Rachel Brandeis is a dietitian in our network, practicing in the Atlanta area. She is well respected in the reproductive medicine world, and well versed in PCOS. The other day, in a phone conversation, she mentioned that one of the aspects of her work that doesn't always allow her to be as productive and helpful to her clients, is when they come unprepared and unready to get down to work. She sent me a great list of bullet points that you can use to prepare for working with your own dietitian.
Keep in mind, we tend to ask a lot of questions and stick to business! It's not because we don't care about you or your story. But since you're spending time and money to work with us, we tend to be focused on the task at hand. We also understand that a lot is riding on our advice, so we want to be sure there is time in the appointment to get our information across.
Here is what Rachel suggests:
1.Be prepared to give an accurate diet history — foods and beverages that you commonly consume; it may be helpful to keep a detailed food record for a week (including a weekend).
2. Be honest when discussing what/how/when you eat — you are paying us to help you, not to judge you!
3. Be prepared to also give an in depth weight history and past dieting attempts (both successful and unsuccessful).
4. Know what medications you are taking and the dosage of each medication
5. Bring your most recent lab work with you
6. Keep an exercise diary — we need to know how frequently you exercise, how long and how intensely.
7. Be prepared to answer"what would you like to get out of this consult"
8. Understand that we don't have a"magic wand"
9. Come back for follow-up appointments! Change does not happen with one consult!
10. Have realistic expectations.
If you'd like to contact Rachel about an appointment, visit her website.