Every dietitian is a nutritionist, but not every nutritionist is a dietitian. The title "registered dietitian" is a protected term, meaning that individuals must meet specific educational and professional requirements to use it. Registered dietitians can provide medical nutrition therapy. Registered Dietitians can use either of these credentials: RD or RDN. The title "nutritionist" is not regulated, and therefore, individuals may have varying levels of education and expertise in the field of nutrition. Contrary to popular belief, registered dietitians do not simply recommend nutritional supplements like Ensure or decide what’s on the hospital menu. RDNs collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, speech therapists, and physical therapists to provide comprehensive care to their patients. RDNs also collaborate with social workers and mental health professionals to address the psychological and socio-economic factors that can impact an individual's relationship with food and eating habits. WHAT EDUCATION AND TRAINING IS REQUIRED TO BECOME A REGISTERED DIETITIAN? Individuals must complete a bachelor's degree in an accredited nutrition and dietetics program. As of 2024, a master's degree is now required. Classes vary according to program, but in general, coursework covers: • Nutrition and Metabolism • Bioorganic Chemistry • Anatomy and Physiology • Microbiology • Biostatistics • Epidemiology • Sociocultural Influences in Nutrition • Nutrition Across the Lifespan • Food Science • Food Service Systems Management • Business and Economics • Culinary Arts • Sociology and Communication • US Healthcare Systems Students must also complete a 1200-hour supervised practice program (internship) and pass a national boards examination. RDNs interpret lab results to assess a patient's nutritional needs and monitor the effects of medications on their nutritional status. They also provide guidance on the appropriate use of supplements. RDNs have the expertise to write tube feeding and parenteral nutrition (IV nutrition) orders, and they often work in intensive care units (ICU) to provide critical nutritional support to patients who are unable to eat orally.

Please fill out the nutrition coaching application under the "Work with Emily" tab, and you will be contacted via email to set up a free 15-minute introductory call to see if we are a good fit.

Medicare Part B of Florida - Please note: Medicare will ONLY provide coverage for diagnoses of Diabetes or Chronic Kidney Disease stages 3-5 (no exceptions) and a physician referral is required. Cigna Aetna Optum Physical Health: Health Allies - Discount Plan *Also, NuSparkle Nutrition can bill as an out-of-network provider. The client pays the fee upfront and an insurance claim will be sent to the insurance company (exception: Florida Blue). If the services are covered, the client is reimbursed the amount the insurance company paid. You can also request that your health insurance company provide a coverage exception if they are unable to provide you with an in-network dietitian.

Nutrition coaching includes weekly or biweekly virtual face-to-face sessions and open daily communication with the dietitian-nutritionist (via text and/or email). The first session is 45 minutes-1 hour and follow-ups are 20-30 minutes.

For basic lab work, it is best to have it ordered by your physician so that your health insurance covers it, otherwise you will have to pay for the labs out of pocket. The dietitian does make recommendations as to which blood tests to discuss getting checked. All lab work is reviewed and explained in depth by the dietitian. NuSparkle Nutrition does offer Omega-3 Index Testing (an at home mail-in blood test): Low omega-3 levels are associated with many health issues including heart disease, Alzheimer’s dementia, eye diseases, dry skin, depression, inflammation, and much more.

Clients have access to a portal with personalized meal plans and recipes based on their specific nutritional needs determined by the dietitian. The dietitian determines nutritional needs by analyzing lab work, medical history, height, weight, age, gender, activity level, food allergies/sensitivities, nutritional deficiencies, and the client's specific goals. The portal is available to use as an app on mobile devices and/or desktop computers and laptops. The portal also includes a food tracking feature and nutrient analysis. Clients are also provided with handouts and other helpful visual aids via email.

It depends on the client's specific goals and concerns. Usually 3-6 months, however, some up to 1 year or more! The minimum commitment is 1 month. Developing new habits that stick takes time. Some clients need more help with accountability than others, so it depends on your needs.

18 years and older

Yes

Yes! Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and weight management (loss or gain). NuSparkle Nutrition helps individuals optimize their nutrition without feeling restricted, enabling them to improve their strength and gain confidence in their eating habits.

No. NuSparkle Nutrition can help clients with various concerns including, but not limited to: Sports Nutrition Diabetes High Blood Pressure/Hypertension High Cholesterol/Triglycerides Congestive Heart Failure Cancer Liver Disease Wound Healing Malnutrition Gout Vitamin/Mineral Deficiencies Anemia Osteoporosis Tube Feeding