It can also improve the quality of life for ill patients. Assessing a patient's overall nutrition status is the first step in medical nutrition therapy. After the assessment is complete, a registered dietitian prescribes a personalized course of treatment. The American Dietetic Association has developed medical nutrition therapy protocols that clearly define the level, content and frequency of nutrition care that is appropriate based on the patient's diagnosis. Protocols have been developed for a variety of diagnoses including hypertension, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease and hyperlipidemia.
Nutrition is important throughout the life cycle.
It affects growth and development and helps prevent disease.