Pat Baker, manager at Sunnyside Natural Foods Market in Texarkana, Texas
First, we try to help people understand the relationship between the food they put in their mouths and their weight. If someone is interested in taking supplements, we have plenty of healthy alternatives to the diet pills found in conventional drugstores.
Annette Selestak, owner of Dietary Health Foods in Elyria, Ohio
As a nutrition coach, I first talk to them about nutrition. This includes discussing what and how often they eat, along with portion sizes. After determining some of these facts, we discuss supplements such as chromium, which helps with sugar cravings. I also suggest ways to include good omega-3 fats into their diet.
Gayle Acker, manager at Country Village Nutrition in Longview, Wash.
We offer a wide selection of different products and accompanying literature. We also have kiosks and computers that customers can use to find information on whatever products interest them. Dr. Oz is probably one of our biggest resources to determine what customers will be looking for. Someone from our staff tries to watch “The Dr. Oz Show” each day.
Sandi Lynn, president of Good 4-U Nutrition in Arnold, Mo.
We first talk about diet, which is usually the biggest factor to consider. We help customers look at what got them to where they are now in terms of dietary intake and what changes should be made if necessary. From there, we ask basic questions about activity level and exercise regime. By asking questions, we can assess their needs and suggest appropriate products.