What’s the difference between a “dietitian” and a “nutritionist?”
That is one of the most common questions we dietitians get asked! And since this month is Nutrition Month, I wanted to help answer the question on who we are and what we do – especially at a large mental health hospital like CAMH.
Dietitians are highly skilled regulated health professionals that are knowledgeable about nutrition, food, and healthy eating. We have received education in science, management, population health, and human development. Dietitians work in a variety of areas including, hospitals, community health centres, research, and food corporations.
The title of “Nutritionist” is not a regulated term, and can indicate a varying level of education, knowledge and expertise. All dietitians have earned a Bachelor’s degree specializing in food and nutrition and have completed supervised practical training through an accredited university program, hospital or community setting. When you meet a dietitian, you can ensure that the advice you are getting is reliable and based on the most up-to-date evidence available.
There are currently seven dietitians working across a variety of clinical areas at CAMH, and our services are available to all inpatients. We help clients improve their physical health, which is intertwined with mental health. Improving physical and mental health can help increase overall well-being and quality of life.
Dietitians are skilled in therapeutic diets and many clients at CAMH benefit from being seen. Our work with clients includes diabetes management, weight management, inflammatory bowel disease, poor intake, Celiac disease, and eating disorders. Some psychiatric medications have nutrition related side effects and dietitians can help clients manage those side effects as well. After meeting with clients, dietitians help establish proper meal plans that meet clients’ preferences, financial capabilities, religious restrictions, and health needs.
As part of our day-to-day responsibilities, CAMH dietitians are also involved in the facilitation of groups to help clients improve their knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition and to cover a wide variety of topics including fibre, sodium, and antioxidants. Depending on the program, dietitians also facilitate cooking groups to help increase cooking skills, food budgeting, and social skills through sharing a meal together.
Facilitating cooking groups is my favourite part of the job. I look forward to it as much as clients do, and it’s fulfilling to hear clients describe the meals they prepare as “the best meal they ever had.” Food can connect us all and is a great way to learn about other people and cultures. When group members share cultural recipes with the group, the sense of pride and enjoyment they feel is very rewarding.
As a member of the health care team, dietitians advocate for their clients to receive the best nutrition possible. When clients are discharged from CAMH, we want to make sure that they leave mentally and physically well. And like many journeys, the road to recovery can’t be done without a healthy, balanced diet.