National Dietitians’ Day is being held on March 20, 2013. This is a special day dedicated to all dietitians across Canada that celebrates dietitians as the food and nutrition experts. Dietitians are healthcare professionals committed to using their specialized knowledge and skills in food and nutrition to improve the health of Canadians.
In Canada, practicing dietitians are regulated by a provincial College of Dietitians, so you can be sure that you are receiving safe, accurate and ethical nutrition information and advice. The letters “RD” are the legal designations for qualified registered dietitians in B.C. All registered dietitians have a Bachelor’s degree specializing in food and medical nutrition therapy, have completed an accredited internship program and have passed a national registration exam. Registered dietitians must also complete continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration and many have also earned Master’s degrees and advanced certifications.
Registered dietitians are your trusted nutrition experts and are uniquely trained to advise you on food, diet, and nutrition. They translate the science of nutrition into practical advice and solutions for health living. It is the role of the dietitian to discern between fact and fiction and give people the tools to make realistic eating behavior changes.
At Vancouver Coastal Health, dietitians work in various areas and settings such as acute care, rehabilitation, ambulatory clinics, residential care, community health centers, and in food services. Take this opportunity to acknowledge the dietitian on your team on National Dietitians’ Day – March 20, 2013!