15 Reasons to See a Registered Dietitian

Food is a wonderful part of life. We eat for sustenance, nourishment, comfort, and celebration — often, all at the same time! However, unhealthy food choices can be a barrier to better health. Nutrition and lifestyle habits are a major risk factor for many of the most common medical conditions. You have an opportunity at each meal to make positive changes in our health through our everyday food choices. If you want to change your approach to food, you may benefit from nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian. Read on for 15 reasons to see a dietitian.

What is a registered dietitian?

A registered dietitian (RDs) – also knows as a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDNs) – is a credentialed professional who specializes in science-based nutrition interventions for health promotion and disease management. RDs counsel patients to make sustainable dietary changes that will improve health and well-being. Instead of getting nutrition advice from Tiktok, Instagram and trying the new fad diet that might not be right for you, consider working with an RD. 

RDs are trustworthy nutrition experts that help sort through the noise, and provide personalized recommendations and support to build long-term healthy habits. The best RDs have completed over 1,000 hours of training at hospitals and large health systems. This means they are exceptionally skilled in being able to create care plans for any combination of health condition, culture, lifestyle, and schedule.

Keep reading our reasons to see a dietitian and decide if a registered dietitian is the partner you’ve been missing on your healthy lifestyle journey.

15 Reasons to See a Dietitian

1. You want to learn how to eat in a healthy way

The first and most obvious reason to see a registered dietitian is to learn how to eat healthier for your unique needs. Keyword — “how.” There’s a lot of information out there about what to eat. You may be aware of healthy foods, but be unsure how to incorporate them into your busy lifestyle. Or you might feel like you already have a pretty healthy lifestyle, but you want some advice for exercise or sports nutrition. 

A registered dietitian will help you with the practical tasks of meal planning and cooking. Perhaps your doctor has told you to cut your salt intake, for example. “Dietitians will teach you how to do that!” says Culina Health RD Lizzie Odvarka, MS, RDN. “We know how to help patients apply recommendations, and help you navigate the emotional part of eating, not just what to eat.”

 2. You want to lose weight

Weight loss is incredibly challenging for a number of physiological, mental, and environmental reasons. Working with a registered dietitian to help you navigate the complexity of weight loss is key in ensuring your success. 

In fact, studies show that working with a registered dietitian helps you lose weight and keep it off, while also  improving quality of life and decreasing risk factors for chronic disease.  

Some people may have the misconception that registered dietitians will make you cut out your favorite food to lose weight, but that’s not the case for Culina Health registered dietitians! We know that restrictive, boring diets are unsustainable, so we work with you to make small changes in your eating habits that have a big impact on your weight management goals. 

RDs can also help you manage cravings, support a healthy metabolism, navigate eating out, and incorporate easy meal and snack planning. We collaborate with you to develop a sustainable meal plan that works for your lifestyle and promotes weight loss. As you continue on your journey, your RD will check in with you about successes and challenges, helping you overcome any obstacles. It’s as simple as that!

3. You’re sick of yo-yo dieting 

Unfortunately, the majority of restrictive diets result in the “yo-yo effect.” An individual may lose a few pounds at first, but as soon as they stop restricting the weight comes right back (and then some). Years of yo-yo dieting can lead to even more difficulty losing weight. This is because of the negative impact it has on your confidence, motivation, and your metabolic rate.

If this pattern sounds familiar, it might be time to try something different. 

Working with a registered dietitian helps you ditch yo-yo diets. Instead, you’ll focus on adding in health promoting foods, improving your relationship with food, understanding the balance of macronutrients that works best for your body, and building healthy eating habits to support your goals. When you work on a series of small, incremental lifestyle changes, you are more likely to see sustainable results. And you’ll actually enjoy the process along the way!

4. You want to collaborate instead of being told what to do

If you’re seeking nutrition guidance from someone who listens to your whole story, a registered dietitian might be a good fit. “We dive into habits, culture, relationship to food, body image, hunger cues, and barriers to change. Then we set collaborative, achievable goals with patients,” says RD Jan Zimmerman, MS, RDN, CDN, CPHQ. Registered dietitians ask questions and counsel patients rather than issuing one-size-fits all instructions. This leads to healthy new behaviors and long-lasting results. 

Being told what to do can be helpful when you’re feeling overwhelmed. But ultimately, finding internal motivation and support to make health changes leads to long-lasting results. A registered dietitian can make recommendations for what to do, and give you the resources and support to make those changes.

5. You’ve been given a medical diagnosis that can be addressed with nutrition

This is one of the most common reasons to see a registered dietitian. There are many health conditions that can be supported through nutrition care. These include: diabetes and pre-diabetes, hypertension, obesity, disordered eating, chronic inflammation, gastrointestinal concerns, and certain cancers.

