First celebrated in 2008, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day commemorates the dedication of RDNs as advocates for advancing the nutrition status of Americans and people around the world. Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, celebrated each year on the second Wednesday in March, was created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to increase the awareness of registered dietitian nutritionists as the essential providers of food and nutrition services.

We did a Q&A with our very own Registered Dietitian, Jackie Genetin, RDN, LD!

What is a Dietitian? What do you do at Pomerene?
A Registered Dietitian (Nutritionist) (RDN) is a nutrition expert who went through education and experience specific to nutrition to help individuals achieve their health goals and can work in a variety of settings. A RDN has specific licensure to provide individualized nutrition education to any individual in need of food and diet assistance. Here at the hospital, I help to create the menus for our patients, ensure they are eating appropriately and accurately according to their diet needs, preferences, and medical history. As well, I provide nutrition education to numerous disease states, including Diabetes as a part of our Diabetes Education Program, and help individuals make lifestyle changes through diet.

Why did you choose to pursue a career in Dietetics?
I have always enjoyed cooking and helping my mother in the kitchen. I was able to pair that with science to do what I love!

What services do you offer through Pomerene?
I help to provide education and recommendations in both the inpatient and outpatient settings. I am able to visit our inpatients to recommend changes for their diet needs, as well as ensure they are getting the appropriate amount of nutrients per day while they are in the hospital. In addition, I meet individuals who have been recently diagnosed or dealing with a chronic disease that can be improved through dietary changes.

Do I need a referral? How can I contact you?
Nutritional counseling is covered by some insurance. This requires an order from your physician. Referral from your Physician is not necessary for “out of pocket” pay. Package prices are available. In addition, if you are a Kinetics member, nutrition education is offered at a reduced rate. For more information, visit: Nutritional Counseling | Pomerene Hospital

What is your favorite healthy meal to cook for your friends/ family?
I absolutely love to grill, especially shish kabobs! I typically marinate chicken, steak or seafood and have them on their own skewers. I also will have a variety of vegetables (sweet peppers, onions, sweet potatoes, red potatoes, mushrooms, squash, broccoli, cauliflower) on other skewers and then squeeze fresh lemon over top when all done. SO GOOD!!

What is one food (from anywhere in the world) that you would love to try?
This is a difficult question because there are many places I would love to visit specifically for the food culture. I would say send me over to the Mediterranean regions and I’ll try anything!

What do you do in your spare time?
I am currently training for a triathlon which is taking up some spare time, other than that, I enjoy anything outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

If you could wish to have any one special talent, what would that be?
Speak another language fluently.