You can lower your cholesterol and lose weight naturally when you consult with a registered dietitian. An RD is an expert in her field. She helps you set goals and outlines the dietary changes necessary to improve and maintain your health based on the latest scientific research. Many people can benefit from consulting with an RD, including those with diabetes, renal conditions, Celiac disease and cardiac problems.
Registered Dietitian
A registered dietitian must meet specific requirements to earn her qualification. She must complete her bachelor's degree at an accredited university or college with coursework approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education, a division of the American Dietetic Association. Next, she completes a supervised practice program accredited by the CADE at an approved facility, which typically lasts six to 12 months. To become an RD, she must pass the national examination test administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. An RD takes continuing education courses to keep her registration active.
Employment
A registered dietitian has many roles In hospitals, day-care centers and correctional facilities, including educating patients, administering medical nutrition therapy and managing food-service operations. In the public service sector, an RD educates professionals -- including nurses and physician assistants -- and performs community outreach. Some RDs run a private practice and work with patients or act as a freelance consultant for businesses including restaurants, food vendors or nursing homes. Research and development departments for food and pharmaceutical companies also employ RDs.
Salary
Your salary as registered dietitian depends on a number of factors, including the region of the country where you seek employment and years of experience. Fifty percent of RDs in the United States with five years of experience or less make between $51,000 and $62,000 per year, according to the ADA's 2009 Dietetics Compensation and Benefits survey. An RD with more experience or in a management position can earn an income of about $85,000 to $88,000 per year.
Nutritionists
People seeking expert advice on diet and nutrition should know that although some registered dietitians refer to themselves as nutritionists, all nutritionists are not RDs. While an RD must meet specific requirements to earn his national certification, the requirements for nutritionists vary by state. Some states offer licensure to nutritionists who meet specific qualifications. However, other states do not require a license, and the person calling himself a nutritionist can legally practice with little or no educational training.
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