About Dietitians
The Registered & Licensed Dietitian (RD/LD) is the nutrition expert because she/he has the most rigorous and concentrated education and training in nutrition of any health care practitioner. The principles of nutrition are those based in human biochemistry & physiology, and food, behavioral and social sciences. The RD/LD is a nutrition professional who has at least a baccalaureate degree in nutrition/dietetics from an accredited US college or university, has completed an accredited, supervised post-graduate practice program usually lasting 6-12 months, and has passed a nationwide credentialing exam. Every RD must obtain at least 75 continuing professional education units every five years to maintain their registration status.
Credentialing is in the best interest of the public, because it protects them from being harmed by unqualified and incompetent practitioners. Licensed Dietitians are the only nutritionists licensed and credentialed by the state of Texas. The titles Nutritionist or Clinical Nutritionist are unlicensed practitioners. Nutritionist is a general term that may be used by anyone, with or without professional credentials. When seeking a qualified nutrition professional, be sure your nutritionist is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian. For further information on the profession of dietetics contact The American Dietetic Association.
Registered Dietitians must follow a professional Code of Ethics, that provides guidance in their professional practice and conduct.
Where do Dietitians work? About 45% of RDs work in hospitals and clinics where they are an integral part of a medical team that treats and prevents disease. A growing number of Dietitians work in the food and nutrition industry, in business, journalism, sports nutrition, research, corporate wellness, private practice, education and other non-traditional work settings.
|
)