What is a dietitian?

The provincial legislation protects the title “Registered Dietitian”, which means only qualified professionals who have met education requirements can use the title.

A dietitian will have completed a Bachelor’s degree in food and nutrition and also a practice based internship in hospitals and/or community settings. Dietitians may further their education by completing a Master’s or Doctoral degree.

What can a dietitian help you with?

The West Durham Family Health Team Dietitian can work one on one with you or in a group setting to help you:

  • Organize a healthy, well balanced diet
  • Achieve and manage a healthy weight
  • Plan meals for pregnancy and baby’s first foods
  • Learn how to make healthier choices when eating on the go
  • Know how to read food labels
  • Plan meals for an active lifestyle
  • Decide when vitamins and supplements are needed
  • And more

The West Durham Family Health Team Dietitian can also educate you on how your diet can effect your health problems such as:

  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • High cholesterol
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or crohn’s disease)
  • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Celiac disease
  • Anemia and other nutrient deficiencies
  • And more

Adapted from www.dietitians.ca

How can I see the West Durham Family Health Team Dietitian?

You can ask your doctor, nurse practitioner or other health professional for a referral. You can see a dietitian individually, with your family or you can sign up for one of our group classes.

The dietitian and you will work together to develop a plan and goals for a healthier diet and lifestyle. You may continue to see the dietitian for follow up sessions depending on your goals.

Suggested Links

These health links are provided solely for your information and convenience. When you link to an outside website, you are leaving the West Durham Family Health Team site and our privacy policies no longer apply. The West Durham Family Health Team does not review or control the content of the suggested Health Links.

Please note that the health information contained in the suggested web sites are for your interest only. The information provided should not be taken as actual health advice. The views and information provided are not a substitute for visiting a healthcare professional.

Dietitians of Canada

Health Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating


EatRight Ontario

Talk to a Dietitian
1-877-510-5102