Alison Martin, RD, LD, CPT
Each year, nutrition experts across the country celebrate National Nutrition Month throughout the month of March.
National Nutrition Month was established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in 1973 and originally began as National Nutrition Week. But as awareness grew, by 1980, the celebration had expanded to cover the entire month. National Nutrition Month is a way to provide awareness and education about informed nutritional choices and physical activity habits for a healthy lifestyle. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics was established in 1917 during World War I to help the government preserve food and promote health through nutrition.
More than two-thirds of the Academy is made up of registered dietitians, who are qualified nutrition experts in the field of nutrition. Dietitians must undergo extensive undergraduate training, complete a 1,200-hour internship, and earn a master’s degree in order to take the dietitian certification exam. After completing the exam, you will receive the coveted title of Registered Dietitian. This is very different from people who use the title nutritionist. Dietitians do not need formal education to use the title dietitian, nor do they need to take a board certification exam or spend time learning more and gaining practical experience through internships. . If you’re looking for more nutritional information, it’s best to make sure you’re getting it from someone with the title of registered dietitian, who has the most up-to-date, science-backed information and experience. Nutritionists also set aside a day for themselves each year. Starting this year, “Registered Dietitian Day” has been established on March 13th.
Northwest Missouri State University has uniquely accredited undergraduate programs, internships, and master’s degree programs in nutrition. Each year, the Northwest Nutrition Program celebrates his month of March by holding Free Fruit Fridays on the Northwest campus, where we distribute free fruit and collect nonperishables at various locations, including Martindale Hall, the Administration Building, and the Foster Fitness Center. . Other events include a Northwest dietitian intern speaking out about the importance of nutrition through a series of radio broadcasts, and an alumni open house on April 6 at 10 a.m. for upcoming Martindale Hall renovations. Explaining the outline of the construction and nutrition neon. The 5k, with proceeds going to the Lettuce Dream Organization, will kick off at the Northwest Administration Building on March 22 at 5 p.m. Participants can register at nwmissouri.edu/Nutrition5K.
