Nutrition and Weight Loss

Nutrition and orthopedic health go hand-in-hand. Poor nutrition can lead to unhealthy weights, which can have a major impact on musculoskeletal health. You should consider seeing a nutrition specialist if you:

  • Need to improve or prevent musculoskeletal issues such as ankle sprains, hip and back pain, and many other conditions.
  • Have a standing or low trauma fracture, such as slipping from a curb or tripping on a rug.
  • Have porous or weak bones identified through surgery.
  • Are female, under 50, and need a baseline for bone health.
  • Are female, age 50 or older, and have a fracture.
  • Are male, age 65 or older, and have a fracture.
  • Are over age 50 and have a chronic disease.
  • Have a chronic disease and a fracture.

Chronic Diseases that Require Nutrition Care

  • Diabetes I or II
  • Celiac disease
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Cancer history
  • Low weight or small build
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Steroid equivalent of more than 3 dose packs per year for 2 or more years
  • Early hysterectomy
  • Thyroid disease
  • Organ transplants
  • Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
  • Low testosterone
  • Long-term proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) use
  • Chemotherapy

Nutrition & Weight loss FAQ

Why do I gain weight, even when I don’t eat that much food?
There are several reasons people gain weight. One reason is eating too much food with too little exercise. This leads to weight gain, and over time, it can cause your body and cells to start to malfunction.

Another reason is as cells become resistant to insulin, glucose builds up in the blood. The excess is stored as fat. The more insulin you make in response to more glucose, the more receptors begin to malfunction, leaving even more glucose in your bloodstream. The only way to break this cycle is to eat a low glycemic diet to decrease insulin release over time. This same process contributes to having little energy, because your cells are hungry and unable to receive the food and nutrients they need. This increases inflammation, causing fatigue and achiness in joints and muscles.

What kind of diet is best?
Your diet depends on your specific needs and insulin levels. There are general rules of thumb (such as eating lots of vegetables) that should be incorporated into most diets, but your best course of action is to speak to a nutritionist. If you are on blood thinners or other medications for chronic illnesses, you should speak with your prescribing doctor before major dietary changes.

What should I do if I can’t go to the gym or run?
You can still lose weight with less intense exercise, such as walking, swimming, or water aerobics. If exercise causes excessive pain, consult one of our specialists to find an exercise plan that works for you.

More Resources

Healthy Living
At A Glance

Download PDF

Basic Low
Carb Diet Guidelines

Download PDF

Inflammation and
Weight Management

Download PDF


Nutrition Specialists

Kelley M. Funderburg, FNP-C
Kelley M. Funderburg, FNP-C

Specialities: Bone Health, Nurse Practitioner, Nutrition

Locations: Germantown, Medical Center

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Meet with a specialist to talk about nutrition and weight management.

 

For appointments call
901-759-3111