We recently caught up with Alina Tierney, a Nutritional Therapist at London Clinic of Nutrition. We learnt more about her therapist experience including her journey into complementary therapy, her perspectives of nutritional therapy and what you can expect as one of her patients.
1. Can you tell me about your journey into complementary health and why you chose nutritional therapy?
Embarking on a voyage of self-discovery in my twenties, I traversed the globe, embracing the unfamiliar, and immersing myself in vibrant cultures and tantalizing cuisines. It was during these adventures that I developed a profound fascination with the nutritional content of the foods I encountered, and a desire to understand their impact on overall well-being. A realization dawned upon me that the choices we make regarding what we consume hold the key to unlocking a healthier and more fulfilling life.
This curiosity eventually propelled me towards studying nutritional therapy combined with functional medicine and food sciences. Through my journey into nutritional therapy, I found a sense of purpose that resonated deeply within me. It was no longer just about the flavours and textures that delighted my taste buds; it was about harnessing the transformative power of food to bring about positive change. With each new insight gained and every client I had the privilege to assist, my passion for this discipline grew stronger.
Today, as a dedicated practitioner of nutritional therapy, I continue to draw inspiration from my past travels. Those experiences ignited the flame of curiosity that led me down this fulfilling path. Through my work, I strive to empower individuals with knowledge, helping them make conscious choices that nourish both body and soul. As I witness the transformative effects of nutritional therapy in the lives of those I assist, I am reminded that our journeys, no matter how diverse, can converge on the path to holistic wellness.
2. How would you explain the benefits of nutritional therapy to someone unfamiliar with it?
Nutritional therapy, at its core, is the application of nutritional concepts to enhance and optimize well-being. It empowers individuals to make informed choices about the foods they consume, tailored to their specific health goals and unique biological makeup. It takes a comprehensive view of health, acknowledging that each person is a complex and unique entity. It seeks to uncover the underlying factors contributing to health challenges, such as genetic predispositions, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices. By addressing the root causes rather than merely alleviating symptoms, it aims to restore the body’s innate ability to heal itself. This integrative approach often involves a collaborative effort between the practitioner and the client, fostering a deep understanding of the individual’s health journey.
The benefits of these approaches extend far beyond temporary relief. By addressing the root causes of health issues, nutritional therapy and functional medicine promote long-term well-being and resilience. They empower individuals to actively participate in their own health, cultivating a deeper connection with their bodies and a greater sense of control over their well-being. Furthermore, these approaches can be particularly valuable in managing chronic conditions, supporting immune function, optimizing digestion, enhancing mental clarity, and promoting overall vitality.
3. What do you wish more people knew about nutritional therapy? What is the biggest misconception?
One of the key aspects I wish more people knew about nutritional therapy is it is not an alternative therapy but rather a complementary therapy. The biggest misconception is often the perception that nutritional therapy is in opposition to conventional medicine or a replacement for it.
Nutritional therapy, as a complementary therapy, recognizes the valuable contributions of conventional medicine while offering a unique perspective on health and healing. It fills the gaps left by traditional approaches by focusing on personalized nutrition plans, targeted dietary interventions, and lifestyle modifications to support the body’s natural healing processes. By collaborating with medical professionals, nutritional therapists can provide a holistic approach to care that combines the strengths of both conventional medicine and complementary therapies.
4. What advice do you have for individuals interested in exploring complementary health options for their own wellness?
If you want to explore complementary health options for your wellness, my advice would be to approach it as a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Embrace a proactive approach to your health and be patient with the process, as complementary therapies often focus on addressing root causes and may require time to show results. Remember that your wellness journey is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another, so be open to trying different approaches until you find what resonates best with you.
5. How do you approach appointments with your patients?
I adopt a client-centred and comprehensive approach. Each appointment is an opportunity to build a strong rapport, understand the unique needs and goals of the individual, and collaborate on a personalized treatment plan.
During the initial appointment, I allocate ample time to gather a detailed medical history, dietary habits, lifestyle factors, and any specific health concerns. This helps me gain a better understanding of the patient’s current state of health and enables me to identify potential areas for improvement. I listen attentively, encourage open dialogue, and address any questions or uncertainties the client may have.
Following the initial appointment, a series of appointments is often necessary to track progress, make adjustments to the treatment plan and provide ongoing support. These subsequent appointments serve as checkpoints to evaluate the effectiveness of interventions, monitor any changes in symptoms, and assess the patient’s overall well-being. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental environment where clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and challenges.
Throughout the series of appointments, I strive to educate and empower patients, providing them with evidence-based information, practical tools, and personalized recommendations to support their wellness journey. I encourage active participation and collaboration, as I believe that lasting health improvements are best achieved through shared decision-making and mutual trust.
DISCLAIMER: The Site cannot and does not contain medical / health advice. The medical / health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before seeking any form of medical advice, diagnoses or treatment based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with your GP or other qualified health practitioner. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something mentioned on this Site. The use or reliance of any information contained on the Site is solely at your own risk.
