Following are some client testimonials:

Weight Loss and Taming Type 2 Diabetes

I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in October 2007 after having one of my annual health checks. My blood sugar levels were found to be 10.7 and as a result, my doctor, advised me to see Monica at the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic in Castle Hill for professional help in changing my diet.

Due to the fantastic advice from the very motivated and helpful Monica, I lost 11kilograms in 4 months, my blood sugar levels dropped to an acceptable 5.3 and my cholesterol also dropped. I also feel fantastic.

I will continue maintaining the healthy diet that Monica prescribed so as to keep my blood sugar at a manageable level and to keep my body healthy. Thank you Monica.

Tony Burns, Kenthurst (30.07.2008)

Achieving a Healthy Weight Long Term

I have been a yo-yo for all my teenage and adult life. I have had moments of ecstatic slimness and times of all-consuming weight gain which have left me despondent and lacking in self confidence. I am typical of many! I have tried fad diets and Weight Watchers, tried doing it on my own. For me, the fact of the matter is I can’t! I need the regular gentle support of people such a Monica and Sue at the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic, who have gotten to know me and continue to encourage and guide even when times are tough. Even when I am plateauing with my weight they are able to see other factors in my life which may be working against maintaining the much healthier life-style which I have worked so hard to reach, and concentrate on those issues rather than the super-focus of the fortnightly weigh-in.

I had a blood test the other day – ALL CLEAR! Even the dreaded cholesterol score came back normal. I am now achieving real health goals, by having established healthy eating and exercise practices as part of my daily life. I don’t calorie count (MUCH too guilt making) but enjoy REAL food cooked and presented well, which gives me real eye and mouth pleasure as well as being filling and tasty. I allow myself treats, but have learned compensatory tricks and know that one treat, a problem doesn’t make, but that regular treats could be disastrous. I have gotten into the habit of having lentils, chick peas or beans at least a couple of times a week and try to get as close to the recommended fruit and vegie portions as possible every day. I track my intake and know where I am going.

I am NEVER going to have the body composition of a super-model, but I am so proud of myself for sticking it out, still attending my sessions at the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic after 4 years even through the most difficult weight and psychologically challenging times and re-gaining that real sense of liking myself. I have found a weight that I, and my body, are happy with. And I’m healthy. What more could I want? Good Luck in your journey!

Chris (Kirsty) Hardman, Castle Hill (24.07.2008)

Managing Lactose Intolerance

Hi! My name is Belinda. I was first referred to the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic after being diagnosed as lactose intolerant (meaning, I could no longer tolerate dairy products). During the two months prior to diagnosis, I lost around 7 kg and consistently had painful stomach upsets due to the intolerance, which I wasn’t aware of as I had always eaten and enjoyed dairy foods. Sue from the Wellbeing Clinic was very helpful and explained why I had become lactose intolerant and advised me of a dairy free eating plan. This dietary change has been a big one for me as I had always enjoyed anything dairy since I was a young child, but I have found this diet to be extremely healthy and started putting on weight and feeling better again after two weeks. This was important, as I wasn’t overweight to start with.

I must admit at first I was missing the foods I had always enjoyed but thinking about what they were doing to me only made me realise how much better off I was without them. My husband and two children have been very supportive and always like to find new things for me to try when we are out shopping. My husband has a lot of dairy free chocolates for me to enjoy (my absolute favourite treat). This has been a good experience for my family, especially for my children, as they have learned more about being healthy and what foods can do to our bodies. Thankyou.

Belinda Farnsworth, Dural (28.06.2007)

Beating a High Cholesterol

I have had high cholesterol, around 7 mmol/L, for many years. My GP told me to see a dietitian and try to get my cholesterol level down or he would put me on medication.

Thank you Sue and Monica – you have done it! With your help my cholesterol level has come down over the last 12 monhts from 7 to 5 mmol/L.

Wim van Miltenburg, Baulkham Hills (08.06.2007)

Adopting a Cancer Prevention Diet and Lifestyle

I have had Crohn’s disease for 40 years and during a routine colonoscopy I was diagnosed with bowel cancer. Just a week after my 60th birthday, I went in for bowel resection surgery. Thankfully, the cancer was contained in one area and no further treatment was required.

