ISSUE 14 | OCT 2021
Smart Bites
Malnutrition Week 2021 Gerontology SIG
DNZ Award Winners Clare Wall, Hannah Rapata, Maia Lingman, Nicky McCarthy
Working at the Ministry of Health Anna Jackson
Smart Bites is the quarterly magazine of Dietitians New Zealand. We exist to build a strong and sustainable profession that empowers New Zealanders to make informed food and nutrition choices and inspire change that enhances the health and wellbeing of Aotearoa, New Zealand. Smart Bites has taken the baton of informing and updating our members from "News and Views", which for 56 years was the voice of the New Zealand Dietetic Association and then Dietitians New Zealand. Ka mua, ka muri. Discover us online: www.dietitians.org.nz IG @dietitiansnz Contact us: General Manager: Kath Eastwood admin@dietitians.org.nz Editorial team: Julie Carter, Anna Greenan, Reena Soniassy-Unkovich, Audrey Tay, Elizabeth Whittred editorsmartbites@gmail.com
Contents 04
From the Editorial Team
05
From Dietitians NZ
07
From DNZ Council
09
From University of Auckland
11
Update by Gerontology SIG
14
Award of Excellence: Clare Wall
19
Highlights from DNZ Conference
22
ANA Public Health Nutrition Scholarship: Hannah Rapata
23
Bernice Kelly Award: Maia Lingman
24
Education Trust Award: Nicky McCarthy
26
Working as a Dietitian at the Ministry of Health by Anna Jackson
28
Remembering Dr Cliff Tasman-Jones
32
We've been loving...
33
References
FROM THE EDITORIAL TEAM
Welcome The arrival of spring was bittersweet this year. While spring usually brings us out of the doldrums of winter, the Delta lockdown certainly dampened the mood and challenged the brightest of spirits. Nonetheless, lockdown remains a great time to indulge in small pleasures. In my own backyard, there is something new to marvel at daily from the gracious unfurling of new silver fern shoots to colourful wildflower blooms and majestic kererū feasting on jasmine buds. Nature does put on the best show! I hope that despite the recent upheavals and hardships, you have been able to take a pause and enjoy some spring wonder. September also graced us with incredible conferences. I was lucky enough to attend both the virtual International Congress of Dietetics and the Dietitians NZ Conference. While we were all looking forward to being together in Ōtautahi Christchurch, the virtual conference was excellent. I do wish to acknowledge the fantastic efforts and resilience of Kath Eastwood and the whole organising committee in seamlessly pivoting to a virtual platform within a very short timeframe. Attendees didn't have to miss out on their "goodie bag" either. The delivery was a nice surprise for all and the personalised handwritten note from Kath a lovely touch.
Working from home with Mishka - a big fan of lockdown, keen attendee at Zoom meetings and attention fiend!
In this edition of Smart Bites, we showcase several highlights from the 2021 Dietitians NZ conference and shine the spotlight on award recipients. A personal highlight that resonated with me across both conferences is that we belong to an extraordinary and dedicated community, strongly committed to doing good. Dietitians can have far-reaching impact, influencing positive change in all parts of the world and across a myriad of sectors. For me, this is truly humbling and inspiring.
Reena
New initiatives or success stories to share? Amazing colleagues to spotlight?
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SMART BITES | PAGE 4
FROM DIETITIANS NZ
As explained by Dr Paul Wood at our recent conference, the Silver Fern comes from Māori bush craft – the undersides reflect moonlight and thus provide navigation at night.
Kath Eastwood Dietitians NZ CEO
Turning the Fern Together So much debate surrounded whether the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games should go ahead, and as I sat back and watched Aotearoa’s finest athletes, I was reminded of how fortunate we are to live in a nation where sport is such a big part of our identity. Sport helps bring people together and tackle problems that go to the very core of society. The Games are so much more than just a spectacle where the worlds sporting talent assemble and display their incredible athleticism. They are a snapshot into the years of courage, sacrifice perseverance and determination by athletes and their support teams, and so it seems so appropriate that it is the Silver Fern that is worn by kiwi athletes and symbolises our national identity. SMART BITES | PAGE 5
The Silver Fern represents courage in the face of uncertainty. Perseverance even when the path isn’t clear or when we might take the wrong track. It represents being connected to others and laying the path for others to follow – all qualities displayed in spades by our athletes. However, we don’t all need to be elite athletes or in positions of designated authority to lead others and show them the way. We can all ‘turn the fern’ and create a path - it’s about showing up and enabling others to do better and be better through interactions with us. It’s easy to follow a path. The harder thing to do is to take ownership, find a path for yourself, and turn the fern for others who want to move in the same direction.
FROM DIETITIANS NZ
When we think about that in the context of the Health & Disability system reform, there has been no better time for dietitians to ‘turn the fern’ and create a path for others. However, how confident are we that we – both individually & collectively can ‘turn the fern’? How connected are we with others to successfully lay a path? Who might we need to build relationships with, both locally and nationally? How well do you know the planning and funding team in your DHB or the decision makers and/ or influencers in your local PHO? How courageous are we – Despite being nervous or a bit uncomfortable, can we embrace those feelings and keep going?
