Spectrum Nutrition

What To Expect From Your Appointment.

An overview of what to expect during your first appointment with your dietitian.

What Happens At My First Video Appointment?

Click the link provided in your confirmation email five minutes early to set up and test your microphone and camera. Your Dietitian or Nutritionist will then greet you and ask you to confirm some details: DOB, email and phone number. The appointment begins by taking a detailed medical history to get all the information about your current issue and any symptoms you are experiencing. They will also ask you about your weight and height if appropriate.

From here, they will do a nutritional assessment to figure out what the issue is. They will then explain the findings of the assessment to you and answer any questions you have. This assessment allows our team to develop a specific treatment plan for you and this will be started during the first session.

What Does The Initial Assessment Involve?

Your Dietitian or Nutritionist will carry out a full assessment before any advice can be given to make sure it is correct for you. Are you planning to compete in a race? Do you suffer from IBS and are confused about what you can and can’t eat? Maybe you are a healthy weight and want to learn how to make better nutritional choices? No matter the issue or goal, our expert team tailor their appointments to each individual.

1) Nutritional Assessment:

  • A history of your diet and analysis of it

  • Asking about your weight and height

  • Calculating your calorie requirements

  • The level of activity you are currently at

2) Nutritional Goals:

  • What are your goals?

  • Attainable goals will be set together with you, along with a clear action plan

3) Nutrition Plan:

Our team will explain exactly which areas need to be worked on for you to achieve your goals. This will entail a complete overview of your current lifestyle (not just your diet, but your level of activity, etc.).

Based on your assessment findings, you will receive a calorie-specific nutrition plan to help you reach your goals. This is just a starting point to make sure you get to know the nutritional value of food and how to make better choices, but this plan will develop and change over time. Rest assured that all of our balanced plans are full of deliciously healthy meals made with foods available in regular supermarkets – and focused on things you actually enjoy eating!

Now I Have Completed The First Video Appointment, What Will The Follow Up Entail?

Follow up video appointments (usually 30 minutes long) are important to review your progress, keep you on track and help you to stay motivated. After your first appointment you can choose whether to embark on a structured programme or opt for individual consultations, depending on your preferences.

We tailor all our programmes from person to person, because we know there’s no fixed solution that works for everyone. If you do not choose a programme, you can decide together at the first appointment how many visits you will need.

During these reviews, your Dietitian or Nutritionist will give you advice based on your own body and experience so that you can achieve your goals and overcome any barriers to change. Further meal plans and recipes can also be provided.

How Many Video Appointments Do I Need To Attend?

This varies hugely from person to person depending on what your issue and goals are. The exact number will be based on several factors:

  • Your starting point and your goal

  • Your current understanding of nutrition

  • Your personal preference – do you like hands-on support or do you prefer to work alone?

  • Your progress – what you do between appointments will determine how fast you achieve your goal

FAQ Clarification

Will I receive a tailored meal plan during my first video consultation?

After your first video consultation, our team will explain the key points that you will need to work on in order to reach your goals. You will be given a starter meal plan if indicated and this can be expanded upon in future consultations.

Will I be expected to do anything in between consultations?

Yes. For optimal results you will be asked to stick to a personalised nutrition plan. You may be asked to track what you are eating and exercise may be included as part of your programme.