Becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in My 50s

Tina Guadan Fogall, RDN, MS

Embarking on a new career in my early fifties wasn’t part of the original plan, but becoming a registered dietitian was a dream I couldn’t ignore. This journey wasn’t just about starting a new profession—it was about finding purpose, making a difference, and empowering others during a time of profound global and personal change.

The pandemic was a pivotal moment. Watching friends, my community, and healthcare systems stretched to their limits, I was reminded of nutrition’s critical role in resilience and recovery. That realization propelled me to pursue my dream of becoming a dietitian.

At the same time, I was navigating the challenges of perimenopause. Brain fog, disrupted sleep, and hormonal shifts tested my resolve as I tackled coursework, exams, and an intensive internship. Staying focused on science-heavy material while my body rebelled wasn’t easy. I didn’t always power through—sometimes, I hit walls. But I leaned into these challenges as reminders of my strength and adaptability, cultivated over decades of life experience.

Nutrition and lifestyle became more than a career focus—they became my personal lifeline. I applied my learning in real-time, experimenting with nutrient-dense meals, hydration, movement, stress management, and supplements to support my evolving needs. For the first time in my life, I learned to prioritize myself—above school, work, and even relationships.

Starting this journey later in life has been an asset. I’ve entered the profession with maturity, empathy, and a wealth of real-world experience that helps me connect deeply with patients and clients. Today, as a dietitian, I draw from my own experiences to guide others with understanding and compassion.

This path has strengthened my belief in the transformative power of nutrition and deepened my resolve to make a difference. As it turns out, my fifties were the perfect time to follow a dream.

Practices That Carried Me Through
Here are a few unsurprising habits that helped me manage the stress of earning my credentials and have seamlessly carried into my career as an RDN:

• Sleep: Eight hours whenever possible. Perimenopause doesn’t make this easy, but a consistent routine and occasional supplements make a big difference. On tough nights, I rely on a good book and magnesium to help me wind down.
• Movement: Yoga became my sanctuary. It offers stress relief, physical activity, and a sense of community. Finding a studio that balances strength and serenity has been life-changing.
• Snacks: I’m not one for repetitive meals, so I focus on leftovers. Extra protein from dinner often becomes my go-to breakfast or snack. We cook just enough for the next day to avoid food waste.
• Hydration: At home, I’m great at staying hydrated. When I’m out, sparkling water has become my secret weapon.
• “Me Time”: I recharge with period dramas or baking. Even an hour makes a difference. Letting go of guilt about what I “should” be doing and focusing on what truly nourishes me has been transformative.