Finding The Right Doctor For Dietary Advice

There are a plethora of diets out there, and it can be confusing to know which one to follow for optimal health. It is always a good idea to consult a doctor before making changes to your diet or fitness routine. Your primary care physician can help determine the appropriate specialist based on your individual needs and may refer you to a psychologist or counsellor if your food and weight issues have an emotional component. There are several types of professionals who specialize in weight management: general practitioners, dietitians, nutritionists, bariatric physicians, and bariatric surgeons. Dietitians and nutritionists can help you make changes to your diet and provide advice on healthy eating habits, portion control, and nutritional requirements. Bariatric physicians specialize in treating patients who struggle with maintaining a healthy weight and can provide comprehensive weight management plans.

Types of doctors and specialists to consult for diets

Registered Dietitians (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN)

RDs or RDNs are credentialed practitioners who have completed specific educational requirements, including a minimum of a graduate degree from an accredited dietetics program. They have also completed a supervised practice requirement and passed a national exam. RDs or RDNs continue to develop their professional skills throughout their careers, staying up to date with the latest research, recommendations, and best practices.

These professionals can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, extended care facilities, schools, sports teams, and food service management. They may collaborate with a team of psychotherapists and doctors to help individuals with eating disorders or other health conditions. Some RDs or RDNs specialize in areas such as sports dietetics, pediatric nutrition, or oncology nutrition, providing personalized consultations and advice on healthy eating.

When considering consulting an RD or RDN, it is important to note that the term "nutritionist" is not standardized or regulated in all states. In some states, anyone with an interest in diet or nutrition may call themselves a nutritionist, so it is advisable to check the credentials and expertise of the practitioner. On the other hand, the titles "registered dietitian nutritionist" and "nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered" are legally protected titles, ensuring that individuals with these credentials have the necessary qualifications and expertise.

In conclusion, consulting a Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist can be a great choice for individuals seeking expert advice on healthy eating and nutrition. These professionals are well-equipped to provide personalized guidance and support, helping individuals achieve their health and wellness goals through informed dietary choices.

General practitioners

However, it is important to note that not all nutritionists have the same level of training and credentials. In some states, anyone with an interest in diet or nutrition can call themselves a nutritionist, and their advice could be considered harmful. Therefore, it is a good idea to check their qualifications and credentials before following their advice.

Bariatric physicians

Bariatricians develop comprehensive weight-management programs that combine diet, exercise, and behavioural therapy to achieve results without invasive surgery. They have received focused training on treatments for obesity and ways to improve health through positive lifestyle changes. At the first visit, a bariatric healthcare provider will ask about the patient's health history, including their history of eating habits, exercise, and weight loss. They will also perform a physical exam, including BMI, waist circumference, and blood pressure, and may order tests to check health factors related to obesity and identify health problems that can cause weight gain.

Following the initial assessment, the bariatric physician will create a treatment plan tailored to the patient's medical needs and preferences. This plan may include dietary changes, increased physical activity, and behavioural therapy. Bariatricians also prescribe medications, carefully reviewing the potential benefits and risks for each patient. They develop individual weight-loss maintenance programs and provide ongoing support to help patients achieve and maintain their weight-loss goals.

The American Society of Bariatric Physicians (ASBP) is an international nonprofit medical association dedicated to treating overweight, obesity, and related disorders. The ASBP has developed Bariatric Practice Guidelines to ensure quality bariatric care, and its member physicians are encouraged to adhere to these guidelines. The ASBP website offers a tool to locate a bariatric physician in your area.

Nutritionists

Consulting a doctor before making changes to your diet or fitness routine is important. This is because certain diets may conflict with your health conditions or prescriptions. For instance, people with kidney disease should avoid diets that recommend a high protein intake, and those with high blood pressure or heart failure should avoid diets high in salt.

Your primary care physician can guide you towards the best steps for you, taking into account your medical history and health needs. They may refer you to a specialist, such as a nutritionist, who can help you with your diet and weight management.

In the United States, the term "nutritionist" can encompass a broad range of credentials and expertise. Some states specifically regulate the term, requiring nutritionists to hold CNS or RD credentials. These individuals are health professionals with advanced health degrees who have completed additional coursework and supervised practice hours. Other states do not regulate the term, meaning anyone with an interest in nutrition can call themselves a nutritionist. As such, it is important to verify the credentials of a nutritionist before seeking their advice.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDN) are experts in educating patients about healthy eating. They can provide guidance and resources to help individuals of all ages adopt healthy eating habits and follow dietary guidelines.

Doctors with a multidisciplinary approach

Doctors and other healthcare professionals often recommend consulting a primary care physician or general practitioner before starting a new diet or exercise program. This is because your doctor knows your medical history and can guide you towards the best steps for your individual needs. They can also refer you to other specialists for a multidisciplinary approach.

For instance, if your food and weight issues have an emotional component, your doctor may refer you to a psychologist or counsellor. They may also refer you to a registered dietitian or nutritionist, who can provide advice on healthy eating habits and help you figure out a plan for how much and how often to eat. Dietitians and nutritionists have training in health and weight management strategies and can provide non-medical options to support your health. Many offer personalized consultations and advice on how to plan and prepare healthy meals.

In the US, the term "nutritionist" can encompass a broad range of credentials and expertise. Some states specifically regulate this term, while others do not. In states that do regulate the use of the term, a nutritionist may be required to have CNS or RD credentials. Those with CNS credentials are health professionals like nurses or doctors who have sought additional coursework and passed an exam. Dietitians and CNSs are credentialed, board-certified food and nutrition experts with extensive training and formal education.

Bariatric physicians specialize in treating patients who struggle with maintaining a healthy weight and receive focused training on treatments for obesity. They can develop comprehensive weight-management programs combining diet, exercise, and behavioural therapy to achieve results without invasive surgery.

Frequently asked questions