What is Nutrionist?
A nutritionist is a medical specialist whose job is to advise patients regarding the impacts of food and nutrition on their overall health. They are also known as nutrition scientists, dietitians, clinical nutritionists, sports nutritionists, community nutritionists, or public health nutritionists, depending on their location and work setting. They can also work as independent entrepreneurs offering their services in hospitals, schools, and other settings and environments. The role of nutritionists is growing more significant as the obesity rate continues to reach record highs.
In general, nutritionists provide evidence-based information and guidance about the impacts of food and nutrition on the health and wellbeing of humans (at an individual or population level) or animals. It is important that nutritionists have a good understanding of the scientific basis of nutrition.
Registered Associate Nutritionists (ANutrs) are individuals with a minimum of honours-degree level knowledge and understanding of nutrition science. They are qualified and competent to provide evidence-based information.
Registered Nutritionists (RNutrs) additionally have a number of years professional practice experience and have demonstrated they are both qualified and competent in the application of nutrition science within their specialist area.
Source: associationfornutrition.org, docdoc.com
Why it can help & what are long-term benefits?
Working with a dietitian means getting a personal nutrition plan just for you. An RD or RDN will spend a lot of time learning all about your health, your family history, your needs, and your goals before devising a plan. Then they help you set goals and stick to them with follow-up visits. Sometimes visits can involve keeping a food journal and confronting emotional eating.
Annual visits to the doctor are a good way to assess if you have high blood pressure, cholesterol or diabetes, but sometimes you need a closer look to fully understand how food could be affecting your health. An RD or RDN can assess any lab results and help create a comprehensive eating guide to keep you on track, with the potential to lead to healthier lab results each passing year.
Source: anthem.com