A DIETITIAN is
an individual who has completed a four-year degree programme and a minimum 800-
to 900-hour attachment with a local hospital during training. He/she would have
studied food nutrition, biochemistry and other related subjects.
In short, a qualified
dietitian is a health professional, and food and nutrition expert.
Dietitian is a professional trained in translating the science of food,
nutrition and medical nutrition therapy.
They are
responsible and accountable for patient care, and are equipped with the
knowledge and skills to conduct nutritional assessment, diagnosis and prescribe
medical nutrition therapy, provide dietary consultation for the treatment of
diseases in both acute and chronic care.
Most dietitians
work in hospitals but they also work in universities, governmental agencies,
health departments, health clinics, pharmaceutical companies, food companies,
schools, weight management clinics, media and in private practice.
Depending on
where they work, they are involved in the formulation of policies, protocols,
clinical practice guidelines, planning and implementation of programmes to
support healthcare needs of the population.
They promote
wellness through smart eating and develop modified healthy meals or recipes for
different needs. Dietitians also conduct research and apply evidence-based
practice.
Dietitian plays an important role in food services by making sure that a
patient gets the correct therapeutic diet and meals that meet his nutritional
requirements.
On nutrition
matters, she advises consulting a dietitian at your local hospital or medical
centre.
Here are 10
reasons why you should consult a qualified dietitian.
1. You have
diabetes, high blood pressure, hyperlipidemia or kidney problems.
* Collaborate
with the dietitian to learn more about the diseases and develop a healthy and
acceptable diet.
* The meal plan
should meet the needs of your diagnosis.
2. You have been
recommended to have a gastric bypass surgery.
* Prior to the
surgery, talk to the dietitian to learn about the post-op changes to your
routine.
* After the
surgery, develop an eating plan to get enough nutrients to meet your needs,
learn signs of food-related problems and nutrient timing.
3. You have
digestive problems or an inherited metabolic disorder.
* Talk to the
dietitian and your doctor to develop a diet that identifies and eliminates food
intolerance or allergies.
4. You are
trying to get or are pregnant
* The dietitian
can recommend the right diet to prepare you for pregnancy and to ensure
adequate nutrients for you and your baby.
5. You are
breastfeeding
* Work with the
dietitian and a lactation consultant to get the nutrition you need and ensure
adequate supply of key nutrients. Learn feeding clues, eating readiness,
transitions and food-related problems from your and your baby's diet.
6. You have a
eating disorder
* Consult the
dietitian and the doctor to develop a plan. Remember you are not alone.
7. You are
struggling with weight issues and you need to gain or lose weight
* Eating can be
a pleasure when you work along with the dietitian to reduce weight.
* Your dietitian
can guide you on eating cues, energy needs, hunger, fullness, exercise, portion
control, calorie control, meal replacement and foods triggers for weight
management.
8. You are
caring for an ageing parent
* The dietitian
can help you with changes in taste, swallowing, chewing, calorie needs,
absorption, hydration, nutrient drug interactions and special diets.
9. You want to
eat smarter and stay fit
* Work with a
dietitian to learn about labels, fad diets, misinformation, eating out, cooking
healthy, budget cooking, food combinations and menu planning.
10. You want to
improve your sports performance
* When you are
just starting an exercise plan or preparing for a marathon, a dietitian can
tweak your diet to improve performance.
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