Donna Giovenco, RDN, LD, CN, ACSM-CPT

Sports and Human Performance Nutrition

Qualifications Matter

We are constantly bombarded with advertising for the latest and greatest products and services that will guarantee weight loss, improved health, cleanse and detox. After years of being subjected to the onslaught, it becomes believable when you see before and after pictures of a weight loss transformation thanks to the latest diet pill; or you hear someone claim they have more energy because they are following the recommendations of their favorite celebrity.
 

It all looks so fast and easy in a 30 second commercial, and we want it to be true.

Reality check

Well, let me tell you up front: Sure, you are probably going to lose weight on a celery juice diet, but what do you think is going to happen as soon as you start eating solid food again?

If you answered “you are going to gain the weight right back”, you are correct. You are also on your way to becoming a wiser consumer.

So, before jumping on the next “big thing”,

Ask questions about the products and services being marketed

 

  1. What are your goals? Is it to lose weight; have more energy, or stop drinking diet sodas?
  2. Is it a long term solution? You may see results following a 30 day diet, but what are you supposed to do on day 31? Can you see yourself doing this for the rest of your life? Are you going to learn anything to apply in the future?
  3. How much is it going to cost you? I have seen people spend thousands of dollars on the latest and greatest gimmick, fad diet, or meal delivery service with little to nothing to show for it.
  4. Are you reading the fine print?
  5. From who or where are you getting your information? What qualifications and credentialing does this person have to back up their claims?
  6. Are they providing nutrition guidance that involves the purchase of “this great new supplement I just partnered with”
  7. Are they a “coach” because they are interested in health and wellness, or are they in it for the huge SUV with the company logos on the sides? Are they a social media influencer promoting multiple partner products?
  8. Did they receive a certificate over the internet?
  9. Do they have a college degree in a health or nutrition field? Have they had to sit for a National board exam? Did they pass that exam? What kind of continuing education do they need to keep their license or certifications? 

The case for RD's

A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has completed multiple layers of education and training established by the national Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND).

All RD's or RDN's must

  • Get a four-year Bachelors degree in Dietetics or Nutrition from a university or college that offers an accredited nutrition curriculum.
  • Complete an extensive supervised internship/clinical program at a health care facility, food service organization or community agency.
  • Pass a rigorous board exam.
  • Complete fifteen mandatory continuing education hours each year to stay accredited.
In the state of KY, one needs to be licensed or certified thru the states’ governing board to provide any nutrition education. (See the following link for detailed definitions of a licensed dietitian and certified nutritionist.) https://bdn.ky.gov/Pages/statutes.aspx

Learn. Question. Advocate. Your health is in your hands!