My Profession - Registered Dietitian

The profession of dietetics has a strong reputation for relying on evidence to dictate best practice. We are taught to look to the research before acting, whether it be recommending a change in diet or vitamin supplement to a patient or recommending guidelines for school food programs.  During our education, both academic and practical, we are taught many of the necessary skills to advocate for our profession because programs/services don't always see the need for a dietitian or understand our unique role. 

Dietitians of Canada has been a front-runner in providing evidence-based practice information to practicing dietitians. PEN (Practice-based Evidence in Nutrition) is a "dynamic knowledge translation subscription service." DC has recently partnered with the British Dietitian Association in offering this service.  There is a 2-week free trial available right now.  

We also have some prolific dietitian researchers who have elected to look at the practice of dietetics from different points of view (vs. the traditional medical viewpoint). Dr. Jacqui Gingrashas undertaken research from a sociological point of view and Dr. Catherine Morley has integrated the arts into her practice of dietetics - specifically textile arts and filmography.  At our next national conference, which will be held in Edmonton, there will be an inaugural "Dietitian as Artist" exhibit, which will highlight the work of dietitians in any number of creative mediums.