What Is an Entry Level Nutritionist and How to Become One
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What Does an Entry-Level Nutritionist Do?
As an entry-level nutritionist, your job is to create a specialized meal plan for each client that supports their lifestyle and wellness goals. To accomplish this, you may determine which food choices are the most appropriate for a well-balanced diet, provide guidance on nutrition, and modify plans based on unique health factors. Entry-level nutritionists usually work under the supervision of a physician, nurse, or senior nutritionist, so your work may be reviewed by several people before it is deemed acceptable to provide for a patient. Entry-level nutritionists also work directly with patients, their families, and with other caregivers. This job is frequently posted under the name ‘dietitian,’ and you may need to look under both terms to find all roles in your area.
How to Become an Entry-Level Nutritionist
The primary qualifications for becoming an entry-level nutritionist include earning a bachelor's degree in a field such as food and nutrition or dietetics, as well as completing an internship and getting a relevant credential. Employers prefer applicants who are either registered dietitians or at least qualified to become one—the process and regulations for this vary by state but usually include several hundred hours of supervised experience and passing an exam. This is an entry-level role, so you are not expected to have any professional experience beyond an internship, though any previous experience still helps you stand out from other applicants. Fulfilling the duties and responsibilities of this position requires excellent communication, research, and interpersonal skills.
