Here’s Food for Thought About Seeking a Nutritionist
Whether you want to fine-tune your diet for better health or overhaul it because of a health condition, finding a good nutritionist takes work.
Start by asking your doctor for a recommendation or by contacting the American Dietetic Assn., which maintains lists of practitioners in your area. Then call the nutritionist and ask about his or her credentials as well as areas of expertise. Make sure the practitioner will be able to understand your needs and customize diet advice.
For the record:
12:00 a.m. March 18, 2002 FOR THE RECORD
Los Angeles Times Tuesday March 12, 2002 Home Edition Main News Part A Page 2 A2 Desk 1 inches; 25 words Type of Material: Correction
Dietitians group--A March 11 story in Health on how to find a nutritionist included an incorrect phone number for the American Dietetic Assn. The correct number is (800) 366-1655.
For the Record
Los Angeles Times Monday March 18, 2002 Home Edition Health Part S Page 3 View Desk 1 inches; 24 words Type of Material: Correction
Dietitians group-A March 11 story on how to find a nutritionist included an incorrect phone number for the American Dietetic Assn. The correct number is (800) 366-1655.
Look for someone who:
* Is either a “registered dietitian,” commonly denoted after someone’s name as RD, or has a master’s or doctoral degree in nutrition.
A registered dietitian has earned a bachelor’s degree (after taking courses in chemistry, biochemistry, physiology and statistics), completed a nine- to 12-month internship and passed a certifying exam.
Among those with advanced degrees in nutrition is the “certified nutrition specialist,” or CNS. A CNS has completed a master’s or doctoral-level nutrition program at an accredited college or university, done 1,000 hours of supervised work in a specialty and passed a certification exam by the national certifying body.
Also, in California, your doctor may refer you to a nutritionist with a master’s or doctoral degree in clinical nutrition from an accredited college or university, regardless of whether that person is designated a CNS, as long as the doctor deems that person qualified.
* Incorporates behavior modification and stress reduction and encourages exercise and good nutrition to improve health.
* Asks about your specific needs and is available to answer your questions.
* Is willing to work with your doctor.
* Can offer alternatives if a particular plan doesn’t work.
* Will develop meal plans that include foods tailored to your lifestyle, needs and medical considerations.
Doesn’t charge hundreds of dollars for a visit. In the Los Angeles area, for example, initial consultations may cost around $150; follow-up visits may run around $80.
*
To locate a registered dietitian in your area, contact the American Dietetic Assn. at www.eatright.org or (900) 225-5267.