March is National Nutrition Month, a concept created by the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) as an opportunity to focus attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating & physical activity habits.  National Nutrition Month is also a good time to remind everyone that it’s important to get nutrition information from a credible source and registered dietitians (RDs) are one of the best sources of credible, practical, and affordable food & nutrition information. RDs are highly qualified food & nutrition experts who must meet the following rigorous academic & professional requirements:

• Earn a bachelors (4 year) degree in nutrition
• Complete an accredited internship (minimum of 900 hours)
• Pass a certification exam
• Earn continuing education credits to maintain registration

The science of nutrition is one of the leading factors in promoting good health and preventing disease throughout life, so it’s important that you get your nutrition information from someone who has the education and training to translate nutrition science into practical applications.  The RD designation should serve as an important distinction when you are determining where to get accurate, safe nutrition information.Here are just a few of the ways RDs can help improve health & save health care dollars on a national, local & individual level:

• RDs can work with government, public health, local & school leaders to create wellness programs that promote healthy eating & physical activity
• RDs can help food manufacturers develop healthy, good tasting foods
• RDs can assist communities in promoting the positive impact that using more locally grown foods can have on health & the local economy
• RDs can review & certify that menus meet USDA standards for congregate dining & home delivery meals
• RDs can teach the skills needed by individuals with chronic conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, kidney disease, etc) to help them better manage their condition and improve their health
• RDs can work with individual athletes or entire teams to help improve athletic performance
• RDs can help you feed your family by helping you to plan, shop & cook healthier foods
• RDs can assist in the treatment of eating disorders
• RDs can provide nutrition guidance from pregnancy through breastfeeding
• RDs can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight

If you have a nutritional need, let the RDs at Sound Bites Nutrition help you!  Give us a call orsend an email, we’d be happy to help!