What They Do
Christy Apeler, R.D., is a clinical dietitian at Berkshire Nursing and Rehab Center (berkshireNRC@aol.com), in West Babylon. “The Registered Dietitian license that I have is a national license, meaning everyone in the country using the credential R.D. has the same minimum qualifications,” she says. As a R.D. in a clinical setting, Apeler is responsible for the nutritional status of all the residents in the nursing home, completing comprehensive assessments on everyone and evaluating their nutritional status and nutritional risk based on their weight, eating habits and food/fluid intake, lab values, medications, diagnosis, and nutritional history. She then makes adjustments in their plan of care as needed. “My job also involves dietary counseling and education for the residents and their families as needed for specialized diets, for weight loss or weight gain,” she says.

Jennifer Edden, H.H.C., nutritionist at Integrative Healthcare Solutions, (www.integrativehealthcaresolutions.org), a physician-run wellness center in Glen Cove specializing in holistic and preventive healthcare, attended the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, in New York City, and is a board-certified holistic health counselor. “Qualifications vary from state to state to be called a ‘certified nutritionist.’” she says. “Some nutritionists in private practice are well-trained, hold a degree, and are licensed. Depending on state law, however, a person using the title may not be trained or licensed at all.”

Remember To Research
One of the common mistakes people make when selecting a nutritionist, according to Apeler, is not first doing their research. “The term ‘nutritionist’ is not regulated, meaning anyone can call themselves one. Whereas a R.D. has a minimum amount of qualifications and a national license, a nutritionist could be someone who has no formal training or education,” she cautions. “For example, someone who owns or even just works in a vitamin shop may call himself a nutritionist. Or even a doctor who is interested in nutrition, vitamins, and herbal supplements might call himself one. However, if neither has completed the necessary qualifications, he or she may not use the credential of R.D. It is very common to find that personal trainers call themselves nutritionists; however, they get very little training and/or education in nutrition, especially compared to what a R.D. receives.” Do your homework; don’t assume tough guy Joe at the gym understands the inner workings of your body.

Getting the Right Tools
In her role, Edden supports people in understanding why to make better food choices, sets up plans to get them on a better health track, and then monitors them to be sure they are meeting planned goals. “My job is to give people the tools and resources to get healthy and stay healthy once they’ve completed their program with me. I am considered a holistic nutritionist because I not only talk with people about making better food choices, but we also discuss what feeds them on all levels in their lives, and the importance of living a balanced life that includes spirituality, physical activity, good relationships, and a fulfilling career. All of these aspects are just as important as the quality of food you eat,” she notes.

Edden sees people of all ages who, as she puts it, “just don’t feel well.” Most are struggling with some combination of high cholesterol, blood pressure, cravings, bloating, sleep apnea, and unwanted weight gain. They are lacking energy and can’t figure out how to get back on track. She says “A good percentage of my clients have tried just about everything and can’t seem to get results and are frustrated. They are looking for a no-nonsense, direct approach to getting better.”

To find a local nutritionist, visit www.findanutritionist.com/pdb/New_York. For more information, check out www.linutrition.com and www.eatrightli.org

Top Health Tips
From Christy Apeler, RD, and Jennifer Edden, HHC

“Avoid trans-fatty acids; your goal should be to consume NONE!”—Christy

“Be in love with your life ... if you’re not, figure out what’s not working and make a change.”—Jennifer

“Don’t smoke.”—Christy

“Get enough rest and relaxation. Your body repairs and heals when it’s sleeping.”—Jennifer

“Limit your intake of saturated fats; eat more unsaturated fats such as oil olive instead of butter.”—Christy

“Surround yourself with positive people. Negativity brews negativity, which is not healthy.”—Jennifer