What is a Registered Dietitian and where do I find one?

A Registered Dietitian is a professional who has earned a Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited university. After successfully completing the science and nutrition curriculum in four years of undergraduate work, she/he must enter a one-year internship in a clinical setting, such as a hospital, accredited by the American Dietetic Association (ADA). The internship is a rigorous training in the nutritional management of different medical conditions, diseases, surgery and so on. It also includes other vital aspects such as food safety and food management.

Once this training is complete, the dietitian is eligible to sit for the registration test with the ADA Commission on Dietetic Registration. After passing this test, a dietitian becomes a Registered Dietitian (R.D.). Then, according to the location of practice, a license may be required. This is important because licensed dietitians go through a strict legal and professional scrutiny before a license is issued. Once obtained, the dietitian becomes a R.D., L.D. (licensed dietitian).

This is the professional you must consult for all your nutrition problems and concerns. Most probably you can find a Registered Dietitian in your area. For a referral call the American Dietetic Association at 800-877-1600 or log on to www.eatright.org