American Dietetic Association

American Dietetic Association

The American Dietetic Association (ADA), now known as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. Founded in 1917, the organization is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy.

History

The ADA was founded by a visionary group of women led by Lenna Frances Cooper and Lulu G. Graves, who recognized the need for a national organization to represent the interests of dietitians. The association was established in Cleveland, Ohio, during the height of World War I, a time when food conservation and nutrition were of paramount importance.

In 2012, the ADA changed its name to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to better reflect the organization's mission and the evolving field of nutrition science.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is to "accelerate improvements in global health and well-being through food and nutrition." The vision is "a world where all people thrive through the transformative power of food and nutrition."

Membership

The Academy boasts over 100,000 credentialed practitioners, including registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), dietetic technicians, registered (DTRs), and other dietetics professionals holding undergraduate and advanced degrees in nutrition and dietetics.

Education and Certification

The Academy is responsible for setting the standards for education and certification in the field of dietetics. It accredits educational programs and administers the registration examination for dietitians and dietetic technicians.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

To become an RDN, individuals must complete a bachelor's degree in dietetics, complete an accredited supervised practice program, and pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR)

To become a DTR, individuals must complete an associate degree in dietetics, complete a supervised practice program, and pass a national examination administered by the CDR.

Advocacy and Public Policy

The Academy actively engages in advocacy efforts to influence public policy related to food, nutrition, and health. It works with policymakers to promote legislation that supports the role of dietitians in healthcare and ensures access to nutrition services for all individuals.

Research and Publications

The Academy supports research in the field of nutrition and dietetics and publishes several peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. These publications provide members with the latest research findings and evidence-based practice guidelines.

Continuing Education

The Academy offers a variety of continuing education opportunities for its members, including webinars, workshops, and conferences. These programs help dietetics professionals stay current with the latest developments in the field and maintain their credentials.

See Also

• Nutrition
• Dietitian
• Public health

External Links

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Official Website