Medical Nutrition Therapy

Newman Regional Health offers medical nutrition therapy for people with a medical diagnosis such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, or a specific nutritional need.

Location: 1201 W 12th Ave, Emporia, KS.
Check in at Main Registration. Appointments in Suite 485 on the 4th floor in the hospital.

Appointments: 620-343-6800 x 21167

Phone: 620-343-6800 ext. 21802

MNT is a nutrition-based treatment for various health conditions, both temporary and long-term. It involves a registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) creating a personalized nutrition plan. The plan may include dietary changes, supplements, or specialized nutrition delivery methods like IV (parenteral) or tube feeding (enteral). MNT is used to manage existing conditions and sometimes to prevent them or avoid the need for medication.

Conditions Managed with MNT

Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Digestive system disorders (celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, IBS, ulcerative colitis)
Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational) and prediabetes
Heart failure
High blood pressure
High cholesterol, high triglycerides, and dyslipidemia
Malnutrition (including in cancer patients)
Overweight and obesity

FAQs about Medical Nutrition Therapy

Who provides MNT?

How does the process work?

MNT typically involves four steps:

Nutrition Assessment: The dietitian gathers information about the patient's medical history, dietary habits, lifestyle, and preferences.
Nutrition Diagnosis: The dietitian identifies a nutrition-related problem (e.g., inadequate carbohydrate intake). This is distinct from a medical diagnosis.
Nutrition Intervention: The dietitian develops a personalized plan, including dietary changes, education, and counseling.
Nutrition Monitoring and Evaluation: The dietitian tracks the patient's progress, adjusts the plan as needed, and collaborates with other healthcare providers.

How long does it take?

What are the benefits and risks?

Benefits of MNT:

Improved nutrient intake and symptom management.
Support for conditions where normal food intake is difficult.
Improved cholesterol, blood sugar, and other health markers.
Empowerment of patients to take an active role in their health.

Risks of MNT:

Risks are generally low, but they can vary depending on the specific intervention:
Parenteral nutrition (IV) carries a risk of bloodstream infection.
Enteral nutrition (tube feeding) can lead to infection at the insertion site or gastrointestinal issues.
Dietary changes are generally safe when following an RD/RDN's guidance

How to get started with Medical Nutrition Therapy

Start your journey to better health by talking with your primary care doctor, who can provide a referral. Don’t have a primary provider yet? Choose one today and begin personalized care.

Find a Primary Care Provider

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