Have nutrition questions? Reach out to an RDN instead.
The Internet may not have all the answers for you!!!
For some reason, this March 2020 seemed longer than previous years. I attribute this to extra time on hand due to COVID-19 lock down. I have been planning to pen down a quick blog on the topic/question that we as Registered Dietitian Nutritionists face every day.
There is so much information out there on the internet from reputable organizations and it is very useful. Should I consult a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) for my nutrition problems? This is a question that I have been asked many times. Let me share my super simple analogy that I’ve tried to teach my clients and other health care professionals in the last 2 decades.
If you have general and routine questions, yes of course, you are right, the internet can be your friend. But if you are seeking an advice for a specific problem like overweight/obesity, diabetes, heart disease etc, my answer would be a big ‘NO’. Don’t just rely on the internet. Information available on the internet is presented with the intent to inform and educate the general public and provide a broader perspective vs a personalized approach.
My Analogy: General/Internet information is like your OTC medicine, available to anyone. Seeking a professional advice for yourself, is like receiving a prescription, tailored to fit your nutrition needs. Isn’t it a whole lot different?
Your doctor prescribes a medicine after examining you, similarly RDN’s are nutrition experts equipped with cutting-edge, evidence based advice to help manage your nutrition related problems. Many RDN’s like me provide a whole-person approach vs working on individual components like, just diet or physical activity.
Did you ever talk to your doctor regarding your triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL/LDL and Hba1c numbers and how to bring them down with nutrition and life style changes vs seeking a medication? So, please be your own advocate when you go to your doctor’s office and seek a nutrition referral to see an RDN to modify or even reverse these numbers before jumping in to take the medication. Remember every ill doesn’t have a pill. Trust your body and give it a chance.
I believe this is the best time to rethink your nutrition and seek professional help. Call and ask your insurance company regarding your coverage for nutrition. Use your insurance benefits, fix your nutrition and take control of your health.
We RDN’s are always available and happy to help.
Happy Nourishing, Simple Living
Lavanya Kethamukkala, RDN, LDN, CLT
www.nourishingexpert.com
info@nourishingexpert.com
