It's week 2 of National Nutrition Month 2023: Fuel for the Future! If you remember, last week we talked about the importance of enjoying more plant-based meals and snacks, purchasing foods with minimal packaging, buying foods in season and shopping locally when possible. This week, we're focusing on something that is probably the most important… The importance of seeing a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)! Especially one who specializes in your unique needs. As a Registered Dietitian I always get asked, "What's the difference between a Registered Dietitian and a Nutritionist?" Here's the short version:

Nutritionist:

  • Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, even without formal education or training in the field

  • Someone who may not have the same level of training or ability to work in a clinical setting like a hospital

Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist:

  • A licensed healthcare professional who's completed specific education and training requirements including 1,200 hours of supervised practice with hands-on experience in food service, hospital settings and even community environments

  • Someone who holds a minimum of a bachelor's degree in nutrition or a related field

  • Passes a national examination and maintains ongoing professional education requirements

  • Can diagnose and treat nutrition-related conditions and work with patients who have specific health needs

Why See an RDN?

So now you're asking yourself, "Why do I need to see a RD?" Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are experts in nutrition who have completed a rigorous education and training program. They can provide you with personalized nutrition advice based on your unique health needs, goals, and preferences. RDNs are also qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for a range of conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Seeing an RDN can be particularly helpful if you have a chronic health condition or are at risk for one. An RDN can work with you to develop a nutrition plan that can help you manage your condition, improve your overall health, and prevent complications.

How do I even find an RDN?

To find an RDN who specializes in your unique needs, start by asking your doctor for a referral. Your doctor may be able to recommend an RDN who has experience working with patients with conditions similar to yours.

You can also search for an RDN using the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' "Find an Expert" tool on their website. This tool allows you to search for an RDN by location, specialty, and other criteria.  The National Kidney Foundation also has this tool.

It's important to choose an RDN who has experience working with patients with your specific health needs. For example, if you have Chronic Kidney Disease, you may want to choose an RDN who specializes in Renal/Kidney Nutrition.

How do nutrient needs change with age?

As we age, our nutrient needs change. Older adults may need more of certain nutrients, such as vitamin D and calcium, to maintain bone health. They may also need fewer calories, as their metabolism slows down.

Here are some examples of how nutrient needs change with age:

  • Calcium: Older adults need more calcium to maintain bone health. Women over 50 and men over 70 should aim for 1200mg of calcium per day.

  • Vitamin D: Older adults may have reduced skin synthesis of vitamin D and may not spend as much time outdoors. Women and men over 70 should aim for 800-1000 IU of vitamin D per day.

  • B vitamins: Older adults may have a reduced ability to absorb vitamin B12 from food. They may need to get this nutrient from fortified foods or supplements.

  • Protein: Older adults may need more protein to maintain muscle mass. The recommended daily intake is 1.2-1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

*Note these are general recommendations, please consult your healthcare provider for your individual needs.

Receiving Personalized Nutrition Information

Receiving personalized nutrition information can help you meet your health goals. An RDN can work with you to develop a nutrition plan that takes into account your unique health needs, goals, and preferences.

Here are some examples of how personalized nutrition information can help you:

  • Weight management: An RDN can help you develop a nutrition plan that supports your weight loss goals while ensuring that you get all the nutrients you need.

  • Chronic disease management: An RDN can help you manage a chronic health condition, such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, by developing a nutrition plan that helps you control your blood sugar levels, and protein levels.

  • Athletic performance: An RDN can help athletes optimize their nutrition to improve their performance, reduce their risk of injury, and support their recovery.

Seeing an RDN can be an important step in achieving your health goals. An RDN can provide you with personalized nutrition advice based on your unique needs, goals, and preferences. To find an RDN, ask your doctor for a referral or use the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' "Find an Expert" tool. It's important to choose an RDN who has experience working with patients with your specific health needs.

Remember, as we age, our nutrient needs change. Older adults may need more of certain nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin D, to maintain bone health. They may also need fewer calories. Receiving personalized nutrition information can help you meet your health goals, whether you're trying to manage your weight, a chronic health condition, or improve your athletic performance.

If you're looking for personalized nutrition advice, consider seeing an RDN. They can work with you to develop a nutrition plan that takes into account your unique health needs, goals, and preferences.