We offer 1 shift in nutrition consult per week, attending an average of 6-10 patients per shift. Nutrition consults are free and are normally paired with primary care.
Nutrition consults are of significant importance in Peru for several reasons. Here’s an overview of why they play a crucial role in promoting health and well-being:
Addressing Malnutrition: Peru faces a dual burden of malnutrition, with both undernutrition and overnutrition being prevalent. Nutrition consults help address these issues by providing tailored advice and guidance on proper nutrition. They play a crucial role in assessing individuals’ nutritional status, identifying deficiencies or excesses, and developing personalized dietary plans to ensure optimal nutrition.
Managing Chronic Conditions: Nutrition consults are essential for managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity. Nutritionists work collaboratively with patients to develop customized meal plans that consider their specific health needs, medication regimens, and lifestyle factors. These consultations help individuals better understand their condition, make appropriate dietary modifications, and achieve better disease management outcomes.
Maternal and Child Health: Nutrition consults are particularly crucial for promoting maternal and child health in Peru. They provide guidance on prenatal and postnatal nutrition, supporting the health and development of both mother and child. Proper nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood has a significant impact on the child’s growth, cognitive development, and long-term health outcomes.
Prevention of Micronutrient Deficiencies: Nutrition consults help prevent and address micronutrient deficiencies, such as iron, vitamin A, iodine, and zinc deficiencies, which are prevalent in certain populations in Peru. Through dietary assessments and supplementation recommendations, nutritionists can ensure individuals meet their nutrient requirements, reducing the risk of associated health problems.
Supporting Indigenous and Traditional Diets: Peru is culturally diverse, with various indigenous populations preserving their traditional diets. Nutrition consults respect and incorporate indigenous knowledge and food traditions, promoting culturally appropriate dietary recommendations. This approach helps preserve cultural heritage while addressing nutritional needs and promoting health within these communities.
Education and Health Promotion: Nutrition consults serve as an educational platform to disseminate accurate and evidence-based information about nutrition and health. They help individuals understand the relationship between diet and health outcomes, debunk common nutrition myths, and empower them to make informed choices about their nutrition. By promoting health literacy, nutrition consults contribute to the overall well-being of the population. By promoting healthy eating habits, nutrition consults help prevent diet-related diseases such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Collaboration with Healthcare Teams: Nutrition consults involve close collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and dietitians. This interdisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care, with nutrition playing a vital role in the overall management and prevention of diseases. Collaborative efforts help integrate nutrition into the healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of nutrition as a fundamental aspect of health and well-being.