Nutritionists and dietitians promote healthier eating habits to meet the need of the individual they are supervising. They supervise current eating habits and make the necessary adjustments in order to fit a program designed specifically for that individual. Nutritionists and dietitians supervise meals and ensure the proper meals are eaten to start a new healthier way of life. Since there are so many different diet plans it can be rather frustrating to pick and choose a plan that someone can actually manage and not give up two weeks later. We are all different in height, weight, age, sex, so the nutritionist and dietitians must adhere to these differences by constructing programs an individual will be able to do.
In a sense, a nutritionists and dietitians are food coaches, they teach us what to eat, when to eat, and lead us in the right direction. Just like coaches in sports, they lead their team of individual athlete and put them in the best position to succeed. Coaches emphasize strengths while continually work on our weaknesses to improve our skills.
Not all nutritionists and dietitians careers are the same, for example there are management dietitians who oversee large companies and organizations such as schools, hospitals, and prisons. They are in charge of the day to day operations such as ensuring the quality of the food prepared and the sanitary state of the cooking conditions.
Community dietitians generally work within a given community such as retirement communities and organize, plan, and promote healthy eating habits. They also evaluate the community’s progress and take the necessary steps to improve their overall condition. Community dietitians may also organize fund raisers and community projects to promote a healthier lifestyle. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services or DHHS oversees many nutritional programs.
Consultant dietitian’s work in private practice facilities and consultant individuals on personal eating habits, what to change, provide programs and general healthy eating advice. Sports teams and public figures usually acquire consultant dietitians. Public figures such as actors and those who are in front of the camera often, sports figures whose job depends on their physical attributes, must stay in the best condition possible at all times.
Clinical dietitians promote healthy eating in healthcare facilities such as hospitals and nursing homes. They also work in relationship with doctors to plan healthy eating programs to meet that individual’s specific need. When people suffer from a heart attack or stroke, that person generally needs to change their eating habits for the time being or permanently.
More individuals are looking for a healthier way of life nutritionists and dietitians are expected to increase over the next decade. With more food options then ever before, those who seek alternatives to less then healthy food will want to other nutritional options. The aging population will also demand for healthier food substitutes. Gerontological nutritionists are a growing occupation because of the aging population. These types of nutritionists specialize in nutrition for the elderly. Obesity is a major concern and problem medical insurance plans are increasing adapting plans to cover medical nutrition, which will increase nutritionist’s jobs.
Nutritionists and dietitians on average earn $40,000-$50,000 per year but are not limited to those earnings. Those who work for large companies and facilities can earn up to $70,000 depending on their responsibilities. Some states require licensing for dietitians, and each State varies so it is important to know all the requirements depending on ones location.
There are organizations which offer certifications, training and education in nutrition such as the Commission on Dietetic Registration and The American Dietetic Association. Those who earn bachelor’s degrees in foods and nutrition, dietetics, or related major can become certified with these organizations. Those who do become certified nutritionist have many options available such as conducting ones own research, private practice, and sales representatives for equipment. The American Diabetes Association in another organization which helps treat, plan meals, give advice, to those who suffer with diabetes.
