Frequently asked questions

  • Initially, we always recommend that you see your dietitian 2 weeks after the initial consultation. Thereafter, a 3 to 4-week gap between sessions is maintained. For those needing more accountability, seeing your dietitian every 2 weeks is strongly encouraged.

  • Generally, 4 to 6 sessions for most individuals. However, this is based on the extent your health concerns and response to intervention plans. 

  • The list is endless: your goals, your barriers to overcoming poor lifestyle & dietary habits, your health concerns, your results from recent laboratory tests, your daily nutritional intake, your supplement regime etc.

  • In South Africa, a dietitian is one who has completed a Bachelor of Sciences in Human Nutrition at medical school (and additional training in nutrition), and is registered with health care professional boards. Whereas, the term 'nutritionist' may encompass individuals with a broad range of credentials and training in nutrition.

  • Here are some ideas:

    How can I optimise my health?

    What should I be eating daily?

    How do I achieve a ‘balanced’ intake?

    How do I work towards establishing a ‘healthy’ relationship with food?

    How do I incorporate all necessary nutrients into my daily intake?

    How do I overcome unhealthy habits?

    Which supplements should I be taking?

    Which health brands should be supporting or buying from? Please give me reputable companies.

    Which tests should I be ordering to personalise my nutritional intake?

    Can you collaborate with my doctor? I need a holistic, ‘team approach’ to best address my health concerns.

  • Yes, a form will automatically be sent to your email inbox upon booking. It’s required that it is completed at least 12-hours prior to the appointment. It should only take you 5 minutes to complete.

  • All practices are cash-based, meaning that you are required to pay upfront on the day of your consultation. For those seeing Stephanie online, you will be required to make an EFT payment.

  • In South Africa, dieticians are registered medical health care professionals, and many insurance companies do cover consultation costs; however, it depends on your insurance plan, so we recommend calling your insurance company to enquire.

  • If your insurance plan does cover dietetics visits, then you will be required to submit your statement to your company for reimbursements. Our practice does not perform medical aid submissions on behalf of our patients.

  • No, lab tests are an additional expense. Laboratories will charge you independently of consultation costs.

  • Although highly recommended, there is a lot that we can do for your health prior to ordering lab tests.

  • Yes, you can earn 1 000 Vitality points for one consultation a year with your dietitian. You’ll need to submit your statement to Discovery in order to be awarded your points.

  • Genetics make up the baseline ‘code’ by which your body functions. The impact of every single choice you make throughout your life is influenced by your personal genetic makeup. Local laboratories test genes that can affect your metabolism, inflammation, detoxification, fitness, weight, hormones, cognition, and response to your diet and supplements. By understanding how your unique genetics impact key processes allows you to make smarter, more personalised decisions about your health. 

    Adapted from: 3x4 Genetics 

  • Genetics and nutrigenomics, the study of how genes affect our diet and lifestyle choices, is still an emerging science and proper interpretation of results requires specialised training. Practitioners evaluate your medical history, lifestyle, personal preferences and environment in conjunction with your genetic information to create a personalised health intervention designed exclusively around you. 

    Adapted from: 3x4 Genetics

  • Every gene has been selected based on 2 factors: scientific validity and actionability. The genes in the genetic reports are selected from peer-reviewed scientific publications. To ascertain scientific validity, it is ensured that there is adequate research to understand what the gene does and how the version of the gene you possess affects your body. Every gene in reports have been hand-picked because there is a documented action that healthcare practitioners can recommend to reduce your risk and improve your health. 

    Adapted from: 3x4 Genetics 

  • The cost of the test varies between R 2 350 to R 5 350, depending on how many ‘genes’ you would like to test. Book an enquiry here to find out more. 

  • Your DNA report will be ready 2 to 3 weeks from the time your sample reaches the laboratory. The report will be sent to your referring healthcare practitioner for analysis and feedback. 

  • DNA is collected via a pain-free ‘finger prick test’ or a cheek-swab. It takes approximately 5 minutes to collect the sample. 

  • 1.  Nutrient needs

    What are your body’s unique needs and how do you respond to certain foods? How well do you tolerate fat and carbs? What’s your vitamin D need? Do you require extra antioxidants and Omega-3 fats compared to others? Should you limit gluten, salt or caffeine?

    2. Fitness strengths

    What type of exercise will your body respond best to? How can you train smarter in alignment with your genes, for better performance, faster recovery and fewer injuries?

    3. Proactive prevention

    Is your body more prone to high blood pressure, high blood sugar, or high cholesterol? How can you support your cardiovascular system and your immune system for more resilience as you age? We also look at processes like your inflammation, detoxification, methylation and more.

    4. Ideal Weight

    Why does your body resist weight loss and how can you manage your weight in a healthy way that is personalized to your unique body?

    5. Stress strategies

    How does your life stress affect your brain health, your hormones, your sleep quality and your overall wellness? More importantly, what can you do about it? 

    Source: 3x4 Genetics

  • Unfortunately, health insurance companies do not cover the cost of the test. However, they do cover the consultatltion cost of the feedback session, depending on your medical aid plan & benefits.

  • Genetic methylation testing focuses on one specific pathway—how methyl groups are added to your DNA and how this affects your health. A comprehensive nutrigenomic test, on the other hand, looks at a broader range of genetic factors, giving you a more complete picture of your health.

