugar levels. Heart patients may follow a low-fat, low-sodium plan. Cancer patients take high-protein, high-calorie diets. Such diets support healing and minimize side effects of therapies.
Nutrition for Various Life Stages
Indians' nutrition needs vary significantly across life stages. Medical nutrition helps address each stage's demands. Children need macronutrients, micronutrients and energy for growth. Adolescents and expectant/breastfeeding mothers need specially formulated diets. Senior citizens have different macronutrient ratios and face risk of malnutrition. Sports and clinical nutritionists work with athletes and patients for balanced recovery diets. Medical nutrition ensures nourishment for all populations.
Dietary Needs of Special Groups
Certain medical conditions demand unique nutrition intervention. For eg. kidney/liver disorders require regulating protein, fat and electrolyte intake. Medical nutritionists calculate nutrient requirements of these patients. Diet counselling aims at preempting further complications. Low-FODMAP diets benefit IBS patients by restricting fermentable carbs. Gluten-free regimens aid celiac disease management. Formulating therapeutic diets requires advanced training which medical nutrition provides.
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