My approach to client healthcare is always holistic, with diet and lifestyle advice being as much a part of my treatments as the acupuncture itself.

Foods play a central role in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and I often recommend particular foods to help alleviate certain conditions; for example if digestion is sluggish and stagnant, warming spices like ginger and cinnamon can stimulate the digestive fire. Equally, too much heat in the system can be eased with cooling foods like apples, cucumber and mung beans.

When it is clear that a client’s diet is deeply imbalanced and seriously affecting their health, or if I suspect food intolerances may be present, I refer people to my colleague Sally Duffin, Nutritional Therapist at Nutrition in York.

We have worked together with many clients and seen wonderful results. Be warned, the combined forces of holistic nutrition and TCM acupuncture can radically change your health!

What is a Nutritional Therapist?

There are several types of nutrition practitioners and it is important to understand their differences and how they will work with you:

Nutritional Therapists

Nutritional Therapists (NTs) use a wide range of techniques to spot potential nutritional imbalances and understand how these may be contributing to your symptoms and health concerns. They offer individualised care in the same way I do, with each nutrition plan being tailored to suit the client’s needs.

At your initial consultation you will be asked about your health history, current health issues, diet and lifestyle so the NT can build up a picture of your overall health and which areas to support. Functional tests may be recommended to investigate certain symptoms; for example food intolerances, hormone imbalances or digestive issues.

Nutritional therapy is recognised as a complementary medicine and is especially beneficial for ongoing conditions such as digestive complaints, coping with stress, mood and memory balance, joint care, skin problems and hormonal imbalances.

Nutritional Therapists registered with a professional body (British Association of Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy (BANT) or the Federation of Nutritional Therapists (FNTP)) are trained to a high standard and must meet the National Occupational Standards in order to qualify. They are covered by public indemnity insurance and are usually also registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC).

Dieticians

Dieticians work principally in the National Health Service where they devise eating plans for patients to treat medical conditions. They may also work in the community via Health Centres and GP surgeries, in government roles or in sports organisations. Their approach is protocol based rather than individualised, with little scope to adapt recommendations to suit each person. The term ‘dietician’ is legally protected and only dieticians registered with the Health and Care Professionals Council may use it. Only dieticians and Registered Nutritional Therapists are trained in clinical practice to give one-on-one personal health advice.

Nutritionists

The term ‘nutritionist’ is not currently a protected term so anyone can use it. However, Registered Nutritionists are registered with the UK Voluntary Register of Nutritionists and are able to demonstrate high levels of training in their field.

Nutritionists work largely in organisations, public health research, education and policy development as opposed to one-on-one with clients. The term ‘nutritionist’ is often used to refer to professionals who work in jobs in which scientific knowledge is applied to foods e.g. food manufacturing or the retail industry.

Nutrition Advisor/Dietary Advisor

Other complementary therapists or fitness professionals may offer general nutrition recommendations. There are many short courses in nutrition available, but they do not meet the National Occupational Standards for nutritional therapy.

Is your diet letting you down?

Would you like to experience the amazing benefits of TCM Acupuncture AND Nutritional Therapy?

Book today to see one of the UK’s TOP 3 ACUPUNCTURISTS! Call Tiziana today on 07788 633292 or email at info@yorktraditionalacupuncture.co.uk