Dietitians

Dietitians apply the science of human nutrition to help people understand the relationship between food and health, how to make appropriate dietary choices to attain and maintain health, and how to prevent and treat illness and disease.

What the job involves

• Plans diets and menus, and instructs people on the requirements and importance of diet and on the planning and preparation of food

• Supervises the preparation and serving of meals

• Collects, organises and assesses data relating to health and nutritional status of individuals, groups and communities

• Monitors food intake and quality to provide nutritional care

• Calculates nutritional values of food served

• Plans, conducts and evaluates nutrition intervention programs and compiles educational material

• Provides nutrition assessments, nutrition management, and nutrition education, research and training

• Consults with other health professionals and related workers to manage the dietary and nutritional needs of patients