Question

What are the types of dietary modifications that a medical nutrition therapist may make?

Answer 1

1. Normal diet modification: Changes are made in the regular diet according to the person’s age, health condition and nutritional requirements.
2. Consistency modification: The texture or consistency of food is changed, such as providing soft, liquid or pureed diets for patients who have difficulty chewing or swallowing.
3. Nutrient modification: The amount of specific nutrients like carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, salt or fluids is increased or reduced according to the disease condition.
4. Energy modification: The calorie content of the diet is adjusted by increasing or decreasing energy intake as required.
5. Meal pattern modification: Changes are made in the number, timing and size of meals according to the patient’s needs.
6. Food allergy or intolerance modification: Certain foods are removed or replaced if they cause allergies or intolerance.