What does nutrition mean?

There are many different definitions for ‘nutrition’. The one we believe is the best fit is: “Nutrition is the process of eating and absorbing food your body needs for nourishment.” Nutrients are chemical substances found in food that our bodies need to function. There are six major classes of nutrients, which can be broken down into macronutrients and micronutrients. 

Macronutrients are nutrients that the body cannot synthesize all of them on its own, so we need to get them from our food; they are carbohydrates, lipids, and protein. 

Micronutrients are nutrients that are not needed in the same amounts as macronutrients; they are vitamins and minerals. Water is not considered a macronutrient, but it is necessary for everyday functions. Nutritional needs vary person to person, depending on their age and health factors. 

What nutrition isn’t

What our dietitians do

Our dietitians have an extensive pathway they had to complete to get their certification. First, they need to obtain a bachelor’s degree with specific coursework and then complete a master’s degree. Next, they must complete an ACEND-accredited dietetic internship. Now, some people complete their master’s degree and their supervised practice together, which is called an MS-DI. These are typically 1-2 years in lengths depending on the university. After they complete that, they need to pass their CDR, Commission on Dietetic Registration, exam. After passing the CDR, states may require you to pass their licensure exam, allowing you to practice in your state. For dietitians who choose to work with insurance companies, you must become licensed with them. After you pass all of the requirements for your state, you are required to complete continuing education hours in order to maintain the credential and continue to practice. This is very common in healthcare, and it ensures that practicing dietitians are up to date on the latest in the science and research world. 

There are many different areas dietitians can work in, such as in a hospital setting, in a long-term care facility, in food service, and in private practice, to name a few. 

What does it mean to be “healthy”?

The definition of healthy is “to be in good health". This can look different for many people. Being healthy is an overall picture that takes mental, physical, and social health into consideration. To achieve optimal health, our bodies need to be in tune with each of these. To have a positive relationship with food, we need to have a positive relationship with ourselves. To have peak performance when exercising, we need to nourish our bodies with enough food. To have good social health, we need to be aware of our relationships with friends, coworkers, and family. Fostering good relationships and connections with others leads to an overall happier life, thus increasing your health. It can be difficult to be healthy due to everything going on in our lives, which is why it’s important to take it one step at a time. Know that these three constructs play into your health, and use them to become your healthiest self! 

Our dietitians work with patients to help grow their relationship with food, and everyone's is different. They are licensed and trained individuals who have specific tools to help you achieve your food goals. 

Sources:

• https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/fda-101-dietary-supplements
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/nutrition
• https://www.kansashealthsystem.com/health-resources/turning-point/programs/resilience-toolbox/nutrition/nutrition-and-fight-or-flight
• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/vitamin-deficiency
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10849326/