When you need to find a nutrition professional, use the four tips introduced below. Before you read on, however, consider that all Registered Dietitians (RDs) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are highly-trained nutrition professionals and are held to the strictest standards; this cannot be said of all who call themselves nutritionists. Still, even among RDNs, some may suit you better than others. There are many specialties within the dietetics field. There are also many differences in your beliefs, needs, and lifestyle compared to others. It’s important to find the right dietitian for you, just as with any other healthcare provider. In particular, a nutrition expert for Christians is harder to find but will be able to provide the most comprehensive care for your needs.
Here are four things to consider when choosing a dietitian to work with:
Tip 1: The relatability of the nutrition pro
Is this person easy to talk to? Are you reasonably comfortable in their presence? Are they able to relate to your situation or life stage? If not, they can refer you to another RDN who is a better fit for you. Above all, RDNs desire good outcomes for their patients and clients and know that being the wrong fit for them may prevent the best results so be honest with any prospective RDN if you have concerns with suitability.
For example, a 50-year-old woman facing menopause, having raised children to adulthood, struggling with weight-cycling and depression may not be able to relate to a 25-year-old single RDN who has never struggled with her weight and loves working out. While the RDN would certainly be able to provide evidence-based nutrition help, she may find it challenging to tailor the counseling and goals to this client. Let the RDN help you find a nutrition professional to fit your needs best.
Tip 2: The specialty of the nutrition pro
This is similar to the first point, but you should also consider whether your RDN has experience and specific expertise in your areas of concern. Some RDNs specialize in certain populations, such as pregnant women, older adults, patients with cancer, or those on dialysis. It is important to understand what type of nutrition care you need before trying to find a nutrition professional.
For example, suppose you are training for a marathon. In that case, your best bet is to find an RDN focused on nutrition for endurance athletes, with all its nuances and individualization. A generalist RDN might have limited knowledge about how to prepare for such a physically demanding event.
Tip 3: The methodology of the nutrition pro
All RDNs add their own emphases and strengths to their practice, and RDNs’ approaches can vary from each other. It is helpful to have various coaching styles to choose from. However, there can be a downside to working with an RDN whose methods do not match your needs.
For example, an RDN who requires clients to log all calories, macros, and exercise minutes could prove detrimental to someone suffering from a disordered eating mindset. What this person needs is help breaking free from strict food restrictions and rules. Again, if you begin working with any healthcare provider and do not feel heard regarding your needs, speak up. It is in everyone’s best interest that you work with an RDN who can help you get the best results because they understand your needs and have the ability to meet them.
You can get a taste of my methodology by downloading my new, free ebook, “Escape the Binge!” HERE.
Tip 4: The worldview of the nutrition pro
If you are not meeting with a Christian dietitian, you should first understand something. You will work with your nutrition professional on more than just physical healthcare. RDNs often deal with heart and mind issues that contribute to ill health or problematic lifestyle choices. Recently, RDNs have also aimed to help clients deal with “spiritual” issues. Of course, without Scriptural foundation or the Holy Spirit, the help offered must be worldly or mystical (1 Cor. 2:14). God alone understands the soul and spirit of believers, so His ways are the only effective means of true transformation in these areas (Ezekiel 36:25-27).
To find a nutrition professional who fits your needs, look for a Registered Dietitian or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist you can relate to. Find one who has experience in the areas you are looking for. The RDN can help you find a nutrition professional that you may be more successful with. Above all, if you are a Christian, you’ll want to work with a spiritually mature believer who can guide you through a biblical, whole-person approach to improved health and wellbeing.
Are you looking for a Christian nutrition pro?
I am a Christian RDN and specialize in helping women overcome a difficult food/weight/body relationship. I will help you learn and apply the best evidence-based nutrition and health science with careful biblical application and study.
Schedule a free consultation to discuss whether I am the best fit for you. Let’s begin the conversation!
