Whilst agreeing completely that nutrition is vital as part of holistic care
of a patient, I do not think we should 'dabble' in such a complex field
unless we have had specialist training.
I treat many patients with chronic pain and chronic fatigue, and I think it
is essential that they see either a dietician or especially a nutritionist.
I do give some basic nutritional advice to some of the patients I work with
(telling them specifically to take it as they would the advice of a friend,
rather than a therapist), however, I don't think that anyone who discussed
zinc mentioned the effect it has on copper levels. I am told by a dietician
that anyone who takes zinc should ensure they also take copper as otherwise
they will selectively absorb zinc at the expense of copper, causing an
imbalance.
That's why we are not dieticians or nutritionists. I'm sure we would not be
overjoyed to hear of dieticians prescribing exercise unless they were
qualified to do so. I am much happier referring my patients on to the
specialists.
Karen
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