What Does a Dietitian Do?
If you are a fan of eating well and believe that all bodies were designed to be healthy and happy, consider a career in Nutrition. Here we will look at what this health-conscious industry is all about and why it might be the ideal fit for you.
What is Nutrition?
The nutrients in the foods and drinks you consume (or lack of them) directly impact your body’s ability to grow, heal and maintain itself. Nutrition professionals help us to better understand this vital connection and provide the tools, knowledge, and support we need to not only eat better, but live healthier, happier lives.
The two main roles in Nutrition are those of Nutritionist and Dietitian, both of whom specialise in understanding the connection between your diet, lifestyle, and overall health. The primary difference between these two professions is that only Dietitians are qualified to provide clinical or medical nutrition therapy.
Daily tasks of a Nutrition Professional can include anything from consulting with clients to researching the latest scientific studies through to developing balanced meal plans. It can also involve working with individuals, groups or organisations and promoting healthy eating in the wider community.
Those with the following skills, traits and talents will love working in Nutrition;
- A strong interest in personal health
- Clear communication skills
- A love of food
- An empathetic nature
- A high regard for the well-being of others
- A mind for science
“The Nutrition industry in Australia has taken off in recent years, with employment opportunities predicted to be 9% higher in 2018 compared with their 2013 level.”
What Qualifications do I need?
While the Nutrition industry in Australia isn’t government-regulated there are a number of professional bodies that provide support to members who meet certain benchmark requirements. It is therefore wise to familiarise yourself with groups such as the Nutrition Society of Australia and the Dietitians Association of Australia prior to choosing your training program.
There is certainly no shortage of fantastic courses available, ranging from Diplomas of Dietetics to TAFE nutrition courses and Bachelor of Nutritional Medicine programs. Below is a brief look at some of your many great options;
Bachelor of Food and Nutrition
No matter where you want to go with your career in nutrition this course will have you primed and ready for success. It covers everything from the core principles of nutrition, food science and disease prevention through to the social and public aspects of health.
Diploma of Nutrition (Non-Clinical Advisor) 10136NAT
This program covers all of the core components of nutrition, such as how your body digests and metabolises food, the processes it uses to store energy, as well as all that it needs for optimal health. Backed by the latest scientific research, this in-depth course builds naturally upon the disciplines of health and fitness, leaving graduates fully equipped to help their clients achieve long-lasting and meaningful results. Graduates will emerge ready to work as a qualified Nutrition Advisor (Non-Clinical).
Diploma of Nutrition and Dietetics for Personal Trainers (10454NAT)
Designed for fitness professionals looking to expand their knowledge of complete health, this nationally recognised Diploma of Nutrition provides a deeper understanding of the role nutrition plays in health, wellness and disease prevention. It examines the latest research on weight loss, looks at identifying nutritional deficiencies, and will even boost your more practical skills, including how to interpret complex food labelling and the art of meal planning.
Where Will my Career Take me?
Opportunities for Nutrition graduates can be found anywhere from community health, food production and natural medicine though to the fitness and retail sectors. There are also a wide range of positions available for those looking to spread the good word about nutrition via media, marketing and education.
The Nutrition industry in Australia has taken off in recent years, with employment opportunities predicted to be 9% higher in 2018 compared with their 2013 level. The average salary for Nutritionists is currently $90,700 and the vast majority of jobs can be found on the East coast, primarily in Victoria (27%).
If you’ve got a passion for health, a mind for science and a strong desire to help others, a career in Nutrition could well be calling your name and getting started is easy. Simply choose the course that suits your style and personality best and dive right in!
