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People Are Flocking to Dietitians Post-Pandemic

The Covid-19 pandemic turned everyone’s lives upside down. As people went into survival mode, many anxiously turned to new coping strategies — often trading in carrots for the nostalgic comfort of cheese puffs. 

In general, per one large study, 36% of people reported eating less healthily and  44% said they are snacking more. Additionally, 48% of people reported gaining more weight than usual, according to a nation-wide population-based study. 

Yet, now, as the worst of the pandemic has let up, more and more people are rethinking their habits and recognizing the importance of prioritizing their health going forward.

We, at Zocdoc, found some interesting insights in a data analysis of nutrition-related appointment booking from January 2021-February 2021 to January-February 2022, dubbed “The Year in Nutrition.” Appointments with dietitians increased by 63%, while nutrition consultations and follow-up appointments increased by 31%. 

Instead of just turning to health influencers or fad diets, patients are turning to health professionals, like dietitians, nutritionists and others, for advice on living healthier lifestyles.


Intuitive eating is in

Our data shows that intuitive eating and mindful eating consultation appointments have increased by 175%. 

If you’re not familiar, intuitive eating is a new movement that encourages people to learn how to enjoy food mindfully and nurture themselves based on the cues their body gives them, rather than simply dieting. 

Many Americans resorted to unhealthy eating practices to help cope with the stress of the pandemic. A dietitian, or nutritionist, both can help patients who are looking to change their relationships with food learn more about intuitive eating. 

For patients suffering from something more serious, like an eating disorder, a dietitian would likely work with an eating disorder therapist to implement a more comprehensive treatment plan. 



Inflammation is a point of concern

Per our data, in the time period analyzed, anti-inflammatory diet appointments increased by a whopping 300%. 

We’ve all heard a lot about inflammation, but what exactly is it? Generally speaking, it’s a defense mechanism our body uses to fight off invaders. But chronic inflammation is a slow burn that can last for years, in response to autoimmune conditions or environmental factors like air pollution. As we learn more and more about inflammation, experts have linked it to cancer and heart disease.

Your diet can either increase or decrease any inflammation in your body. For instance, processed food, one of the top culprits of causing inflammation, has had a pandemic moment. Medical providers like dietitians can help patients, who are turning to them for help, figure out the anti-inflammatory plan that works for them. 


All in all, post-pandemic, many people are realizing that their food choices can majorly impact their overall health. They are turning to medical professionals to heal their relationships with food, and in turn, heal their bodies. Everything is interconnected after all. 

About The Paper Gown

The Paper Gown, a Zocdoc-powered blog, strives to tell stories that help patients feel informed, empowered and understood. Views and opinions expressed on The Paper Gown do not necessarily reflect those of Zocdoc, Inc.

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