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Medical Nutrition Therapy

Specialty Clinic
Personalized nutrition care to support your health, your goals, and your medical needs.

Family Care Clinic

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Starting medical nutrition therapy can feel like stepping into something new—and that’s okay. You may feel hopeful, uncertain, or even overwhelmed at times. Our dietitian understand that nutrition changes are personal, and they’re here to meet you where you are.

At Saunders Medical Center, we believe in compassionate care, clear guidance, and realistic goals. Your dietitian is here to support you—not just with education, but with encouragement, understanding, and a plan built around you.

  • What is Medical Nutrition Therapy?

    Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is personalized nutrition care designed to help you prevent, manage, or improve a medical condition. At Saunders Medical Center, our registered dietitians take the time to understand you—your health history, your lifestyle, and your goals—so your nutrition plan fits your life, not the other way around.

    Working closely with your primary care provider or specialist, your dietitian creates a tailored plan that supports your overall health by focusing on the right balance of nutrients. Just as important, they help you turn that plan into real-life changes you can stick with.

    Your provider may recommend MNT to help manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or heart conditions. In many cases, nutrition therapy works alongside medications and other treatments—and sometimes can even reduce the need for them. MNT is also essential for individuals who have difficulty swallowing or digesting food due to short- or long-term medical conditions.

    Depending on your needs, medical nutrition therapy may include:

    • Adjusting or limiting certain foods
    • Making sure you’re getting enough of key nutrients
    • Using nutritional supplements when needed

    Your healthcare team will guide you through what to expect and support you every step of the way.

  • Who Provides Medical Nutrition Therapy?

    At Saunders Medical Center, medical nutrition therapy is provided by registered dietitians (RDs) or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs)—highly trained healthcare professionals who specialize in evidence-based nutrition care.

    While many people may use the title “nutritionist,” not all have the same level of education or clinical training. Working with an RD or RDN ensures you receive safe, reliable, and medically sound guidance. Many insurance plans also require MNT to be provided by a registered dietitian in order to be covered.

    Your dietitian, Haley Hittner, MS, RDN, LMNT, is part of your care team and works closely with physicians, nurses, and other providers to support your overall treatment plan. 

Conditions Medical Nutrition Therapy Can Help Manage

Medical nutrition therapy is used to support a wide range of health conditions, including but not limited to:

  • Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
  • Digestive Conditions such as celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and ulcerative colitis
  • Diabetes (Type 1, Type 2, gestational) and prediabetes
  • Heart Failure
  • High Blood Pressure
  • High cholesterol, high triglycerides, and other lipid disorders
  • Malnutrition, including nutrition concerns related to cancer treatment
  • Overweight and Obesity

What to Expect from Medical Nutrition Therapy

Medical nutrition therapy follows a structured, patient-centered process that may look a little different for everyone, depending on individual needs.

  • Nutrition Assessment

    This is where your journey begins. Your dietitian will review your medical history, lab results, and current health concerns—but they’ll also listen closely to your story.

    You’ll talk about:

    • The foods you typically eat
    • Food allergies or intolerances
    • Cultural, lifestyle, or family influences
    • Challenges with food access or preparation
    • Your personal goals and preferences

    Your input matters. The more we understand your day-to-day life, the better we can support you.

  • Nutrition Intervention

    Using what they’ve learned, your dietitian will develop a personalized plan that supports your health goals. They’ll explain what changes to focus on and help you understand how to apply them in your daily life.

    Your care plan may include:

    • One-on-one visits with your dietitian
    • Educational & Practical Tools, Handouts, and Materials
    • Supplement Recommendations (If Needed)
    • Ongoing support and encouragement
    • Telehealth visits, when appropriate

    This is a collaborative process—you’re never expected to figure it out alone.

  • Nutrition Monitoring & Evaluation

    As your plan moves forward, your dietitian will check in regularly to see how things are going. They’ll review lab results, talk with you about how you’re feeling, and coordinate with the rest of your healthcare team.

    If something isn’t working or your needs change, your plan can be adjusted. Open communication is key—and your dietitian is always there to answer questions and help you stay on track.

  • How Long Will I Need Medical Nutrition Therapy?

    The length of medical nutrition therapy varies. Some people benefit from short-term support, while others may work with a dietitian for months or longer. In certain cases, MNT becomes part of lifelong care. Your healthcare team will help determine what’s right for you.

To schedule an appointment at the Medical Nutrition Therapy Specialty Clinic, call 402 443-4191. 

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