Dietitian / Nutritionist

Dietitians and nutritionists study food and nutrition, provide medical information and counseling regarding nutrition, plan nutrition programs and oversee the process of food preparation. They prevent unhealthy eating patterns and work with people with dietary concerns. Dietitians and nutritionists can work with cancer patients to help minimize symptoms and promote a healthier lifestyle.  For example, a dietitian might create a diet reduced in fat and calories for an overweight patient. Or they may help ensure diet selection to meet nutrition requirements or minimize weight loss in those with poor appetites or dietary restrictions. Most jobs are in hospitals, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers, and offices of physicians or other health practitioners.

 

As a dietitian, you apply your food and nutrition expertise to provide medical information and counseling on patient nutrition, nutrition program planning and the process of food preparation. Your recommendations help prevent unhealthy eating patterns and promote a healthier lifestyle to help patients minimize symptoms. For example, you might compile a diet low in fat and calories for an overweight patient. You may also help ensure diet selection to meet nutrition requirements or minimize weight loss in those with poor appetites or dietary restrictions. A dietitian has a different legal status from a nutritionist. A nutritionist must be registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration to work legally as a registered dietitian (RD).