March Madness- Top Ten Reasons

When I think of March, I think of March Madness and basketball.  I grew up knowing that my family would be watching TV and tons of BB games.  But now……

March is also a very big month for me and my profession.  Not only is it National Nutrition Month, but on March 14th it is called Registered Dietitian Day!  WOW you say!??  Well, ok, you need not get too excited.  But, if you are wondering what I do all day as an RD, or what an RD does in general, then have a peek at the TOP TEN REASONS of how we help CHANGE and save lives, IMPROVE and EDUCATE the health of our communities and individuals, and SAVE health care dollars!  Yes, March has changed for me and let’s just say I’m not watching BB games these days, but I do miss the family time and togetherness.

Registered Dietitian Day increases awareness of registered dietitians as the indispensable providers of food and nutrition services and recognizes RDs for their commitment to helping people enjoy healthy lives.  A registered dietitian or “RD” serves as an integral liaison in helping individuals and communities make changes for a healthy delicious diet.  Celebrate the fifth annual Registered Dietitian Day on Wednesday, March 14, 2012 with a good healthy meal seated around a table with your family and friends.  Not on the couch, that’s just for watching TV and basketball!

Top Ten Reasons!
How Registered Dietitians Can Improve Your Health and Save Health Care Dollars……….

1. You have diabetes or pre-diabetes and want to stave off diabetes. A registered dietitian can change your life by teaching you skills that will help you lose and keep off weight and keep diabetes at bay.

2. Your community has high levels of obesity. A registered dietitian can work with public health, government, school and other local leaders to create wellness programs that promote healthful eating and physical activity for everyone.  And, a registered dietitian can help on an individual basis to counsel for weight management, and direct lifestyle changes using behavioral and motivational therapies.

3. You have had gastric bypass surgery. Since your stomach can only manage small servings, it’s a challenge to get the right amount of nutrients in your body. A registered dietitian will work with you to develop an eating plan for your new needs.

4. You have problems with digestion or body organs related to digestion, such as mouth, esophagus, heart, stomach, liver, kidney, intestines or colon.  A registered dietitian can counsel you on the appropriate types of foods and drinks, and how to prepare them to assist with digestive issues.

5. Your teenager (or child) has issues with food and eating healthfully. A registered dietitian can assist with eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, underweight and overweight issues.

6. You just had your first child, are concerned the baby is not eating enough and need help and confidence for breastfeeding. A registered dietitian can provide guidance and assurance that you and your infant are getting enough iron, vitamin D, Fluoride and B vitamins.

7. You need to feed your family healthier foods but you do not cook. A dietitian who has special culinary skills can teach you how to cook a simple, economical, and convenient way. Or your mother, who is increasing in age, wants to stay in her home. A registered dietitian leading a local congregate dining and home delivered meals program can obtain a nutrition screening to make sure this happens

8. You are a marketing manager for a large food company and know consumers’ preference for good-tasting food that is healthy. A registered dietitian can make the connection and work with your food scientists to develop new products that will be successful in the marketplace.

9. You want to improve your performance in sports. A registered dietitian can help you set goals to achieve results — whether you’re running a marathon, skiing, or jogging with your dog.

10. Your community wants more local foods to be available. A registered dietitian can lead efforts to make sure foods will not only be healthy but also will positively affect the local economy.  And, lots more fun stuff!