Clinical nutrition includes both the elements of eating a good balance and variety of healthful foods as supplementing with individual nutrients when necessary. Naturopathic physicians understand that what you eat is of the utmost importance in providing you with a foundation for good health. Eating healthful foods is often the best first step you can take towards resolving many common health issues. Often, medical conditions can be treated with greater efficacy and fewer side effects simply by adopting a more health-promoting diet and supplementing with specific nutrients which may be deficient in the body. Naturopathic physicians will often prescribe a specific diet tailored to the individual, as well as recommending fasting or nutritional supplements when those are indicated.