An Interview with the Registered Dietitian

What is a Registered Dietitian (RD)?

How does it differ from a nutritionist? RDs are food and nutrition experts, approved by the American Dietetic Association (ADA), that use the science of nutrition to help people develop practical solutions for healthy living. RDs have completed coursework, an internship and an exam through the ADA. Some RDs call themselves nutritionists; however, not all nutritionists are RDs.

What is your educational background?

I received my Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Dietetics with a specialty in Nutrition Education. I completed several science classes and labs, including organic chemistry, biochemistry and physiology, as well as an ADA approved internship and the RD exam. I’m also certified in Child and Adolescent Weight Management.

What inspired you to become an RD?

When I was young, I watched my father garden, cook and encourage our family to eat healthfully and exercise. I saw the difference it made in our family and wanted to help other people change their lives.

...from the dietitian

Christy Burkard
"Each person’s needs are different, so we will always determine goals based on the individual, whether it be preventing a disease, controlling a disease or just becoming healthier."

What words best describe you and your work style?

Supportive, upbeat, educational, enthusiastic, flexible and honest.

What are some ways you work with your clients?

I generally learn a lot about my client’s eating, work and exercise habits, and health history in our first meeting. This information helps me get to know the individual and how I can assist him or her. We discuss the client’s nutrition goals and decide, together, what changes should be made. I also set up the follow-up session so that we can review the goals, determine if they were reasonable and achieved, and discuss any barriers. Each client is different, but the follow-up sessions are usually between 2-4 weeks apart.

Can you describe some experiences you’ve had as an RD?

I’ve been in the field for almost 13 years, and have had various experiences that have helped me become a well-rounded RD. I’ve worked as a Dietitian for corporate wellness programs and hospital systems, and managed health clubs. I taught seminars in all of these settings and provided individual counseling.

If you could tell people one simple thing to eat better/improve their health, what would it be?

Eat more vegetables! Small changes can make a big difference in a person's diet and health!