When we hear the terms nutritionist, dietician and nutritional therapist, we often assume that they are the same thing. In fact, they are all very different positions in the health care industry and they all play different, yet important, roles when it comes to your health and wellness. Let’s take a look at some of the differences here so you can decide which one is right for you.
Nutritionists
Nutritionists are experts about the relation between nutrition and food. They provide advice on how to achieve balanced health goals and live a healthy lifestyle. They work in many areas throughout the industry including hospitals, nursing homes, cafeterias and schools. Here are some of the tasks a nutritionist performs every day:
- Performs studies on nutrition and its effects on human health.
- Provide assessments on client’s diet and health requirements.
- Develop proper meal plans.
- Evaluate the effects of meal plans and what changes need to be implemented.
- Provide information on relationship between management of specific diseases and good eating habits.
- Keep up with the latest trends in nutritional science.
Dieticians
Compared to nutritionists, clinical dieticians have a more specific role that is to provide effective medical nutrition therapy. Clinical dieticians may specialize further, such as treating people with specific diseases. Management dieticians can also provide plans on meal programs and are typically given the responsibility of buying and processing foods. Dieticians with knowledge in culinary arts are usually given the task of overseeing kitchen staff.
Dieticians translate the nutritional science into terms that we can easily understand. They are able to unlock the potentials of food, while supporting healthy living for communities, clients and patients. Dieticians look beyond gimmicks and fads to deliver real results and they undergo rigorous and comprehensive training in universities and workplaces. They are regulated health professionals who are committed to stay on top of the developments in the health care industry.
Nutritional Therapists
Nutritional therapists are even more specialized and have experience in alleviating certain illnesses or diseases. They know how nutrition could affect an individual’s health and are aware of the biochemical balance that ensures best health for their clients. Nutritional therapists take holistic treatment approach and they can devise a personalized lifestyle and nutrition plan.
As health care professionals, nutritionists, dieticians and nutritional therapists carry out consultations with their clients or patients on a one-to-one basis to better address any nutritional deficiencies and other diet-related issues that are affecting their health.
If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it on your favorite social media sites.