Do we have an experimental or growth mindset? Are we comfortable knowing that we might have to go down a few paths before we find the right one? What if we are challenged and have to change direction completely? The Health & Disability System reform is a once in a generation transformation that promises better outcomes for all New Zealanders. There is some fantastic mahi being done to improve the nutrition services available in our communities. While we may be able to go faster alone, we will go much further together, so let’s all, individually and collectively, take ownership of the path we want to create. Lets ‘turn the fern’ together. Who is in?
FROM DNZ COUNCIL
Council Update September has rolled around and as I am writing this, those of us in Tāmaki Makaurau find ourselves in another level four lockdown, as the rest of Aotearoa is experiencing a new ‘Level two’. The Dietitians NZ Council would like to acknowledge that these times can be difficult to navigate and we hope you and your whānau are keeping well. That being said, we have had many positive moments over the past few month’s worth celebrating. Dietitians NZ Awards: Firstly, I would like to say a massive congratulations to our award winners as listed below, the Awards Sub-Committee received outstanding nominations, and it is particularly inspiring to hear about the awesome mahi our profession is doing. You will be able to read more about the recipients of the awards within this issue of Smart Bites.
What we have been doing: In recent months, Council has had the privilege of attending a joint hui with the Dietitians Board at Te Puea Memorial Marae. We interviewed nominees for our awards and worked on our Statement of Intent, which following feedback from Te Kahui O Manukura O Kai Ora, we hope to finalise soon. Additionally, as we changed alert levels with COVID-19, we worked hard to transition our annual kanohi te kanohi Dietitians NZ conference to our first ever completely virtual conference, in the space of only 19 days! We would like to say a special thanks to our organising team: Kath, Britanni, Eilish, and you, our members for your support.
Award Recipients: Award of Excellence - Professor Clare Wall Bernice Kelly - Maia Lingman Education Trust award - Nicky McCarthy ANA Public Health Scholarship - Hannah Rapata
Gypsy Bullen DNZ Council member SMART BITES | PAGE 7
FROM DNZ COUNCIL
Changes in council: This month we say farewell to two of our members; Chirag Jivanji and Liz Beaglehole. Chirag and Liz have served three years on Council at a time when there was significant change and challenges both from an operational and governance perspective. The support, leadership, passion and knowledge they have shared has been extremely beneficial to Dietitians NZ. They have been instrumental in the mahi done to date towards our Te Tiriti Governance Model. On behalf of the association we warmly thank them for their commitment over the last three years and wish them both well on their future endeavours. We held our AGM on 23rd September, and it is with great pleasure we welcome our newest member, Reena Soniassy-Unkovich to the Dietitians NZ Council. Reena coordinates the practical training for the MSc Nutrition and Dietetics programme at Massey University, overseeing student achievement of professional competencies. Growing up in one of the most diverse island nations (Mauritius) and spending time in Australia’s Northern Territory have sharpened Reena’s awareness of indigenous realities. Reena continuously seeks to develop her knowledge and honour Te Tiriti principles, both as a clinician and an educator. She shares DNZ’s aspirations for a governance model that reflects true partnership and joint leadership with tangata whenua and is thrilled to be part of this journey. Reena is passionate about the dietetics profession and leading positive change. SMART BITES | PAGE 8
Reena Soniassy-Unkovich The newest member of the DNZ Council
Save the date: We have released the date for our 2022 Dietitians Conference - 31st August-1st September. We are staying true to our promise and hope to make it to Ōtautahi, Christchurch for the third time lucky. The Dietitians NZ Council look forward to what the next few months of the year will bring and wish you all well. Noho ora mai, Gypsy Bullen Dietitians NZ Council
FROM UOA
Doctoral research and the dietetics profession: making a bigger impact in practice, education, and public policy University of Auckland new graduates contribute to the knowledge and evidence dietitians use in practice. Dietitians work as part of research teams, investigating nutrition and health issues to further knowledge in these areas. The research generated by dietitians informs dietetic practice. It forms the basis of evidence-based practice guidelines, position statements, and government policies. An academic dietitian works in the university setting and is usually involved in research and the education of student dietitians and other health professionals regarding nutrition and dietetics. Dietitians with doctoral degrees can work in universities, research organisations, industry, health services, and nongovernment organisations. Dietitians pursuing doctoral research develop skills in research design, data analysis and interpretation, scientific writing to conduct research. SMART BITES | PAGE 9
Anna Worthington Registered Dietitian, PhD Student
‘’Nutrition research is an exciting field to be a part of as this evidence supports all we do as dietitians in practice, as well as informing related policies. My PhD is looking at how nutrition research can be improved through the integration of user-centered design and behaviour change techniques. Ideally, I will produce a framework that researchers can consult when designing randomised controlled trials to enhance participant adherence to dietary arms. Already, I'm enjoying learning new skills and connecting with inspiring people in this area.’’
