Registered Dietitian Day

  Is there a registered dietitian (RD) who has helped you through a diet dilemma? or helped translate your diet numbers into a practical plan? Here’s a chance to let your favorite dietitian know they made a difference. March 10 is the first ever National Registered Dietitian Day and March is National Nutrition Month.

For more information on how to find a dietitian

go to www.eatright.org . Click on ‘Find a Nutrition Professional’ on the top right page, read and accept the disclaimer, then select Consumer Search. Next, enter your zip code or city and select Renal (Kidney) Nutrition. A list of dietitian names is displayed, followed by contact information and areas of practice. Some dietitian services are covered by Medicare. Look under ‘Additional Information’ for Medicare Provider: Chronic Kidney or Medicare Provider: Diabetes.

You can also ask your kidney doctor for a referral to a dietitian who specializes in working with kidney patients.

Registered Dietitians are trained to provide reliable nutrition information and to provide understanding about what the latest nutrition science findings mean to consumers.

Registered Dietitians are required to complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and a pre-professional experience program accredited by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, the American Dietetic Association’s credentialing agency. RDs must successfully complete a rigorous professional level exam and must maintain ongoing continuing education to maintain their credential.

Some RDs hold advanced degrees and additional certifications in specialized areas of practice. Dietitians who specialize in kidney care may hold the Certified Specialist in Renal (CSR) credential.