A pediatric dietician plays a crucial role in managing the nutrition and dietary needs of children. From infants to teenagers, these professionals ensure that kids receive the proper nutrition for healthy growth and development. In this article, we will explore the differences between nutritionists and dietitians, the significance of dietitians for children, signs of malnutrition, how to get a referral to a dietitian, and what to expect during a consultation session.
What is the Difference Between a Nutritionist and a Dietitian?
You might wonder about the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian. This distinction is important when seeking the right professional for your child’s dietary needs.
Dietitians (RDs)
Dietitians have a comprehensive educational background. They hold at least a master’s degree in nutrition or a related field. Moreover, they complete supervised practice under a qualified RD and pass a national registration exam. Dietitians are qualified to diagnose and treat medical nutrition problems and provide medical nutrition therapy.
Nutritionists
The term “nutritionist” is not universally regulated. Some nutritionists may have a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, while others might have certifications or diplomas from less rigorous programs. Nutritionists often focus on promoting general healthy eating habits and may specialise in areas such as sports nutrition or wellness. However, not all nutritionists are qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy.
What Does Dietitian Mean for Kids?
A pediatric dietician specialises in addressing the dietary needs of children. These professionals are trained to handle various nutritional issues that can affect children at different developmental stages.
Image from iStock
- Nutrition support for infants: Ensuring very low birth weight infants receive the right nutrients.
- Growth and development: Providing nutrition plans for toddlers and growing children.
- Weight management: Helping underweight and overweight children achieve a healthy weight.
- Managing food allergies and eating disorders: Creating tailored diets to handle specific health conditions.
- Supporting medical treatments: Assisting children undergoing surgery or cancer treatment with proper nutrition.
- Sports nutrition: Guiding young athletes on the best diets for performance.
- Diet therapy: Treating gastrointestinal diseases, diabetes, epilepsy, and more through diet.
What Are Two Obvious Signs of Malnutrition?
Malnutrition in children can be alarming, and it’s essential to recognise the signs early. Here are two clear indicators:
Physical Signs
Children suffering from malnutrition may show excessive weight loss or gain, fatigue, weakness, frequent infections, dry skin or hair, and changes in growth patterns like height and weight.
Behavioural Signs
Malnutrition can also manifest in a child’s behaviour. Signs include pickiness at mealtimes, loss of appetite, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and social withdrawal. These behavioural changes can stem from other underlying conditions as well, so it’s always wise to consult a pediatrician if you have concerns.
How to Get a Child Referred to a Dietitian?
Getting a referral to a pediatric dietician is straightforward and can be done through several avenues:
Pediatrician
Start by discussing your concerns with your child’s pediatrician. They can assess the situation and make a referral to a registered dietitian if necessary.
Insurance
Many insurance companies cover visits to registered dietitians. Check with your provider to understand if you need a referral or pre-authorisation for coverage.
Community Resources
Explore services offered by hospitals, clinics, and community centres. Many provide nutrition counselling services with registered dietitians.
What to Expect During a Dietetics Consultation Session?
When you visit a pediatric dietician, understanding the process can help you feel more comfortable. Here’s what typically happens:
Upon registration, your child’s height and weight measurements will be taken by a clinic assistant before the consultation. During the first consultation, which generally takes about 45 minutes, a dietitian will collect information from you, the parents or caregivers. They will ask about the history of presenting concerns, usual dietary intake, and eating patterns to determine any nutritional problems. You may prepare for the consultation by bringing along a food diary, which provides a detailed picture of your child’s dietary intake.
The dietitian may do one or more of the following:
- Explain the diet-disease link and the importance of diet in managing your child’s medical condition.
- Advise on appropriate dietary modifications based on your child’s medical condition and nutritional needs.
- Counsel you and your child on the need to make dietary changes and provide strategies to implement these changes.
- Provide relevant patient education materials, meal plans, or feeding schedules.
- Discuss the need and recommended timeframe for follow-up reviews.
During follow-up consultations, which generally take about 20 minutes, the dietitian will review your child’s diet based on previous recommendations. They will provide further dietary advice based on any new concerns or nutritional needs.
List of Pediatric Dietitians in Singapore
Image from iStock
If you’re in Singapore and need a pediatric dietitian, here are some notable professionals:
KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH)
-
Dr Han Wee Meng
Head of Nutrition and Dietetics
PhD (UK), Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC) – Registered Dietitian (UK)
-
Ms Christine Ong
Senior Principal Dietitian
BSc (Hons), MSc (Nutrition & Dietetics), Accredited Dietitian of Singapore
-
Dr Ong Chengsi
Principal Dietitian
PhD (NUS), Registered Dietitian (USA), Accredited Dietitian of Singapore, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician
-
Ms Phuah Kar Yin
Principal Dietitian
MSc Advanced Professional Practice in Paediatric Dietetics, Accredited Dietitian of Singapore, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician
-
Ms Grace Quek
Senior Dietitian
BSc (Dietetics), MSc (Nutrition & Dietetics), Registered Dietitian (USA)
-
Ms Ang Bixia
Senior Dietitian
BSc (Dietetics) Hons, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician
-
Ms Jasly Koo
Senior Dietitian
BSc (Dietetics) Hons, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician
-
Ms Yulanda Heng
Senior Dietitian
Postgraduate Diploma in Dietetics
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
- Ms Jenette Yee
Principal Dietitian
Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics, Flinders University, South Australia
Accredited Practising Dietitian, Dietitian Australia
Accredited Dietitian of Singapore, Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association (SNDA)
Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (USA)
Thomson Paediatric Centre (The Child Development Centre)
- Ms Suzanne Khor
Senior Dietitian
B.Sc. Dietetics (Hons) (M’sia), G DipM, MHSc (Ed.) (Aust)
Member SNDA
Specialises in nutrition for feeding difficulties, neurological disorders, eating disorders, and weight management.
Takeaway
A pediatric dietician is essential for ensuring that children receive the proper nutrition for healthy growth and development. Understanding the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian, recognising the signs of malnutrition, and knowing how to get a referral can help parents make informed decisions about their child’s health. If you have any concerns about your child’s nutrition, consult with their pediatrician and discuss the best course of action.
ALSO READ:
Mastering the Breastfeeding Diet: Tips from Singaporean Moms
Ask a Dietitian: How to Manage Age-Related Weight Gain
The Milk Dilemma: How Much is Too Much for Your Toddler’s Diet
