Dietitian vs. Endocrinologist

[SilentJay]

So after years of yo-yoing despite being super-active and not really eating that poorly, I've made up my mind to seek help in getting the ol' gut under control. I know obesity (and its associated illnesses) can be a genetic trait, and lord knows I come from a lineage of husky men, so now i'm looking into either enlisting the help of a dietitian or perhaps some tests with an Endocrinologist (maternal side has history of glandular disorders). I had some bloodwork done last year, and they say that my thyroid is fine...

I know I need a referral to get to an Endo but a dietitian is essentially walk-in. What would you guys suggest?

[adubya]

I would suggest the Endo first given the family history of glandular disorders. While a dietician may be a walk-in special, if there are any underlying gland disorders changing your entire eating may not produce the results you are looking for and may end up discouraging any further attempts to improve your lifestyle and physique.

[n00bMeiSter]

I say do both.
Go to a dietitian and get your diet on the right track, and then go to an endo and get the tests done. Just because it may be caused by a glandular disorder, doesn't mean you shouldn't be eating right.

[She_Prime]

A dietician will only be beneficial if you don't know how to eat properly. Most dieticians look at your caloric intake and make suggestions based on your food choices. You'll have to keep annoying food diaries and then she or he will pretty much tell you to follow the standards laid out by the Canada Food Guide so you maintain healthy options.

Endocrinologists may be helpful, but good luck getting referred to one without an underlying condition. A genetic history/predisposition might not be enough for a specialist to see a young man who is more than likely "fine".

Check what your current BMI is. If you are in the obese range of BMIs go check out a Bariatric Clinic possibly. It's a one-stop shop of a diet, exercise and testing that actually makes sense. They will take in account your genetic dispositions and titrate accordingly to not only help you lose weight but to (hopefully) ensure that you do not develop diabetes or whatever predisposition you may have.

That's my two cents anyway as an RN. I'm sorry if I'm coming off as bitchy but I know how the healthcare system works and it's a stupid process.