FROM UOA
They also can develop skills in teaching and supervision of higher degree research students. Two of our new graduate dietitians have embarked on their doctoral research in 2021. They are excited to get their PhDs in nutrition and dietetics. Dietetic graduates wanting to further their qualifications can elect to do a doctoral research at the University of Auckland. Join the team and be at the forefront of exciting developments in nutrition research. Completing a PhD in the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at the University of Auckland provides you with the opportunity to develop research and interpersonal skills within a supportive, world-leading research university. Our academic staff are career researcher dietitians from a broad background of scientists, health professionals and education specialists. We work closely with a range of partners from the health services sector and other not-for-profit and industry sectors.
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Jessica Ann Malloy Registered Dietitian, PhD Student
‘’Social media, smartphones and their capabilities present new opportunities for intervention in the nutrition space. My doctoral research is focused on health promotion for young adults using youth codesign of a social media dietary and lifestyle intervention program. Instagram will be the primary social app explored, with multiple channels on the platform used to engage and potentially influence young adults, including live streams, targeted advertisements, and frequent posting. If effective, my research will lay a foundation for future nutrition interventions in the social media space, and outline strategies for improving engagement and outcomes through this medium.’’
FROM GERONTOLOGY SIG
MALNUTRITION IS EVERYBODY'S BUSINESS ‘Malnutrition is everybody's business’ is the theme for this year’s Australia New Zealand Malnutrition Week, 4-8 October. Malnutrition is a focus for dietitians in most settings. In older adults, malnutrition is often complicated by frailty, sarcopenia, chronic health conditions, and changes in function and social connections.
Recent NZ research shows 48% of admissions to residential care from the community are malnourished (A) and Carol Wham’s 2020 research shows half of Māori and a third of non-Māori community dwelling older adults were at nutrition risk (B). Identifying malnutrition starts with screening. There are a variety of screening tools available, each best suited to specific settings. However, there isn’t a national approach to assessing malnutrition risk in older adults. InterRAI assessment tools are mandated for use nationwide in residential care facilities and in DHBs for allocating home and community support services, with more than 120,000 assessments completed in the 2019/20 year (C). However, the nutrition component of this assessment is inadequate for use as a malnutrition screen (D). Australia’s Griffith University is developing an Australian and New Zealand Guideline for the Identification and Management of Malnutrition and Frailty in the Community. The recently published Narrative Review gives an excellent overview of malnutrition, sarcopenia and frailty among older community-dwelling adults as well as the tools for screening, diagnosing and treatment (E).
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FROM GERONTOLOGY SIG
There are plenty of opportunities for dietitians in all settings to advocate for improvement in malnutrition. We should look for opportunities to work with Health NZ to ensure nationwide consensus and implementation of a standardised process for screening, identifying and treating malnutrition in New Zealand. Those working in residential care facilities can use the policy section of the Food and Nutrition Audit tool to advocate for an appropriate malnutrition screening tool and monitoring practices.
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Those working in the community can promote the ANZ Guideline once it is available. Within the SIG, using the Advocacy and Awareness framework currently being developed by DNZ, will support our members to raise issues, take a place at the table, and participate in decision making. To find resources for raising awareness of malnutrition among health professionals and the public, visit DietitianConnection.com
Award of Excellence: Professor Clare Wall
The Award of Excellence recognises outstanding contributions by dietitians to the advancement of the profession of dietetics. It is the highest honour Dietitians NZ can bestow on a member. By Julia Sekula on behalf of Clare’s nominees: Dr Andrea Braakhuis, Professor Carol Wham, Kerry McIlroy, Dr Amy Lovell, Sarah Hanrahan, and Clare Wallis We would like to congratulate Professor Clare Wall for her outstanding achievements in Dietetics. Over her 37 years as a Dietitian, Clare has excelled in all aspects of the profession. She has been instrumental in increasing the profile of dietetics across the health care workforce in New Zealand and Australia, having authored key position papers, lobbied with the Ministry of Health for the dietetic scope of practice and led the education of the dietetic research workforce. Alongside her expertise in infant nutrition, she has played a pivotal role in the profile of dietetics in New Zealand. Clare qualified as a dietitian from The University of Wales in 1984 after completing a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition and Dietetics. She started working in the area of paediatric nutrition early on in her career, initially as a paediatric dietitian at St James University Hospital in Leeds. Clare travelled to Brisbane, Australia in 1990 where she took up a position at the Children’s Nutrition Research Centre, Royal Children’s Hospital.