My eldest daughter was seeing Sue Radd at the time and I made an appointment for myself in September 2005. I had always considered that I ate well, but over the years my weight had increased. When I first visited Sue my measurements were: 72.4 kg, BMI of 28, and a body fat level of 41.5 %, which put me in the overweight category. With Sue’s guidance in helping me make healthier food choices, walking more and keeping a food diary, over a period of sixteen months my weight decreased to 63.6 kg, my BMI to 25 (which is now in the normal range) and my body fat to 34.6 %, all showing great improvement and a reduced risk for further cancer.

My family is very supportive and also enjoy my new food choices! My goal is to continue to follow a cancer prevention diet and lifestyle.

Pamela Edwards, Castle Hill (31.01.2007)

Getting on Top of the Diabetes and Losing Weight

I suppose I was a classic male, with a family history of Type 2 diabetes, overweight, as well as having elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, but both just below the level needing medication. I went to the doctor on very rare occasions. I was always told to lose weight, and occasionally I tried, but within four months I was always back to where I started. Then inevitably, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and received warnings on what would happen if I did not take serious action. The prospect of going blind was fair motivation!

I was immediately put on medication and started to exercise. I was also advised to visit the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic where I saw Monica and she went through what I should be eating and when, and advised on my exercise program. Initially, I went back every couple of weeks when we reviewed what was happening. My weight loss was good but I also needed to consider my blood sugar levels, which improved with time. As an added bonus, my blood pressure and cholesterol are now also well within the recommended range. With every visit, Monica was very supportive, constructive in suggesting changes and also receptive to my ideas.

After nine months I lost 12.6 kg, 6.3% body fat and 8.3 kg of fat mass. This was due to the combination of correct food, exercise and the timing of my medication. Do I miss eating junk food, potatoes and a few other things? No. I now get a varied diet and probably eat more than I ever did before. Not only am I down to the weight that I was in my early twenties, but I motivated my wife to join me! After a few weeks of coming with me to see Monica, she started in her own right as well. She now looks tremendous! But…there is a down side - most of our favourite clothes don’t fit any more!

Despite my high motivation level, I could not have achieved what I have without the support of my wife, who does the shopping and cooking. In addition, without the guidance and encouragement from Monica, I would probably have not been any more successful than in my past attempts.

Michael Close, West Pennant Hills (06.09.2006)

Pain Relief for Arthritic Knees & Increased Mobility

Do you ever feel like you are spiralling out of control? Well that is how I felt before attending the Sue Radd Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic. I had gradually been putting on weight over the past few years. At first, I was able to exercise to keep the weight under control. As I reached those late 40’s, however, the added weight on my already arthritic knees and ankles meant that I was unable to exercise. Thus the weight gain spiral began. To put off having further surgery to my knee (a total knee replacement), I decided to ask my G.P. if she could recommend a dietician/nutritionist and she recommended Sue Radd. During the last twelve months, I have been under the guidance of her dietetic associate, Monica Kubizniak, whose gentle encouragement has kept me going.

Initially, I was 83 kg, my body fat percentage was 36.6 % and my fat mass was 30.4 kg. My personal goal was to lose 10 kg but Monica encouraged me to reach at least 70 kilos, which is the upper end of my healthy weight range for height. After the initial consultation and a discussion of various options, I chose to go ‘cold turkey’, so to speak, and went on a meal replacement program (using Optifast) for one month. This began the weight loss and over time I gradually reintroduced breakfast, lunch and finally dinner. During this time the ongoing consultations and weigh-ins were an encouragement and also helped me to re-evaluate my eating patterns and habits. This was also greatly assisted by the keeping of a food diary which helped to keep me accountable.

You may well ask how I did it. Self discipline is essential; you must really ‘want’ to do something if you are going to succeed – the same with dieting. But it is not just about dieting, it is about feeling good about yourself, reintroducing exercise back into your routine and changing your eating habits to a have a healthier, more nutritious diet. It was such a good feeling when I woke one morning, about three months into the weight loss, and my knee didn’t hurt when I walked on it. I am now walking on a regular basis and integrate this type of exercise with hydrotherapy/swimming and Pilates.

