The Effectiveness of Medical Nutrition Therapy in Prevention and Treatment of Chronic Disease: A Position Paper of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Abstract

It is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that all individuals with nutrition-related health conditions or risk factors should have access to medical nutrition therapy (MNT) provided by a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN). MNT provided by RDNs is effective in improving health outcomes for many chronic conditions that are leading drivers of morbidity, mortality, and health care costs in the United States. Widespread access to MNT using an individualized, client-centered, and evidence-based approach has the potential to improve population health, reduce health disparities, and reduce health care costs associated with nutrition-related health conditions. This Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics position paper summarizes recent evidence from systematic reviews on the effectiveness of MNT provided by an RDN for the prevention and treatment of nutrition-related health conditions. A total of 25 systematic reviews published between 2017 and 2024 were summarized and assessed for certainty of evidence. Systematic reviews with high or moderate certainty of evidence demonstrate that MNT is likely effective in improving a range of health outcomes in adults with pre-diabetes, type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, obesity, pre-hypertension, hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic kidney disease, head and neck cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease compared with no MNT or standard care. Barriers exist to accessing MNT, including inadequate staffing of RDNs in some areas, a lack of provider referrals to an RDN for MNT, and a lack of payer coverage and reimbursement. This position was approved in September 2025 and will remain in effect until December 31, 2032.