Culina Health registered dietitians are clinically trained. This means they are experts in medical nutrition therapy (MNT) for preventing and managing nutrition-related diseases. They will also work with your healthcare team to provide multidisciplinary care. 

Additionally, The Affordable Care Act mandates that all health insurance companies cover MNT from an RD for at-risk individuals with chronic disease. If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic kidney or liver disease, obesity, Type II Diabetes or cardiovascular disease, you can benefit greatly from the ongoing support of a registered dietitian. What’s more, your insurance plan likely has generous coverage for your dietitian visits. 

6. You’re seeking guidance for a plant-based, vegan or vegetarian lifestyle

Are you eager to embrace plant-based eating? Newer research shows that plant-based eating patterns that emphasize healthy, plant-based foods (fruit, vegetables, legumes, whole grains) may decrease the risk of chronic conditions like type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and premature death. 

Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian, vegan, or considering adding more whole, plant-based foods to your diet, a registered dietitian is invaluable in helping you adopt a sustainable plant-based eating pattern. With an RD, you’ll learn to craft well-balanced plant-based meals that provide an adequate intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals. You’ll also gain valuable insights to optimize your diet based on personal health needs and preferences. 

From sourcing essential nutrients to addressing potential deficiencies, a registered dietitian will empower you to thrive with a plant-based eating pattern and enjoy the full spectrum of benefits.

7. You need accountability without judgment

In addition to providing nutrition education, registered dietitians also act as accountability coaches to help you stay on track with your goals, troubleshoot potential barriers, and stay motivated during the difficult times in your health journey. 

Culina Health RDs are trained in motivational interviewing and other evidence-based behavior change techniques. We employ these to help you develop the confidence and self-efficacy you need to create sustainable results. We understand the challenges of maintaining healthy eating habits and work with patients to stay on track — even when the going gets tough. Research consistently shows that having social support helps improve health behaviors. Having a registered dietitian to support you in your health journey helps strengthen your support system. 

8. You’re pregnant!

Congratulations! Pregnancy is a miraculous time, but let’s be real — it can be hard to maintain a healthy diet while growing a tiny human. If you’re pregnant, you might experience food aversions, morning sickness, cravings, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, or other pregnancy-related complications. Advice from a registered dietitian can help you ensure that you and your little one are getting what you need from the foods you eat. If you hope to breastfeed, an RD can also help you with a lactation-friendly postpartum eating plan.

9. You want to lower your cholesterol

High cholesterol and high blood pressure increases your risk for heart disease and stroke. It’s very important to keep your levels within a healthy range based on your unique risk factors for heart disease. The good news is that nutrition and lifestyle can have a big impact on several markers for heart health, including LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Certain foods can also help fight inflammation, which is another leading cause of cardiovascular disease. A registered dietitian can help optimize your nutrition to support a healthier heart. 

10. You’re experiencing symptoms related to hormone imbalance

From irregular menstrual cycles to mood swings, nutritional deficiencies and certain eating patterns can impact your hormonal health at any age. A registered dietitian can assess your dietary intake  and design a personalized nutrition plan that addresses specific hormone-related concerns. They will draw on their expertise and offer insights into the intricate relationship between food and hormones, improving your hormonal harmony.

11. You’re looking for guidance on how to eat for an autoimmune disorder

Consulting with a registered dietitian can be game-changing if you’re navigating the unique challenges of managing an autoimmune disorder. Through regular sessions and check-ins, you’ll gain insights into how specific foods exacerbate or alleviate your symptoms. By identifying potential triggers and introducing foods that fight inflammation, a registered dietitian will draw on their expertise to design a customized approach that aligns with your health goals. This will empower you to make the best possible choices for a healthy immune system.  

12. You have allergies

When food allergies are affecting your overall well-being, it’s time to reach out to a registered dietitian. A dietitian can help you manage the challenges that come with allergies, identifying alternative options while ensuring you still meet your nutritional needs. Even more importantly, they can teach you to maintain a diverse and enjoyable diet, offering practical strategies to manage your food allergy without sacrificing flavor. 

13. You’re interested in food as medicine

Dietary changes can have a major impact on chronic conditions including heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and digestive problems in addition to mental health. Working with a registered dietitian will help you understand how to tailor your nutrition to improve symptoms and prevent future medical issues. 

14. You’re seeking nutrition advice on behalf of your child

Children have unique nutritional needs (and tastes!) which evolve over time. A pediatric dietitian can help you understand the various ways in which your child’s food may be impacting their health, development, and behavior. As a parent, you might be dealing with picky eating habits, growth concerns, or dietary restrictions with your kids. Practical and personalized advice from a registered dietitian will make a big difference to the whole family.

