Specialist area:
Neurosciences
What neuroscience dietitians help with:
Neuroscience dietitians support your wellbeing and independence if you have a neurological condition(s) or brain damage. They also help prevent, spot and stop problems caused by a lack of good nutrition.
Neurosciences deal with the structure or function of the nervous system and brain. Neurological disorders or conditions include all diseases of the brain, spine and the nerves that connect them. Neurological disorders can have a large impact on your nutritional health.
Who do neuroscience dietitians help?
You may work with a neuroscience dietitian if you, or a family member, have any kind of neurological condition. This includes Stroke, Parkinson’s Disease. Multiple Sclerosis, Huntington’s Disease, Motor Neurone Disease as well as Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury.
How do neuroscience dietitians work?
Your neuroscience dietitian will work with the rest of your healthcare team to make sure you are getting the right food and drink to keep you well and help maintain a good quality of life. Working with them during rehab can also help you get better, faster.
Your neuroscience dietitian will support you to make informed decisions about your food intake and help you meet your needs, for example if you need food through a tube, or with specific textures. They will also train other team members to make sure you get the right nutritional care. Getting the right nutrition can help wounds heal, boost your immune system, improve your mood, support your mobility and generally improve your quality of life.
Some neuroscience dietitians also support stroke prevention work by helping people make life-style changes to reduce their risk of a stroke.
Where do neuroscience dietitians work?
You are most likely to see your neuroscience dietitian in hospital. You may also see them in your home or at your GP Practice if you need ongoing nutritional support.
You can also pay to see a neuroscience dietitian in private practice.
Further info:
- Are you a BDA member dietitian working or interested in neurology, stroke, neurosurgery and neuro-rehabilitation? Join our Neurosciences Specialist Group today.
- Motor Neurone Disease Association
- MS Society
- Parkinson’s UK
- Best Practice Guidelines for Parkinson's care