I feel healthy, have not been sick for over twelve months and now know what I should and should not eat. That is not to say that I can’t be ‘naughty’ once in a while but it is essential to understand the consequences and plan for such events as well as choosing wisely in regards to available menus. I lost a total of 16 kg, my percentage body fat is now 24.4 % and my fat mass has dropped to 16.3 kg. I have remained stable on about 67-68 kg for over eight months. Yes, I have had to buy a new wardrobe, but to me, this was not the reason for going on the weight loss program. For me, it was about feeling good about myself, being able to increase my mobility and do the things I enjoy. Most of all, my goal, which was to reduce the pain associated with osteoarthritis, has been achieved.

I am very grateful to Monica for her ongoing support, quiet encouragement and advice, which have enabled me to make the whole weight loss program a reality.

Lesley-Del Kinscher, Baulkham Hills (04.09.2006)

Lowering Blood Sugar Levels & Getting a New Lease on Life

Last December, after a routine blood test, it was discovered I had a blood sugar reading of 10 mmol/L! My doctor thought it would be a good idea if I saw Sue Radd from the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic.

At first I was very confused with the GI factor. However, after a few visits with Sue explaining food values, I came to understand the GI concept and how to read food labels on packets etc.

I have now decreased my blood sugar reading to an average of 4 mmol/L and have lost 4 kilos – not to mention that I also need to buy new clothes! I have a new lease on life and although I am nearly 71, I enjoy going to the gym.

Thank you Sue.

June Findlay, Castle Hill (09.08.2006)

Fixing IBS Symptoms such as Flatulence & Bloating & Lowering High Blood Pressure

For many years I have had very high blood pressure, plus digestive and stomach problems such as bloating, flatulence, nausea and irritable bowel syndrome. I had visited many GPs and gastro specialists over the years.

Over the last year or so I have been under the care of Dr Sinchin Nair of the Dural Medical Centre who changed my blood pressure medication and recommended I go to see Sue Radd of the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic in Castle Hill.

At my weekly visits, Sue gave me great advice on sensible eating and with her encouragement I have been able to reduce my weight from 80 kg to 70 kg, body fat level from 27.9 % to 22 % and my waist circumference from 109 cm to 99 cm in just over three months!

I managed to do this by eating more fibre, vegetables, fruit, cereal, nuts, avoiding alcohol, swapping full cream to soy milk, limiting red meat to once per week and eating skinless chicken and more fish.

Thank you Sue! I now have no flatulence, bloating, IBS symptoms and my blood pressure has dropped to 130/70!

Roy Harvie, Glenorie (01.08.2006)

Teenagers Fitness & Confidence Boosted!

My son was coming to the end of his primary school life last year and becoming increasingly aware of the fact that he was carrying more weight than was good for him, despite leading a very active life - playing Club Rugby, District Representative Rugby, Club basketball, School Representative Basketball, school AFL and Club Indoor Soccer! He decided that he would like to make it into the A’s of his College Rugby age group and get a new start at his high school with a new look.

We heard about the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic through a friend, so we made an appointment in October last year. Seeing Monica every week initially, then every 2-3 weeks, for healthy eating advice and encouragement meant that by the time the Year 6 Farewell night came around, Michael had lost approximately 6 kg of body fat, had his hair bleached blonde and grown enormously in self-confidence! He continued to see Monica for monitoring visits every 4-6 weeks over the summer, and entered high school with a high self-esteem and a greater level of fitness. The overall result was that he achieved his sporting goal and was selected to play for the Under 13 A’s in Rugby. As Michael has grown 4.5 cm taller since his initial assessment, we are continuing our sessions with Monica to monitor his weight and body fat levels and ensure these increase appropriately for his height.

Over the entire time we have seen Monica, she has shown nothing but respect for Michael’s goals and needs, tailoring an eating plan that he could comfortably stick to without feeling he was missing out on everything he liked. She has been positive and supportive and celebrated every success with Michael, building a good relationship with him so that he listens to her and makes good use of her advice. I strongly recommend Monica as a person eminently suited to working with young people and have told many friends and family members that taking Michael to see her was the best thing I have done as a mother for him. He is now the fit, healthy and confident boy I always knew he could be.

