March is National Nutrition Month®, an annual campaign established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to help people make informed food choices and develop healthy eating habits. Each year, National Nutrition Month® (NNM) highlights a unique theme and this year we are excited to explore different ways “Food Connects Us.” In our four-part blog series during the month of March, we are excited to share the vital role food plays in bringing communities together.
In our second instalment, we are talking about Connecting with a Nutrition Expert.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are health care professionals who provide evidence-based, personalized nutrition advice to help individuals reach their health goals. Speaking to a dietitian can make a big difference in your health and well-being.
Ask Your Doctor for a Referral to a Dietitian
Your healthcare provider can help you connect with a dietitian who specializes in your specific needs. Many doctors collaborate with dietitians to manage chronic health conditions. You’d be surprised how many chronic conditions have a nutrition component! Whether you’re looking for support in preventing disease, managing current conditions, or optimizing your diet, a dietitian can offer guidance that is unique to your lifestyle.
Dietitians play a crucial role in addressing a variety of health concerns, including:
- Diabetes Management – Assistance with blood sugar control and balanced meal planning.
- Heart Disease – Support for lowering cholesterol, blood pressure, and improving heart health.
- Digestive Disorders – Guidance on managing conditions such as IBS, Crohn’s disease, and celiac disease through diet modifications.
- Women’s Nutrition – Tailored nutrition advice for women of all life stages, including pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause.
- Food Allergies and Intolerances – Strategies for safely navigating new dietary or existing dietary restrictions.
- Kidney Disease, Cancer, and Other Conditions – Personalized support for nutritional needs during big life moments.
If you have a specific health concern, ask your doctor about seeing a dietitian. A referral ensures you connect with a trusted professional who meets your unique needs. If you have health insurance, your visit may be covered up to 100%.
Dietitians are trained to meet diverse cultural, dietary, and health-related needs. They work across a wide variety of healthcare settings, making it easier to find something that works for you.
Receive Personalized Nutrition Information to Meet Your Goals
Dietitians provide evidence-based recommendations that are unique to your lifestyle and health concerns. They will meet you where you are to ensure you’re receiving the care that you need.
Benefits of Working with a dietitian:
- Get a plan that fits your life – Dietitians help create realistic nutrition plans based on your health needs and daily routine.
- Learn practical skills – From meal planning to reading nutrition labels, dietitians teach useful skills that you can use for the rest of your life.
- Avoid misinformation – With so much misleading nutrition advice online, a dietitian provides reliable and accurate information.
Take Steps Toward Better Health
If you’re ready to improve your nutrition, start by talking to your doctor about a referral to a dietitian. You can also search for dietitians in your area through hospitals, private practices, and telehealth services.
In addition to meeting with a dietitian, there are free, nutrition resources right here in the Pittsburgh Community hosted by our partners at Adagio Health. Check out their programs here. There are also so many great resources to be found on YouTube—bonus points if the video is made by a registered dietitian!
For more information about how a dietitian can help you, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at www.eatright.org. Stay tuned as we continue to explore how food connects us!