The American Dietetic Assn. gets a new name

Heads up, those of you looking for the American Dietetic Assn. The organization, made up of food and nutrition professionals, has a new name: The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

The name change officially happened on Jan. 1, and the decision wasn’t made lightly. In a news release academy President Sylvia Escott-Stump explained the thoughts behind changing the original name, which has been in place since the group was founded in 1917. “Protecting the public’s health is the highest priority of the Academy and our members, and our new name complements our focus: the nutritional well-being of the American public.”

The new title, she added, reflects the members’ background in science and their academic exerpertise (most of the organization’s members are registered dietitians). “Nutrition science underpins wellness, prevention and treatment,” she said.

This being the time of year many people make resolutions to eat better, the website (which hasn’t changed: eatright.org) offers information to the public on how to make sense of the body mass index, tips for eating out, nutrition for various life stages, and how to lose weight safely.

There’s even an “Eat Right in 2012!” page, complete with information on how to reach your goals.

Also, check out our series of stories on how making small changes can add up to big results for slimming down and getting in shape.