Choosing a Dietitian
Associates
in Nutrition and Sports Performance Experts
Florida, Texas, Michigan and Worldwide
Selecting the right Dietitian is an
important decision. In addition to the ensuring
that the Dietitian is licensed and in good
standing with the regulating state agency, there
are other factors that you should take into
account when choosing the right Dietitian.
Education, experience, costs, location, and
up-to-date techniques are just some of the
factors that you might consider when selecting a
Dietitian.
Dietitians are either registered with the
Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), a
national governing body, or licensed in the state
in which the practice. Many dietitians are both
registered and licensed. Dietitians are educated
in the science of nutrition through an accredited
university and spend a minimum of 900 hours after
graduation, training in a clinical setting. After
completing education and training, they must also
take a national registration exam or state
licensing exam before going into practice.
What techniques will be used to treat my
condition?
Initially, a dietitian will recommend an
individualized nutrition plan after a thorough
interview and assessment. Usually your dietitian
will ask questions regarding your diet and
medical history. Sometimes your dietitian will
ask you to write down everything you ate in the
last 3-7 days prior to your appointment. This
helps them to pinpoint exactly where improvements
to your diet can be made. Your dietitian will
help you to add or limit specific foods in your
diet to help you reach your nutrition goals. It
is also important for you to inform your
dietitian and medical doctor about any
medications, herbs and dietary supplements you
are taking.
What type of treatment in terms of
duration and frequency should you expect?
Responses to diet modifications
vary from patient to patient. Some patients will
see improvements very quickly, while it may take
longer for others. Typically, after the initial
assessment a follow-up visit will be made at
which time original nutrition goals will be
evaluated to ensure you are on track. The number
of subsequent visits will vary depending on the
nature of your condition and your success with
implementing the recommended dietary
modifications.
Do dietitians make referrals to other
health care providers if necessary?
Your dietitian works as part of a
team with your medical doctor to ensure your
individualized care is appropriate. Your
dietitian will also seek counsel and collaborate
with other specialists when necessary.
What else should I consider?
A dietitian should practice
dietetics based on scientific principles and
current information make every effort to help you
improve your health and wellbeing make
recommendations to specialists as necessary