Registered Dietitian (RD)
Registered dietitians (RDs) are health professionals who teach
people about nutrition or develop diets to promote health. They can also
specialize in nutritional counselling to help treat food-related psychological
problems, such as anorexia or bulimia.
Dietitians work in hospitals, nursing homes, and schools.
Registered dietitians also work in government, restaurant management, fitness,
food companies, and private practices.
A registered dietitian is registered with the provincial regulatory body that monitors the competence of individuals and protects the public from unsafe or unethical practice. Call your local hospital or health department for the names of registered dietitians in your area.
Some RDs hold additional certifications in
specialized areas of practice, such as pediatric or renal nutrition, nutrition
support, or diabetes education. These certifications are awarded through the Dietetic Association of Canada or other medical organizations.
Last Revised:
October 11, 2012
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Donald Sproule, MD, CM, CCFP, FCFP - Family Medicine & E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine