Ask the RD on RD Day!

Today is the sixth annual RD (Registered Dietitian) Day! This annual "holiday" is a time to recognize registered dietitians and our role in helping people lead healthy lifestyles. I'm an RD and I love what I do! I get to talk and think about one of my favorite things all day...food. And I'm glad to have a day dedicated to my mission: helping others love (or learn to love) healthy foods as a part of their lifestyle; and in doing so becoming healthier, preventing disease or controlling disease. I think we have an important job and I'm honored and excited to do it. And to all my fellow RDs out there, happy RD Day!

In honor of our "holiday," I'm offering you the opportunity to ask me your nutrition questions. Either comment below or send an email to askliz@rdbyyourside.com. I'll be taking your questions all month long. Please note that I can't provide personal nutrition guidelines (a meal plan or nutrient goals) without an appointment. Everyone is different and it's important to take all factors into account when calculating a meal plan that fits you! And as it's standard, although I am a credentialed nutrition professional, please don't make medical decisions solely based on this website.

Here's more information about RD Day:

• 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.
• Registered dietitians are food and nutrition experts, translating the science of nutrition into practical solutions for healthy living. The expertise, training and credentials that back a registered dietitian are vital for promoting positive lifestyle choices.
• When you need food and nutrition information based on fact or need to know how a healthy diet improves health and fights disease— rely on qualified professionals in the field.
• Registered dietitians draw on their experience to develop a personalized nutrition plan for individuals of all ages. They are able to separate facts from fads and translate nutritional science into information you can use. A registered dietitian can put you on the path to lowering weight, eating healthfully and reducing your risk of chronic disease.

Why should you see a dietitian? Here are ten great reasons:

1. You have diabetes, cardiovascular problems or high blood pressure.
2. You are thinking of having or have had gastric bypass surgery.
3. You have digestive problems.
4. You’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
5. You need guidance and confidence for breastfeeding your baby.
6. Your teenager has issues with food and eating healthfully.
7. You need to gain or lose weight.
8. You’re caring for an aging parent.
9. You want to eat smarter.
10. You want to improve your performance in sports.

Why don't you celebrate National Registered Dietitian Day by visiting your local dietitian to say thank you, ask a question or get started on your journey to healthy living. There's no better time to start than RD Day!

If you're in St. Louis and looking for a Registered Dietitian, look no further than RDbyyourside Nutrition. I'm running a special this month if you're interested in a nutrition program, so visit my website. To locate a registered dietitian in your area, visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics at www.eatright.org.

What's your nutrition question?

Content adapted from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Photo: FreeDigitalPhotos.com