Hi, with the recent changing research on the harm of red meat, I was wondering to what extent other Occupational Therapists consider nutritional advice as a key consideration of many interventions. Often we need to identify alternative foods and hydration when impairments and the home environment limit food preparation ?
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Nutritional considerations
Nutritional considerations
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Hi Jamie, tend to agree on whether there is a need for OTs to give detailed nutritional advice but we do need to focus on barriers for effective food preparation and consumption to maximise the client's rehabilitation (e.g. hydration and drink making)
Hi @Bill Knight. I feel this clear remit should primarily be addressed by nutritional specialists. I wouldn't say that nutritional advice is a KEY consideration of occupational therapy intervention - but it could form part of recommendations/considerations with certain patients/clients. A few others' comments, from across the Hub's social media network... Barbara (Twitter): "I am working closely with a Dietitian to educate patients. She looks at nutrition and I look at functioning in preparing food and drink."
Mallory (Twitter):
"I for one DO NOT feel comfortable giving nutrition advice; I don’t believe it is in our scope of practice; nutrition courses are not a requirement. If I’m concerned about a clients nutrition, or they ask for advice, I believe the right thing to do is refer to a RD or equivalent."
Good point Bill. I think it is also really important to consider the impact of food on mood within mental health settings. Personally, I have ran some psychoeducation sessions on this and have sought advice from a dietician for a number of service users. It has also been good fun running cooking sessions to enhance skills whilst also encouraging people to have a more nutritional diet which is important for their recovery and independent living skills.