Depending on your state, you may or may not be able to rely on a dietitian to tell you what medications to take or how to make them work better. The only way to know for sure is to speak with your doctor. The dietitian may be able to prescribe you a supplement to take with your meal, or even suggest over-the-counter medications. They can also help you develop a diet that suits your needs. If you’re unsure whether a nutritionist is right for you, talk to your doctor about the job and your needs.
While it’s no secret that nutritionists are good at diet and nutrition, they are not all trained to diagnose or treat illnesses. In fact, the ability to diagnose diseases and prescribe medications is relatively new for dietitians. Nevertheless, some nutritionists are more able than others to do both. For instance, some RDs recommend taking vitamin D supplements to maintain normal blood levels. Others use medical protocols for certain patient populations to make recommendations.
While not every nutritionist is able to make medical recommendations, they are better equipped than most doctors to give patients the nutritional education they need. The best thing about a dietitian is that they can provide a variety of health tips to help improve your health. They also can refer you to mental health professionals if they think you might need them.
The question of whether nutritionists can prescribe medication may seem like a no brainer, but it isn’t. Most doctors and pharmacists can only prescribe medication if they’re an expert in that particular drug. However, registered dietitians (RDNs) are the exception to the rule. RDNs can prescribe medications for conditions such as high cholesterol and diabetes. This is a boon for those suffering from these conditions, but it may also create an environment where patients start to self-diagnose.
Although there are some limitations, a dietitian can make some medical suggestions and can even help you choose which over-the-counter medications are right for you. They can also order lab tests to see if your diet is working for you. In fact, they are the best resource for recovering from an eating disorder.
While the medical community has yet to come to grips with the fact that nutritionists can prescribe medication, there is evidence to suggest that it is an effective way to improve patient outcomes. One study reported that dietitians and pharmacists working together have had success implementing patient-specific clinical management plans. This includes monitoring side effects and recommending supplements based on a patient’s individual needs. The most common prescriptions include parenteral nutrition (PN), intravenous fluids, and micronutrients.
While there is no shortage of nutritionists in the United States, the job outlook for nutritionists is projected to be good through 2025. The average salary for a nutritionist is about $85,000, but it grows with experience. It’s important to make sure you hire a qualified practitioner who’s licensed to prescribe supplements. Whether you’re looking for a health coach, diet expert, or a nutritionist to help you lose weight, you can find a great match.
Book a dietitian in Logan if you want to improve your health.