How do I find a good dietitian?

Shraddha Chaubey

Nutrition & Dietetics

You can find a good dietitian many ways:

Ask your doctor for a referral to a registered dietitian.
Go to the website of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (www.eatright.org). They have find a dietitian section.
Look into yellow pages.
Internet search
Ask a friend

Alberta Scruggs

Nutrition & Dietetics

This is easy if you have access to a computer. Go to the website www.eatright.org. You'll see a lovely page that states "Food and Nutrition Information You Can Trust". On the right side of the page is a box that reads Find a Dietitian. Click on that box. A disclaimer will appear. Read it, and if you agree, click on the "I agree" box. The next page appearing will be a map of the world (We are everywhere!). In the top left corner of this page is a box where you can enter your postal zip code. Enter your zip code and what appears to be fat green explanation points with a black dot in the middle will appear. Click on the exclamation points and a picture of a dietitian, their specialty practice/area of expertise, and contact information will appear.

Rosanne Rust

Nutrition & Dietetics

Start locally. You can either check the yellow pages, or better yet do an internet search. Type in 'dietitian + your geographical area' (such as your county, town or city). This can lead you to dietitians in your area. Many people view RDs as only working in hospitals or health care facilities, but many are in private practice and have specialties. Depending on your health care needs, you can look for an RD that specializes in weight loss, diabetes, heart health, cancer, etc. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is also a great resource. http://www.eatright.org/programs/rdfinder/.

Tara Beth Johnson

Nutrition & Dietetics

You should start with defining your goals. Are you seeking help for weight loss? Or do you have nutrition related condition such as diabetes, gluten intolerance or food allergies? Registered Dietitians specialize in many areas. Defining what you are seeking treatment for will ensure you are not seeing a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics for food allergies. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' website has a Find a Dietitian feature that list a Registered Dietitian's specialties.

Susan Mitchell, PhD

Nutrition & Dietetics

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has a link on their homepage in the right top corner http://www.eatright.org/ to quickly find an RD in your area or an area close by. You can get in touch with any of these RDs who may also be able to suggest other RDs as well if they cannot provide the service you are looking for.

Roberta Anding on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

To find a good dietitian, remember to check out www.eatright.org and find a dietitian in your area. However, dietitians specialize just like other health care providers. To find a dietitian who specializes in sports, check out www.scandpg.org!

Dee Sandquist on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

If you want to find a good dietitian look at www.eatright.org which is the website of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. You can also ask at your local hospital, grocery store, or ask your physician.

Judy Caplan on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

You can find a "good" dietitian by going to the American Dietetics Association www.eatright.org website. You can locate a registered dietitian in your area by putting in your zip code. This will assist you in finding a dietitian that specializes in your specific needs. All registered dietitians are "good" meaning they have credentials certifying that they are competent in a broad range of areas in the field of nutrition, food, and dietitics. A "good" dietitian is someone with whom you can relate and achieve the outcomes you desire.

Amy Jamieson-Petonic on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

I would suggest making an appointment with a registered dietitian and speak to them about your nutritional concerns. As with any health professional, finding someone that you can build rapport with is critical to helping you meet your goals. You can find a registered dietitian at www.eatright.org.

Lona Sandon on behalf of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Nutrition & Dietetics

Go to www.eatright.org and click on the link to "Find a Registered Dietitian". Then contact RD's in your area to find out if they specialize in the area you are looking for. If not, ask if they can recommend someone.

American Diabetes Association

To find a dietitian, ask your diabetes care provider for a referral or contact your local hospital, the American Diabetes Association’s Center for Information and Community Support at 1-800-DIABETES (342-2383), or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In choosing a dietitian, look for the initials RD (registered dietitian). This indicates that the dietitian has passed a national credentialing exam. Many states also require a license, and you may see the initials LD (licensed dietitian) after a dietitian’s name. Some dietitians are also CDEs.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Nutrition

Eating a variety of foods each day that are low in fat and calories ensures you get proper nutrition and nutrients like folate, magnesium and iron. Calcium, fiber, potassium and selenium are other nutrients essential for wellness, growth, development, cell repair and disease prevention. Colorful foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are often the richest sources of nutrients. Taking a multivitamin once daily is a good way to supplement your diet.

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