SMART BITES | PAGE 14
Professor Clare Wall 2021 Award of Excellence
Whilst at the Royal Children’s Hospital, she undertook firstly her Master’s degree, then her Doctorate. Clare moved to New Zealand in 2001 and took up a position at Massey University as a Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition, moving to The University of Auckland in 2006 into the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Clare has been a driving force behind the profile of dietetics within the wider Allied Health workforce in New Zealand, for many years starting with a key position paper which became the background of allied health and dietetic profession positioning within the New Zealand healthcare landscape. Over the last six years’ Clare has been involved in an international community of practice and the Council of Deans of Nutrition and Dietetics - Australia and New Zealand which has enabled her (alongside the wider team) to increase the profile of dietetics in across Australasia and incorporate cutting edge education into the dietetic curriculum. Clare has been instrumental in the integration of nutrition education into health professional curricula. Her pioneering work in nutrition at both Massey University and The University of Auckland clearly demonstrates her leadership in nutrition education.
Clare teaches nutrition in the Faculty of Science and Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences at The University of Auckland in the following undergraduate programmes: BSc (Food Science and Nutrition); BSc Biomedical Science (Nutrition and Metabolism) BHSc; BNurs; BPharm and MBChB. Clare had a pivotal role in the development of nutrition content in the MBChB curriculum at The University of Auckland. Clare’s main research focus is the interrelationship of nutritional status in early life and health and development outcomes. Her work has further strengthened this area of dietetics both nationally and internationally. She has successfully built and maintained relationships across both academia, health professions and Government agencies to improve the health of New Zealanders.
Clare and the wider UoA Nutrition and Dietetic Team at her inaugural lecture as a Professor SMART BITES | PAGE 15
Clare is highly respected and valued within all teams, workgroups and agencies that she works with. She is recognised as an expert in this area at both a national and international level, she has published 124 peer-reviewed papers with 1147 citations. In recognition of her research expertise in early life nutrition in 2017, she was invited to be on the Senior Leadership team of the National Science Challenge – High Value Nutrition (HVN). Clare is the lead for the Infant Health Programme within the HVN programme, where she is the primary investigator for a $4 million grant investigating the role of a prebiotic food on infant immunity, which involves significant collaboration with institutions New Zealand wide. Clare holds a number of key appointments on research and advisory committees in addition to her key roles as Academic Director of the School of Medical Sciences and Head of Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. She is/has been a member of a wide variety of local, national and international organisations and/or workgroups; many of these have been described within this article. Clare has not only contributed to dietetic education through the MHSc but has also championed the dietetic profession to undertake post-graduate opportunities. This has included mentoring and supervising dietitians undertaking their MHSc (where their dietetic qualification was a PGDip or other), those undertaking additional postgraduate study (such as in clinical education) and those undertaking doctoral studies. SMART BITES | PAGE 16
Since the establishment of the Dietetic Programme and the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, she has successfully worked to grow the profession beyond more ‘traditional roles’ in dietetics. She mentors all the staff in the discipline and her approach has been to build a co-constructive relationship with staff to guide, support, give feedback and facilitate evidence informed reflective-learning conversations. As they are her colleagues, she sees her role as providing developmental guidance and she has provided an environment, which encourages personal review and reflection. She has encouraged them and others within the profession to take up opportunities to enhance their skill set, particularly in academia.
Clare has significantly increased the status and recognition of dietitians at both a national and international level, particularly in the areas of education and early life nutrition. She has made a personal and positive impact on the dietetic profession within New Zealand. All her achievements are due to her professional approach, her tenacity, her friendliness and collegiality. Clare embodies all that dietitians set out to achieve and is an undeniably worthy candidate for this prestigious award. As nominators of Clare for this award, we are extremely proud of everything she has achieved as both friends and colleagues and look forward to celebrating her success at an Auckland Branch event later this year, once alert levels allow.
Clare with the UoA Dietetic team
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HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE DNZ CONFERENCE The kōrero delivered by Kasey and Karena Bird was a definite standout for me. They provided examples of phrases they used when communicating with Māori participants in their program. For example, rather than focusing on individual health, it's preferable to say "(X behaviour) can help protect the health of your whānau. I found this highly practical and inspired me to think deeper about how I am phrase messages. I really enjoyed this year's virtual conference. The presentations were really interesting and inspiring. The breakout rooms were great as it gave us the opportunity to meet and connect with other dietitians that we might not necessarily have connected with if it was a live event. Tau kē!
