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A dietitian is a professional who focuses on proper food and nutrition for the promotion of a person's good health. They are responsible for the preparation of food and develop modified diets for individuals. They are also involved in educating people on good nutritional habits.

Different dietitians in practice include:

• Clinical dietitians
• Community dietitians
• Foodservice dietitians
• Gerontological dietitians
• Pediatric dietitians
• Research dietitians
• Administrative dietitians
• Business dietitians
• Consultant dietitians

Most dietitians work in hospitals or other health care facilities and provide nutritional therapy to people by giving advice on the patient's diet. They are always in touch with other health care professionals such as physicians, social workers and nurses to review the medical history and to develop nutritional plans for the patient. They also work will public health and home care agencies to come up with wellness programs for the public. They make use of their knowledge on food and nutrition and share them to people in order to promote good health.

In Australia, people who are interested in this profession must gain their qualifications through university courses accredited by the Dietitians Association of Australia.
The Dietitians Association of Australia is the national association of dieticians in the country and promotes the empowerment and education of proper nutrition since 1976. It has different branches in each State and Territory and represents more than 4,500 members.

A nutritionist, on the other hand, is a person who gives information and advice on food and nutrition impacts on health. Nutritionists, much like dietitians, use scientific knowledge on food and nutrition to promote the impact of good food on the people's health and well-being. In some countries, nutritionists are not subject to professional regulation and are not legally protected. Despite this fact, there are still some nutritionists that have advanced academic and research qualifications.
Nutritionists in the country are also represented by the Dietitians Association of Australia in all regional and national matters. However, there are other associations that represent nutritionists. The Nutrition Society of Australia, a group founded in 1975, is composed of qualified scientists and educators from diverse disciplines including nutritionists in the research and proper application of nutrition. The Annual Scientific Meeting is a national forum attended by doctors and educators where all aspects of nutrition are discussed.

How to choose the best dietitian

• Always check the credentials of the dietitian before you consult with him or her regarding nutritional matters.
• Accredited dietitians will be able to effectively deal with most nutrition related problems, but some specialize in a particular area of nutrition. Seek help from a dietitian who specializes in your nutritional goals.
• Like all medical professionals, building trust with a dietitian is important. If you are not comfortable with a new dietitian, do not be afraid to cut ties and try another. Building rapport with a dietitian will give you much more benefits since he or she will give you the best options possible for your diet.