In today's world where healthy eating has become a facet of life rather than just a fad, it's important to know where to turn when questions surrounding nutrition arise.
While it may seem easy to find a nutritional expert in your area, there are a few items you should keep in mind.
The month of March is recognized as National Nutrition Month, making now the perfect time to explore the best choices in food connoisseurs.
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According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association), the best source of practical, affordable and accurate nutrition information is a registered dietitian.
A registered dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who holds at least a bachelor's degree, has completed a supervised practice program and passed a registration examination. In addition, registered dietitians maintain continuing education requirements for recertification.
It's also important to note that registered dietitians and nutritionists are not always one in the same. While some registered dietitians may call themselves nutritionists, nutritionists are not always registered dietitians.
Another huge benefit in using the skills and knowledge of a registered dietitian is the fact that they can develop an individually tailored approach to healthful eating for each patient.
There is not a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to healthy eating, but registered dietitians have the capacity to come up with unique and appropriate items based on your specific needs.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, here are just a few of the great ways registered dietitians can improve the health of Americans and also save money:
Gastric bypass: A registered dietitian can make sure you have a tailored meal plan for your new eating needs.
Children: A registered dietitian can provide guidance for meal-planning and weight control.
Cooking: A registered dietitian can help teach you the skills on how to cook simple, healthy meals for your family at affordable prices.
Lifestyle: A registered dietitian can teach skills to change your lifestyle and coach you to manage problems associated with obesity.
Wednesday marks the fifth annual Registered Dietitian Day. Next time you're in need of a food and nutrition expert, look for the registered dietitian, or RD, credential after a person's name to ensure you are receiving safe and science-based nutritional information.
For more information on registered dietitian services at Jersey Shore Hospital, call 398-5141 to speak with Bird Schlorff or McPherson, both licensed, registered dietitians.
