What is Holistic Nutrition?
The philosophy of holistic nutrition is that one’s health is an expression of the complex interplay between the physical and chemical, mental and emotional, as well as spiritual and environmental aspects of one’s life and being. As such, professionals who are trained in holistic nutrition approach health and healing from a whole-person perspective. Using nutritional education as a primary tool, holistic nutrition professionals emphasize the building of health by approaching each person as a unique individual. This requires fully engaging the individual in their health recovery process and honoring their innate wisdom by working in an empowering and cooperative manner to chart a course to optimal health.
How is a Holistic Nutrition Professional Different from a Health Coach?
While there is some commonality in the scope of practice for health coaches and holistic nutrition professionals, it is limited to motivational interviewing techniques (MIT). Holistic nutrition professionals gain extensive clinical education and knowledge that broadens their scope of practice beyond the limitations of health coaching.
What Does a Holistic Nutrition Professional Do?
A Holistic Nutrition Professional advises individuals, families, and groups on how to improve diet, lifestyle, and attitude to promote health. He/she may work with a licensed healthcare provider to help individuals with previously diagnosed illnesses identify biochemical imbalances and toxicities that contribute to poor health. His/her advice and support is founded on evidence-based and holistic principles.
A licensed Healthcare Provider (MD, ND, DO, DC, RN, etc.) may work with a Holistic Nutrition Professional to educate patients on the benefits of whole foods, lifestyle improvements and appropriate supplementation relative to their health issue, or provide these services themselves.
Holistic Nutrition Professionals Typically Offer the Following Types of Services:
Diet and lifestyle evaluation
Teach healthy eating
Family meal planning
Suggestions for improving lifestyle
Suggestions for managing stress
Meal plans for improved weight, mood, and energy
Teach classes on wellness and holistic nutrition
Advise clients on basic wellness supplementation
