Integrated Health Registered Dietitian Nutrition Committee

Lilian Craggs-Dino, DHA RDN LDN CLT FASMBS-IH
Chair
IHLC Liaison

Sarah Muntel, RDN, FASMBS-IH
Co-Chair

Members

Heidi Bednarchuk, MSN APRN CNS FASMBS-IH CBN
Kati Duncan, PsyD
Karen Flanders, NP-C FASMBS-IH CBN
Raul Rosenthal, MD FACS MAMSE
Erin Thompson, MPH RD CSOWM LD CDE
Cathy Tuppo, PT MS CLT-LANA FASMBS-IH

ASMBS Staff Partner

Morgan Matlock, MBA

Charge:

In alignment with the ASMBS mission to reduce the impact of obesity and elevate quality of life, the RDNC is charged with advancing nutrition-focused education, research, advocacy, and practice support for registered dietitians (RD/RDNs) engaged in metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) and obesity care across multi-modal approaches, including obesity management medications (OMMs). The Committee will collaborate across ASMBS structures to strengthen evidence-based nutrition care and interdisciplinary integration for patients with obesity.

Description:

The RDNC is composed of RD/RDN members active in weight management, obesity care, and MBS. Members collaborate with relevant ASMBS committees to identify needs, develop content, and execute projects that support patient outcomes and professional development in metabolic and bariatric nutrition.

Goals:

  • Education & Credential Pathways: Maintain and grow AMBN participation; develop webinars, course tracks, and practical tools (checklists, algorithms) for RDs across care settings.
  • Research & Publications: Initiate collaborative projects with TREO/other committees; generate statements, advisories, and peer-reviewed outputs addressing nutrition in MBS/OMM pathways.
  • Membership Growth & Leadership Development: Conduct targeted outreach to RD/RDN professionals; create mentorship and volunteer pathways to cultivate future leaders.

Objectives:

  • Expand participation in the Assessment-Based Certificate of Training in Advanced Metabolic & Bariatric Nutrition (AMBN).
  • Collaborate with other committees to propose, conduct, and publish nutrition research.
  • Increase RD/RDN membership and engagement within the Integrated Health Section.
  • Systematically identify, prioritize, and advocate for RD/RDN needs within MBS and obesity care.
  • Support interdisciplinary standards of care (e.g., MBSAQIP Standard 4.5) and contribute nutrition expertise to multi-modal care pathways, including patients on GLP-1/AOM therapy.
  • Explore accreditation/recognition pathways for educational offerings.