Jan, Castle Hill (14.06.2006)

Preventing Diabetes

I didn’t have any symptoms, so when my doctor called and said “I’m a bit worried about your sugar levels, I’d like you to take a Glucose Tolerance Test” I didn’t know what to think.

The test revealed that I had Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) so visits to an endocrinologist and a nutritionist were suggested.

After an initial consultation with Sue I knew I had to lose some weight – my BMI was 27. I was eating healthy foods already so it didn’t take a great deal of change. Sue pointed out what was good and what was not so good in my diet. Eating more of the good and less of the bad resulted in my weight dropping by 6 kg over six months (from 83.5 kg to 77-78 kg) placing me within the healthy weight range.

I have continued with the diet and my latest Glucose Tolerance Test results indicate that I no longer suffer from IGT! As a bonus my cholesterol and triglyceride levels also fell. The figures tell the story…

In November 2004 my 2 hour plasma glucose was 9.6 mmol/L indicating I had IGT (IGT = 7.8-11.0 mmol/L), my cholesterol was 5.7 mmol/L (Ref Range = 3.9-5.5) and triglycerides 2.4 mmol/L (Ref Range = 0.5-1.7) alerting me to the fact that both of these blood fats were elevated.

By October 2005 (after nutrition counselling) my 2 hour plasma glucose had decreased to 6.2 mmol/L, my cholesterol was 4.7 mmol and triglycerides 1.2 mmol/L – all in the normal range!

I would like to thank Sue for her guidance and help in bringing me back to “normal”.

Robert Smith, Castle Hill (24.01.2006)

Managing Diabetes with Lifestyle Medicine

I came to see Sue Radd at the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic on the 18th May 2005 and was recommended to her by my doctor due to the fact that I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and my cholesterol and sugar levels were not in the normal range. I needed to change my lifestyle so Sue put me on a balanced programme of carbs, proteins, dairy, meats, legumes and healthy food choices. Also I walk for 1 hour every day and this has improved my energy level greatly.

In the seven months since I started the programme, I have lost over 13 kg. I feel much healthier, my clothes look great and they sit the right way whereas before they were just a little snug. My last blood glucose reading was 4.4 mmol/L and my cholesterol reading was 5.2 mmol/L so I now have a sense of wellbeing and I don't have to take medication. With healthier eating habits and exercise I can maintain this for the rest of my life.

My insight into helping other people become motivated is to see a nutritionist and have them plan a programme for you. Be consistent, exercise everyday and you are sure to succeed.

Janet Garvie, Castle Hill (23.12.2005)

Balancing a Vegetarian Diet

I came to see Sue Radd in April of this year having been a vegetarian for 4 years. I knew that I hadn't been taking proper care of myself, as I was constantly tired and becoming run down very easily. I was also about 5 kg underweight, and thus had no real energy stores.

Sue recommended a major overhaul to my diet, including a major increase of pulses and meat substitutes. Importantly, she made such foods sound interesting! Within about a month I noticed major differences. I had more energy, I had put on a bit of weight and I just felt stronger.

After the success I had with Sue, my mum made an appointment and discussed her own diet with Sue. Now both of us enjoy much healthier diets.

Marthese Bezzina, Northmead (15.09.2005)

Treating Obesity

Like a lot of men my age I was obese, which was compounding high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high LDL, low HDL and high triglycerides. I knew that I was playing Russian Roulette with my life, particularly having had a stent fitted in February 2000. Also knowing that no matter how much medication one took, the underlying causes were not being addressed.

A few years ago I had partial success with “Gut Busters“. Unfortunately I soon regained weight. Last Christmas I was inspired to take action while watching Lord of the Rings, Return of the Kings. The scene was when Aragorn admonished the four Hobbits with “You should not kneel before any man”. Then Aragorn lead the gathering in paying homage to the Ring Bearer and his friends. I thought that if these weak halflings could save Middle Earth with courage and tenacity, I should save myself with a little determination. OK, the story is only fantasy but what are stories for if not to inspire. After reading Dr Akins’ book, getting more confused and a great deal of procrastination; I went though the Yellow Pages to find a nutritionist. In April earlier this year, I was very fortunate to find Sue Radd.

