Local Dietetic Organization Strives To Optimize Illinoisan Health Through Food and Nutrition

CHICAGO, Sept. 24, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- In a time of rapid, constant communications, conscious consumers, and the democratization of food and nutrition experts, consumers are left confused on what and who to believe, especially when it comes to receiving science-based information. In fact, most Americans (52 percent) find doing their taxes simpler and easier than knowing what to eat or not to eat for better health, according to a survey by the International Food Information Council (IFIC).  

The Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Inc. (IAND), a state affiliate of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is a not-for-profit professional organization of more than 3,200 credentialed nutrition experts who leverage food and nutrition to optimize the health of Illinoisans. Members of IAND are registered dietitian nutritionists and diet technicians, registered, who play a key role in educating and advocating so citizens of Illinois receive accurate, up-to-date and evidence-based nutrition information, along with appropriate medical nutrition therapy.

"IAND recognizes that the ever-changing food and nutrition landscape can be confusing, and IAND is a valued source of food and nutrition services," said Jennifer Seyler, President of IAND and Communications VP at FleishmanHillard. To help validate IAND's impact, IFIC asked individuals who they would trust the most to provide accurate information about the types of food they should be eating, the majority of respondents stated their personal healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian.

Understanding that registered dietitians nutritionists are the most reliable authority when it comes to food and nutrition, IAND has positioned some of its key members as Media Representatives. These individuals are specialized, media-trained dietitians ready to answer questions and provide clarification as needed, providing science-based, yet easy-to-understand nutrition information. The incoming class of IAND Media Representatives includes bloggers, consultants, entrepreneurs, food and nutrition journalist/editors, clinical dietitians, authors, communication specialists, food scientists, and more, who will serve as regional IAND spokesperson for media activities, establish and maintain relationships with local market media, and help increase visibility of the dietetic professional as the nutrition expert and resource person. They are distinguished, influential and recognized locally and nationally.

"With such a diverse group, IAND has the opportunity to feed off of each other to help provide consumers with the nutrition information they need – what fits their lifestyle and stage in life," said Kelly Devine Rickert, President of Devine Nutrition, Inc. and Chair of the IAND Marketing and Public Relations Committee.

2015 – 2018 District Media Representatives:

• Lisa Brandt, Northern Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (NIAND)
• Kelly Devine Rickert, South Suburban Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (SSAND) and Co-Chair
• Charlyn Fargo Ware, Capital Area Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (CAAND)
• Ginger Hultin, Chicago Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (CAND)
• Jacqueline King, North Suburban Dietetic Association (NSDA)
• Beth Peralta, Eastern Illinois Dietetic Association (EIDA)
• Ashley Simper, Central Illinois Dietetic Association (CIAND)
• Johanna Hughes, Co-Chair

"IAND wants the public to trust and choose registered dietitians as food and nutrition experts, and hopes that in partnership with local media, it can continue to optimize the state's health through food and nutrition," continued Seyler. "We are a unique group of professionals - leaders, educators and advocates – working together to achieve a common goal."

More information on how to find an Illinois-based dietitian can be found at www.eatrightillinois.org. You can also follow Illinois dietitian conversations on Twitter via #IllinoisDietitians.

About The Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
The Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (IAND), an affiliate of The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, is a not-for-profit professional organization of more than 3,200 credentialed nutrition experts who leverage food and nutrition to optimize the health of Illinoisans. Members of IAND are registered dietitian nutritionists and diet technicians, registered, who play a key role in educating and advocating so citizens of Illinois receive accurate, up-to-date and evidence-based nutrition information, along with appropriate medical nutrition therapy. IAND is committed to advancing health information and the profession of dietetics, as well as serving the state of Illinois through education and advocacy. Visit us at www.eatrightillinois.org.

About The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (AND) is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. AND is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy at www.eatrightPRO.org.

SOURCE The Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.eatrightillinois.org