The Center is open Monday through Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and Friday from 9 am to 3 pm. On Saturdays, we’ll be open for special workshops.
LOADED!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What happens during a visit to a Clinical Nutritionist?
During your initial visit, which will last from 1 to 1.5 hours, the clinical nutritionist will ask you questions about your medical history, family history and personal lifestyle. She will also review any recent blood work (so bring this with you), a one-day food diary that you should keep prior to your appointment and any herbs, supplements or medicines that you take regularly (so please make a list of these or bring the actual bottles with you). This will provide a full picture of your nutritional lifestyle that will help her create your nutritional program.
Will there be a conflict between The Blum Center of Health and my primary care or other specialty doctor if I’m on medication?
Dr. Blum and Elizabeth have an integrative approach to practicing medicine. The treatment plans they create combine Western medical practices, such as prescription medications, with what are sometimes considered “alternative” or “integrative” approaches like nutrition, supplements and stress-management techniques. As a result, Dr. Blum and Elizabeth understand the medications you are on and can work with you as a complement to your current medical regimen. That said, if you are interested in getting off some or all of your current medications, Dr. Blum and Elizabeth will work with your prescribing doctor toward this goal. They will never change your existing medication; your prescribing doctor will change it if he/she sees you don’t need it anymore. For example, as you and Dr. Blum or Elizabeth work towards lowering your cholesterol, your levels will drop lower and lower on lab testing. Then, you (or Dr. Blum/Elizabeth) can talk to your doctor about reducing your cholesterol-lowering medication.
How many times should I expect to visit The Blum Center for Health?
After the second visit, you can expect to come back in one month to review your progress on the program. This and future visits should last no more than one hour. At this point, your individual medical condition and program will determine the frequency or need for follow up visits.
Zesty Lemon Quinoa
Native to Peru, quinoa has become known as a superfood because of its high nutritional value. This grain-like food contains a balance of essential amino acids and is a good source of dietary fiber and minerals. Small like rice but lighter and nutty, quinoa goes great with vegetables, tofu, tempeh and lean meat, poultry and fish. It can even be used in baking.
Vegetarian Chili
This is a great one-pot meal that you can whip up for a party or stash in the freezer for those chilly winter days. The mix of beans make this high in protein and fiber and the spices are loaded with healing properties. Top the chili with slices of avocado for some healthy fat or serve it over brown rice.
Irene M
I was referred to Dr. Blum by a good friend who assured me that if I was ready, working with Dr. Blum would change my life – It absolutely has! When I met Dr. Blum I was seeing a number of doctors and taking a number of meds that addressed multiple, seemingly disconnected conditions and symptoms. I had no understanding of the underlying causes or how nutritional changes and supplements could address these issues and my previous attempts to research this on my own had left me feeling overwhelmed. Dr. Blum listened intently and gave me all the time I needed. Comprehensive (non invasive) testing and evaluations revealed a number of things (such as food allergies) that were the root cause of arthritis, reflux, and other issues. I feel better than I have in years! My arthritis is gone…my reflux is gone…my headaches are gone…the weight is coming off…and I have been able to safely wean from a medication that had miserable side effects. Dr. Blum’s guidance, treatment and education along with my readiness to do what it takes to be well have restored my health & well being and the energy to enjoy it! Thank you Dr. Blum!
Irene M
What happens at my second appointment?
By your second appointment, which is typically one month after the first, Dr. Blum or Elizabeth has reviewed the results of any laboratory testing. Armed with this data as well as the results of your physical exam and the information you provided in the first appointment, Dr. Blum or Elizabeth will create your treatment program. She may also refer you to other experts at The Blum Center for Health and/or suggest classes or workshops that may complement your treatment program.
What happens during my first appointment?
You should expect a thoughtful, humanizing experience that is the first step on your journey to better health. During the hour-and-a-half appointment, you and Dr. Blum or Elizabeth will discuss your symptoms, health concerns, medical, family, social and psycho-spiritual history, childhood, diet, exercise and sleep habits, among other information that will help create your treatment plan. Dr. Blum or Elizabeth will also review any previous lab testing and/or medical records from your primary or specialty physicians so bring these with you if you have them. You will also have a physical exam as well as ample time to ask Dr. Blum or Elizabeth any questions. At the end of the visit, Dr. Blum or Elizabeth will determine which laboratory tests you should proceed with and suggest basic changes in your diet and nutritional supplementation.
Who will I see at my first appointment?
At The Blum Center for Health, we have two clinicians treating patients and specializing in Functional Medicine. These include Dr. Susan Blum, our founder and Medical Director who has a full-time medical practice, and Elizabeth Greig, our full-time Nurse Practitioner, who also has her own patients and practice. You have the option of seeing either Dr. Blum or Elizabeth for your appointments. For those concerned about the cost of an appointment, Elizabeth is a wonderful option as appointments with her cost less than those with Dr. Blum, and Dr. Blum will still supervise your medical care. Elizabeth may also have an available appointment sooner than Dr. Blum.