As we enter a new year, many of us set New Year’s resolutions focused on health and well-being. Whether you aim to eat healthier, lose weight, or manage a health condition like diabetes or PCOS, your success often depends on one key factor: Nutrition. This is where the expertise of a dietitian comes into play. A dietitian can provide personalised nutrition advice that supports your goals and helps you build sustainable healthy habits.
In this article, we will discuss how to set realistic nutrition goals. We will also look at the role of a dietitian in your health journey. Finally, we will explore how dietetics can help with your New Year’s resolutions.
Why Nutrition and Dietetics is Key to your New Year's Resolutions
Nutrition is the foundation for overall health, and it’s essential for boosting energy levels, improving mental clarity, and managing chronic conditions. While many people start the year with the best intentions, only a few stick with their resolutions, especially when it comes to diet. This is where a dietitian comes in, helping you create a realistic, sustainable plan.
A dietitian is a healthcare professional trained in dietetics, the science of food and nutrition. They can help you develop a dietetic plan that aligns with your lifestyle and health goals, whether it’s weight loss, managing a chronic disease, or simply feeling more energised throughout the day.
How to Set Realistic Nutrition Goals for 2025
Setting achievable goals is crucial to maintaining motivation and seeing results. Here are some dietitian-approved tips for setting nutrition goals that stick:
- Focus on Balanced Meals
Rather than removing entire food groups, aim to create balanced meals that nourish your body. A typical plate should consist of:
- Half (½) filled with vegetables.
- One-quarter (¼ ) with lean protein.
- One-quarter (¼ ) with whole grains.
A dietitian can help you design meals that meet your nutritional needs and fit your everyday lifestyle.
- Portion Control
Eating the right portion sizes is critical to avoiding overeating. A dietitian assessment can help you determine the right portions for your body and goals. This can be particularly useful if you’re aiming for weight loss or managing a chronic health condition like diabetes.
- Hydration
Drinking enough water daily is one of the easiest ways to improve your overall health. A dietitian can guide you on how much water your body needs and help you incorporate hydration as part of your nutrition plan.
- Accountability and Support
Consulting a dietitian provides expert guidance and accountability. Whether you meet your dietitian in person or use dietitian telehealth services, regular check-ins can help you stay on track and adjust your nutrition goals as needed.
The Role of a Dietitian in Your Health Journey
When it comes to nutrition, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A dietitian tailors a plan based on your unique health and/or disability needs, lifestyle, and goals. This is especially helpful if your New Year’s resolutions include:
Weight management: A dietitian can help you lose weight safely and sustainably by focusing on nutrient-dense foods and portion control.
Chronic condition management: If you have diabetes, PCOS, or heart disease, a dietitian can help you manage your condition with a personalised nutrition plan.
Improving mental clarity and energy levels: Nutrition has a direct impact on your brain function and energy. A dietitian can suggest dietary changes to improve your mental and physical well-being. Additionally, for those managing disabilities, a dietitian funded by the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) can provide tailored support to improve overall health, your functional capacity to prepare and manage self-care around healthy meal options and quality of life.
From all of us at ORS Dietetics, we wish you and your family a nourishing and Happy New Year!
Ready to start your dietetics journey? Call on 1800 000 677 or refer now!
About this blog
This blog was co-authored by Meher Vatvani & Erene Thong.