Food Science - Nutritionists

Nutritionists are specialists in the health field who dedicate their life’s work to food science, nutrition education and research, nutritional deficiencies, and preventative care.  Nutritionists are also holistic practitioners, and devote a fair amount of their practice to the use of nutrients to enhance the treatment of ailments and disease.  Nutritionists can vary in terms of their training and scope of expertise.

What is a nutritionist?

The term nutritionist is not legally protected in the United States.  Therefore, nutritionists in America can refer to a number of persons and their jobs.  Nutritionist might refer to a person who might have studied extensively on the topic, earning a Bachelor’s, Masters, or perhaps even a doctoral degree in the field, or it might simply regard a person who is self taught, or knows only anecdotal information picked up through casual study.  The title of nutritionist can be subject to a number of interpretations.  Nutritionists might write books, columns, or consider themselves experts in the field, when in fact their information may hold little value.  Because of this, the consumer must be careful in selecting a practitioner, and be certain that whomever they pick is credentialed.

Dietitians vs. Nutritionists

Dietitians are nutritionists who specialize in food and nutrition.  They are experts in the field of nutrition, and as such help to promote good health through the implementation of a proper diet.  Dietitians are often involved in the supervision of food preparation, diet formulation and modification, and medical research.  Similar to general nutritionists, the goal of dietitians is to educate the public on making wise food choices for good health.  Dietitians must be board certified by the American Dietetic Association. 

Certification of Nutritionists

Nutritionists can be certified as well, but it is not required.  Certification is available through the Certified Board for Nutrition Specialists, which was established in 1993 by the American College of Nutrition in response to a growing demand for knowledgeable and qualified nutritionists.  A nutritionist certified through the CBNS is given the protected title of Certified Nutrition Specialist.

Nutritionists are widely available throughout the United States, and are highly regarded in other countries as well.   If your goals for living well include healthy lifestyle and diet changes, a nutritionist can help put you on the right path.