There’s an expression –
“you are what you eat.”
And that’s certainly true
when it comes to good nutrition.
Dietetic technicians help patients
understand the important connection
between food and health.
Under a dietitian’s supervision,
they assist with food service
and nutritional programs.
They plan menus and prepare meals
following nutritional standards and recipes
that ensure patients’ individual needs
are met.
Dietetic technicians observe and gather
information from a patient,
so a registered dietitian or doctor
can determine the patient’s needs.
They also counsel people
about the food choices they should make
to prevent or manage disease,
such as cutting back on sugar
for patients with diabetes.
Most work in a variety of healthcare settings,
including hospitals, nursing homes,
and assisted living facilities;
or for state and local government.
In all settings,
dietetic technicians follow guidelines
established by the government
and medical experts.
Most employers prefer candidates
with an associate's degree
from an accredited dietetics
or nutrition program,
though qualifications may vary.
While everybody needs to eat,
dietetic technicians help those
with special nutritional requirements
to improve their health
through informed choices.