For those whose career is focused on nutrition and diet, getting a job opportunity usually requires more effort compared to other careers. A career in nutrition and dietetics involved the application of nutrition and dietetics principles to promote healthy eating habits, prevent and manage diseases, and optimise overall health and well-being. This is why nutritionists and dieticians work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices.
Basically, they assess patients’ nutritional needs, develop personalized diet plans, and provide education on healthy eating habits.
Career in Nutrition and Dietetics
As a nutritionist or dietician, one can specialise in various areas, such as clinical nutrition, community nutrition, sports nutrition, community nutrition, or paediatric nutrition. They may also work in research, policy development, or education, contributing to significant guidelines and policies.
To pursue a career in nutrition and dietetics, a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field is needed, including an internship or a supervised practice program. In Nigeria, registration with the Nutrition Society of Nigeria which acts as the professional body for nutrition and dietetics is compulsory.
What a career in nutrition and dietetics requires is the right education, training, and experience. Choosing a career in that field holds numerous benefits and promises a rewarding career. It also makes a positive impact on people’s lives and contributes to the development of a healthier society.
Job Opportunities for Nutrition and Dietetics in Nigeria
Nutrition and dietetics professionals can find job opportunities in these paths:
Clinical Nutritionist: An opportunity to work in hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities to assess patients’ nutritional needs and develop personalised diet plans.
Community Nutritionist: This area of specialisation focuses on improving public health through nutrition education and awareness programs in public health organisations, non-governmental organisations, and community centers for those outside Nigeria.
Sports Nutritionist: These involve work with athletes and sports teams to create tailored nutrition plans that enhance performance, recovery, and overall health.
Research Nutritionist: This role contributes to the advancement of nutrition science by conducting studies and publishing findings in research institutions and universities.
Nutrition Consultant: These offer expert advice to individuals, organisations, or companies on nutrition-related matters, such as meal planning, nutrition education, and policy development.
Other opportunities include public health nutritionists, who work on developing and implementing nutrition policies and programs that promote healthy eating habits and prevent nutrition-related diseases.
For any of these job opportunities in Nutrition and Dietetics, job search platforms like JobMag can be utilised.
