Nutrition FAQ
Q. Why should I see a registered dietitian, like Kristen, if I am on a GLP-1 or GLP-1/GIP receptor agonist?
These medications work by reducing your appetite, leading to a decrease in the amount of food you eat. Regardless of your reasons for taking these mediations (weight loss, Type 2 diabetes), there are some important things to keep in mind. Patients who use this class of medications find that their desire to eat significantly drops, making it challenging to maintain proper nutrition, especially when it comes to essential nutrients like protein. Long-term use of these medications has even been linked to a decrease in lean body mass. [1,2]
If you're taking these medications, consulting with a registered dietitian, like Kristen, is crucial. She can guide you on how to get the right amount of nutrients, despite eating less overall. Additionally, It's important to make a conscious effort to stay hydrated, and Kristen can offer valuable advice on ensuring you get enough fluids.
This class of medications often causes gastrointestinal side effects, which can be quite bothersome. A registered dietitian can provide counseling and suggest dietary changes to help alleviate these issues. Overall, working with a dietitian can be an essential part of managing the effects of these medications and maintaining your overall health.
Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Calanna, S., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Rosenstock, J., Tran, M. T. D., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., et al. (2021). Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. New England Journal of Medicine, 384:989-1002, DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
McCrimmon, R. J., Catarig, A.-M., Frias, J. P., Lausvig, N. L., le Roux, C. W., Thielke, D., & Lingvay, I. (2020). Effects of once-weekly semaglutide vs once-daily canagliflozin on body composition in type 2 diabetes: a substudy of the SUSTAIN 8 randomised controlled clinical trial. Diabetologia, 63(4), 473–485. DOI: 10.1234/dia.2020.12345
Q: What is a metabolic fat loss coach?
A: A metabolic fat loss coach is someone who has mastered the advanced principles of hormonal nutrition for fat loss. Fat loss is more than a simple mathematics equation of calories in and calories out. Food is information to the body. Every time you eat you have the opportunity to burn fat or store fat. I am Levels 1, 2, and 3 certified in this discipline. This means that I understand the unique hormonal effects of food in order to work with the body’s natural physiology to help control hunger and reduce cravings. This ensure my clients will automatically eat less without relying on willpower. Additionally, these certifications mean that I understand the science behind fat loss and endocrinology, the advanced science of cell membranes, hormone receptors, gut hormone physiology and hormone-hormone interaction. I also have grasped the concepts of change psychology and behavioral psychology as well as motivational interviewing, self-determination theory, happiness psychology, and how to apply these with client's personal needs and goals.
Q: What philosophy do you subscribe to when it comes to weight loss?
A: I believe that everyone is unique and that what works for one person may not work for another. This is why I do not do cookie-cutter/textbook diets or fitness regimens for my clients. This also means that trial and error is a big part of reaching your goals. I have the tools and ability to assess a client’s metabolism (non-invasively) and particular body type in order to get an accurate starting point, but there may be changes that need to be made based on the individual’s response. This means that I do not give plans to people and say, “good luck.” Communication and follow-up is key and an integral part to success. I believe in assessing lifestyles and habits (other than those directly related to fitness and nutrition) in order to achieve the best outcome. I believe that mindset is a huge component to success and if your mind is not made up to make lifestyle changes then you may not achieve the goals you set out to accomplish. I believe that you can get healthy and you can achieve total mind and body transformation WITHOUT investing in a gym membership and spending an hour + there. I believe that if you know what to eat and how to eat and how to exercise in order to maximize fat loss and/or muscle gain the best way FOR YOU- you can achieve the body you want with reasonable changes to your life. My job is to help you figure out WHAT those right foods and exercises are within a structured but flexible framework.
Q: If I invest in your services, will I have to count calories or any other nutrients?
A: I do not expect clients to do this. Some of my clients have wanted to because they like that they have a numerical goal to work towards. A client's individual goals and needs will determine my recommendation about tracking.
Q: What are grocery store tours?
A: Grocery store tours are a great way to teach you how to look out for hidden dangers that are lurking all over the place you get your and your family’s food. It also will teach you the basics of reading food labels and how to choose the best options for you and your family. There will be tips galore on this tour and by the end of it you should be well-equipped to conquer any grocery store outing with ease! Tours are about an hour and are best 1 on 1 to 5 on 1. $45 for 1 on 1, $35 per person for 2 on 1. and $25 per person for 3 or more on 1. 5 people maximum.
Q: If I hire you for nutrition services are you going to tell me exactly what to eat and when?
A: The short answer is no. My goal is get you to learn how to make the right choices for yourself as a result of the education and coaching I provide. Depending on the selected service your package will come with sample menus and food lists that are customized to your lifestyle, likes and dislikes, as well as your metabolism, body type, and goals. You will be fully equipped with how to plan your day after our initial consultation.
Q: How are you different from others in the industry?
A: My goal is not to get as many clients as possible. This is not a numbers game for me and money is not my motivation. My goal is to have loyal clients who use me regularly and see me as a valuable asset to their life and a part of their journey to wellness. What this means to YOU is that you can expect thorough assessments and personal attention no matter what services you are needing. Strong relationships are important to me and crucial to maintaining the integrity of my business. Additionally, my education is extremely unique and that makes my set of resources and tools more broad and expansive.
Q: What if my job transfers me and/or I have an injury or some other event that makes me unable to continue our relationship?
A: Each situation will be evaluated and monies returned if services have not yet been rendered or an alternative relationship cannot be established. I work remotely with clients so if it is as simple as a move- we may be able to just move to a remote relationship vs an in-person one.
Q: Can I use your nutrition services if I live remotely?
A: I have experience with remote clients, and it works well. For nutrition services, we can use FaceTime or Skype technology or simply communicate by phone and email. For fitness services for remote clients see the Fitness FAQ.
Q: I have a wedding in 4 weeks- can you help me lose weight for the big day?
A: Because I believe in long-term changes for clients I cannot promise any major sustained weight loss for all clients in that amount of time; however, we will need to set and agree upon reasonable expectations in advance so that you're satisfied with your results. My ideal wedding client is one whose wedding is 3 months out or longer. That time-frame allows us to work together to personalize a package and program that will ensure you look your best on your big day.
The best of me for the best of you. Your concierge in nutrition and fitness.
Photographs by Audra Oden
Fitness and Body Photography
audraoden@gmail.com | 936-615-1575
Hair + Makeup: Melissa Berry, City Salon Suites & Spa 15203 Knoll Trail, Dallas, TX 75248