A unique part of Bergen Medical Associates is the Nutrition Services Department. The division is run by Laurie Schlussel, R.D., M.A. Laurie received her BA from Queens College and completed her dietetic internship at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She finished her master’s degree at New York University and is a Registered Dietitian.
Laurie has over 20 years of experience working in a variety of health care settings. She has been involved in individual and group counseling situations, national cardiac and diabetes programs and is currently teaching college nutrition classes.
At Bergen Medical Associates, Nutrition counseling is available for:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Weight control for children, teens and adults
- General nutrition issues
- Vegetarian concerns
- Gastric bypass surgery evaluations, pre and post dietary guidelines
- A variety of other subjects
Specific topics for discussion may include (but are not limited to) portion control strategies, food label reading, guidelines for dining out and special occasions, hunger ratings, and supermarket strategies. Some topics require detailed diets (i.e.: Celiac disease and Gastroparesis) and that will include specific food lists. Dietary analysis is available and reading materials are provided for all subjects discussed.
The counseling session consists of a nutrition assessment and development of a personalized, individually tailored meal plan for your specific lifestyle. There is an emphasis on the behavioral approach, which supports lifestyle changes for success.
Follow-up appointments are scheduled in 2-4 weeks to give you time to implement your personalized meal plan. Follow up visits are important to determine the success of your personalized plan. Research shows that people who return for follow up visits are better able to attain their meal plan and health goals.
Nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian is the best way to improve your health.
Insurance: Some insurance plans cover nutrition counseling and Laurie does participate with many companies. It is always a good idea to check with your company to determine your nutrition coverage.
