The profession of Nutritionist has only been gaining global recognition in recent years. With the rapid development of technology, the growing need to expand knowledge, and the increasing awareness of society, a clear demand has emerged for professionals who are able to distinguish scientifically reliable information in the field of health care.

Today, everyone has access to the internet, and since the rise of artificial intelligence, virtually anyone can call themselves a Nutritionist if they feel sufficiently prepared and experienced to select information and share it with the public. Whether and how followers and clients are protected from being misled will be discussed at the end of this article. Before that, however, it is important to define several key concepts that should be properly understood.

“Nutrition science” (Nutritiology) literally means “the science of nutrition” (Latin nutricium – nourishment + Greek logos – study, science). As such, it is a comprehensive term that includes all sciences related to nutrition and the food industry. Within Nutritiology, there are several major branches, including dietetics (therapeutic nutrition) and dietology (the science of nutrition for healthy individuals). Nutritiology also covers areas such as nutritional psychology, sociology of nutrition, nutrition economics, food chemistry, nutritional physiology and biochemistry, food technology, food hygiene, and more.

In theory, a certified Nutritionist is trained in depth in all of these fields. In practice, however, the profession of Nutritionist encompasses an even broader scope of knowledge, including access to scientifically validated information beyond the mainstream public space (such as specialized literature, professional forums, congresses, and conferences). What distinguishes most Nutritionists from many standard professions is that they do not engage with this science only theoretically.

A Nutritionist is a professional who lives in accordance with the principles of healthy and proper nutrition, applying them in their own daily life. On one hand, they follow their own recommendations; on the other, they serve as an example and source of inspiration for their clients and followers. Through their lifestyle and physical appearance, they demonstrate the practical results of applied knowledge, making them a role model. In many cases, a Nutritionist’s interests and expertise extend beyond Nutritiology, and their approach to human health becomes holistic in nature. The more advanced training programs for Nutritionists also include topics such as proper movement, breathing techniques, balancing physical activity and rest, quality sleep, psychosomatics (the science of psychological causes of health conditions), relaxation and meditation practices, and spiritual factors.

So… What is a Nutritionist?

A Nutritionist is a qualified (certified) specialist in healthy nutrition who has in-depth knowledge of foods, human physiology, and all sciences related to health prevention from a holistic perspective. A Nutritionist shares scientifically grounded information, making it accessible with the goal of increasing nutritional and health literacy in society. Unlike medical professionals, a Nutritionist does not diagnose or treat diseases, does not overturn diagnoses, and does not modify treatment prescribed by a physician. A Nutritionist is a consultant in healthy lifestyle practices.

When should we consult a Nutritionist?

Anyone who wishes to expand their knowledge of healthy eating, food combinations, the impact of food on health, or to optimize their personal or family menu according to individual needs or lifestyle specifics, can consult a Nutritionist. It is also appropriate to seek the support of a Nutritionist in situations such as preparation for pregnancy, breastfeeding, postpartum recovery, recovery after medical treatment, intensive sports activity, high-stress lifestyles, menopause, and other life stages that do not constitute a medical diagnosis. You may also consult a Nutritionist if you have a medical condition, solely for the purpose of creating a nutritional plan, menu, and non-dietary recommendations tailored to the condition. Your treating physician may also refer you to a Nutritionist.

If a Nutritionist observes signs of a medical condition or if you already have a diagnosis, they will refer you to a medical specialist and work in parallel with your physician, fully aligned with the prescribed treatment and the specifics of the condition.

In this way, the Nutritionist plays a vital role in supporting health prevention, education, and long-term well-being, acting as a bridge between scientific knowledge and its practical, conscious application in everyday life.