Don't fall victim: Why It's Crucial to Seek Diabetes Nutrition Advice from a Registered Dietitian

Author: Chantelle van der Merwe

Registered Dietician (SA) PG Dip Diabetes Management (UK) . Saving those with diabetes one post at a time, from fake diabetes treatment quacks! ​

There is nothing that infuriates me more than “hogwash, quackery” info out there given by non-registered individuals, taking advantage of vulnerable desperate persons who are trying to manage their diabetes better and who grasp at every last empty promise. 

As someone living with diabetes, you are likely bombarded with various pieces of advice and recommendations for managing your condition. With the abundance of information available online and in social media, it can be challenging to determine what is legitimate and what is not.
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One thing that can make the situation worse is non-registered individuals peddling their own treatments and concoctions to vulnerable people. This type of misinformation and quackery can not only be frustrating, but it can also be dangerous, especially when it comes to managing a chronic condition like diabetes.

That's why it's important to seek advice and guidance from registered healthcare professionals, such as registered dietitians. In South Africa, for example, dietitians must be registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to practice legally.

Being registered with a professional council means that dietitians clinical practices are regulated (like your GP) and they are required to attend continuous professional development courses every year. This ensures that they are up-to-date with the latest evidence-based practices and guidelines. As a result, they are better equipped to provide accurate and safe medical nutrition advice.

What does this mean for you as a person living with diabetes? It means that you can trust the advice and recommendations provided by registered dietitians. It also means that you have recourse in case you encounter an unethical or unprofessional dietitian.

If you have any concerns about the practice of a registered dietitian, you can report them to the HPCSA. The council will investigate the matter and take disciplinary action if necessary. This level of accountability and regulation is not available with non-registered individuals, meaning you’ll have a much harder time holding them liable and reporting them to a council. 

So, when it comes to managing your diabetes, it's crucial to seek advice from trusted healthcare professionals. Registered dietitians are one such group of professionals who can provide you with accurate and reliable medical nutrition advice. Remember to always verify the qualifications of the person providing you with advice and seek professional help when needed.