If you’re interested in healthy eating and preventing obesity and diabetes, maybe you’ve thought of meeting with a Nutrition Coach. Perhaps you've been interested in learning more about how to make healthy food choices and live in a more balanced lifestyle, but you are still hesitant. Rightfully so, not many people know what a Nutrition Coach is or does. You’ve heard talk of registered dietitians and nutrition coaches, but how do you know which is right for you? We break down the differences and similarities between both professions so you can make the right decision. EDUCATION While registered dietitians and nutrition coaches both study nutrition, they differ greatly in their respective programs of learning. In Canada, becoming a registered dietitian (RD) is government-regulated, and to become an RD you must complete an undergraduate degree from a Dietitians of Canada accredited school (there are 16 programs across the country), complete an accredited hands-on internship/practicum, and pass an examination. This program is very science-focused, so students with difficulties grasping scientific concepts might be better suited to the holistic nutrition route. Nutrition coaching, on the other hand, is a non-government-regulated profession (depending on the certifying body) trains practitioners through programs that use either or both practical science and healing knowledge found in traditional cultures. The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) is one school that offers training in natural nutrition aiming to promote health in a holistic way, (meaning body, mind, and spirit). Precision Nutrition is an Internationally known certifying body and coaching company that is more science based, and focuses on exercise, sports and health nutrition. The prerequisites for most certifying schools are a high school diploma, with exceptions made for mature students, though many enter the program with existing degrees and diplomas. APPROACH Both registered dietitians and nutrition coaches are interested in promoting the health and education of clients; however, they take a different approach to their practice. Registered dieticians base their nutrition guidance on science and work in a variety of practice environments, including community health centers, public health, with other health care professionals, in the food industry, or in private practice. They look at issues like food security and make sure that people have the tools available to them to be healthy and have good nutrition. Nutrition coaches have a broader view of nutrition. They use a balanced mix of latest science based studies with results proven natural remedies from cultures all around the world. They assess their clients’ nutritional deficiencies, taking into consideration the influence of the environment, the lifestyle, and the state-of-mind of the client. They prepare meal plans, recommend natural nutrition supplements, and make lifestyle recommendations. Holistic nutritionists optimize their clients’ health by identifying and helping correct nutritional deficiencies. They design client-focused whole foods menu plans and lifestyle programs for their clients and coach them on their path to healing. CONCLUSION Service Canada classifies dietitians and nutritionists under the same career category, and notes that in recent years, the number of dietitians and nutritionists has increased sharply. While RD’s are more clinical, they are great at the basics. Nutrition coaches on the other hand go deeper than just the food groups, they coach each person as a unique case by case basis, meaning, what is recommended for me won’t be what is recommended for you as our bodies respond and recover differently. |
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AuthorNutrition and Health Coach. Wanting to share my journey and passion for health and fitness with the world. Archives
January 2017
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