There are some that interchange it with the term dietitian and they would not be in error. However, there are many jurisdictions and countries where the title is non subject to regulation professionally. Even if a person is self taught, it is still appropriate to claim the title for themselves.
The title is not even protected within certain countries. This is the case in the United Kingdom, Australia, certain parts in Canada and most states within the U. S. The main difference here is that dietitian is a title that can only be claimed when one has met certain requirements.
Some might even say that there are notable differences between the different labels and titles, and they would not be completely wrong either. The term itself is also highly associated with alternative medicine. Gillian McKeith and Robert O. Young are two prominent examples of these.
A significant amount of studying is often required when dealing with the numerous aspects of this line of work. The learning can be undertaken is numerous ways. One way is to deal with food and its nutrients in laboratories. Another would be field work. Later on, recommendations made be made for society overall. The studies have remained unchanged and vast as ever.
Investigating and identifying health problems that stem from lacking nutrition is one of the many services that could be provided. It may be for a single person but it can also be for an entire community if it is something common. The proper information about the problem may be provided for as well.
A dietitian is made to provide services directly to their clients or patients. The role played may vary considerably. This all depends on what the professional practices. The supervision of large scale food production in schools and hospitals is just one example of the work they are capable of doing. Another example would be having a one on one session with a client in a direct consultation for a variety of reasons including but not limited to weight loss, sports competition or fighting off effects from cancer.
The tasks can be very complex. This is especially true when it comes to sick patients in hospitals. There has to be a discussion and consultation about feeding tube insertion for those that look like they are not getting what they need. Evaluating the diet of a patient as to whether or not changes are necessary is also part of the job.
The poorly defined boundaries of the Downton New York nutritionist can be a somewhat frustrating to prospective clients that need their help. One must make sure to do research on the educational attainment and the qualifications of the professional before seeking his or her advice. This is important when trying to determine how much they know and how they can help you.