Do People Really Read Their Diet Charts?

A Lesson I Learned Early in My Career

Recently, I was chatting with a fellow dietitian about our workflows and how we approach nutrition planning. Naturally, the conversation veered toward diet charts—how we prepare them, and the tools we use. She mentioned a few software options she was exploring, and it instantly took me back to my first hospital job.

We had a very structured approach back then. Every client filled out a massive, nearly 100-question intake form. All of this data went into a specialized software that would generate an incredibly detailed 16–20-page personalized plan—covering everything from diet and activity to sleep and stress. It was scientific, meticulous, and, to be honest, a bit overwhelming. We were proud of how rigorous the process was.

Then came a turning point.

We had a new CEO with fresh ideas. One of the first things he asked me to do was a follow-up survey with the last 100 clients who had received these personalized documents. His question was simple:"How many of them actually read the entire report?"

As a young and enthusiastic dietitian, I took this task very seriously. I expected at least half would’ve read it.

The reality? Less than 10% had actually read the plan.

That number shocked me. We were putting in so much effort to design highly detailed plans… that most clients never even read.

But that experience taught me something I’ll never forget:

The power lies not in the paperwork, but in the conversation.What we say during the counselling session often matters more than what we hand over in writing.

Clients remember what they hear.They follow the simple, doable advice we share face-to-face (or on a call).They resonate more with “Eat a fruit as a snack” than a full-page macro breakdown.

How This Shaped Our Work at Faronia

At Faronia, we’ve built our approach on these insights. While we still provide customized diet plans, our focus is firmly on counselling that works—personalized conversations, habit-based change, and practical guidance.

Every client gets the personal attention they need.Every session is designed to empower, not overwhelm.And every plan we create is backed by science and shaped by real life.

Because sustainable change doesn’t come from a document. It comes from understanding, support, and small steps—consistently taken.