<i> Be 100 % Fad Free</i>: See an RD for All Your Nutritional Needs

Be 100 % Fad Free : See an RD for All Your Nutritional Needs

FOR RELEASE JANUARY 17, 2007

Media contact:  Jennifer Starkey, Julia Dombrowski, Tom Ryan
800/877-1600, ext. 4802, 4769, 4894
media@eatright.org

CHICAGO – From low-carb to faith-based, there are a number of weight-loss options available for consumers, but which diet, if any, is the best for you? Finding the best choice involves looking beyond the bookshelf and developing a plan that’s tailored to fit a person’s specific health background and nutrition needs, that means working with an expert—a registered dietitian.

“Registered dietitians know the science of nutrition. Our required degrees in nutrition, dietetics, public health or related fields such as biochemistry, medicine or a nutrition specialty in family and consumer sciences come from well-respected, accredited colleges and universities,” says registered dietitian and ADA spokesperson Milton Stokes.

During National Nutrition Month® and beyond, ADA encourages consumers to go 100% Fad Free and achieve lifelong success through proven, science-based approaches to healthy eating.

RDs have the skills and knowledge to translate nutrition science into practical meal planning. A registered dietitian can assist with eating disorders; work with your health-care team by helping you change your eating plan pre- or post-surgery; and help you set goals for athletic performance – whether you're running a marathon or jogging with your dog.

“By looking at a person’s specific health issues, we’re able to craft a nutrition plan that works specifically for them,” Stokes says. “While most fad diets might give short-term success, most people aren’t able to maintain the plan over a long period of time. An RD can provide a weight-loss plan that will easily fit into a person’s tastes and lifestyle.”

Many RDs hold additional certifications in specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric or renal nutrition, nutrition support and diabetes education. Approximately half of all registered dietitians hold master’s degrees or beyond.

National Nutrition Month® reminds consumers that registered dietitians are their most valuable and credible source of timely, scientifically based food and nutrition information.

With approximately 65,000 members, the American Dietetic Association is the nation’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. ADA serves the public by promoting optimal nutrition, health and well-being. To locate a registered dietitian in your area, visit the American Dietetic Association at www.eatright.org.

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