The Importance of a Registered Dietitian

With so much nutrition information (and misinformation) available with the click of a mouse, it can be quite confusing to decipher what's accurate and what's being put out there to promote the latest product/diet. That's why it is important to consider the source, and always consult a registered dietitian if you have specific nutritional needs. It is also worth mentioning that dietitian and nutritionist don't always mean the same thing. A registered dietitian can be called a nutritionist, but a nutritionist is not necessarily a dietitian. Someone who calls them self a nutritionist may have only taken one nutrition course or received a certificate online after taking a test. Always look for the credentials RD or RDN, as any dietitian will likely have this after their name. Believe me, after finishing the long journey to becoming a dietitian, I wear that name proudly! So, exactly how does one become a dietitian?

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, "Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are food and nutrition experts who have met the following criteria to earn the RDN credential:"

• Completed a minimum of a bachelor's degree at a U.S. regionally accredited university or college, and coursework through an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD) or Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP).

• Complete 1200 hours of supervised practice through an ACEND accredited Dietetic Internship, Coordinated Program in Dietetics or an Individualized Supervised Practice Pathway (ISPP) offered through and ACEND accredited program.

• Passed a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

Dietitians must also complete continuing professional education to maintain the RD or RDN credential. And many states have regulatory laws, or licensure, for food and nutrition practitioners.

It is also important to note, nutrition is a science, not an opinion, so just keep that in mind before taking advice from someone who has little to no background in the field of nutrition. Trust me, it's so frustrating after having taken classes like organic chemistry, nutritional biochemistry of foods, genetics, etc, and then see someone who has taken maybe one nutrition class or just someone who has lost weight recently promoting the latest fad diet! If sound, evidence based nutrition advice is what you're looking for, then find a registered dietitian in your area who will be able to help with your nutritional concerns.

Have a good week!

Brianna