A mouthful of advice from nutritionists

MANILA, Philippines -  The country’s nutritionist-dietitians should take more credit for their unparalleled role as champions of their patients’ health and well-being, according to the officers of the Nutritionist-Dietitians’ Association of the Philippines (NDAP).

At the recently concluded 56th annual convention of NDAP held at the Sofitel Philippine Plaza, the organization encouraged its members to come out of their shells and recognize themselves as important players when it comes to providing scientific and credible advice on food, diet, and nutrition. NDAP fears that most of the country’s nutritionist-dietitians are not utilized well because of the onslaught of televised nutrition messages delivered by “pseudo” experts like celebrities, fitness experts, psychologists, foodies, and chefs.

“The reason why we chose the theme ‘Nutritionist-Dietitian Ako, Kampeon sa Nutrisyon’ is because there are some people who claim to be nutritionists — it has to be the registered dietitians who must provide the right diet counseling because that is in our law,” says Nieves Serra, NDAP president. “There are so many fitness gurus and individuals who claim to know about nutrition, but in reality, they are not equipped with the knowledge and skills because a real dietitian is a graduate of a four-year nutrition course and must pass the board exam first.”

“We want to boost the morale of some dietitians and let them know that when it comes to nutrition and diet, it is the ND who should call the shots, not the doctor or the nurse,” says Jo Ann Verdadero-Salamat, NDAP 56th annual convention chairperson.

She adds: “Our objective is to bring out the best in every ND since he/she is the expert when it comes to nutrition and diet. And to accomplish that, they have to come out of their comfort zone. What this convention aims to do is to encourage NDs to assert themselves when it comes to diet management.”

Awards were given to Lilia Teves (2010 ND of the Year Award); Corazon Barba (Presentacion P. Perez Award); Mayor Esther Tabique of Mabini, Bohol (special plaque of recognition); Cecilia Ruiz (Outstanding Provincial ND); Jesusa Salvador (Outstanding ND in Hospital in Education and Research); and Virgith Balan-Buena (Outstanding ND in Business and Industry).

Also given recognition were NDAP-Batangas Chapter (Outstanding Chapter) and NDAP-Baguio/ Benguet Chapter (Hall of Fame).

For more information, call the NDAP secretariat at 845-1651 or fax (02)753-3598. You may also visit the website at www.ndap.org.ph.  NDAP’s office is located at Unit 1106, Cityland Herrera Tower, V.A. Rufino corner Valero Streets, Salcedo Village, Makati City.