What is an rd brochure

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Medical Nutrition Therapy is an individual plan of healthy eating based on an individual’s nutritional needs and medical history.

This information provided courtesy of RD411.com

Registered Dietitians

What is a registered dietitian?

A registered dietitian is a nutrition professional.

Registered dietitians are your most credible, objective source of nutrition information. In addition, they are trained in the use of nutrition to prevent and control disease.

Look for the initials RD after your nutritionist’s name. These credentials indicate that the practitioner has completed an accredited 4-year educational program, 1200 hours of supervised practice, and passed a national exam.

Are there any other credentials I may see?

In most states, dietitians and nutritionists are licensed or certified. The initials CD, LD, or LD/N indicate that the nutritionist is licensed to practice Medical Nutrition Therapy.

In addition, many nutritionists have specialty credentials. Some of the other initials you may see include: • MS—the nutritionist has completed a Master of Science degree.

• CDE—the nutritionist is a Certified Diabetes Educator.

• CNSD—the nutritionist is a Certified Nutrition Support Dietitian.

• CS—the nutritionist is a Certified Specialist.

What is a dietetic technician?

A dietetic technician is also a registered nutrition professional and uses the credentials DTR. Dietetic technicians have completed a 2-year educational program, 450 hours of supervised practice, and passed a national exam. Dietetic technicians work with registered dietitians in many settings.

What types of services do registered dietitians offer?

Registered dietitians counsel people on many different topics, including: • Healthy Meals • Weight Control • Menu Planning • Diabetes • Kidney Disease • Food Handling • Stroke Rehabilitation • Sports Nutrition

• Food Labels • Heart Disease • HIV/AIDS • Cancer • Osteoporosis • Pediatric Disorders • And Many More!

Do registered dietitians treat healthy people?

Yes. Registered dietitians help people learn about staying healthy and selecting the right foods. They are your most credible and reliable source of accurate nutrition information.

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.

Where do registered dietitians work?

Registered dietitians work throughout your community in hospitals, nursing homes, public health clinics, schools, rehabilitation centers, restaurants, spas, airlines, and cruise ships.

Many dietitians see clients in private offices or doctor’s offices. Others work for magazines, research institutes, food manufacturing companies, universities, and food management/ contract companies.

Does my insurance cover my visit to see a registered dietitian?

Many insurance plans will cover your visit to see a registered dietitian. If your insurance company does not, be sure to request this benefit. Medicare allows a certain number of visits for people with diabetes or end-stage renal disease. Check with your provider to determine if you are eligible to see a registered dietitian under Medicare.

How can I locate a registered dietitian?

You can obtain information from the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org, or by calling 1-800-877-1600, ext. 5000.

You may also call your local hospital or health maintenance organization.

Remember to always

ask for an RD!