How has dietetics changed over the years?
In our final instalment of our ‘Spilling the tea on dietetics’ series, Luci Daniels and Loretta Cox, former Chairs of the BDA, sit down to reflect on their careers and how the profession has evolved through the years. Loretta was BDA Chair from 1999 until 2001 and Luci was her successor, serving from 2001 to 2003.
In this video, they discuss their different routes into the profession. Loretta originally studied biochemistry but after spending two years in a laboratory, realised that she wanted to engage more with people, whilst also applying her scientific knowledge, which prompted a career change to dietetics. Luci, inspired by world events and famine relief, studied nutrition and dietetics at the University of Surrey.
They went on to have hugely varied careers, with Loretta spending many years as a diabetes dietitian and Luci working in the NHS to later become a freelance dietitian. They explore how dietetic practice has evolved over time to reflect the evidence base.
Having both worked in dietetics for 45 years, Loretta and Luci have observed that the influence of dietitians has grown over the years. When they first qualified, they were often dependent on the judgements and orders of doctors. Both are pleased that dietetics has since become a profession of its own right, with colleagues trusting their judgement and expertise.
Luci and Loretta also discuss the introduction of Dietitians Week, our annual campaign dedicated to celebrating and highlighting the value and impact of the dietetic workforce.
As previous BDA Chairs, Luci and Loretta have worked alongside pioneers of the profession. In this video, they acknowledge that dietetics is truly special due to the people in the profession and the shared passion of making a real difference.
Watch the full conversation below.
