Those who are interested in working in health could well consider working as a nutritionist. Nutritionists can work in a wide range of areas, including health and fitness, counseling, personal training, and research. Nutritionists can also choose to work in many different places, including community health centres, doctors surgeries, hospitals, sporting clubs, and so forth.
Nutritionists and dietitians are in high demand in Australia, as are a number of health and fitness roles. Not only this, but nutritionists trained in Australia have a good reputation internationally, especially in the UK and Europe, meaning international careers are available.
On the job with a nutritionist
Nutritionists work to educate their clients on the nutritional values of food, to help them make the right decisions for their health. They can work with patients to plan food and nutritional programs based on their medical and nutritional needs, and then go on to oversee their food preparation and the serving of meals.
Nutritionists can then monitor their client’s progress and food intake in order to maintain good health. Therefore, nutritionists have the satisfaction of helping people lose weight and overcome health problems, just as much as a personal trainer or doctor may.
Nutritionists have a high level of interaction with their clients or patients, so this role would suit those who enjoy contact with people. Nutritionists should also have good communication skills, as well as an interest in health and food preparation.
Studying to become a nutritionist
Nutritionists usually train for a minimum of three years full time at university, usually with an added six month long practical component. Nutritionists can study their specialty in a range of courses, including a Bachelor of Health Science, Bachelor of Exercise and Sport Science, Bachelor of Nutrition and Dietetics, Bachelor of Public Health, and the list goes on.
Those interested in studying nutrition should narrow down which area they are most interested in, such as sport or community health, as this will focus your studies, depending on your course.
Working as a nutritionist is a satisfying way to have a positive impact on your communities’ health, and one to look into if you are interested in the health sciences.