What to Look For in a Nutrition Coach or Dietitian
Sometimes, there’s only so much you can do on your own as you embark on your journey towards optimal health. Diet and nutrition is one area where many people find value in hiring a professional. After all, everybody – and every body – is unique. A nutrition coach or dietitian can take a look at your lifestyle, your body type, your goals, and your concerns, and create a plan tailored to your specific needs. But not all nutrition experts are equal. If you’re seeking to hire a nutrition coach, here’s what you need to look for.
Look Up the Nutrition Coach’s Credentials
There are many terms that a professional may use to describe themselves and their expertise. In your search to hire a nutrition coach or dietitian, you may come across terms like:
- Diet coach
- Holistic nutritionist
- Nutrition consultant
- Etc.
While every country is different, in the United States the field is largely unregulated. In fact, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist even if they are unlicensed.
To be a registered dietitian, which allows you to put the letters RD or RDN after your name, you must complete an accredited program, finish a licensed internship, pass a national exam, and follow other regulations and standards set by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), which is the credentialing agency for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Because of their extensive training, all dietitians are nutritionists. But the reverse isn’t always true.
If you choose to go with someone who is a nutritionist there are associations that provide accredited programs, internships and exams as mentioned with dieticians. Be sure to look for certifications or training from reputable organizations. A few examples include:
- International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA)
- National Academy of Sports Medicine Certified Nutrition Coach (NASM-CNC)
- Precision Nutrition
- American Fitness Professional Association (AFPA)
Ask How Your Goals Align With Their Expertise
Similar to how doctors or lawyers may specialize in a specific area of their field, the same is true for nutrition coaches. For instance, some may specialize in one or more of the following:
- Weight loss
- Weight gain
- Fitness nutrition
- Vegan, vegetarian, or plant-based diets
- Men’s health
- Women’s health
- Senior’s health
- Hormone health and balance
- Adrenal fatigue
- Cancer recovery
- Allergies and food sensitivities
Be aware that there are many areas of nutrition that are still controversial, even among highly educated professionals. Research is constantly providing new insights but be aware that some research is funded by special interest groups. Some of the most controversial topics include cholesterol, sources of protein, margarine, artificial sweeteners, etc. While the highly regulated certifications may provide some people with assurance of their expertise, these programs may also be conducted within the allopathic tradition. In other words, they may focus on symptoms rather than a whole person’s health.
There are also natural nutrition practitioners that are highly educated and certified who might better align with your values. It’s worth asking several questions of a potential consultant.
Before contacting a potential nutrition coach, have a clear idea of:
- Why you want your nutrition and diet to change or evolve
- How your diet is supporting or not supporting your general lifestyle goals
- What challenges or worries you have about your diet
Then, review the nutrition coach’s credentials, areas of expertise, and past clients to ensure their focus is aligned with what you want to get out of your nutrition consultation.
Review the Nutrition Coach’s Pricing
According to a report in Women’s Health, a nutrition coach may charge upwards of $200 per visit. Visits are often lengthy (upwards of 2+ hours) and can include a detailed history.
This is no small cost, although one could argue that it’s hard to put a price on your health and longevity.
Yet many people might balk at the idea of paying hundreds of dollars for an hour or two of consultation time, especially if you need frequent consultations.
If you’re concerned about your budget, here are some things to consider:
- Many dietitians and nutrition coaches may offer packages that bring the per-visit cost down
- You may be able to find interns and university students who are well on their way to becoming a credentialed nutrition coach or dietitian, but need the experience and are therefore willing to offer consultations at a low cost or even for free
- Many registered dietitians are able to accept insurance if your insurance policy covers this type of consultation
Whatever the background and expertise of the dietitian or nutrition coach that you hire, don’t forget to ask them about the best supplements for your health and your immune system. BioPro-Plus 500 can be a powerful supplement to add to your newly revamped diet. BioPro-Plus 500 contains biologically active purified thymic proteins plus Zinc Gluconate and nano silver solution which help to rebuild your immune system.
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