Q. What is the difference between a dietition and a nutritionist, and what do the
designations 'rd' and 'cns' mean?
In general, if you are trying to choose a professional to provide nutrition counseling, look for either an RD or CNS after his or her name.
A Registered Dietitian (RD) has earned at least a bachelor degree in dietetics, food sciences, food service management or other approved nutrition-related field of study; completed an approved practical experience, such as an internship; and passed a certification exam administered by the American Dietetics Association.
A Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) has also earned an advanced degree, has had professional experience in the field and has passed an exam administered by the Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists.
However, the simple designation of Nutritionist (without any specific credentials) can be used by almost anyone, because there are no national standards for Nutritionists. While some states require a certain number of college-level nutrition courses, other states have no requirements at all.
Q. How does diet/nutrition affect my ability to conceive?
Diet plays a role in every aspect of a person health, including conception. There is no magic food or supplement that will help the chance of conceiving, however a well balanced, healthy diet is a good start to becoming pregnant and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The old adage: You are what you eat is very true.
Q. What can I expect in the evaluation with the dietitian?
The evaluation performed by the dietitian consists of finding out a little bit about your medical history. Collecting data on your height/weight, and also an assessment of your body fat composition are included in the evaluation. The assessment will also include a food history/questionnaire that will help the dietitian assess your nutritional status. After collection of pertinent data the dietitian will be able to give you recommendations with your current nutritional status.
Q. Will I get a tailored diet plan?
Currently, the dietitian will make recommendations to your current diet plan. Nutritional handouts are available as well as healthy recipes. It is important for the patient to be able to make decisions on their own for their meal plans with the guidance of the dietitian.
Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope.
- Dale Carnegie
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