Nutrition in Motion

Frequently Asked Questions

Moving Toward a Healthier You

FAQ

shutterstock_745926199
This page of Frequently Asked Questions is intended to provide a quick primer as to why the services of Registered Dietitians like those at Nutrition in Motion are so important, and why they are preferred and reimbursable by most major health insurers.

If you have a question you would like to see addressed in this section of our site, please contact us and check back here frequently.

What are 10 reasons to see a Registered Dietitian?

According to the American Dietetic Association, here are the top ten reasons why consulting with a Registered Dietitian can benefit you:

  1. You have or are concerned about health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular problems, or high blood pressure.
  2. You are looking to manage your weight.
  3. You have digestive problems such as Crohn’s, celiac disease, IBS, short bowel syndrome OR are have specific food allergies.
  4. You are concerned about your child’s nutritional well being.
  5. You’re pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding your child.
  6. You’re caring for an aging adult.
  7. You enjoy food or you’re bored with your current grocery list.
  8. You want more energy.
  9. You want to improve your sports performance.
  10. You want to understand nutrition.
What is a Registered Dietitian (RD)?

A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a nutrition expert who specializes in translating the scientific and medical information about food into practical dietary advice.

All Nutrition in Motion providers are RDs. An RD must earn a 4-year nutritional science degree from an accredited university, complete a regimented and demanding 900-hour (minimum) dietetic internship program, pass a national registration exam, and earn continuing education credits to maintain her RD status.

The designation Licensed Dietitian (LD) insures that the registered dietitian has met all credentialing guidelines and is licensed in the state where he or she is providing services

The terms RD and LD are protected terms and assure the public that the professional is qualified. There are no professional standards for the title of Nutritionist.

A “Nutritionist” does not have to meet any professional requirements or standards in order to provide advice, and is not licensed or certified by the State of New Hampshire. In fact, many “Nutritionists” have limited nutritional experience and receive their qualifications at weekend seminars. Therefore, it is best to seek guidance from a Registered Dietitian.

Registered Dietitians are the only nutritional professionals who are able to provide services which are reimbursable by health insurance companies.

View Our Team Page to learn about our staff.

Which diet is the best to follow?

People are successful on weight loss programs because they provide guidelines that are slight deviations from their preferred lifestyles. Don’t cook? Then a plan that requires a great deal of preparation and grocery shopping will probably not work for you long term.

Nutrition is not about “good” or “bad” foods. At Nutrition in Motion we work closely with you to create an individual nutrition program tailored to your lifestyle and dietary preferences.

How much weight can I lose each week?

Weight loss is a balance of calories in vs. calories out. The recommendation for safe, and permanent weight loss is 1-2 pounds of body fat per week. To achieve this, one must eat less and/or expend 500 more calories from the amount of calories your body needs to maintain its current weight. Strict diets, starvation, and extreme exercise programs can achieve rapid weight loss in the short term, but also risk rapid regain plus some once you go back to your normal diet.

It is best to create a small deficit, one in which you do not feel starved or deprived (typically 200-300 calories) and then create the rest of the deficit with physical activity-both strength training and cardiovascular exercises.

Will a dietitian tell me what to eat for every meal?

Some individuals need a structured meal plan while others require flexibility in their approach to lifestyle change. At Nutrition in Motion our services are tailored to meet your learning style and dietary preferences in order to meet your goals.

Does metabolism slow down as you age?

Metabolism slows by a rate of 1-3% every year until age 50, at which point your metabolism stays about the same. This loss is not due to the aging process but rather to the lifestyle of decreased activity associated with aging, leaving us with a 5-7 pound muscle loss each decade without regular strength and cardio training. The best way to determine how many calories you’re truly burning is to have your metabolism tested.

See how easy it is for us to measure your metabolism.

What supplements should I take?

Dietary supplements are a type of nutrition “insurance” for the days/weeks your diet is less than optimal. They should not be used as an excuse to eat highly processed and caloric foods instead of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Certain supplements are appropriate for medical conditions and nutrient deficiencies.

How can I help my child lose weight?

Children need calories for continued growth and development. It is not advisable to put a child on a restricted calorie diet without the assistance of a dietary professional. Weight loss for children is not achieved by calorie restriction but rather by balancing the child’s diet to include healthier options and by increasing opportunities for physical activity.

View our Pediatric Nutrition Page.