Get that body (I mean, calculations) right!

As a dietetics student, the prospect of a case study can either be very exciting or extremely daunting!

As part of my capstone project I completed a case study on a Triathlete with GI issues. The patients focus on sports performance was a plus because I have a personal interest in sports nutrition, but the presence of GI issues provided a challenging component that allowed me to delve into the medical nutrition therapy side of dietetics as well.

In order to complete this I utilized my training in assessing a patients current state, evaluating their goals, and creating an appropriate PES statement with the hopes of a successful intervention that would allow her to achieve her goals in addition to a healthier status.

To successfully complete this I had to utilize textbooks I had purchased for other classes in addition to purchasing new textbooks with focus on sports nutrition, while also utilizing position papers from the Academy. These tools gave me the resources I needed not only to evaluate the patient but to make appropriate recommendations based on the altered needs of the patient due to her training and exercise regimen.

I had been so long since I had taken a sports nutrition class! Because of that, this was an exciting and new experience for me. Being into running myself, it was rewarding in many ways to learn about appropriate nutrition for endurance sports, such as running, cycling and swimming. Not only was I able to make recommendations for my patient, but I could improve my own performance as well. The beauty of this field, if you ask me, is that all the information we learn is relevant to so many people of all different groups, and even ourselves. That feeling was reaffirmed through the completion of this objective.

I found that it was slightly overwhelming in terms of where to start because I had not taken a sports-focused nutrition class in my education at University of Alabama. Although this seemed like a hurdle at the time, it was a challenge that I happily accepted because of my own interest in sports and the obvious connection between performance and nutrition. However, because of my lack of experience in this field, I feel as though my confidence in making appropriate recommendations was low. I would have prepared more so before hand had I known that I was going to be in a sports nutrition focused practice. However, I now feel confident in the self-lead journey into educating myself regarding sports focused nutrition, and that is due to my decision to take on a patient in an area I was not familiar with. This furthered the life-long lesson of challenging yourself usually leading to a stronger outcome, however fearful the trip may be.

So what did I learn from this? SO MUCH!

First, and foremost, its amazing what the body needs when you demand so much from it, especially in the case of completing and training for triathlons. CARBS ARE YOUR FRIEND!! When you demand so much for a long period of time, it is nearly IMPOSSIBLE to do this without enough carbs.

Second, is dont be afraid to step into something foreign and new. While I always had an interest in sports nutrition, my personal preferences for exercise never lead me to have the desire to complete a Triathlon. But, that doesnt mean I shouldnt know about it! Being in the field of Nutrition means its YOUR JOB to be updated and current on various needs for various lifestyles and diets.

Third, that being said, dont be afraid to utilize resources!! Part of being a dietetic professional means to know and understand how to use the many resources available. But, learning to discern between the valid information and the misinformation can be tough! There is so much GARBAGE out there. Stick to resources like the Academy and other peer-reviewed journal articles, and you will be fine. Another great resource are the many position papers offered by the Academy. USE THEM! You wont regret it :)

#Blog #AudienceEngagement