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Setting the Record
Straight:
Not All Nutritionists
Are Created Equal American Dietetic Association Advises Consumers:
Look for the RD Credential
FOR RELEASE JANUARY 17, 2006
American Dietetic Association
Media contact: Jennifer Starkey, Julia Dombrowski
800/877-1600, ext. 4802, 4769
media@eatright.org
CHICAGO – Who is the qualified nutrition expert? Sometimes
it’s hard to tell. Initials after a name don’t
necessarily qualify someone to provide nutrition services.
Even when that
person holds other academic degrees, nutrition may not be
his or her specialty. The American Dietetic Association advises
consumers to look for the RD credential.
“
Registered dietitians know the science of nutrition. Our required
degrees in nutrition, dietetics, public health or related fields
such as biochemistry, medicine or a nutrition specialty in family
and consumer sciences come from well-respected, accredited colleges
and universities,” said registered dietitian and ADA
President Rebecca Reeves.
After or during their education, RDs must perform a supervised
internship. To become “registered,” they must
pass an extensive examination administered by the Commission
on Dietetic
Registration, and earn professional education credits throughout
their careers to maintain registration.
“
In many states, titles like ‘nutritionist’ and ‘diet
counselor’ aren’t regulated, so terms like these may
be used by people who are not qualified to give accurate nutrition
advice,” Reeves said. “Many ‘nutritionists’ actually
are self-proclaimed experts with little if any actual nutrition
training or with only mail-order credentials.
“
When you need trusted, accurate, timely and practical nutrition
advice, seek the advice of a registered dietitian,” Reeves
said. “Your health and that of your family depend
on it.”
RDs have the skills and knowledge to translate nutrition
science into practical meal planning. A registered dietitian
can assist
with eating disorders; work with your health-care team by
helping you change your eating plan pre- or post-surgery;
and help you
set goals for athletic performance – whether you're
running a marathon or jogging with your dog.
Visit ADA at http://www.eatright.org/ to locate a registered
dietitian near you.
With nearly 65,000 members, the Chicago-based American Dietetic
Association is the world's largest organization of food
and nutrition professionals. ADA serves the public by promoting
nutrition, health
and well-being.
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