Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are food and nutrition experts who are trained to provide counseling on nutrition and eating habits. RDNs must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university or college, complete a supervised practice program, pass a national examination, and maintain continuing professional education requirements. To learn more about RDNs or to find one near you, visit eatright.org.

A healthy diet contains a variety of foods from all of the basic food groups (i.e. vegetables, fruit, protein, grains, and dairy) to provide all of the vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function at its best. A healthy eating pattern also focuses on balancing calories consumed (eating and drinking) with calories expended (activity) to help you achieve and sustain a healthy weight. For more information on building a healthy eating pattern that fits your lifestyle, visit choosemyplate.gov.