PERSONALIZED NUTRITION- WHAT IS IT?

There are new trends emerging daily in the field of nutrition science. The introduction of new knowledge and information through research, advances in technology and evolving human needs are some of the factors responsible for these growing trends in nutrition. One such emerging trend is Personalized Nutrition also known as Precision Nutrition.

Even though personalized nutrition has gained much popularity over the past few years, there is no standard definition yet. It may however be described as an approach which utilizes human individuality, such as genetic information, lifestyle, individual preferences and requirements to craft nutrition suggestions, products and services to optimize health.

Personalized/precision nutrition works on the assumption that each person responds or reacts differently to specific foods and nutrients, such that the best diet for one individual may look very different from the best diet for another. Thus, in precision nutrition several tools such as home testing kits, wearable biosensors, fitness trackers, mobile apps and Artificial Intelligence (AI) generated meal plans among others are employed with the intent to generate information that will help to better understand the uniqueness of an individual. The aim is to use this information to develop targeted nutritional advice, products, or services.

 This new approach to nutrition is becoming more appealing and perhaps better accepted than the old one-size fits all approach. Some manufacturers are also cashing in on this with expensive products and services to push the precision nutrition agenda. It is worth noting however that although precision nutrition approaches are gaining popularity, further research is needed to address the accuracy of dietary intake measurements, utilization and standardization of systems approaches, and application and communication of evidence.

While people cannot be denied access to personalized nutrition solutions, it is advisable to seek advice from your health professionals with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

Research has shown that personalization of nutrition care based on the analysis of an individual’s current diet is effective in assisting and/or motivating people to make, and to sustain, appropriate healthy changes to their usual diet and lifestyle. Dietitians are trained to provide nutrition and diet advice, and plan meals that will best suit an individual’s needs, based on the medical considerations, social and cultural context, eating behaviors and preferences, and personal lifestyle.

Do you need some help with planning your meals to best suit your needs, you can click here to connect with one of our dietitians.

This article was written by Dorothy Edusei (BSc, RD) with contributions from Laurene Boateng (PhD, RD).