How to Choose the Best Nutritionist
In this fitness conscious age, nutritional advice has become a large and very lucrative business. The title of nutritionists is not protected by law, which implies that anyone can refer to their services as a nutritionist. So it is essential to choose a nutritionist who is appropriately qualified and registered by a trustworthy professional body.
Before seeking the services of an Ernährungsberatung, at least two important considerations should be kept in mind: first, what you wish to gain from dietary guidance and what their advice can realistically provide, and, second, how you can find a nutritionist who is properly trained and provides sensible, scientifically based advice. Here are some of our top tips to help you choose the best nutritionist for you.
Check Credentials
Before scheduling a consultation with a Metabolic Balance nutritionist (even one that was referred to you by a health professional) verify his or her education and credentials. Where did he go to school? What degree did he or she earn? Choose a nutritionist who has at least a bachelor's degree in courses such as dietetics, nutrition, public health or related health science. Some titles that demonstrate a high level of professional training include Certified Clinical Nutritionist, Certified Nutrition Specialist and Registered Dietitian.
If the person you're considering does not have a degree in nutrition or a professional title, ask about his or her education, training, and experience with nutrition. Some health professionals undergo post-collegiate classes that allows them to provide nutrition counseling. If you want to learn more about a nutritionist, you can visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Health.
Coaching Style
Just like any other fitness disciplines, nutrition coaches employ a number of approaches and coaching styles. Examples of these are having clients track calories and food intake with a food journal, practice portion control, and read nutrient labels. Some coaches provide very detailed instructions and underscore certain numbers and goals, while others go for a more generalized and habit-based approach.
Specific Needs
If you have specific needs - for instance, if you're an athlete who seek to recover from races, are a newly diagnosed diabetic needing assistance in maintaining metabolic balance, or are looking for help for your obese child - make sure that you ask the right questions. Ask what specialized education or training the nutritionist has. The ADA, for example, has further credentials for R.D.'s who want to concentrate on kidney disease or cancer patients, children, the elderly, or athletes.
Ask about eating plans that require the purchase of certain supplements, avoid diets that does away with an entire food group or prescribe "magic" foods that must be taken everyday. Finally, ask for scientific research (not testimonials) to substantiate claims.