Tag: Prescribe diet

According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy for medical conditions, positioning them as an authoritative source for specialized dietary plans. While the word 'prescribe' is typically reserved for physicians, the more accurate question to ask is, "Can a dietician create a meal plan?" And the answer is a resounding 'yes.'

While diet is a cornerstone of treatment for many conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, studies suggest doctors often under-refer patients to nutrition specialists. Yes, a doctor can prescribe a diet, especially a therapeutic one, but their role in nutritional care is often distinct from a registered dietitian's specialized expertise.