Your clients will be great teachers , so listen carefully to them - they ' ll guide you to areas where you need to upskill .
Are clients with long term gut issues frightened of the concept of reintroducing foods into their diet ?
Yes . Some of them are really keen , but you will get a handful of clients who are extremely fearful . They ' re the ones you need to monitor closely and check in with regularly to reassure them it ' s okay . You really do need to nurture them because it can become disordered eating over time . I have found some success with breathing techniques and relaxation exercises prior to eating ; it helps to calm the nervous system in the gut .
What are the three most common gut health misconceptions you see in practice ?
1 . Cutting out dairy . 2 . Cutting out whole grains . 3 . Cutting out gluten .
There ' s so much on social media and in alternative practices that guide people to cut these foods out . Rarely is it ever that they ' re told to cut out junk food !
What would your three key takeaways be for dietitians who want to expand their practice in gut health ?
1 . Don ' t be afraid . Just start where you feel comfortable .
2 . Look for upskilling opportunities .
3 . Find a mentor or join an interest group .
© Dietitian Connection 18 Infuse | February 2023