Jo Marshall, Waitematā DHB - Diabetes
Shona Gomes, NZ Nutrition Foundation
The conference revealed and challenged much of my misconceptions about dietetics. As someone still new to the profession, finding connection and direction was a mountain I repeatedly failed to climb. I deeply appreciated the commitment and intentional effort of Dietitians NZ and the speakers to draw whanaungatanga within and beyond the profession. We may move faster alone but how much better that we go further together to cultivate health through nutrition in Aotearoa. Kia ora. Esther Tay, The University of Auckland
It was one of the best virtual events I have attended in the past 2 years! It was beautifully executed, both in terms of content and organisation. The extra perk is accessing the sessions on demand following the conference. With networking break out rooms throughout the program, I could still network with other attendees, especially people I have never met before. I also loved the virtual Expo! In face-to-face conferences, I often breeze through the exhibits. In the virtual format, I visited every sponsor and exhibitors booth, watched their informational videos and looked at their resources. Rajshri Roy, The University of Auckland
I really enjoyed the cultural safety talk. A message that resonated with me was "Just doing our job means perpetuating the status quo and maintaining inequalities". I also enjoyed the stream on dietetic-led pathways and learning about/being inspired by what my colleagues are doing, especially in areas which interest me. Sarah Mercer, Waikato DHB/Private Practice
I really loved the breakout spaces and smaller group activities as we had the opportunity to meet a randomly assigned group of dietitians and dietetic students from around the country, many of whom you may not otherwise have met if attending the conference in person! Somehow, I felt that people seemed more approachable - beaming at you from their homes +/- makeup +/- hoodies, kids, pets...
I felt like the conference did really well at breaking down barriers; and in the process, revealed a dietetic profession that is genuine, passionate, committed, flexible, responsive and totally up to responding to modern challenges. Alana Baker, Private Practice
As an older Dietitian, I was heartened to meet so many young Dietitians just brimming with energy, enthusiasm and passion for their work and who are so fully embracing the need for compassion, kindness and respect for the needs, rights and views of others. I think this bodes very well for our profession as we move ahead. There was a lot to take away from this conference. In summary, this is the feeling that 'comes to the top'.
Lea Stening, Private Practice
I enjoyed the joint public health and food industry session - it truly does show how well we work collaboratively as a profession. I also liked the breakout rooms! It was really nice to meet other dietitians who I probably wouldn't have spoken to at conference.
Deb Sue, Countdown
The online platform was a real highlight for me. It was my first real experience with a virtual/online conference. I was blown away by the options of 1 to 1 meetings, breakout sessions, sponsors pages, the smooth transition between speakers, and the tech support provided. I was still able to connect with others despite it being online. Credit to the DNZ for mobilising so quickly to move online and working with conferenz to deliver a quality conference experience. The chairing of the keynote sessions and general running of the front end of the conference by Julia Sekula and Brittani Beavis was fantastic. Both did an absolutely stunning job. I loved the strong thread of Te Reo Māori in the chairing and the responsiveness to Māori woven into the actual programme. Dave Monro, Heart Foundation
I loved the completely random breakout rooms, which meant you met new Dietitians rather than sticking to talking to those you already know'. I also loved that it has been recorded because unlike normal conferences where you often miss streams, we can watch it all over the next 6 months. Jenny Douglas, Private Practice
It helped me to reach out and say hello to many more people than I probably would have if the conference was in person. The breakout rooms gave the opportunity to talk with different dietitians. It was a priceless experience for me as a student and I would highly recommend this to all the dietetic students in the future that are completing their Master's degrees. Sasha Goldberg, The University of Auckland
I liked the korero amongst the best practice and better practice panels and how each group approached this case study holding the patient central to the treatment plan. I was warmed to see that each group recognised that moving forward with their client required more understanding of what the client prioritised before assigning a PES statement and care plan, ultimately strengthening the client's therapeutic relationship.
I also enjoyed hearing the innovative work of dietitians, e.g. from nutrition interventions in severe mental illness to fuss or not to fuss, to chronic nausea and vomiting pathways. Tino pai to mahi Kate Syers, Private Practice
New Zealand dietitians are such a supportive and friendly bunch! It is inspiring to see community initiatives and research projects that are resulting in the better health and wellbeing of the communities we serve, and improve our job satisfaction simultaneously. Lots of reflection to do on my individual food choices and professional contributions!
Claire Gibson, Waikato DHB
I didn’t think a virtual conference would be an ideal learning platform for me but found I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I found the site so well organised and very easy to navigate. Personal highlights were the standout inspirational talks from Dr Paul Wood and Kasey and Karena Bird, and the opportunity to network with Dietitians from around New Zealand. Congratulations on doing an exceptional job DNZ team. Vicki Williams, Waitematā DHB
Thank you to everyone who submitted their highlights!
