Chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease are becoming more common today and many people don't realize that their daily eating habits could be increasing their risk.
According to Dr. Meenakshi Mohan - Consultant Pathologist - Neuberg Diagnostics, Kolkata (India), nutritional diagnosis can help detect early nutritional imbalances or deficiencies, these tests can help prevent chronic diseases from developing.
What is nutritional diagnosis?
Nutritional diagnosis includes a series of assessments aimed at understanding nutritional levels, eating habits and biomarkers, to reflect a person's overall nutritional status.
“These diagnostic tests typically include blood tests, urinalysis, and sometimes a physical assessment,” says Dr. Mohan. “They assess everything from vitamin and mineral levels to other essential nutrients that play a vital role in maintaining bodily functions.”
These tests can help identify nutritional deficiencies that can lead to serious health problems. For example, low vitamin D levels are linked to an increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Iron deficiency can cause anemia, which can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other complications.
The link between nutritional diagnosis and chronic disease
Nutritional diagnosis is a method to help predict and prevent chronic diseases. Imbalances in nutrients such as cholesterol, blood sugar and inflammatory markers can indicate the early onset of conditions such as metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes or heart disease.
“Early detection through diagnostic assessment allows doctors to provide dietary and lifestyle advice to restore balance and reduce disease risk,” adds Dr Mohan. “For example, measuring blood sugar and insulin sensitivity can help predict the development of type 2 diabetes before symptoms appear.”
Prevention by early intervention
Dr. Mohan emphasizes that identifying nutritional deficiencies or imbalances can help patients take proactive steps to improve their health.
Based on the results of the tests, doctors can help patients address deficiencies, optimize nutrient intake, and reduce the risk of infection.
