National Nutrition Month
Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS) stands firm in its commitment to bolstering the health and wellness of Veterans and VA employees through robust support for healthy eating habits and physical activity.
Spearheading this mission are Samantha Howard and Vida Gallaher, clinical dietitians at the TVHS Chattanooga VA Clinic. They shed light on their day-to-day endeavors at the clinic, where they engage with six Veterans per day, crafting personalized nutritional plans to address a myriad of health needs, from managing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease to tackling weight loss concerns.
Overcoming Limitations
"Transportation emerges as the biggest obstacle for Veterans to access our services," explained Howard.
"Especially for those reliant on a primary caretaker for transportation to appointments, juggling multiple schedules can be challenging," echoed Gallaher.
Despite these hurdles, the clinic remains dedicated to overcoming transportation obstacles by connecting Veterans with alternative transportation options offered through services like Disabled American Veterans and Chattanooga Area Regional Transportation Authority. Through these services, Veterans can schedule buses, shuttles, and wheelchair-accessible transportation to their appointments.
Additionally, the clinic also offers virtual health appointments and aims to consolidate multiple appointments to enhance accessibility for Veterans.
“Since we are in control of our own scheduling, we try and consolidate appointments in one day, that way it’s more convenient and easier for Veterans to coordinate,” stated Howard.
Another common barrier for Veterans in achieving more nutritional food options is cost.
“While there isn’t a cost to meet with our dietitians, we understand the growing expense in buying healthier foods,” acknowledged Howard. “You don’t have to stock your fridge with all fresh vegetables. Not everything needs to be organic. Let’s tailor expectations to make progression - not perfection.”
Creative Solutions
Goal setting is tailored to each individual. The clinic adopts the S.M.A.R.T. goal method (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timebound). For instance, one Veteran aimed to reduce soda consumption from seven sodas daily to six for one week—an achievable step towards healthier habits.
Gallaher shared an exercise S.M.A.R.T. goal example that she is currently advising one of her Veteran patients with.
“I have a Veteran who wants to be more active but has knee pain and mobility limitations,” Gallaher described. “When he can’t go on a walk with his dog some days, he has a peddle bike that he will use for two 10-minute sessions throughout the day while doing his work at the computer.”
Lastly, Howard remarked on how small food substitutions can make a large impact without reducing meals to tiny portion sizes.
“Sometimes reducing carbohydrate intake is necessary to mitigate diabetes concerns,” Howard said. “One Veteran caretaker found shirataki noodles are plant-based and have an extremely low carb per serving. Now, he can still have a whole plate full and not go over his carb intake.”
Take Action
Both Howard and Gallaher stress the importance of meeting Veterans where they are, setting achievable goals, and emphasizing progress over perfection. To further empower Veterans and fellow VA employees in their journey toward better health, here are five actionable items they recommend to start:
1. Start Small: Begin by setting achievable goals, whether it’s reducing soda intake, incorporating more vegetables into meals, or committing to a short daily walk.
2. Tailor Your Approach: Recognize that one size does not fit all when it comes to nutrition and exercise. Work with a dietitian to create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle and preferences. Call to schedule with a VA dietitian today.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Take time to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Whether it’s scheduling short breaks for movement throughout the day or practicing relaxation techniques, investing in self-care is essential.
4. Seek Support: Do not hesitate to reach out for help and support. Whether it’s scheduling appointments with a clinical dietitian or utilizing resources available through the VA, there are professionals ready to assist you on your health journey.
5. Stay Consistent: Remember that consistency is key to long-term success. Use the S.M.A.R.T. goal method to take small, sustainable changes and stick with them. Celebrate progress along the way!
Events For Veterans
Join us at your local clinic for a special event hosted by the Nutrition and Food Services Department! Our table events are designed with Veterans in mind, offering a wealth of information on nutrition, health, and wellness.
Schedule on-the-spot appointments with our dietitians to discuss personalized nutrition plans and goals.
Our knowledgeable dietitians will be on hand throughout the event to answer your questions, provide expert advice, and support you on your journey to better health.
Join these locations from 9 a.m. -1 p.m. CST:
3/5 – Nashville Campus
3/18 – York Campus
3/21 – Chattanooga Campus (will also include a seed starting table) (9 a.m. – 1 p.m. EST)
3/22 – Clarksville Campus
Let us work together toward a healthier future. This month’s initiatives offered by TVHS’ Nutrition and Food Services exemplify VA’s commitment to promoting health and wellness, not only for Veterans but for all who serve our nation. Let us embrace National Nutrition Month® as an opportunity to make positive changes and prioritize our health.