What is Nutritional Therapy?
Nutritional Therapy is an evidence-based approach to maximising one’s health potential though individually formulated nutritional and lifestyle changes. Physiological and biochemical processes involved in nourishment of the body are considered in consultations.
You may also hear Nutritional therapy referred to as functional nutrition, integrative nutrition or Naturopathic Nutrition. Our Nutritional Therapists are trained and equipped to bring together authentic traditions of Oriental medicine with current Western research-based nutrition. The ethos of our founder Aine Delaney in regards to the importance of Organic Whole food is passionately shared by our resident Nutritional Therapist (NT).
Why do we need Nutritional Therapy?
- There exists a sharp increase in the number of people being diagnosed and suffering with complex chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, mental health issues, and autoimmune disorders among others.
- Although our medical system may be under strain, it is a system orientated towards expertly dealing with acute care; the diagnosis and treatment of a trauma or of an illness that is of a more short duration and in need of critical urgent care and often involving drugs, surgeries or more minor procedures e.g. a broken bone or appendicitis. This rapid response methodology saves lives every day, thanks to the quick thinking and actions of paramedics, nurses and doctors.
- At the Crane clinic, our Nutritional Therapists spend a lot of time working on each individuals case and with the person, listening to the person and taking an in-depth case history. Managing and preventing complex, chronic disease requires specific methodology and tools, taking into account unique genetic makeup, environmental exposures to toxins and some almost unavoidable lifestyle factors of modern society that are shown to have a direct impact on the rise in chronic disease in Ireland today.
- Nutritional Therapy is an integrative, science-based healthcare approach, client focused and considers the complex web of interactions in a persons genetic make-up, history, physiology, and lifestyle that can lead to illness. Both internal (mind, body, and spirit) and external (physical and social environment) factors are taken into account that affect total functioning of an individual.
- Use of the latest laboratory testing will be utilised when necessary and in consultation with the client and recommendations of botanicals, supplements to complement the therapeutic nutrition plan or particular health & wellbeing program.
What does an Nutritional Therapy consultation at The Crane Clinic involve?
- Focus on educating the client in regards to proven benefits of nutrient dense foods with a focus on understanding the power of food as medicine, benefits of chemical-free foods and avoiding toxins in the environment.
- Nutritional Therapy involves an approach which treats the person as an individual, involving a thorough pre-consultation and face to face consultation to deliver a tailored Nutrition plan and support regarding lifestyle and behaviours.
- Advice on specific nutritional supplements suitable for the individual, should they be required to optimise health. Food first, then supplementation.
- Guidance on testing for each individual (see more below).
Testing at the Crane Clinic
- Data derived from a person’s microbiome, genome, and clinical biomarkers are rapidly advancing the science and practice of personalised nutrition to support optimal health.
- Our Nutritional Therapist is trained to advise on suitable testing for individuals and interpret data to further personalise therapeutic Nutrition plans focusing on specific foods and food components as well as nutrient-based supplements and their integration in a whole-person, client-centred model of healthcare.
Nutritional therapy may be used to address a wide range of health issues including:
- Digestive problems
- Gut health
- Blood sugar imbalances
- High cholesterol
- Fertility optimisation
- Autoimmune disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections
- Cardiovascular disease and more