What do registered dietitians do?

Registered dietitians translate scientific, medical and nutrition information into practical therapeutic diets and meal guidance. They promote health and wellness by:

• assessing patients and provide nutrition care plans
• helping ensure nutritional needs of patients are met by food, supplements, or via a tube or intravenous feeding
• providing education programs and materials
• counseling patients to help change their behaviour
• helping patients develop a healthy relationship with food and eating
• providing other health professionals with advice and information on nutrition
• collaborating with government, school boards and other partners to develop and implement policies and guidelines
• leading and participating in nutrition research and evaluation

Where do registered dietitians work?

Registered dietitians conduct their work in many different settings and contexts, including:

• Hospitals
• Outpatient programs and clinics
• Long-term care and supportive/assisted living facilities
• Home care
• Adult day support
• Primary care and physician offices
• Community health centres
• Communities
• Food services

What are the credentials for a registered dietitian?

• Registered dietitians require a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Dietetics and/or Foodservice Administration
• Registered dietitians will have successfully completed an accredited internship program
• Dietitians are registered by the College of Dietitians of Alberta. Dietitians must be authorized by the College to perform certain restricted activities (e.g. prescribing Total Parenteral Nutrition, provision of drug samples).