15. You’re ready to heal your relationship with food

Understanding and healing your relationship with food is one of the best reasons to seek the help of a registered dietitian. As clinical nutrition professionals, RDs offer more than just nutritional advice. They provide compassionate support and strategies to foster a positive connection with food. 

A registered dietitian will guide you towards mindful eating practices that stand apart from the toxicity of diet culture. By addressing the emotions associated with your eating habits, they will empower you to cultivate a healthier and more sustainable approach that goes beyond following dietary guidelines.

Benefits of Professional Nutritional Guidance from an RD

Even if you’ve never met with an RD, you’ve probably learned some nutrition facts from medical providers, friends and family, social media, and Internet posts like this one. 

In reality, it’s rare that a patient comes to a dietitian for the first time without having ever googled a symptom or tried a diet on their own. But one benefit of working with a registered dietitian is that they are a nutrition professional trained in creating long-term behavioral change through sustainable nutrition habits. They are able to synthesize health research with publicly available nutrition information and pull out the most salient recommendations for your specific situation. Along with your primary care physician, a registered dietitian can craft a personalized plan and collaborate with you as you face challenges. 

Your history, background, and health needs are unique; your nutrition advice should be too.

When to See a Dietitian

Certain life events may prompt new eating habits, health issues, or questions that would benefit from the advice of a registered dietitian. If you’re going through any of the experiences listed below, it might be a good time to reach out for expert nutrition care.

New Health Goals or Lifestyle Changes

If you’re aiming to lose weight, manage a chronic condition, or simply adopt a healthier way of eating, clinical nutrition care can make a world of difference. A registered dietitian will consider factors unique to you. They will then help build a sustainable approach that takes your medical history, dietary preferences, and lifestyle into account. 

Pregnancy and Postpartum Nutrition

The pregnancy and postpartum period can be overwhelming when it comes to nutrition. A dietitian will offer personalized guidance on common nutrition-related pregnancy concerns. They’ll make sure to help you meet increased nutrient needs (even when you’re feeling queasy). They will also assist with medical conditions like gestational diabetes. Postpartum, they will offer dietary advice and breastfeeding or combo/formula feeding support, ensuring your wellbeing as well as a healthy start to life for your little one. 

Managing Chronic Health Conditions

Health conditions like celiac disease, heart disease, obesity, and diabetes present unique daily challenges. Registered dietitians provide valuable education on topics like portion control, optimizing carbohydrate and fiber intake, identifying food sources of sodium and low sodium alternatives, and other dietary factors. This will lead to decreased symptoms and an improved quality of life. By taking the proactive step of collaborating with a dietitian, you will optimize your nutrition and enhance your overall health outcomes. 

New Health Diagnosis

Receiving a new health diagnosis can be overwhelming. Whether it’s food allergies, gastrointestinal disorders, eating disorders, or cancer, you may need to change certain eating habits right away. Dietitians are trained to interpret medical diagnoses and translate them into practical dietary recommendations tailored to your individual needs and preferences. They can help you understand how certain foods may impact your condition, identify potential triggers, and develop strategies to manage symptoms. 

Major Life Changes

Life events like moving to a new city, starting a new job, or going through a change in your family structure can disrupt established routines. This includes dietary habits! During times of transition, it’s important to eat foods that nourish your body and mind. A registered dietitian will help you adapt your eating habits to align with your new lifestyle and circumstances. With the personalized support of an expert, you’ll be able to maintain a balanced diet despite changes to your environment or schedule. 

How to Find a Registered Dietitian

Finding a registered dietitian is relatively easy. That said, it is important to conduct some research before committing. The registered dietitian you select should stand up to scrutiny. Read reviews, look for evidence of positive outcomes, and pay close attention to their credentials. 

Remember that registered dietitians are certified and clinically trained professionals, with varying areas of specialization. Whomever you choose should be able to tailor their recommendations to your specific circumstances. If you wish, your RD should know how to coordinate care with your other healthcare providers. Don’t hesitate to ask for references or testimonials. Reading public reviews can also provide valuable insights into the experiences of past patients. 

If your registered dietitian is part of a larger organization like Culina Health, you should also have the advantage of a patient support team. This team can help you with logistical and administrative questions relating to your visit, like insurance coverage and scheduling appointments.

Your dietitian may receive extra training along with their colleagues in areas like cultural sensitivity, which will translate into better care. Finally, you will likely have access to added benefits such as nutrition education materials, a recipe bank, or an app or journal that can help you stay on track in-between sessions.

There are Many Reasons to See a Dietitian. Let us Help!

The foods we eat have an impact on nearly every aspect of our lives. To optimize your nutrition and establishing healthy eating patterns for whatever life throws your way, it may be time to bring in a professional. Culina Health is eager to support your goals by matching you with a dietitian for personalized 1:1 care. With over 9,000 patients served and scores of five-star reviews, we’re confident that we have the right registered dietitian for you.