Finding a nutrition professional

Finding a nutrition professional

Accredited nutrition professionals include dietitians and naturopathic doctors.

This guide is meant to help you make informed decisions about your nutrition care plan, but you may decide to look to a nutrition professional for more advice. In fact, before making any significant changes in your nutrition, you should talk with a nutrition professional. They will take into consideration your unique health situation and needs and provide the best care and advice.

When choosing a nutrition professional, there are some things you should know about their qualifications. Registered dietitians have years of education and training in the science of food and nutrition and are good at translating science into real-life food choices. The term dietitian is protected and can only be used by a person with the right qualifications. Dietitians can be found at hospitals, some HIV clinics and community agencies. To find a dietitian in your area, ask your healthcare team to refer you. Or check the Dietitians of Canada Web site at www.dietitians.ca.

Naturopathic doctors have four years of pre-medical training and four years of full-time naturopathic medical training; they must pass licensing examinations and carry malpractice insurance before entering practice. They are very well trained in the nutritional use of foods for various conditions. Their training also includes nutritional supplementation and botanical and homeopathic medicine. To find a qualified naturopathic doctor near you, call the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors (CAND) at 1-800-551-4381 or visit them online at