A registered dietitian is a food and nutrition professional who assists people in making healthy dietary and lifestyle decisions. He or she could establish guidelines for restaurants and cafeterias, as well as provide private consultations to people who are concerned about their health. A dietitian may also work in a clinical setting, designing specialized diets for patients with specific diagnoses. People who complete the required education, training, and examinations are awarded registered dietitian credentials the American Dietetic Association (ADA) in the United States. Successful dietitians can obtain similar credentials from governing boards in other countries, such as the National Health Service in the United Kingdom.
Dietitians who are registered have extensive knowledge of human anatomy, metabolic processes, nutritional requirements, and public health. Clinical dietitians work in health-care settings such as general hospitals and nursing homes to apply their knowledge. They communicate with doctors and nurses to learn about patients’ unique needs. Individuals meet with dietitians to learn which foods to eat and in what amounts. A registered dietitian, for example, can assist a diabetic patient in learning which foods can help normalize blood sugar levels while also providing essential nutrients.
Some dietitians work in private practices, assisting clients with a variety of health issues. To learn about losing weight, lowering cholesterol, or building muscle, a person might seek the advice of a registered dietitian. The expert can assist the client in identifying objectives and developing a personalized diet and exercise program. Clients often meet with their dietitians on a regular basis to review their progress and make any necessary changes to their diet plans. A qualified consulting dietitian can also assist food service establishments and restaurants in developing healthier menus for their patrons.
A person who wants to become a registered dietitian in the United States must typically earn a bachelor’s degree in a nutrition-related field, complete an internship, and pass certification exams. A new dietitian can gain practical experience assisting and observing established professionals in the field during an internship. Most states in the United States have a written licensing exam that must be passed before an individual can start working on their own. The American Dietetic Association (ADA) also offers a written or computer-based certification exam that grants the title of registered dietitian.
Although obtaining ADA certification is not required to work in the field in the United States, it can greatly improve a person’s chances of finding long-term employment and advancement opportunities. Dietitians with several years of experience are frequently successful in establishing private practices. Some professionals choose to continue their education in order to pursue careers as health researchers or university professors.