By Kristen McManus, RD LD
and Melanie Rubery, MS RD LD CLT
“There’s an app for that.” How
often do we hear that catchy phrase on a weekly basis? It seems there is an app
for just about everything, and it’s no question the convenience of smartphones
has helped make the lives of busy Americans much easier.
Because
we spend so much time on our phones, the smartphone platform is the perfect way
to engage people in the field of health and wellness. Worldwide, chronic
disease management has emerged as a area of particular interest and innovation.
Research has shown that people who keep a food journal will reduce the amount
of food they eat by about 10%, but most people do not have the time to keep a
detailed, hand-written food and exercise journal. That’s where smartphone
applications step in-- with the emerging technology of mobile fitness, tracking
calories consumed and calories burned through exercise has never been so
simple. With just the touch of a finger, people have the ability to document
their entire day’s worth of calories and exercise.
Based out of Birmingham AL,
Healthy Life and Nutrition has developed a wellness program called
Sensibalance. This innovative platform has taken mobile health to the
professional level. In addition to providing services 100% online, each client
has 24/7 access to a registered dietitian (RD) via email and web-based portal.
Clients are placed on an individualized calorie level program and are given an
allotted number of daily food bars for the 3 macronutrients: carbohydrates, protein, and fat. A food bar
is the equivalent of a serving size. Along with having an equal distribution of
the macronutrients, clients are also able to track their water, fruit,
vegetable, and fiber intake to ensure they are meeting their daily needs.
Clients are able to record their food and exercise with an app compatible with
the iPhone and Android. All information
syncs with their online profile. The greatest advantage of Sensibalance is
clients are able to work with registered dietitians who are experts in the
field of food and nutrition. They can actually learn what foods are good for
them and why, instead of just trying to stay under a certain calorie limit for
the day. It teaches individuals how to make healthful eating choices and
facilitate an actual lifestyle change. Dietitians are also able to provide
medical nutrition therapy for various nutrition-related diseases such as
diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.
With such tools and support, Sensibalance works as a program for
individuals, corporate wellness, and physician referrals.
For More
Information:
205-492-0404
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