What is a registered dietitian?
What is the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?
What is functional nutrition?
Do you offer remote nutrition counseling?
What should I expect at my first appointment?
How many appointments will I need?
How do I schedule my first appointment?
Do you accept insurance?
What is a registered dietitian?
Registered dietitians (RDs) are experts in food and nutritional science. A registered dietitian can translate the science of food and nutrition into advice you can use to live healthier everyday. The academic background, clinical expertise, and practical experience are what make registered dietitians so qualified to practice the science of nutrition. To be a registered dietitian, one must meet the following criteria:
- Have a minimum of a Bachelor’s degree (typically in health or nutritional science) with course work approved by Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association) Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education.
- Complete a 1200 hour internship which may include clinical, food service, community, and management rotations.
- Pass a national registration exam.
- Complete continuing education requirements every five years in order to maintain registration
If you are interested in becoming a registered dietitian, check out the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website here.
What is the difference between a registered dietitian nutritionist and a nutritionist?
Simply put, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, it is not a regulated credential. However, to be a registered dietitian, one must meet the criteria listed above. The bottom line is if you are looking for a reliable source of nutrition information, make sure you are consulting with a registered dietitian.
What is functional nutrition?
Integrative and Functional Nutrition therapy is a leading and evidence-based approach to nutrition care that looks at each individual in a comprehensive and holistic manner to improve health and overall well-being. This type of nutrition therapy focuses on identifying the root causes of diseases rather than a prescription of nutrition protocols based on a diagnosis.
In order to do this, the whole person must be assessed including their lifestyle, lab work, history, and physiology. By using a dietitian that is trained in integrative and function nutrition, it will allow for a critical assessment using a “whole systems” approach that provides a personalized integrated nutrition care plan to restore function and improve outcomes.
Do you offer remote nutrition counseling?
Yes! In addition to our in-office appointments, we offer appointments by phone and video conference.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
During your initial assessment, expect to spend about 90 minutes with the dietitian. Throughout this time, we will explore all different facets of health including:
- Your medical history
- Current diet and eating habits
- Medications and supplements
- Additional factors contributing to your overall well-being such as social and emotional health
We will then work together to come up with an individualized nutrition plan that will help you achieve your health and wellness goals. You will also be provided with personalized meal ideas, support and guidance to make these healthy changes a part of your lifestyle.
Typically, after the initial visit, a follow-up appointment will be made. During this time, we will evaluate your original goals to ensure you are on track. We can work together to troubleshoot barriers to achieving these goals, and set new goals to continue to build upon your healthy lifestyle.
How many appointments will I need?
The amount of appointments needed depends on YOU! How hard you are willing to work, how many nutritional issues we are addressing, and how much accountability and support you need.
How do I schedule my first appointment?
To schedule an appointment, you may email info@bfan.us, call us at 678-424-6520 or use our online scheduling system.
Do you accept insurance?
Balance Fitness and Nutrition does not accept insurance. However, during your appointment, we are happy to provide you with paperwork to submit to your insurance company for the potential of reimbursement.
You may want to call your insurance company before your appointment to find out if they will reimburse for appointments to out of network dietitians for your given diagnosis.