What is a Paediatric Dietitian?

Babies, children and young people (up to 18 years of age) may have many types of problems with food - they may not be able to eat certain foods or they may not be able to  eat enough food for normal growth and development.  The Paediatric Dietitian will work with the young person and his or her parent or carer to help improve symptoms and achieve optimal nutrition.

The Paediatric Dietitians at Derriford Hospital see patients that have been referred to us on the ward and in out-patient clinics by their consultant or GP.

Who should be referred to a paediatric dietitian?

We see babies, children and young people with a variety of nutritional issues.  These may include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Premature babies with poor growth
• Eating disorders
• Inborn errors of metabolism
• Cancer
• Newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus
• Cystic fibrosis
• Food allergies and intolerances
• Obesity
• Increased requirements or difficulties swallowing which requires tube feeding

Useful links:

UNICEF baby friendly initiative  www.babyfriendly.org.uk
Allergy UK  www.allergyuk.org
Coeliac UK  www.coeliac.org.uk
Cystic Fibrosis Trust  www.cftrust.org.uk
Bliss charity for premature and sick babies  www.bliss.org.uk
Diabetes UK  www.diabetesuk.org