With politicians battling vending machines and cracking down on junk food ads on prime time TV, obesity is fast eclipsing smoking as the greatest preventable risk for early death in the United States. Enter the nutritionist, whose role is more important than ever. Poor nutrition is linked with higher rates of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease, among other ailments. Nutritionists and dieticians help patients change their eating habits ... for the better by creating food and nutrition plans designed to combat obesity and other conditions as needed
Nutritionists and dieticians work everywhere, not just in gyms or restaurants. They create diets for individuals and larger populations in hospitals, schools, correctional facilities, airlines and other institutions where special-needs meals are provided. Others have private practices where they consult clients on goals like weight loss or cholesterol management. Some may also specialize in food-related problems such as allergies or eating disorders.
What is the difference between a nutritionist and a dietician? Though the two terms are often used interchangeably, the difference lies in licensure. A nutritionist has at least a bachelor's degree, whereas a dietitian usually has passed a licensing exam. Bachelor's and master's degrees in Food Science and/or Nutrition focus on the real-world application of the latest research in the field. Students will learn about the importance of food in a public health context and also how it affects health at the individual level. They will come away with an understanding of anatomy/physiology, microbiology, chemistry, food production, and specialty diets.
While most nutritionists find jobs in health care centers, there are plenty of other opportunities in food research, food marketing, quality control for supermarkets and other food producers, and health educators.
Bonus!
Master of Science in Nutrition and Wellness Benedictine University
B.S. in Nutrition Science Kaplan University
Master of Science in Applied Clinical Nutrition New York Chiropractic College
