Dietetics

Notes: Laura Mitchell, a 35-year-old woman, was referred to you by her general practitioner for nutritional counseling.

PATIENT DETAILS:

Patient: Ms. Laura Mitchell DOB: 5th July 1989

10th October 2024

Presenting Complaint: Weight gain and difficulty managing her diet

History of Presenting Complaint: Gradual weight gain over the past 2 years, concerns about portion control, emotional eating, and lack of energy

No known food allergies or intolerances

Past Medical History: No significant medical conditions

Regular annual check-ups with stable blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Anthropometric Data: Height: 160 cm Weight: 75 kg BMI: 29.3

Biochemical Data:

Fasting Blood Glucose: 105 mg/dL (Ref range: 70-100 mg/dL)

Total Cholesterol: 190 mg/dL (Ref range: < 200> 40 mg/dL)

LDL Cholesterol: 120 mg/dL

Medication: None

Social History: Married with two young children, working part-time

Mild stress at work and managing household responsibilities

 Limited time for physical activity

No smoking, minimal alcohol intake

Dietary Information:

Breakfast: Cereal with whole milk and a banana

Lunch: Sandwich with deli meat, cheese, and mayonnaise

Dinner: Home-cooked meals, typically including meat, starch, and vegetables

Snacks: Potato chips, chocolate, and occasional fruit

Management:

Advice given: Portion control, balanced meal planning, and mindful eating

Recommendation for regular physical activity within her schedule

 Education on healthier snack choices and emotional eating management

Immediate plan: Schedule follow-up appointments to monitor progress

Provide resources and recipes for healthier meal options

Writing Task:

Using the information in the case notes, write a letter back to the referring general practitioner, Dr. Sarah Reynolds, Healthwise Medical Center, 123 Oak Avenue, Cityville. In your answer:

--Expand the relevant notes into complete sentences

--Do not use note form

--Use letter format

The body of the letter should be approximately 180–200 words.