*Photo credited to Obesity Canadian Network (CON) Image Bank*
- What should I eat?
- Is this healthy?
- Does this fit on my meal plan?
Do these questions regularly run through your mind? The world of health and nutrition can be completely confusing! Sometimes, this can be so confusing that people tend to just throw in the towel and eat whatever. Sound familiar?
Did you know that anyone can call themselves a “nutritionist?” However, a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) has completed a bachelor’s degree, an internship and passed a national exam to show their competency.
So RDs are pretty important, but what can they help you with?
Benefits of Working with a Registered Dietitian
Disease Management – The old saying “You are what you eat” is true! Certain health conditions are managed effectively with a healthy diet. Nutrition plays a crucial role in the management of Diabetes, heart disease and kidney disease. A RD can help develop a specific plan for you based on your health condition. A low carbohydrate plan for diabetes or a low-fat diet for heart disease can be tricky. Let a professional help you by developing a meal plan, answering your questions and modifying what you are currently eating.
Supplements and Nutritional Deficiencies – Navigating through the vitamin and supplement maze can be confusing, and the supplement isle at any store is packed. Leave it to an expert to plan your intake and determine what you may need. The correct form of calcium, the best multi-vitamin and a perfect probiotic can all be discussed in these visits.
Decide on a Weight Management Plan that Works for You – Weight management is tricky and there are many paths to take. A RD can help you determine the best plan for you and help you with the best food choices to meet your weight-loss goals.
Health Coaching – Finding the right plan is part of it, but sticking to it long-term is tough! There will be ups and downs. A RD can help you through the changes and struggles you may experience and keep you motivated.
Meal Planning – It can be difficult to find foods you like that can fit into your plan. If you are struggling for healthy meal ideas, try a RD!
Where can you find one? Check out your local hospital or the American Dietitian Association at www.eatright.org.
About the Author:
Sarah Muntel, RD, is the Bariatric Coordinator at Community Bariatric Surgeons in Indianapolis, IN. She has 15 years of experience working with bariatric patients and loves to watch people as they change their lives and improve their health. Her favorite part of her job is her weekly support group. In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her husband and three children.
