As parents – especially moms – we have a problem. We’re great at looking after others, but often not so great at taking care of ourselves. Science has proven that the majority of chronic disease is preventable by modifiable factors; nearly 80 percent of heart disease, diabetes and cancers can be prevented by choosing to do the right thing when it comes to food, exercise and cigarettes. The part about not smoking and keeping active has been pretty clear to date. Avoid tobacco and “just move!” But the world of nutrition has proven more opaque. Should I follow the Mediterranean Diet, the Paleo Diet or just saddle up to the juice bar? Enter the Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), its newer, user-friendly term.
What Makes a Pro
This food and nutrition expert has earned the RD or RDN credential by: (1) completing a bachelor’s degree and specialized academic coursework in nutrition, (2) fulfilling a 1,200-hour internship and (3) passing a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Beyond that, RDNs must complete continuing education to maintain their registration; this keeps their knowledge current. Some RDNs hold additional certifications in specialized areas of practice, such as diabetes or adult weight management. All of this training means that RDNs are uniquely qualified to offer advice on food and wellness, with a comprehensive understanding of the physiological effects diet has on the body.
Why See One?
You might see an RDN if you have been diagnosed with diabetes or kidney disease; utilizing diet as means of treating chronic disease, called Medical Nutrition Therapy, can improve quality of life, reduce medical costs and prevent hospitalization for many patients.
Perhaps you don’t have a diagnosed illness, you just want to train for a sporting event, gain energy or lose weight. In these cases, the RDN can also help you. Dietitians impart information and provide individualized guidance, also frequently multi-tasking as motivator, food therapist and/or logistics trainer.
What if you’re perfectly healthy? RDNs might help you to make healthy choices on a budget or expand the repertoire of healthful foods you and your family enjoy. An RDN can also help you to prevent future problems. Remember, most chronic disease could be eliminated if everyone adopted four healthy lifestyle factors: be active, don’t smoke, eat well and maintain a healthy weight. David Katz M.D., Founding Director of the Yale-Griffin Prevention Research Center, along with scientific research, define eating well as habitual intake of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
New Challenges
Today’s food environment is significantly different from the culture our ancestors experienced. Investigative journalist Michael Moss gave us a glimpse into a processed food industry determined to get us addicted to their products. Sitting in front of a computer has replaced physical labor. The news media confuse us with their flashy headlines, serially demonizing or praising (depending on whom you ask) carbohydrate, protein, fat or the micronutrient of the week. The “magic pill” for health is not a pill at all; it’s hard work and devotion to the same lifestyle factors the government has been recommending for decades. A Registered Dietitian can help you with the knowledge, the motivation or the practical aspects of following through on this advice.
What to Expect
When you meet with an RDN, he or she will gather information about your health condition, family history, eating habits, lifestyle and nutrition goals. Many dietitians will ask the client to keep a detailed food diary for several days before the appointment; this gives the professional a better idea of the client’s starting point (no judgment!) and areas for easy improvement. The RDN synthesizes your information into a unique plan that addresses whatever factors are currently preventing you from reaching your goals. Some RDNs offer consultations via email or phone, but meeting in person may be most effective.
An initial consult with an RDN in Westchester could cost anywhere from $100 to $400, however, many insurance companies recognize the value of nutrition counseling and will reimburse. To get in touch with a Registered Dietitian in your area, check out the website of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (eatright.org) and click on “Find an Expert.”
Elisa Bremner, MS, RD, CDN is the Campus Nutritionist at the Pleasantville Cottage Schools.
