Me: cite your source!
Them: “Oh how dietitian of you”
Me: add nutrient density to your plate!
Them: “Oh how dietitian of you”
Me: the best answer is “it depends.”
Them: “Oh how dietitian of you”
A nutrition professional is an individual who is educated and trained in the science of food, nutrition, and its impact on health. They apply their expertise to guide individuals or groups toward achieving optimal health and well-being through dietary choices.
There are two types of nutrition professionals that, as a nutrition student, I pay extra attention to due to their credibility.
1. Those in Nutrition Research
These professionals often hold a master’s degree or PhD in nutritional sciences. They possess a deep understanding of the research process that underpins the nutrition guidelines and claims we encounter daily. These individuals are the academics behind our food knowledge, responsible for generating the evidence that informs dietary recommendations.
2. Those in Nutrition-Related Healthcare
Professionals like dietitians recognize that nutrition is part of a broader and more complex picture of individuality. They bridge the gap between scientific literature and practical application, using their expertise and counseling skills to provide meaningful guidance to their clients.
As a dietitian student, I make it a point to observe and learn from the practices of dietitians, both in clinical settings and through their leadership on social media. Here are five key behaviors and approaches I’ve noticed dietitians & other nutrition professionals consistently use in their communication:
Evidence-Based Messaging
Nutrition professionals avoid fear-mongering, selling gimmicks, or leveraging their expertise for personal gain. Instead, their goal is to provide evidence-based information as tools to support informed decision-making. Their guidance isn’t rooted in anecdotal data or hidden agendas. Many dietitians work tirelessly to combat the rampant misinformation prevalent on the internet.
Focus on Adding Rather Than Eliminating
Rather than emphasizing what foods to avoid, nutrition professionals often focus on what can be added to enhance overall health. For example, while excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods can negatively impact health, dietitians encourage incorporating nutrient-rich foods—a strategy that often leads to a natural reduction in less beneficial choices.
A Holistic Approach to Nutrition
Nutrition professionals understand the complexities of nutrition, including nutrient interactions, psychological connections, social influences, and cultural norms. They don’t fixate on single nutrients as a cure-all but consider the broader context of an individual’s life and environment.
Prioritizing Basics in Sports Nutrition
When working with athletes, nutrition professionals prioritize foundational elements such as adequate energy intake, sleep, recovery, and mental health before exploring supplements or advanced performance-enhancing strategies. This ensures a strong and sustainable base for optimal performance.
Collaborative Practice
Nutrition professionals value practicing within their professional scope and actively invite collaboration with other healthcare professionals and support staff, particularly when working with athletes. This team-based approach ensures comprehensive and effective care.
Trust me, I get it. There is a lot of information out there, and it can be overwhelming to decipher—let alone effectively implement—in your everyday life. But what is so empowering is knowing that you know yourself best (not the shirtless nutrition gurus). You have the ability to decide whether the information is both credible and practical for your unique circumstances.
These five themes I see among most qualified nutrition professionals can serve as a helpful guide for navigating the flood of information on social media. By recognizing and applying these principles, you can make more informed and confident choices for your health and well-being.

About the Author
Jourdan Delacruz is a 2X Olympian and represented Team USA in the sport of Weightlifting for both the 2020 and 2024 Olympic Games. Jourdan holds a bachelor's in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Northern Colorado. She is pursuing her master's degree in sports nutrition with hopes of becoming a sport-registered dietitian. Jourdan is the founder of Herathlete, a brand committed to supporting female athletes through education and community.
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