Summary

There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to managing dietary intake. An individual’s age, life stage, medical history, culture and personal circumstances will influence their dietary requirements and intake.

Supporting people to improve their dietary intake and making suggestions about how to eat well can have a profound impact on a person’s health and wellbeing. Be prepared to challenge your own assumptions and what you have previously been taught.

It is important to consider nutritional issues alongside advice about medicines, as well as be aware and able to recognise possible symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies.

Sometimes, circumstances beyond an individual’s control are the reason they are unable to eat a healthy diet (for example, difficulties with the cost of living). Find out what help is available in your local area.

References:

1. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28322183

2. fao.org/3/ca5644en/ca5644en.pdf

3. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31105044

4. publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201719/cmselect/cmenvaud/1491/149105.htm

5. nhsconfed.org/long-reads/why-preventing-food-insecurity-will-support-nhs-and-save-lives

6. stateofhunger.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/State-of-Hunger-Report-November2019-Digital.pdf.