UDA. Your link to nutrition and health.

Consumer

Consumer Resources

What is a Nutrition Professional?

The American Dietetic Association oversees nationwide accreditation for Registered Dietitians (RD) and Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR).

Registered Dietitian

• Baccalaureate degree
• Professional practice training
• National registration via examination
• Mandatory continuing education
• Many also have advanced degrees and specialty certification

Dietetic Technician, Registered

• Associate degree
• National registration via examination
• Mandatory continuing education

Identifying Nutrition Misinformation

How can you sort through the hype and junk science to find accurate nutrition information?

Ask yourself the following questions about the information:

• Is the diet limited to a few foods?
• Does it warn against eating combinations of foods at the same time?
• Does it omit any food or food group with high nutritional value?
• Does it try to sell something?
• Does it make promises, offer cures or claim one food will cure many ills?
• Does it claim regular food is bad?

If you answered "Yes" to any of these questions, check the accuracy of the claims. You should be able to find reputable information at one of the resources below or check the consumer information links offered on this website:

• Your health care provider
• Local hospital, medical clinic
• Cooperative Extension Service
• Local health department
• College or university food/nutrition department

Weight Loss

Fad diets for weight loss seem to be a national passion. Each year Americans spend more than $30 million on weight loss products; the market is ripe for gimmicks and promises. Fad diets may work in the beginning, but usually fail in the long term. The American Heart Association has some tips to help you recognize a fad weight loss diet. Say NO to diets that advocate:

• Miracle or magic foods
• Rapid weight loss
• No exercise
• Bizarre quantities
• Specific food combinations Rigid menus