Registered Dietitian Nutritionists’ Experience and Confidence with Gluten-free Diet: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Bring awareness of roles of RDNs in celiac disease support, as well as the importance of standardized training for RDNs in working with people with celiac disease. Currently the only treatment for celiac disease (CD), an autoimmune disease triggered by ingestion of the protein gluten, is a gluten-free (GF) diet. Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are a source of information for people with celiac disease (PWCD). This study aimed to examine RDNs’ training and confidence levels in assisting PWCD in maintaining a GF diet. A deidentified REDCap survey was shared with RDNs through the Academy CDR listserv. Another survey was shared with PWCD through social media (Reddit, Facebook, Discord server). Descriptive and qualitative statistics assessed data, and developed response themes. Of the 122 PWCD responses, 13.2% cited RDNs or other nutrition professionals as a primary source of support for managing CD, and 43.0% the Celiac Disease Foundation or National Celiac Association. Of 51 RDNs responses, 62.7% had practiced for ten or more years. When discussing GF dietary options with PWCD, the majority expressed high levels of confidence in the areas of GF diets (66%), eating outside the home (62.3%), checking food labels (71.7%), and cooking GF foods (73.6%). RDN GF training included a combination of on-the-job experience (21.57%), attending conferences about GI disorders (21.57%), or doing their own research (21.57%). Several (13.73%) reported they or a close family member had CD. Two were certified LEAP Therapists and one was certified by AND for Gluten Disorders. This study aims to bring awareness of roles of RDNs in CD support, as well as the importance of standardized training for RDNs in working with PWCD.