Nutrition Counseling

Registered dietitians / nutritionists at UC San Diego Health collaborate with doctors, therapists and other health care providers to develop customized nutrition plans to help people meet their health goals.

Nutrition Counseling Appointments

We provide one-on-one and group counseling for patients who have been referred by their physicians.

Most people will see their dietitian for one to three visits, depending on their individual needs. Your first appointment will typically include:

An initial assessment of your history and background
Dietary guidance and meal planning assistance
Referrals to other services (such as therapy) to support your dietary goals

Follow-up visits may include a review of dietary goals and any necessary adjustments.

Medical Nutrition Services

In many cases, insurance may cover medical nutrition services for conditions such as:

Gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease
Cancer
Diabetes management
Disordered eating
Dysphagia (swallowing problems)
Food allergies and gluten sensitivity
Heart health, including congestive heart failure (CHF)
High blood pressure
High cholesterol, high triglycerides and hyperlipidemia
Plant-based, vegetarian or vegan nutrition
Prevention of kidney stones
Sports performance
Tube feeding, both enteral (gastrointestinal) and parenteral (intravenous)
Weight loss due to malnutrition
Weight gain and weight maintenance
Women's health, including prenatal diet and PCOS
Wound healing

Nutrition Services Provided for Hospital Patients

Medical nutrition therapy and education for adult patients, as needed
Specific modified diets for a patient's condition and preferences, including food aversions and avoidances
Specialized nutrition (such as intravenous or alimentary nutrition) for patients who cannot consume food by mouth
Meal monitoring to ensure proper nutrition for a patient's age and condition
Meal supplementation, when needed

Learn more about meals for hospital patients

Nutrition Counseling