Seeking nutrition services in the Illawarra area?
People need the advice of a nutrition expert for a variety of reasons. For some, it may be to prevent the onset of or manage the existence of a chronic disease such as Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease or obesity. For others, it may be a result of a major gastrointestinal surgery that has impacted the way the patient digests food or absorbs nutrients. There are also growing numbers of Illawarra residents suffering from food allergies or intolerances, which can often be identified and managed through the guidance of a nutritionist or dietitian. So, where do you start?
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Dietitians are allied health professional and experts in food and nutrition and are able to assist people affected by chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease as well as those facing cancer, gastro-intestinal diseases and food allergies. Dietitians also work with people to help them manage weight problems such as obesity or excessive weight loss. An Accredited Practicing Dietitian must have completed a Bachelor or Masters level university qualification and reached a national competency standard.
Note: Only dietitians that are accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia are eligible for Medicare and other government funding. Also, a dietitian may choose to refer to themselves as a nutritionist, but a nutritionist can not call themselves a dietitian.
A nutritionist will usually have completed tertiary qualifications in nutrition, food science and/or public health. They provide advice to people in obtaining optimal nutrition through good food choices. Many nutritionists have a particular area of interest such as athletic performance or childrens’ behavioural diets.
There are a variety of nutrition professionals available in the Illawarra to help you with your needs:
