Lifestyle factors and the way individuals conduct their lives have recently received great attention. This is because, unlike non-modifiable inherited characteristics, many lifestyle factors are partially modifiable and, therefore, may be subject to considerable intervention and improvement; sensible diets, adequate physical activity, avoiding tobacco use, moderate alcohol intake, and stress-reduction have been associated with lower risks of obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and other chronic diseases, which are considered the major public health concerns of our time.
For effective prevention and treatment plans, clinicians should consider all lifestyle factors that affect human health, and not only the one that they are experts on. And even clinicians cannot be experts in all disciplines, the clinician of the future should be able to identify unhealthy behaviors in all lifestyle factors and either treat them or engage other specialties in the treatment plan.
Nutritionists/Dietitians have the unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of their patients, as they are in the forefront of the prevention and treatment of many chronic diseases. For this to happen it would require engagement in the Lifestyle Medicine discipline, the necessary training, and that ability and will to think outside the box!