ANA Public Health Nutrition Scholarship: Hannah Rapata
The ANA Public Health Nutrition Scholarship is a new award in 2021 to support the post-graduate study in indigenous public health. Ko Motu-pōhue tōku mauka Ko Te ara a kiwa tōku tai Ko Uruao, Takitimu, Tairea ōku waka Ko Awarua tōku rohe Ko Kai tahu tōku iwi Ko kai atawhiua tōku hapū Ko Te Rau Aroha tōku marae Ko Tahupotiki tōku whare Ko Hannah Rapata tōku ingoa He tino manaaki tēnei koha ki ahau. Ka awhina rawa tēnei koha ki tāku rangahau. Ka painga hoki mātou ko tōku whānau e tēnei koha. Nō reira, e mihi ana ki Ngā Pukenga Kai Ora o Aotearoa mō tēnei koha. E mihi ana, e mihi ana, e mihi ana. I am a recent dietetic graduate, a full time māmā to my son Kahutai and a part time doctoral student at Auckland University. When I am not spending time with whānau or reading papers I enjoy baking cakes, swimming and mountain biking. I have been passionate about Māori health equity and public health nutrition for a long time and therefore saw public health research as a logical and natural pathway. Within my doctoral research I will be using a Kaupapa Māori approach to analyse various food and explore the experiences Māori have in our food system. SMART BITES | PAGE 22
Hannah Rapata, 2021 ANA Scholarship recipient
This research has a broad aim to inform the National Food Strategy as well as other public health nutrition related policies. I am enjoying the research journey that I am on as it goes hand in hand with my cultural journey in learning Te Reo Māori and reconnecting with my whakapapa and whenua. It is however a challenge navigating the space of academic advancement alongside personal and professional decolonisation within a colonial institution. With this I am very lucky to have a number of excellent supervisors, support from my whānau as
well as connections with other Māori on similar journeys. I am very honoured to be an ANA Public Health Nutrition Scholarship Recipient.
This funding will support my research in enabling me to purchase required equipment that I would not be able to acquire otherwise.
Bernice Kelly Award: Maia Lingman
The Bernice Kelly Award is awarded to the most improved full-time dietetic student from either the University of Otago, Massey University or the University of Auckland. Kia ora koutou, kō Maia ahau. I am a final year student at the University of Auckland. Originally from Mount Maunganui, I chose to study dietetics with the hope of contributing to the prevention of chronic disease, particularly in our Indigenous communities. I have a keen interest in working towards creating equitable health outcomes for our Indigenous population. I am part of a working group with Te Kahui Manukura o Kai Ora (Māori dietitians rōpū) and Dietitians NZ who are developing a strategy to support Māori to enter and remain in the dietetic workforce. I have loved my clinical placements and always feel inspired working alongside dietitians to make such a meaningful difference in peoples’ lives. My thesis is part of the LiLACS-NZ study and aims to assess the impact of inadequate protein intake on functional status in over 90-yearolds. SMART BITES | PAGE 23
I am so grateful to receive the Bernice Kelly award. It has enhanced my motivation and drive to further develop my clinical skills and contribute to improving the health of others. I have taken leadership opportunities within the University and look forward to further contributing to the progression and movement of Dietitians NZ to a Te Tiriti partnership to further improve cultural safety for not only patients but also dietitians.
Maia Lingman 2021 Bernice Kelly Award recipient
Education Trust Award: Nicky McCarthy
The Education Trust Award is awarded to further the knowledge of New Zealand Registered Dietitians by funding work and study projects and for retraining dietitians wanting to re-enter the workforce.
I have been fortunate enough to live with my family in the Wanaka area for 13 years. I have a small private practice called NutritionWorks, and for the last several years, I have worked part-time for Central Otago Health, based at Dunstan Hospital. CO Health provides DHB-funded healthcare to the Central Otago and Upper Clutha (Wanaka/Hawea) areas and some services, including diabetes and dietetics, to the Queenstown area. I enjoy working as a rural generalist dietitian with both adults and children. It is challenging and always interesting! I thoroughly appreciate the support of my specialist dietitian colleagues around the country, whom I regularly call on to ensure that the care I provide is informed and appropriate.
I hope that my research improves awareness of the need for IBD patients to have access to dietitians and more specialist training available for dietitians working with these patients. I would like to forward my immense gratitude to Dietitians NZ for awarding me the Education Trust award. I plan on using the funding to attend the NZ Society of Gastroenterology 2021 conference where I have submitted two abstracts to present some of my research findings.
