Jobs in Diet and Nutrition
A proper diet can go a long way toward maintaining good health, so it's not surprising that many diet and nutrition jobs are located in health-related facilities. Nutritionists and dietitians help people understand how to maintain a healthy diet, which is increasingly important, as the incidence of diabetes rises. There are several levels of education in the field of nutrition, and jobs are available for those with several different types of degrees.
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Education and Training
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Most dietitians and nutritionists have at least a bachelor's degree, but there are careers in the field of diet and nutrition that require as little as an associate's degree, or even a certificate in nutrition. A person with a certificate in nutrition could obtain a position as a fitness trainer or personal food counselor, while someone with an associate's degree in nutrition might find work as a food service manger, weight loss counselor or dietetic technician. Someone with a bachelor's degree in nutrition could be employed as a registered dietitian, while someone wishing to work as a research scientist in the field of nutrition should pursue post-graduate study in the field.
Employers
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Those with training and education in the field of diet and nutrition can work for a wide range of companies and organizations. Hospitals, nursing homes and doctor's offices employ nutritionists and dietitians to work with their patients. Government organizations and schools also employ nutritionists. Companies in all phases of the food service industry, from growing crops to manufacturing food, as well as restaurants, also have a need for nutritionists.
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Career Options
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The majority of jobs in the field of nutrition and diet are in medical and health-related facilities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The BLS anticipates a 9 percent growth in the field in the ten-year period that began in 2008. This growth is largely due to increasing numbers of elderly patients and a growing interest in healthy lifestyles. The best opportunities will go to those with advanced degrees, or training in a specialized segment of the field of nutrition, such as gerontological nutrition or diabetic nutrition.
Job Information
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Most positions in the field of nutrition involve working with people and helping them understand their dietary needs. Other jobs in the food service industry involve analyzing the nutrition facts of various products, or performing scientific research in a laboratory.
Skills and Interests
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Because the field of nutrition often involves working with people, a nutritionist can benefit from developing people skills. Those interested in working with people will find this type of job enjoyable. Teaching and training skills are also helpful, since a dietitian needs to help teach people about proper nutrition. Anyone interested in, and enthusiastic about, healthy eating would probably enjoy pursuing a career in nutrition.
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References
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