Dietetics

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Dietetics

Dietetics (pronounced: /daɪ.əˈtɛt.ɪks/) is the science of how food and nutrition affects human health. The field is focused on the prevention and treatment of disease and the promotion of health.

Etymology

The term "dietetics" comes from the Greek word "diaita," which means "way of life." This reflects the comprehensive nature of the discipline, which considers not just what we eat, but how our diet affects our overall health and wellbeing.

Related Terms

  • Nutrition: The process by which organisms take in and utilize food material.
  • Dietitian: A health professional who has a Bachelor's degree, specializing in food and nutrition, and also undergoes a period of practical training in a hospital or community setting.
  • Diet: The kinds of food that a person, animal, or community habitually eats.
  • Nutrient: A substance used by an organism to survive, grow, and reproduce.
  • Metabolism: The chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.

History of Dietetics

The history of dietetics is a long and varied one, with roots in ancient civilizations. The Greeks, for example, recognized the link between food and health, with Hippocrates famously stating, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." In the modern era, dietetics emerged as a recognized profession in the early 20th century, with the establishment of the first dietetic programs and professional organizations.

Role in Healthcare

Dietetics plays a crucial role in healthcare, with dietitians working in a variety of settings, including hospitals, public health clinics, private practices, and research institutions. They provide nutritional counseling, develop meal plans, and educate patients on how to make healthier food choices. They also work with other healthcare professionals to manage diseases and conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and food allergies.

Education and Training

To become a dietitian, one must earn a bachelor's degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or a related area. This is followed by a period of supervised practice, typically in the form of an internship. After completing their education and training, dietitians must pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) to become registered.

See Also

External links

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