I have a special interest in gastroenterology. It has led me to recently complete a Master's of Health Sciences researching dietetic care in inflammatory bowel disease in New Zealand. This has been a great opportunity for me to learn more about health research and to gain knowledge on a specialist topic. Nicky McCarthy 2021 Education Trust Award recipient SMART BITES | PAGE 24
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Working as a Dietitian at the Ministry of Health Anna Jackson tells us about her current role and shares some highlights of her career journey as a dietitian I currently work as a Senior Advisor in the Nutrition and Physical Activity team at the Ministry of Health, based in Wellington. My focus is public health nutrition, and my core work is developing guidance and providing advice on population approaches to improving nutrition. My work has a broad scope and has included work on protecting and promoting breastfeeding, folic acid fortification, updating dietary guidelines, and workforce development. Prior to working at the Ministry of Health, I worked as a clinical dietitian in Auckland. My first dietetic role was in the Immunology and Allergy Department at Auckland City Hospital. This was a steep learning curve, but I was well supported by the multi-disciplinary team. I established networks with other specialist dietitians in New Zealand and Australia, which enabled the sharing of resources, knowledge, and professional support. My next role was providing outpatient services at Waitakere Hospital and later for the Diabetes and Pregnancy Service. The outpatient setting was where I was most comfortable, as I felt the setting was much more conducive to nutrition counselling. Over the seven years that I have worked at the Ministry, and for many years before this, I and colleagues have been giving SMART BITES | PAGE 26
Anna Jackson Senior Advisor – Nutrition Manatū Hau ora l Ministry of Health
advice in support of mandating folic acid fortification of bread to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. On 8 July 2021, this was finally achieved and is a major triumph for public health in New Zealand. Last year, following staff changes due to Covid-19, I picked up the work to update the infant and toddler dietary guidelines. The Ministry contracted the University of Auckland to work with a Technical Advisory Group of researchers and practitioners with expertise in maternal and/or paediatric nutrition to review the
the international evidence and make recommendations for the New Zealand context. My job was to prepare the document provided by the University of Auckland for publication. This involved further development of the document, editing and design, to produce Healthy Eating Guidelines for New Zealand Babies and Toddlers (0-2 years old), published on 30 September 2021. In 2020, I submitted a business case to develop health education resources for the public to communicate the key messages in the 0-2 guidelines as well as advice in the updated Eating and Activity Guidelines for New Zealand Adults. These resources will have an equity focus and will be targeted to Māori and Pacific peoples. The first phase of resource development was contracted to a Pacific health provider and has commenced. Resources will be developed for Māori in the next phase.
Anna finalising the guidelines for 0-2 years old while juggling being a mum to a busy toddler during the lockdown
A major challenge is to overcome the barriers to making healthy dietary choices when many barriers relate to the food environment and food affordability. Food has both social and cultural significance. Other factors such as allowing for personal choice and the economic and trade aspects of food production make public I love providing evidence-informed advice on nutrition-related health policy in the food and issues to a range of audiences such as Ministers, the Director of Public Health, health practitioners, consumers, and non-health nutrition space highly stakeholders such as the Commerce Commission and other controversial. government agencies. I love the diverse nature of my work. One day I am providing advice to delegates attending the World Health Assembly. The next day, I am at a meeting with Australian counterparts discussing food labelling; and the following day, I am answering a media query on vitamin D supplementation.
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Remembering Dr Clifford Tasman-Jones 21.12.1928 - 19.07.2021
Kerry McIlroy and Lyn Gillanders
Cliff Tasman -Jones, was an advocate and a friend for the dietetic profession in New Zealand. He was mentor, colleague, teacher and friend to many of us, whatever our specialty. This loyal partnership with the profession was acknowledged in 1993 when he was made an Honorary Life Member of NZDA in 1993 (now Dietitians NZ). Cliff’s professional life was all encompassing: Physician, Gastroenterologist, Hepatologist, Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians (London) and the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, Associate Professor of Gastroenterology and Human Nutrition at The University of Auckland, and amongst the many honours: Recipient Silver Medal University of Bologna Italy 1991, Tasman/ Glans fellow Gastroenterology Society 1995, Paul Harris Fellow Rotary International; high chief title Seiuli Conferred by His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili 11, Head of State Samoa. Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for contributions to Public Health 2006. Perhaps our first experience with Cliff was when he readily supported Lyn to present at the medical grand round at Green Lane Hospital. SMART BITES | PAGE 28
Dr Clifford Tasman-Jones, a passionate advocate for Nutrition and Dietetics (photo from NZ Nutrition Foundation)
The medical fraternity continued to request a bland multi-level diet for patients with peptic ulcer and Lyn demonstrated the lack of evidence for this practice. This was one of many instances when he encouraged dietitians to be involved with the medical profession in promoting good clinical practice. Throughout his years in practice, he constantly sought the expertise of dietitians and valued their contribution.
In his academic role at The University of Auckland, he was an avid researcher. His enthusiasm was contagious amongst his research colleagues. He contributed to many research projects including pancreatitis, liver disease and inflammatory bowel disease. He believed that good health lay in the gut and this led to his research into fibre back in the 1970’s. Along with a group of post graduate students and dietitians he investigated the role of fibre in the gut. He published extensively on this topic and insisted his research colleagues publish and present their findings. Cliff challenged hypotheses and also invited challenges from other researchers. He was often quoted saying “No question is a stupid question when you are doing research”. Kerry was a member of his research team in his laboratory and from studies were able to show that resistant starch given as part of a diet to rats increased faecal bulk and short chain fatty acids, in particular butyrate, which has beneficial properties in the colon.
