No matter what stage of the weight loss journey you’re at, you may have considered working with a dietician as part of your greater care team. Smart move—a dietician can be a valuable addition. We asked our current RD-in-residence, Erin Utz, RD/RDN, to break down why, with answers to some basic questions about the role of these providers on the weight loss journey.
Okay, what exactly is an RD/RDN?
When it comes to nutrition, there are a lot of different kinds of titles, services, and providers out there. It can be difficult to know which is right for you and your needs. “Think of RDs as your trusted source to guide you through the complicated world of nutrition to help you meet your individual health goals,” explains Utz.
Registered dietitians (RDs) and registered dietician nutritionists (RDNs) are qualified professionals who have studied the intersections of food, nutrition, and health. Experts in everything from calories to meal planning and more, RD/RDNs work in medical settings or with clients who are interested in improving their overall health and well-being. They can also work directly with patients who are trying to lose weight to help guide nutritional decisions.
Is an RD/RDN the same as a nutritionist?
Registered dietitians (RDs) and registered dietician nutritionists (RDNs) are the most qualified nutrition counselors you can work with. And, more importantly, a provider can only use those titles after extensive education, training, and testing.
Nutritionist, on the other hand, is a less exclusive title. In many states, there are no educational requirements for calling oneself a nutritionist. On the other hand, “RDs and RDNs must obtain a master’s degree, complete an internship, get licensed, and pass a national exam. That’s a significant difference in capability,” says Utz.
How can an RD/RDN help someone on a weight loss journey?
An RD/RDN can do more than just give you the lowdown on eating gluten-free vs paleo vs Mediterranean-style. RD/RDNs specifically work with weight loss patients in two main areas:
Developing a personalized meal plan
An RD/RDN works with their patients to assess their medical history, lifestyle, and other needs to create a personalized eating plan with clear nutritional information. These plans will take into consideration the necessary nutritional support for any weight-related health conditions, such as type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure, and prescription weight loss medications you may be taking.
But don’t worry that you’ll be starving on an RD diet. “An RD-designed meal plan will aim to be realistic, achievable, and delicious,” says Utz, “with a sustainable and health-focused approach to weight loss.”
Supporting healthy eating habits
In addition to getting in the weeds for you on calorie counts, an RD/RDN will also help support healthy eating holistically. One key way they accomplish this is by educating on and encouraging mindful eating. To do this, they’ll ask about your current habits. “We look at your eating habits from another perspective to help spot and address potential issues like cravings or overeating,” says Utz.
They can also provide education about macro- and micronutrients and ensure you can expertly read food labels to know what you’re putting in your body. They can help you set realistic food-related goals that can help you feel in control again. Lastly, “don’t discount the motivation an RD/RDN can provide as part of your care team,” adds Utz.
How can I find an RD/RDN?
Want to connect with an RD/RDN ASAP? Utz suggests first checking out the websites of professional nutrition organizations, especially that of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest organization of food and nutrition professionals in the world. You can search their database of credentialed RD/RDNs by location, specialty, insurance, and more.
Speaking of insurance, you can also reach out to your health insurance company to learn what types of nutrition services are covered by your plan (you may be pleasantly surprised). Your primary healthcare provider may also be able to contact your insurance on your behalf or even recommend an RD/RDN that they work with directly.
RD/RDNs can give you the extra boost you need on your weight loss journey and help you lay the foundation for healthy eating habits for years to come- which is a huge win in our book!
Erin Utz is a paid consultant of Currax Pharmaceuticals
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