Registered Dietitians, more than just a “nutritionist.”
By Karen S. Miller, MS, RD, LMNT, CPT
Nutrition is an important part of the physical element of wellness. In fact, often times when people talk about wellness they are talking about the physical aspect of wellness especially nutrition and fitness. A registered dietitian can be an important member of your wellness team.
A registered dietitian has a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and a 6-12 month approved supervised internship. They must take a national registration exam and in many states including Nebraska they may be licensed. Many dietitians have advanced degrees in nutrition, dietetics, exercise, public health or related degrees.
You might think, so what? What does this mean for me? A registered dietitian can take the scientific information you read about in the newspaper and translate it to usable information.
You might consult a registered dietitian if:
-You have a medical condition that can benefit from nutrition charges
-You are trying to lose weight
-You are trying to gain weight
-You are a vegetarian and you’re not sure if you’re getting proper nutrition
-You have questions about the latest information in the world of nutrition
-Or you’re trying to make lifestyle changes related to nutrition and don’t know where to start or are stuck
-You are just interested in being sure that you and/or your family is eating in the best possible way
Look for a registered dietitian to help you with your food and nutrition goals and to answer your questions. All registered dietitians are “nutritionists” but not all “nutritionists” are registered dietitians. Get your information from the food and nutrition expert, your registered dietitian (R.D) If you have specific nutrition questions go to http://crec.unl.edu/fitness/index.shtml and click on “ask the nutritionist.” The question will go directly to me, your registered dietitian.
Tags: Dietetics, Dietitian, Exercise, Fitness, Lifestyle Changes, Nutrition, Nutritionist, Physical Wellness, Public Health, Weight Loss Programs, Weight Management
