Nutritionist or Dietitian?
Nutritionist, dietitian, potato-potato? Two words for the same thing or is there a difference between the two? Let me shine some light for you.
Both professions support individuals who want or need to change their dietary habits and lifestyle choices due to health concerns or to increase well-being and longevity. Dietitians have a more extensive education when it comes to therapeutic diets and clinical treatment methods. Hospitals and medical doctors work closely with dietitians when patients are dependent on proper nutrition while recovering from surgery or conditions that need medical supervision. While both professions study therapeutic diets, fundamental areas of nutrition as well as the human anatomy, studies in holistic nutrition additionally focus on the mind-body connection. Diseases can manifest in various ways in our bodies and symptoms can show up differently in each individual. Repetitive thought patterns can affect our physical wellbeing and physical imbalances can disrupt our mental health. Holistic nutritionists are trained to understand this powerful connection and design protocols for their clients accordingly.
The scope of practice for a dietitian is regulated and mandated by Health Canada and is therefore bound to certain rules, such as the RDA (recommended daily allowance) for nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. Holistic nutritionists on the other hand are not regulated by a governing body, which allows for more freedom within their professional practice. Both professions understand the science behind nutrition, however, nutritionists are more likely to recommend holistic healing methods. The right regimen depends on each individual, but healing can only happen when both the physical and the mental body are properly understood and addressed accordingly. Long-term health and well-being cannot be achieved by a purely symptom-based treatment plan.
Find a nutritional practitioner that you trust and that truly listens to you as an individual. Some professionals have a certain niche, others offer a broader spectrum of services. If you have a specific health concern you may want to find someone who is an expert in this particular field. The bottom line is that you need to find a trustworthy nutrition consultant, who makes you feel safe and finds solutions that work for you!
Most practitioners offer a free discovery call, take advantage of that!
Yours,
Nadja Müller, CNP
Thank you for your interest in my blog. Learn more about what a holistic nutritionist does and if hiring one is worth your time and money? Click here for my blogpost Hiring a holistic nutritionist - is it worth your money?
