A healthful diet and exercise are important factors in the promotion and maintenance of good health throughout the life cycle according to an updated ADA position statement published this month:
It is the position of the American Dietetic Association that primary prevention is the most effective, affordable course of action for preventing and reducing risk for chronic disease. Registered dietitians and dietetic technicians, registered, are the leaders in delivering preventive services in both clinical and community settings, including advocating for funding and inclusion of these services in programs and policy initiatives at local, state and federal levels. In addition, registered dietitians are the leaders in facilitating and participating in research in chronic disease prevention and health promotion.