A nutritionist is an expert who counsels on food matters and its impact on health, both positive and negative. There are specific types of nutritionists including sports nutritionist, public health nutritionist, clinical nutritionist and nutritional scientist. Most often, the term ‘dietician’ and ‘nutritionist’ are used interchangeably, which should not always be the case. This is because, in many places, nutritionists do not require a degree to deem themselves as professionals and they are largely self-taught, unlike dieticians. Nutritionists are required to understand their patients’ needs, plan meal charts, follow up with their patients and monitor the changes on their body. They are not only found in multi-specialty hospitals but also have their own clinics and some even practice from their residences or are put up at educational institutions like schools and colleges. With the onset of various diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, anorexia and obesity, the need for these specialists are on the rise. All over the world, there are several professional associations like the Nutrition Society of India and the Association for Nutrition who work towards regulating the body of nutritionists in their respective countries and around the world. Here is a compilation of biographies of some of the most famous nutritionists. To learn more fascinating facts and details about them, read their biographies that include trivia, interesting facts, timeline and life history.
