What does a nutritionist do?

Nutritionists provide information to help clients improve their diets, and will identify any deficiencies and implement strategies to encourage healthier eating habits. By identifying what a client’s health goals are, nutritionists can create tailored nutrition programs to help clients achieve weight loss and achieve a more balanced diet. Nutritionists will also monitor their clients eating habits and make notes on the effectiveness of their eating plans.

Tasks:

  • Provide nutritional information and advice to clients
  • Plan diets that are tailored to a client’s needs
  • Monitor and record a client’s progress
  • Identify any dietary deficiencies a client suffers from
  • Liaise with other allied health professionals

What skills do I need to be a nutritionist?

Being a nutritionist demands immaculate conversational and listening skills. A nutritionist must be able to listen to and interpret the needs of clients whilst also being articulate in implementing the strategies they plan. Nutritionists should also have a natural aptitude for science, be able to work with numbers and have an appreciation for research.

Skills/attributes
  • Aptitude for science
  • Good communication skills
  • Interest and passion for encouraging healthy lifestyles
  • Have a love for food and it’s benefits
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Specialisations

You can tailor your specialisation to your own personal interests and needs.

Animal nutritionist

Animal nutritionists combine their love of animals with their passion for encouraging healthy lifestyles. Animal nutritionists work specifically with animals, helping to identify any potential deficiencies and creating diets and eating habits to maintain the health of the animal.

Fitness nutritionist

If you’re passionate about fitness, why not combine a fitness qualification with an understanding of human nutrition to give your career an edge. As a fitness nutritionist you will learn about the nutritional requirements of elite athletes, as well strategies to help your clients build muscle and lose weight.

Dietitian

Dietitians are accredited health practitioners that specialise in the interrelationship between food and the human body. Dietitians have a thorough understanding of the way different foods effect the human body and apply this knowledge to provide advice to the sick population.

Study pathways for nutritionists

There are a number of courses designed to give you the knowledge and skills you require to become a nutritionist. Choosing the right one for you depends on your existing qualifications, and what areas most interest you.

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Getting Started

Select a course that will get you on your way.

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Skill Building

Learn industry related skills and knowledge whilst you study.

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Professional Development

With the right accreditations you can build your standing within the allied health industry.

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Industry Recognition

You can apply for membership with a range of nutrition peak bodies to give your career a boost.

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Getting a job after graduation

Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your allied health career. Emphasise your personal strengths and achievements in your resume and target your cover letter to nutritionist jobs.

Job Prospects and Salaries

The forecasted growth over the next few years within the field of nutrition is in line with current health and fitness trends.

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