In mid April on the first visit when Sue suggested that an 800 Cal Optifast diet would be a possible direction to take, I thought “No coffee, no beer and no meat: you have to be kidding: bugger!!”. But with Sue’s enthusiasm, support and direction the first month flew by with astounding results. Yvonne, my wife, went with me to most meetings. Yvonne was having a great deal of fun - better than shopping. My goal of 90 kg was reached in July.

Now all blood parameters are in the normal range. And blood pressure, cholesterol and heart rates are at safe levels. Ahead, the challenge is to hold a steady course and to hold to the Athenian motto “Nothing in excess”. For those who like figures - see the table below.

May I add another line to thank Sue for her gentle guidance, motivation and encyclopaedic knowledge.

Chris Flynn, Castle Hill (31.08.2005)

Lowering Insulin Resistance with Better Food & Lifestyle Choices

My name is Vickie and my doctor referred me to Sue Radd to lose weight for health reasons including insulin resistance. I was reluctant to call, but after a week or two, I picked up the nerve to make the call.

So far, I have lost more than 23 kg in five months and dropped 10 BMI points! My insulin resistance and blood pressure have also improved. Meeting Sue at the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic is the best thing I have ever done. My life has turned around for the better.

The Optifast program was hard for the first 2-3 weeks, but I persevered because weight was coming off. By the end of the month I was happy to continue. We set small goals each time and it was fantastic as I reached each goal.

When I transitioned off Optifast and was back to eating real food, I didn’t feel like I was on a diet. By keeping a food diary, I was simply aware of what and how much I was eating. Sue gave me information that I didn’t have before to make the right choices and stick to a kilojoule budget. Wearing a pedometer was so useful as there was no guesswork as to how active I was that day. I knew whether I was reaching my goal or if I had to go for a walk that afternoon.

The best thing is that I don’t feel like I’m on a diet - I’m just making better food and lifestyle choices!

Vickie Clegg, Castle Hill (25.08.2005)

Steady Weight Loss

My name is Kathie and I will be hitting the big six o this year.  Came to see Sue about 15 weeks ago and have lost 12 kg to date.  I am absolutely thrilled, I feel fabulous and I look better than I have for decades.  I need to lose a fair bit more but it is happening and it isn't hard and I am not hungry.  Sue offered me choices, was encouraging when I expressed apprehension, and we haven't settled on a goal because I think that might be self defeating.  This way, with no end goal, I can just delight in the progress I have made.  I even enjoy drinking water now and I was the lady who drank water only to take medication.  I am looking forward to buying some new clothes soon, what fun!

Kathie Frost, Quakers Hill (28.05.2005)

Healthy Eating Allows Less Diabetes Medication Use

My name is Barry and in October 2004 I was diagnosed as a category two diabetic and referred by my medical practitioner to Sue Radd. Prior to my first consultation I was a little apprehensive as to what benefit I would gain from visiting a Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic. After all, I considered my diet was not too bad and the diabetes was just an untimely interruption. Following a couple of consultations, I begin to realise you are what you eat and drink. I confess to once being an avid lover of fries and no meal was complete without lashings of potatoes and gravy, not to mention the odd pie or two and two or three beers each evening often supplemented with a glass or two of wine. Fruit did not feature highly on my menu.

In the five months I have been attending Sue’s Clinic, I have been enlightened. I have:

1. Learned how to read the nutritional content on food labelling (this is most important as there are a number of clever marketers out there competing for a slice of your food budget; consequently, what you might believe to be healthy is not always the bees knees) Lost almost eight kilos
2. Been guided into trading high fat foods for a sustainable wholesome diet
3. Acquired a taste for legumes, such as five bean salad and traded pizzas for grilled meats, fish and chicken
4. Replaced desserts with a variety of fruits
5. Dusted off the runners and now average a daily 3 kms
6. And most importantly, reduced my reliance on medication by 50%.

Barry Eathorne, Kellyville (14.10.2004)