The best dietitians in Canberra

Who are the best dietitians in Canberra? Photo: File.

When it comes to what to eat, it seems as though everyone in Canberra is an expert. From personal trainers to wellness coaches, they each have a view on what to consume to nourish and fuel the body.

While the societal shift towards health, wellness, and disease prevention is indeed a good one, it is not without challenges. Each, and every, morsel placed on a plate is often scrutinised, and in most cases without real empirical understanding.

And when you try to uncover more, the deeper you dig the more confused you become! Are carbohydrates good or bad? Should I skip the sugar? How much, and how often should I be eating it?

Indeed, the field of nutrition is full to the brim with myths and gimmicks a plenty. From fad diets and extreme eating, to pills, potions, and powders, Canberran’s have seen it all.

That said, the truth behind what we should be eating should not be this hard to find. If you are looking for an evidence-based approach to underpin your health goals, look no further than Canberra’s dietitians.

Dietitians are healthcare professionals who apply the science of food and nutrition to promote health and prevent, or treat, disease. Effectively, they work with clients to establish a better relationship with food.

Reasons for doing so are as vast as they are varied. Some of us may be looking for new tools to put bad habits to bed. Others may wish to shift some weight gain, or indeed encourage it. For some, preventative health strategies are key. And for others it is all about managing a chronic condition.

What ever the reason you can rest assured knowing that our nation’s capital is home to high calibre selection of reputable dietitians. So, where to find the best ones? Read on below to find out more.

What makes a great dietitian?

Great dietitians have a deep understanding of the relationship that food plays in our welling. Using this knowledge they harness the qualities inherent in all types of foods as levels to adjust facets of our health. The best dietitians improve your nutritional baseline, prevent onset of diseases, and help you manage those that you already have. To find your ideal dietitian consider these factors:

• Clear credentials. While dietitians can operate under various names, only a true dietitian has the knowledge to be assisting others. So, what qualifications make a true dietitian? Well, dietitians must have a university degree in nutrition and dietetics and be an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD). Accreditations are awarded by peak industry body Dietitians Association of Australia. Their program is the only credential recognised by the Australian Government, and by many private health insurers. Only a dietitian with these credentials understands how to translate scientific studies into practical applications.
• Experience. When you consider how valuable your health is, it makes sense to place it in the hands of experts. And what makes an expert, well, an expert, is a whole lot of specialised experience. Moreover, experience in complex nutritional issues and patient care is vital. Therefore, consider how long your dietitian has been practising, to whom services are offers, and the areas covered.
• Health needs match. Not every dietitian is right for every client. And the nature of the field is so board, that many dietitians will specialise in area of interest or two. Some have a passion for sports nutrition, while others are all about digestive health. Consequently, review your dietitians focus areas and ensure they meet your individual needs. To do this, scrutinise services offered, read their published content, and comb through past client reviews. Even consider contacting the dietitian with any questions prior to locking in a consultation to assess their fit.
• Evidence-based approach. Make sure your dietitian is not pushing a dubious diet or sketchy supplement. Nutritional advice is one area where gimmicks should be left alone. After all, you do not want to be investing in generalised or ill-informed recommendations. Look for a dietitian who supports an evidence-based scientific approach; and furthers this knowledge with continued education. This will ensure a better chance of finding someone who offers tailored guidance, regardless of product affiliations.
• Practise what they preach. There is nothing worse than investing your time and money in someone who does not heed their own advice. When researching your dietitian ensure they take what they recommend seriously. Review their website, blog, social channels, and any published material for evidence of this. Also keep an eye out for any red flags which point to contradictions in what they stand for. After all, you want someone who walks the walk and has the passion to back up their practice.

The best dietitians in Canberra

RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.

To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.

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Finally, for specific medical advice related to your condition check out our articles on the best gastroenterologists, the best cardiologists, and the best endocrinologists in Canberra.

Your experience with dietitians in Canberra

Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.

Have you had experience with any of the dietitians listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.