A registered dietitian is the nutrition professional you should seek when you are looking for credible, objective nutrition information. Dietitians are the individuals trained in the use of nutrition to prevent and control disease.
Look for the initials R.D. after your nutritionist’s name. These credentials indicate that the health care practitioner has completed an accredited four-year educational program, a nutrition internship or earned an advanced degree in human nutrition and passed a national exam. Registered Dietitians are also required to complete a comprehensive continuing education program to maintain their credentials. In the state of Florida, the Department of Professional Regulation licenses dietitians and nutritionists. The initials LD/N indicate that the nutritionist is licensed to practice Medical Nutrition Therapy. In addition, many nutritionists have specialty credentials such as MS (Master of Science Degree).
Registered dietitians counsel people on many different topics from staying healthy to weight control to heart disease. They are the most credible and reliable source of accurate nutrition information. Medical Nutrition Therapy is an individual plan of healthy eating based on an individual’s nutritional needs and medical history. Balance, variety and moderation are the keys to healthful eating. A registered dietitian can help you find a total eating plan that works for YOU and YOUR LIFESTYLE.
Medicare will cover three hours of counseling by a registered dietitian for those individuals with a diagnosis of diabetes or kidney disease. Since the IRS has classified obesity as a disease, your visits with a qualified dietitian are tax deductible in the same way as prescription drugs. Many insurance plans will also cover your visits.
Registered dietitians work throughout our communities in hospitals, nursing homes, schools, and research institutes. Others see clients in private offices. Check your local yellow pages under dietitian or nutritionist. You can also obtain information from the American Dietetic Association by calling 1-800-366-1655 or at www.eatright.org.
