Testimonials

Husband Delighted with Wife’s Results!

My wife is currently undertaking the 12-week loss program with one of your dietitians at Castle Hill. I just wanted to provide a bit of feedback on behalf of myself. My wife is overwhelmed with the program and feels that your dietitian goes well beyond her requirements, my wife can't stop raving about her and how much she has helped her, not only with her advice but her friendly and caring demeanour.  My wife comes home as if she has been to a therapy session and all smiles. I would like to thank you for all your assistance and friendly advice that you have provided Christina with her ongoing weight issues and wellbeing. She is an absolute asset to the clinic.  Thank you.

                                                                                                        Ron, Glenwood (12.04.2011)

Satisfaction with Weight Loss and Medical Test Results

A medical check-up in November 2008 showed that my weight had increased as well as my cholesterol and blood glucose. I discussed these changes with my GP and my GP’s advice was simply to lose weight and exercise. However, a football injury had restricted my training, so I decided that in order to achieve a weight loss and healthy eating I needed to plan a new lifestyle.

My research started on the Type 2 diabetes web sites. I carried out the advice from the information that was published on the web sites and after a period of 3 months, I contacted the Diabetes Association for a reference to a dietician in the Castle Hill region. I felt that I needed the guidance from an accredited clinic after seeing the positive results.  I was very motivated to continue with this healthy living under the professional guidance.

I first came to the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic in February 2009 (my weight then was 82 kg and body fat 21.4 %) and the ongoing guidance has been tremendous. My weight and body fat is now 74. 5 kg and 18.1 %, respectively, and I am very satisfied with my weight loss and my medical test results.

Great innovative recipes are provided by the dietitians, which I blend with my own, as I like to cook.                                        

                                                                                                      John, Cherrybrook (31.05.2010)

Learned to Balance Good and Not so Good Foods – Lost 20 kg!

Since 28th May 2009 I have lost 21kgs – something I had never thought possible. I started my journey as an obese (94.3 kg) 38 year old and am now in a healthy weight range for the first time in 12 years (73.3 kg). While I had no medical issues to deal with, I had fallen into the habit of poor eating  – using the excuse that I was too busy or stressed with our new business or was putting my children’s or family’s needs before my own. In actual fact I think I was just too embarrassed to ask for help.

I had heard about the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic through a friend and after reading through the website, made my first appointment with Monica. Since that first appointment, I have not looked back. I was now in a situation where the excuses for poor eating were becoming less plausible. Meeting Monica on a fortnightly basis was brilliant in keeping me focused on my ultimate goal. The one on one nature of the clinic is so crucial to my weight loss – this was not an approach of a one type of ‘diet’ fits all solution – Monica was there to address my individual issues and to help form strategies just for me. Monica’s encouragement and approachable nature has been instrumental in my weight loss.

The combination of exercise and healthy eating habits have worked brilliantly for me – the more weight  I lost the more I gained out of my training sessions and the  harder I trained the more weight I lost – win win!! While I still enjoy food and do not deprive myself of the foods I love – I have now learnt to balance the good and the not so good foods. Thanks Monica.  

Mel, Thornleigh (15.03.2010)

 Healthy Diet and Wellness

I have never been an overweight person but my main motivation when I went to see the dietitian was to educate myself on how to maintain a healthy diet and to ensure that I was eating the right foods from all the 5 food groups.

After only a few visits with Monica, she recommended that I make some minimal changes to my diet and taught me which foods were better and healthier options to what I was currently eating.

What can I say? By making these simple changes to my diet and regular exercise, I noticed major improvements to my overall wellbeing. I feel amazing with so much more energy to burn, my body fat percentage dropped by 6 % and I have gained invaluable knowledge and healthy eating options that will stay with me for life. This knowledge will allow me to maintain a healthy lifestyle and continue to live life to the fullest.

I have no hesitation in recommending Monica Kubizniak and the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic. Monica is a dedicated and talented professional who provided me with the motivation, guidance and knowledge to make these simple changes to my diet and lifestyle that will help me to stay in good health.

Kathleen, Baulkham Hills (05.06.2009)

Managing Lactose and Fructose Malabsorption

I have always known that milk made me feel ill somehow, but I love cheeses and butter.  I also love scones with jam and cream with a lovely cup of tea.  I never related the feeling of bloating and discomfort I suffered to the consumption of dairy products.

Many years ago, I was diagnosed with Helicobacter bacteria in my stomach and after treatment for it, I developed stomach reflux.  I control this by taking daily medication.

It is my routine to walk my dogs early every morning and then have a bowl of fruit salad with yoghurt for breakfast, plus toast with marmalade or jam and cheese.  Additionally, I ate apples and any other fruit in season during the day and every main meal is usually accompanied by fresh salad or steamed vegetables.  However, I was suffering bloating and discomfort all through most days.   

In January this year, after a colonoscopy from which I received a clean bill of health, my doctor told me that while my diet sounded very healthy maybe some of the fruits and vegetables I was consuming could be affecting me.

After I read an article in the Sydney Morning Herald about the Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic I decided to consult Monica.  She was most helpful.  Monica confirmed that I am definitely Lactose Intolerant and helped me discover that I have Fructose Malabsorption as well.  The latter, I had never heard of before.  I have eliminated all dairy products from my diet except for the ones that are specifically lactose free.

I have also stopped eating apples, pears, figs and other fruits that I love but contain high levels of fructose.  Unfortunately, sugar and honey also affect me, thus no more cups of tea and no more scones with jam or toast with jam and cheese.

Monica asked me to keep a food diary and through it I now manage what I eat.  Some vegetables such as onions and asparagus I am introducing back into my diet on a trial and see basis; others like lychees and mangos are forever removed.

The good news is that I feel very well now, I am aware of what I can eat and what I have to avoid.  I am very thankful to Monica for her advice and support.

Marta Ayling, Ermington (30.05.2009)

Weight Loss and Wellness Success

After a medical check-up in November 2008, it was shown that my weight was increasing, my cholesterol level was creeping towards 7mmol/L and my blood pressure was too high. I was referred to Monica at Sue Radd’s Nutrition and Wellbeing Clinic.

Prior to my first visit I was apprehensive as to what I would be allowed to eat, in what quantities and how often. After discussing with Monica the pros and cons, we agreed on a diet plan of 1300 calories per day, coupled with regular exercise, which would hopefully lead to a weight reduction of 13/14 kg.

At first it took some adjusting to get used to new foods and quantities, but after seeing some early positive results, I became quite motivated. I adopted the Summer 1300 Cal. Menu, as designed by Monica and Sue immediately after Christmas 2008 and have since moved onto the Winter 1300 Cal. Menu.

By early May 2009, I had achieved a weight loss of 15 kg and a body fat loss of 16 kg. Further, my cholesterol had dropped to an acceptable level and my blood pressure is now within the WHO range for my age. All in all, extremely satisfying results. I have been well supported by my wife who also enjoys the healthier foods, plus the encouragement and support from Monica has been fantastic.

I have no desires to return to the “old Barry”.

Barry Russell, Castle Hill (28.05.09)

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 11 kilograms 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)

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)

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.

Date Weight
kg		 Fat
%		 Fat mass
kg		 Blood
Pressure		 Chest
cm		 Waist
cm		 Hip
cm
Pre April 114 35.2 39.7 192/100 127 121 118
Post July 89.8 26.6 21.3 110/72 114 104 105

Chris Flynn, Castle Hill (31.08.2005)