Frequently Asked Questions
about nutritionists

How do nutritionists train for professional work? What can they do for me?

Professional nutritionists receive intense training on par with many medical professions and specialties. Earning degrees, diplomas, or certificates from traditional universities and dedicated institutions, nutritionists typically devote two to four years to their nutritional education, with supplemental studies in biology, chemistry, and other sciences. Some nutritionists also take special continuing education courses and training programs to stay on the cutting edge of dietary science.

With an expert knowledge of the crafting of balanced and beneficial diets, nutritionists can devise meal plans, recipes, and regimens to suit every client. Whether your goal is weight loss, the alleviation of a particular illness or problem, or the quest for greater overall health, a professional's plan can help you. Nutritionists are able to help their clients conveniently and accurately change their diets for the better, and can also aid in the supervision and adjustment of food intake.

Are vegetarian and vegan diets recommended by nutritionists?

No; while many people can benefit from a fruit, vegetable, and grain based diet that is supplemented by reliable sources of protein, you can consume meats and animal products as part of a healthy diet. Some meats, such as lean beef, skinless poultry, and certain fish can provide beneficial nutrients, and are recommended by a number of nutritionists. It's important, however, to maintain a proper balance of food groups, and consult with a nutritionist before you make drastic changes to your diet.

Can nutritionists work around special medical diets such as those for people with gluten intolerance or a nut allergy?

Yes. Nutritionists are experts at devising well-rounded, healthy diet and meal plans for people of different backgrounds and with many different specific needs. When you consult wit a nutritionist, you'll find that your personal tastes and sensitivities are taken into account as they work to help you eat better.

Can a nutritionist help me lose weight?

A nutritionist is skilled in the creation of diets that can help you lose weight without sacrificing vital nutrients. Nutritionists can also work with you to develop meal plans and recipes that change with the progress you make during a weight loss journey.

What if I just prepare all of my food myself –won't this prevent a poor, chemically-tainted diet?

Preparing your own food is an excellent way to ensure that you have control over what you eat, but it's just one component of a healthy diet. You can prepare steaks and cakes from scratch to your heart's content, but the lack of balance in such a regimen can still contribute to health problems and discourage the body's maintenance systems. When you combine a balanced intake of foods with home preparation and the advice of a nutritionists, you can achieve a truly beneficial, nourishing diet.

How can I find out about the nutritional value of different foods, especially fresh foods that don't carry a label?

Most consumers are familiar with the standard "nutrition facts" labels found on the majority of processed foods. These labels indicate the amount of calories, fats, sugars, carbohydrates, proteins, fiber, sodium, and other constituents based on serving size as well as the corresponding percentage of daily value as recommended by the government. For foods that do not provide these labels, such as market-fresh produce, bakery products, and other perishable items, nutrition information is available through a number of avenues. Many resources, such as the USDA, provide such information online, and can help wise dieters find the calories in an average apple or the protein delivered in an ounce of fresh-caught fish. Some private institutions and companies also provide nutrition information for a range of foods, along with special calculators and tools to help plan a healthy meal or week's worth of menus. And of course, a trained nutritionist can keep you informed about any questions you may have regarding the components of what you eat.

What are "good" fats? How can I distinguish between beneficial and harmful fats?

The Omega-3 fatty acids found in certain types of fish, primarily in the fat and skin, are beneficial in small amounts and promote general health along with the improvement in appearance and resiliency of the skin, hair, and nails. In general, fatty acids should be included in well-balanced diets, and do not contribute to heart disease and other problems typically associated with fat. Saturated fats, however, along with "trans-fats," which are basically unsaturated fats that have been partially hydrogenated to make them behave like their saturated cousins, should be avoided and can lead to a host of medical problems and vulnerabilities if misused. One fairly simple way to distinguish saturated and unsaturated fats is to observe the substance at room temperature; saturated fats tend to be solid in this environment, while unsaturated fats are liquid.