Herbal Supplementation: Attitudes and Knowledge Base of Three Dietetic Practice Groups

Abstract

LEARNING OUTCOME: To identify the differences in knowledge and attitude of herbal therapy among three diverse American Dietetic Association Practice Groups.A stratified random sampling of 647 Registered Dietitians was obtained via the 1998 American Dietetic Association mailing lists. Three practice groups (General Clinical, Vegetarian, and Dietetic Educators of Practitioners) were surveyed to assess their level of knowledge and attitudes toward herbal supplementation. A three part questionnaire (attitude, knowledge and demographics), was mailed with 314 surveys returned. Frequency distribution, correlation and analysis of variance revealed that all three groups had an overall favorable attitude toward herbal therapy. The Vegetarian practice group (n= 128) was significantly more positive in attitude (p< 0.0001) and scored highest in knowledge (p<.02). Conversely, Dietetic Educators of Practitioners (n=64)reflected the least positive attitude and lowest knowledge scores. This is a concern given the core-competency for entry level dietitians. General Clinical (n= 115) fell between the prior groups on both aspects. The data concluded that Registered Dietitians feel the practice of herbal supplementation will continue to increase in popularity. While all three practice groups scored poorly in knowledge, attitude scores demonstrated an interest in learning more (although there was disagreement as to who should be the primary educators). In conclusion, Registered Dietitians would benefit from increased access to valid information (through ADA approved courses or continuing education credits) to become a more valued and marketable resource within today's diverse healthcare options.