What role does a dietician have in treating cardiovascular disease?

If you have been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, your primary care physician or cardiologist may refer you to a dietician, a healthcare professional who can help guide you in eating a heart-healthy diet. Dieticians are trained to evaluate your diet and suggest changes in your eating that may help reduce your cholesterol level, lower blood pressure and manage diabetes if you have it. Their training includes a bachelor's degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management or a related area; a 6-to-12 month internship; and completion of a national exam given by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.