  • Yes, Cape Town has several healthcare providers who offer genetic methylation testing. You can easily book a consultation and get started on your journey to better health.

  • InBody devices use direct segmental measurement bioelectrical impedance analysis (DSM-BIA) to precisely measure body composition by sending multiple electrical currents through the body, resulting in up to six different impedance readings for the trunk and each of the four limbs. The innovative in-depth analysis of the InBody Test yields accurate results for body composition outputs, such as body fat mass, skeletal muscle mass, (segmental) lean body mass, and percent body fat. 

    Source: InBody USA 

  • The InBody Scale has been found to be 98% as accurate as a DEXA (Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) scan.

  • The InBody machine is safe to use for anyone aged 3 and up. Gentle electrical currents of various frequencies (wavelength or speed) are passed through the body.

  • You’re required to take off shoes, socks and belts; stand on the device and hold the hand-held pieces for 15 to 120 seconds. 

    We recommend running the test in the morning, before eating your first meal of the day.

  • If you’re an existing patient of ours, the InBody assessment is included as part of Stephanie’s assessments. However, if you’re interested in a once-off assessment, then cost is R 600 / test.

  • InBody technology produces a print-out of all data points, presented numerically and visually, by means of graphs and diagrams. Your InBody result can be sent to you via email.     

  • A Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) sensor, about the size of a large coin, is painlessly inserted into the back of your arm. This home-based process seamlessly connects the device to your smartphone, allowing for the easy collection and display of your blood glucose data through a dedicated app. It supports uninterrupted daily activities like swimming, exercise, and sleep. Typically, the device functions for two weeks before replacement, and removal is a straightforward process.

  • Absolutely, yes. Well-controlled blood sugar levels are crucial for overall health, not exclusively for diabetics. We recognise that blood glucose levels serve as an important biomarker for various health parameters.

  • No, wearing a CGM device is generally neither painful nor uncomfortable. The insertion process is painless and straightforward, and can be easily performed at home. The device is usually positioned in line with where a T-shirt sleeve falls, allowing for easy concealment if desired.

  • Once the CGM is in place, you can go about your daily activities without disruption. You can shower, swim, and engage in exercise as usual. I usually recommend that patients purchase the associated plaster for improved adhesiveness.

  • To maximise the benefits of CGM testing, it's crucial to analyse the data effectively. Keeping a detailed food and lifestyle diary during the two-week testing phase is highly recommended. This allows us to identify trends related to stress levels, sleep patterns, dietary choices, and medication use - all of which impact blood glucose readings. The app features a convenient 'comments' section for centralised information recording.

  • The cost varies, and some models can be relatively expensive. The most affordable option is around R1 200, which expires after two weeks of use. Following this period, a new sensor will need to be purchased if you wish to continue monitoring your blood glucose levels.   

  • Blood tests provide valuable, measurable insights into your overall health and assist doctors in diagnosing diseases when necessary. This data helps identify trends and potential issues early, empowering you and your health professional to take proactive steps toward better health.

  • What Blood Tests Should I Do?

    For young and healthy individuals, routine blood tests can help track and maintain optimal health. Some essential markers include:

    Core Blood Tests for Younger, Healthy Adults:

    • Nutrient Levels: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, Iron Studies (Ferritin, Transferrin Saturation), Homocysteine, and RBC Magnesium.

    • Metabolic Health: Fasting Glucose, HbA1c (average blood sugar), Fasting Insulin, and a Lipid Profile (Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides).

    • Inflammation: hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-Reactive Protein) and, in some cases, a Full Blood Count (FBC).

    As You Age or Based on Clinical Needs, Consider The Following with Your Doctor:

    • Hormonal Markers: Thyroid Panel (TSH, Free T4, Free T3), Cortisol, and sex hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone).

    • Liver and Kidney Function: Liver Enzymes (ALT, AST, GGT) and Kidney Function Tests (Creatinine, Urea, eGFR).

    • Bone Health: Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone (PTH).

    Always consult with your health care professional to decide which tests are relevant for you, especially after a clinical intake and examination. Testing should be tailored to your health status, family history, and lifestyle goals.

  • While understanding your numbers is empowering, interpretation requires a qualified health professional. Blood test results must be analysed within the context of your health history, symptoms, and individual goals. Always consult a professional to avoid misinterpretation.

  • The frequency of blood testing depends on your health goals, medical conditions, and recommendations from your healthcare provider. Regular testing, as advised, helps track trends and ensures timely interventions.

  • Blood tests don’t predict illness but can identify trends and risk factors, enabling preventive strategies. With the guidance of a healthcare provider, these insights help you make informed decisions about your health.

  • To optimize your health and track key nutritional, metabolic, and inflammatory markers, start by scheduling an initial consultation. This session includes a comprehensive nutritional assessment, reviewing your health history, dietary intake, and past medical history.

    Following the assessment, you’ll receive a blood test form to take to a lab. Once the tests are complete, the results will be interpreted, and you’ll be provided with a written summary report. This report will outline your results, where they fall within the reference ranges, and recommended next steps, such as nutritional or supplemental support, or if further medical review by your doctor is advised.

    All blood work results will also be sent to your primary GP to ensure they are on file for your medical records and continuity of care.