When to see a Registered Dietitian
“You should never eat saturated fat.” “The keto diet is the key to weight loss!” “You should eat more eggs, they’re a great source of protein!” “Eggs are terrible for your cholesterol levels!” News headlines and social media can make healthy eating seem incredibly overwhelming. One minute a food is declared “good”, then the next it is “bad”. A healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be difficult. A Registered Dietitian can help you find a realistic, long-term eating plan that is sustainable and utilizes evidence-based guidelines. Dietitians work to support your specific preferences, goals, and lifestyle; rather than serve as the “food police”.
Only a Registered Dietitian has completed multiple tiers of education and training established by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). All RDs must:
- Obtain a minimum of a Master’s degree
- Complete an extensive supervised program of practice in a clinical setting, a food service organization, and a community agency
- Pass a rigorous national examination
- Maintain continuing education credits throughout their career to keep abreast of changes in research and best practices
We often think of Registered Dietitians as a resource to help with weight loss goals, but there are multiple reasons why an appointment with a Registered Dietitian can be beneficial. Contact the Lifestyle Medicine Center if you are searching for support with any of the following conditions:
8 Reasons to See a Dietitian That Aren’t About Weight Loss:
- You have a chronic condition such as diabetes, fatty liver, or cardiovascular disease. A Registered Dietitian can help you manage your condition while also eating foods you enjoy.
- You have a food allergy, intolerance, or sensitivity. A Registered Dietitian can help make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need.
- You want practical nutrition advice such as how to read labels at the supermarket or prepare healthy meals on a budget.
- You have children with dietary concerns such as altered nutrition-related labs, food allergies, or concern for weight progression for their age.
- You have PCOS or a thyroid condition. While the internet may have convinced you that you need to eliminate carbs and gluten from your diet, a Registered Dietitian can walk you through research-based recommendations.
- You are interested in a non-diet approach to health or would like to learn more about mindful eating.
- You’re interested in adopting a plant-based diet or just want to incorporate more plants into your diet.
- You have chronic kidney disease and need help managing your intake of nutrients such as sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and protein.
What to Expect During a Dietitian Appointment:
- Be ready to have an open conversation regarding your current habits, preferences, and schedule
- Dietitians aren’t interested in a one-size-fits-all approach, so they want to learn your favorite foods and cultural preferences to help you find a plan that works best for YOU.
- Receive education and a customized plan for your individual needs
- Maybe you’ve come to believe a completely carb-free diet is the best way to manage diabetes or that healthy eating means a diet consisting of only chicken, broccoli, and brown rice. A Registered Dietitian will provide education in an easy to understand fashion so that you have the insight to choose the best options for your circumstances and lifestyle.
- Set goals using specific and achievable targets
- Your Registered Dietitian will help you set goals that are not only realistic but also relevant to your long-term health goals.
When you are ready to begin your personalized journey with lifestyle changes, connect with the Registered Dietitians at the Lifestyle Medicine Center by calling (432)-221-5433.