Nutritional consulting can be an essential part of developing a healthy eating plan and achieving long-term goals like weight loss or improved fitness. There are several factors that will affect what is considered a good diet for your individual needs.

Sex

Whether you are genetically male or female will affect your nutritional needs. In general, males need more calories than females because of a higher percentage of muscle mass, even if a male and female are similar in height and weight. Females also need to be more conscientious about their nutrient levels because they need more iron in their diet and calcium to minimize bone loss as they age. Other considerations for women will be if they are pregnant or breastfeeding, which requires better nutrition and slightly higher calories to nourish the baby. Women who have heavy or lengthy menstrual periods may need extra iron in their diet to combat anemia.

Activity

Activity level will affect both calorie and macronutrient needs in both males and females. People who live sedentary lives will need to be more cognizant about their calorie intake. Generally, sedentary people will do better with weight loss if they eat closer to their basal metabolic rate (BMR). Although people with more active lifestyles can eat more calories, it is easier to overestimate the amount of calories you burn each day. People who do significant strength-training and have more muscle mass may need a diet that gives them specific guidelines on macronutrient intake. Typically, these people will need a higher protein intake to maintain and increase their muscle mass and extra carbohydrates for sustained energy during workouts or sporting events.

Health Conditions

Health conditions, including family history, also influence your nutritional needs. People with diabetes, high cholesterol, and/or hypertension need to focus more on a heart-healthy diet that reduces the amount of simple carbs, saturated fat, and salt. Even if you do not have these conditions but they are prevalent in your family, it is wise to focus on a heart-healthy diet to reduce your risk of developing these chronic diseases. Other conditions, such as metabolic conditions and thyroid disease, may need to be taken into consideration since these conditions can make it harder to lose weight. Some people with these conditions may find it is more effective for them to focus on lower carbohydrates and higher protein unless they have kidney disease.

Nutrition consulting takes into account several factors that will influence what is appropriate for your dietary intake and nutritional needs. Since everyone has unique factors, it is important to invest in consulting to establish the best possible individualized program.