CapitalCare Medical Group Nutritional Services Program

Every year, chronic diseases claim the lives of more than one and a half million Americans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, prolonged illness and disability associated with chronic diseases result in decreased quality of life for millions more. These diseases account for seven of every 10 deaths in the United States each year, and for more than 60% of total health care costs.

Much of the burden caused by chronic diseases can be prevented. To a degree, the major causes of death – heart and circulatory disease, cancer and diabetes – result from unhealthy lifestyles. Lack of exercise and eating the wrong foods are behaviors that have a negative impact on health. Together, they contribute to at least 300,000 preventable deaths each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Only tobacco use causes more preventable deaths in the United States.

Regular physical activity and healthy eating can reduce your risk of these chronic diseases. By making better lifestyle choices, people can expect to have healthier, longer lives.

CapitalCare’s registered dietitian can help patients prevent chronic disease through good nutrition and increased physical activity. A dietitian’s services include:

Basic nutrition counseling, including dietary and behavior modification.

Assessment and evaluation of the nutritional status of individuals or families.

Nutrition counseling for people of all ages, from infancy through geriatrics, as well as specific nutrition counseling for people with medical illnesses, including diabetes, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary artery disease (CAD), hyperlipidemia and eating disorders.

To learn more about CapitalCare Medical Group’s Nutrition Therapy Services, call 518-452-1337. The cost of nutrition services is covered by many, but not all, health insurance plans. Contact your health insurance carrier for details.