How to Become a Nutritionist

Nutritionists are health specialists who help others maintain or achieve good health by healthy eating. Nutritionists are experts in the connection between food and the body; they know what foods are best for achieving optimal health. Read on to find out how to become a nutritionist.

Introduction
- Nutritionists work in a variety of settings, from hospitals to health departments. They may help to plan and implement food and nutrition programs. and can educate others on ways to improve and maintain good health by eating the right foods.
What is a Nutritionist?
- Nutritionist is a general term which refers to anyone practicing the science of nutrition. Individuals who work in health food stores, who sell dietary supplements, or who are self-taught may legally call themselves nutritionists. The designation of CNS, or Certified Nutritional Specialist, however, is reserved for those nutritionists who have completed a prescribed course of study and passed an exam.Red Scrubs: What is the Difference Between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?
Step 1: Education
- Most nutritionists have a bachelor's degree with a major in nutrition. In addition to courses in nutrition, prospective nutritionists may benefit from courses in:
1. Biology
2. Physiology
3. Chemistry
4. Institution management
5. Psychology
6. Mathematics
7. Statistics
Step 2: Licensing
- Although there are no state licensing requirements to be a nutritionist per se, individuals offering certain nutritional services may need to be licensed.Red Scrubs: What is the Difference Between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist? As each state's requirements vary, you'll need to check with the secretary of state's office in the state you'll be working in to determine what the licensing requirements are for the type of nutritional work you're looking to practice.
Step 3: Certification
- There are two generally recognized designations available to those who would like to become certified nutritionists. One, the ABPNS is issued by the American Board of Physician Nutrition Specialists. The ABPNS is a premier designation, and is only issued to medical doctors practicing nutrition, who have fulfilled the board's extensive requirements. The other certification, the CNS, or Certified Nutritional Specialist, is open to lay nutritional practitioners. Earning the CNS designation requires:
1. A master's or doctoral degree in nutrition or a related field.Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists: Eligibility
2. Have completed at least 50 hours of documented continuing education in nutrition, or have authored at least 10 written case studies related to nutritionCertification Board for Nutrition Specialists: Eligibility
3. Post-graduate experience of 1,000 hours if you have a master's degree, or 500 hours if you have a doctorateCertification Board for Nutrition Specialists: Eligibility
4. A passing score on the CBNS certification exam.
Step 4: Finding a Job
- Once you have obtained the necessary education and licensing, the job hunt can begin. Your first step is to:
1. Prepare a resume. List all unique qualifications you may have, including internships or past employment in a related field. For tips on how to create a top-notch resume, check out Mahalo's guide to how to write a resume.
2. Begin sending out your resume to prospective employers. Nutritionists may work in a variety of settings, including:
  1. Hospitals
  2. Nursing homes
  3. Outpatient care facilities
  4. Schools and day cares
  5. Correctional facilities
  6. Health departments
  7. Food service companies
Conclusion
- Nutritionists are experts in the relationship between food and good health. The work of a nutritionist may involve everything from teaching school children proper nutrition habits to planning healthy menus for company cafeterias. If you hope to work as a nutritionist, study hard—the field is highly competitive, but immensely rewarding.