Another interest was Hepatitis B which in the 1980’s and 1990’s had become a public health issue when it was shown that hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) was prevalent in the population with it being four times more common in nonEuropean compared to European. Cliff, along with other colleagues, were members of a task force to bring in immunization for the prevention of Hepatitis B. Much of the initial work in setting up the New Zealand Liver transplant unit was due to Cliff’s tenacity. In 1993, he was one of the group from NZ Gastroenterology to provide the Ministry of Health with guidelines on liver transplantation in NZ. He was then appointed to the advisory group established by the Ministry of Health and Regional Health Authorities to take responsibility to progress towards a National Liver Transplant Unit which opened in 1998 at Auckland DHB. He chaired the support group to advocate for accommodation for liver transplant recipients from all corners of NZ. Cliff’s interest in big picture public health made him a powerful advocate and in 1988, as chairman of the Department of Health’s Nutrition Task Force, he led the group that wrote ‘Food For Health’ which established food and nutrition policy in the 1990’s. The initial report acknowledged the scope of work appropriate for the dietitian and actively promoted an ongoing and expanding role for dietitians.
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In the role, he was able to include nutrition professionals, politicians, food industry, media and different cultural groups to focus on better public health food and nutrition information. The NZ Nutrition Foundation, which he co-founded in 1980 and chaired, provided a platform for advocating these policies. He was visionary in tasking the NZ Nutrition Foundation to develop a nutrition labelling system and resigned after 27 years of service in 2007. As a teacher he taught in the undergraduate medical training at The University of Auckland and introduced nutrition modules with dietitians as guest lecturers. Many dietitians will remember his lectures on gastro-intestinal topics in their training programme. He was vocal with his beliefs and commitment to dietetic training and ensuring contemporary dietetic practice. After his retirement from formal practice in 1993, he continued his interest in many organisations championing the need for healthy eating in a changing society. This continued work was recognized in 2006 when he was made a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contributions to Public Health. When interviewed after his award, he commented ‘I personally don’t believe that there is such a thing as good foods and bad foods. But there are good servings and bad serving sizes. You can make any food good or bad by the portion and the balance that you’ve got in your diet’.
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Cliff had the ability to take science and make it understandable for everyone. Every contact with people showed humility, understanding and empathy. When asked about his extensive interests, he said ‘I think it’s a love of people and a love of doing things’. He was a true gentleman who was revered by his patients, students, and colleagues. The twinkle is his eye exemplified his kindness, friendliness and humour. Beverley, Cliff’s widow was a wonderfully supportive partner and friend to many of us. They had four sons of whom Cliff was very proud, Tim, Chris Michael and David. Cliff Tasman-Jones left the world of dietetic practice better through his advocacy, support and valued friendship.
We've been loving... #1 Podcast - Food Psych®, a podcast about intuitive eating, Health at Every Size®, and body liberation. In each episode, Christy talks with health and psychology professionals, anti-diet activists, and leaders in the bodyliberation movement—about their relationships with food, paths to body-image healing and fat acceptance, and experiences of recovery from weight stigma and eating disorders. This podcast calls out diet culture for the life thief that it is, and challenges it in all its sneaky forms— including the restrictive behaviors that often masquerade as wellness and fitness.
#2 Entertainment - The Stellenbosch University Choir ICD 2021 opened with the Stellenbosch University Choir’s rendition of South Africa’s national anthem. Nkosi Sikelela iAfrika is a stunning and special anthem, weaving five of the most widely spoken languages of South Africa: Xhosa, Zulu, Sesotho, Afrikaans and English. Truly magical! #3 Cookbook - Hungry by Karena and Kasey Bird Hungry draws on the experience Karena and Kasey have gained while travelling to over 30 countries in Europe and Asia and working with a variety of top chefs. Karena and Kasey have created recipes that introduce new flavours and techniques while remaining simple and easy to cook with ingredients readily available in New Zealand.
#4 Social Media Account - @likebodieslikeminds True stories about body image and mental health from seven brilliant bodies by Angela Barnett and Ruby Jones. Check them out on Instagram.
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References Malnutrition is everbody's business (A) Chatindiara, I., Allen, J., Hettige, D., Senior, S., Richter, M., Kruger, M., & Wham, C. (2020) High prevalence of malnutrition and frailty among older adults at admission to residential aged care. Journal of Primary Health Care, 12, 305. https://doi.org/10.1071/HC20042 (B) Tkatch, M.T., Towers, A.J., Keller, H.H., & Wham, C.A. (2021) Nutrition Risk Prevalence and Associated Health and Social Risk Factors in Māori and Non-Māori: Results from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement Study. Australians Journal of Ageing; 00,1. https://doi.org/10.1111/ajag.12952 (C) InterRAI New Zealand. (2020) InterRAI Annual Report 2019/20. Retrieved from https://www.interrai.co.nz/assets/AR_interR AI_2020_FINAL-v2.pdf. (D) Radich, M. J. (2014). Comparison of Nutritional Components of InterRAI-HC to Validated Nutrition Screening Tools (Thesis, Master of Dietetics). University of Otago. Retrieved from http://hdl.handle.net/10523/4652 (E) Roberts,S., Collins,P.,& Rattray, M. (2021) Identifying and Managing Malnutrition, Frailty and Sarcopenia in the Community: A Narrative Review. Nutrients,13, 2316. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13072316
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