Nutrition Counseling

What can a Registered Dietitian do for you?

The important role nutrition plays in managing certain diseases such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and obesity can be a critical component to the successful treatment of these diseases. However, providing patients with the nutritional components of care necessary to manage such conditions can be a timely task for physicians. The dietitian possesses the knowledge and training necessary to help patients develop appropriate eating patterns to improve the outcome of a medical condition.

What can you expect when you see The Dietitian?

At the initial visit, registered dietitian, Linda Kapusniak will obtain a complete diet history, as well as an evaluation of current behavior patterns associated with eating to determine the appropriate nutrition approach.

How often will I need to see the Dietitian?

Generally, most dietary concerns can be managed in 2-3 visits. The initial visit is to obtain information and make nutritional recommendations. The second visit is to evaluate progress and make adjustments. The third visit is to evaluate compliance. Additional visits may be required for more complicated cases.

Do I need to be a patient of the Brazos Valley Women’s Center?

No. We will gladly accept outside referral sources.

Is this service for women only?

No. Our dietitian works with all genders and ages. Mrs. Kapusniak has prior experience working with children at a local pediatric practice.

Will my insurance pay for a Nutrition Conselor?

Linda Kapusniak accepts major insurances like Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and Aetna. However, we highly recommend you call and check with your policy to confirm. Cash prices are as follows:

BVWC Nutrition Cash Price

BVWC Cash Price (Spanish)

Will my doctor be notified of my visit?

Yes, all physician referrals will be provided with a nutrition summary within 10 days of your initial visit.

What is a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI)?

Your BMI is checked at very visit, if you are a current patient at Brazos Valley Women’s Center, ask your provider or nurse to learn more.

Body Weight During Pregnancy

Women who begin their pregnancy at a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 need to pay close attention to their diet during pregnancy. They need to ensure that they get the right nutrients with the right calories so that they can achieve the best pregnancy outcome. A nutrition consultation with our dietitian will help ensure you meet those goals.That in turn will reduce your risk of complications such as:

• Gestational Diabetes (high sugar)
• Hypertension and Pre-Eclampsia (high blood pressure and other problems)
• Cesarean delivery
• Postpartum weight retention

Managing your weight during pregnancy will also decrease your baby’s risk of:

• Premature birth
• Congenital anomalies (malformation of body parts)
• Birth injuries (due to large size)
• Childhood obesity

Women who begin their pregnancy with a BMI below 19 are at increased risk of:

• Low birth weight
• Fetal growth problems (too small)
• Perinatal mortality (such as problems with staying warm, problem eating)