What's the role of a nutritionist?

I'm thinking about a career in health and wellness, and 'nutritionist' sounds interesting. What exactly does a nutritionist do day-to-day, and what kind of education or certifications would I need to pursue this path?

A nutritionist is a health professional who advises people on what to eat to lead a healthy lifestyle or to achieve a specific health-related goal. They work in many settings, including hospitals, cafeterias, nursing homes, and schools. Some are self-employed with their own practice.

A typical day for a nutritionist could involve a diverse range of tasks, including assessing clients' health needs and diet, developing meal plans, evaluating the effects of meal plans and changing them as necessary, and promoting better nutrition by speaking to groups about diet, nutrition, and the relation between good eating habits and preventing or managing specific diseases.

As for the educational path, most nutritionists have a bachelor’s degree in a field related to health, nutrition, or dietetics. Coursework generally includes biology, chemistry, nutrition, anatomy, and diet planning. Many states require nutritionists to receive and maintain a license.

In terms of certification, the Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) is a highly respected credential. The CNS credential requires that individuals meet specific academic and clinical experience requirements, including a master’s degree with coursework in nutrition or a related healthcare field.

Just a quick note: the specific requirements can vary by state and can include exams and additional training, so be aware of that.

Additionally, the "nutritionist" title isn't always protected by law in the way that "dietitian" is – that's why you might want to consider becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). They have met specific academic and professional requirements, including earned a bachelor's degree, completed a supervised practice program, and passed a registration examination.

In summary, to become a nutritionist, you'll need a solid foundation in the sciences, certification, and possibly state licensure. It's a profession that's constantly evolving to understand the connection between diet and health, making it an exciting field to be a part of!