Patient declining medical nutrition therapy and insisting on their own diet recommendation: a perspective as per practical scenarios in Bangladesh

Abstract

Background Medical nutrition therapy (MNT) is a nutritional, diagnostic, therapeutic, and counseling service provided by a dietician or nutritional professional for disease management [1] . The goals of nutrition therapy include preventing or reversing nutrient de fi - ciencies, maintaining lean body mass, helping patients better tolerate treatments, minimizing complications and side effects related to nutrition, preserving strength and energy, preserving immune function, decreasing the risk of infection, promoting healing and recovery, and enhancing quality of life. MNT is based on the results of a nutrition assessment, the underlying cause of the patient ’ s condition, the appropriate nutrition therapies, as well as ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the patient ’ s response to the therapy. Examples of MNT include modifying dietary habits, consuming a balanced diet, and maintaining an active lifestyle, such as a low-carb diet for diabetes and a gluten-free diet for celiac disease. Some individuals may also require vitamin or mineral supplements to prevent or remedy malnutrition and nutrient de fi ciencies.