Integrative Nutrition FAQ
We understand you may have questions about integrative nutrition therapy and how it can support your health journey. This FAQ is designed to give you a clear understanding of what to expect when working with our dietitian, how nutrition therapy works, and how it can help you achieve your wellness goals.
Whether you're managing a chronic condition, supporting your recovery from injury, or simply wanting to feel your best, this information will help you make informed decisions about your nutrition care.
If you have additional questions after reading through these FAQs, please don't hesitate to contact us.
1
What happens during my first nutrition consultation?
Your initial consultation with Justine typically lasts up to 40 minutes and includes:
• A comprehensive review of your health history, current concerns, and goals
• Discussion of your current eating patterns and relationship with food
• Assessment of any symptoms or conditions affecting your wellbeing
• Review of relevant medical tests or reports
• Development of a personalised nutrition plan tailored to your needs
• Practical strategies you can start implementing straight away
This is a collaborative process—our dietitian listens to your concerns and works with you to create a realistic plan that fits your lifestyle.
2
What's the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
In Australia, "dietitian" is a protected title that requires university qualifications and registration with the Dietitians Australia. Dietitians have completed extensive training in nutrition science, biochemistry, and clinical practice.
At RegenWise we work with a qualified registered dietitian with over thirty years of clinical experience, meaning she has the expertise to provide evidence-based nutrition advice and can work with complex medical conditions, including those requiring dietary management as part of treatment.
3
Do I need a referral to see the dietitian?
No, you don't need a referral to book directly with our dietitian. However, if you have a chronic condition and your GP provides you with a care plan (GPMP/Team Care Arrangement), you may be eligible for Medicare rebates for up to five allied health visits per year, which can include dietitian consultations.
We recommend discussing this with your GP or our reception team to maximise your Medicare benefits.
4
Will I have to follow a restrictive diet?
No. Our dietitian's approach is not about restriction or rigid meal plans. Instead, she focuses on:
• Establishing sustainable eating patterns that work for your life
• Adding nourishing foods rather than eliminating entire food groups
• Understanding your relationship with food
• Reducing inflammation through evidence-based dietary changes
• Creating flexibility within a framework that supports your health
The goal is long-term wellness, not short-term fixes that aren't sustainable.
5
Can nutrition really help with inflammation?
Yes. Research consistently shows that certain dietary patterns can significantly reduce chronic inflammation, which is at the root of many health conditions, including arthritis, heart disease, autoimmune conditions, and metabolic disorders.
An anti-inflammatory eating approach emphasises:
• Whole, minimally processed foods
• Plenty of colourful vegetables and fruits
• Healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and oily fish
• Adequate protein for tissue repair
• Limiting refined sugars and processed foods
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When combined with regenerative therapies like PRP or laser therapy at RegenWise, targeted nutrition can accelerate healing and improve outcomes.
6
How many appointments will I need?
This varies depending on your goals and condition complexity. Typically:
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Initial consultation: up to 40 minutes for comprehensive assessment
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Plan Delivery: 10-minute session for questions and explaining your personalised plan
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Follow-up appointments: 30 minutes every 2–6 weeks initially
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Maintenance: Quarterly check-ins once you're on track
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Some patients achieve their goals in 3–4 sessions, while others with complex conditions benefit from ongoing support. Our dietitian will discuss the recommended plan during your first visit.
7
Can children see the dietitian?
Absolutely. Our dietitian has extensive experience working with children and families, particularly around:
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Restrictive eating and fussy eating patterns
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Supporting healthy growth and development
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Nutritional deficiencies
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Managing food intolerances
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Establishing positive relationships with food
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She uses a family-centred approach that's practical and sustainable for busy households.
8
Can nutrition help if I'm already taking medication for my condition?
Yes. Nutrition therapy works alongside medical treatment to optimise your health outcomes. In fact, proper nutrition can:
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Enhance the effectiveness of medications
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Reduce inflammation and symptoms
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Support your body's healing processes
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In some cases, reduce the need for medication over time (always under medical supervision)
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Our dietitian works collaboratively with Dr Martinez and your other healthcare providers to ensure your nutrition plan complements your overall treatment strategy.
9
Is nutrition therapy covered by Medicare or private health insurance?
Nutrition consultations may be partially covered depending on your situation:
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Medicare: If you have a chronic condition and a GP care plan (GPMP/Team Care Arrangement), you may be eligible for rebates for up to five allied health visits per year
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Private Health Insurance: Many extras policies include dietitian consultations—check with your fund about your coverage level
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Out-of-pocket costs: Fees vary depending on consultation length and complexity. See our Medical Fees page for detailed pricing information
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We recommend contacting your health fund directly to confirm your level of cover before your appointment.
10
What should I bring to my first appointment?
To make the most of your initial consultation, please bring:
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Any recent blood test results or medical reports
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A list of current medications and supplements
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Food diary if you've been keeping one (not essential)
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Your questions and health goals
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Details of your private health insurance or Medicare card
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The more information you can provide, the more personalised your nutrition plan will be.
11
​Can I see both Dr Martinez and the dietitian?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage an integrated approach. Many of our patients benefit from combining:
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Regenerative medicine treatments (PRP, shockwave, laser therapy) with Dr Martinez
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Nutrition therapy with our dietitian to support healing and reduce inflammation
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This comprehensive approach addresses both the immediate injury or condition and the underlying factors affecting your health
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As part of the RegenWise team, Dr Martinez collaborates on your care plan to optimise your outcomes.

Get in Touch
Remember, nutrition is a powerful tool in your wellness journey. Whether you're managing a specific condition or simply want to feel your best, Justine has the expertise and experience to guide you toward sustainable, positive change. Contact us to book your initial nutrition consultation with our dietitian.
