Nutritionist

I am curious how many people have not seen a nutritionist or have gone on their own to see one with out the surgeon recommending or suggesting it?  If you have how did you chose one? maxine

Hi Maxine, I went to Dr. Mehta's nutritionist in the beginning; however, since I am about 40 minutes away (without traffic) I found that I couldn't quite get there.  I was doing well on my own, but last summer started to have some food issues.  I got a referral from my PCP and went to a nut near me who had some (not much) experience with bariatric patients.  His suggestions helped and I haven't needed him again.  I am 3-1/2 years out. Kathy

I went to the nutritionist that was associated with my surgeon.  As the previous post stated,  you can also ask your primary doctor for a referral as well. Carla

Maxine: It is funny that you bring this up.  I attend a WLS intensive support group in NJ.  These are all 9 month or more post ops and is very intense small gathering.  We all have had our surgeries at different facilities but the therapist wanted to bring in a nut.  She happen to bring in the nut who is part of the surgical team that I am with.  The wealth of information that this man conveyed to the group was astounding.  All of this group had reached goals and there was so many things that they just didn't know.  The reason I mention this because post-op support of a nut is extremely important.  I am one year post op and I find that at least once a month I e-mail my nut a question about certain foods, and more so about different vitamins and nutrients. Yes, seek out a good nut who is familiar with surgery.  You have put yourself through a long battle and you want to do everything possible to continue on a successful path. Jeanne

I went to a nutrionist at University Hospital in Newark.  I found her on my own from the internet and it has been the best choice for me.  Her name is MaryAnn and she is bariatric nutritionist.  The nutritionist with my doctor's office did not take insurance and my friends say was not very helpful only giving a diet and taking  their money. Melissa

Hi Maxine, My primary doctor has a nutritionist in there office so I will continue to see her after my surgery.  What Insurance do you have?  I have Horizon NJ Health which is my HMO-NJ Family Care-Medicaid. So I had to also find a nutritionist that takes my insurance, I remembered that there was a nutritionist at my family doctor's office.  I hope this was helpful to you. Melissa

All of the information was very very helpful I have BlueCross PPO.  I am sure I will find one that accepts insurance. I will have to start first with gogle then with the insurance. Thanks for the help! maxine

Maxine-using the services of a BARIATRIC nutritionist is crucial.  You need to find someone who you feel comfortable with and knows about our pouches.  My bariatric center has a wonderful and knowledgeable nutritionist who is always available to answer questions and research new products.  I feel she goes above and beyond what most nuts do.  I paid out of pocket because my insurance (horizon bcbs) didn't cover more than a few visits.  I see the nut every time I go for my follow up appt.  Go to www.horizon-bcbsnj.com and you can find approved nuts. there.

I personally used the dietitian that was associated with the pre-surgical program at my hospital.  But now I am in school to become a dietitian...so here's my reccomendation for you.  Go to the American Dietetic Association's web site....Eatingright.com.  You put in your zip code and it will provide you with a list of nearby professionally credentialed dietiticians.... It is important to know that anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, but only Registered Dietitians have studied a specific course of study through an accredited dietetics program.  I did not know the distinction and could have been lead in the wrong direction.... Some healthclubs actually hire people with weekend workshops as their nutrition education..It is very important to make sure that you have someone who has experience with bariatrics education too...Because much of the post wls diet is in opposition to healthy diet requirements..... Good luck,,,

Thank you for your info...as I am still struggling to eat correctly.  I am not overdoing anything but I am bored with my choices and prefer to skip a meal than make a mistake.  So this web site will be a great tool thanks! maxine