The Power of Words and Labels: Reframing Our Approach to Nutrition

Hey there,

As I approach the 1st anniversary of my book, This Is What You're Really Hungry For, I’ve observed a common theme among those I’ve met: the word "dietitian" often makes people uneasy. It seems to evoke discomfort and apprehension. Most people are comfortable with a "nutritionist," but a "dietitian" scares them. Why is that? I think it’s because the word “diet” brings up memories of restriction, deprivation, and past struggles with food and weight. This noise can really get in the way of building a healthy relationship with food.

Why Words Matter

Close your eyes and think of the word beach. How do you feel? As we all know, words greatly impact how we feel and think about things. The term "dietitian" often carries negative connotations, suggesting a focus on strict dieting rules. In contrast, "nutritionist" sounds friendlier and more supportive, focusing on overall health rather than just weight.

Diet and Trauma

Many people have had tough experiences with food in general, and dieting, including yo-yo dieting, restrictive plans, and feelings of failure. These experiences can leave emotional scars, making "dietitian" a trigger for past pain. We need to acknowledge these feelings and offer a safe, supportive approach to health and wellness.

What We Really Do as a Dietitians

Despite these perceptions, dietitians are essential for health and wellness. As a trained professional, I/we provide evidence-based advice and personalized care. When we meet, we discuss your medical health and goals for you as a person. My/our goal is to help you develop a lifetime of sustainable, healthy eating habits, address specific medical conditions, and improve your overall well-being. It's not just about dieting; it’s about creating a balanced relationship with food, and food that loves you back.

I/we also commit to continuous learning. I/we must complete 75 hours of continuing education units (CEUs) every five years to maintain my credentials. Staying up-to-date on the latest in food and nutrition science isn't just a requirement—it's a way to build my/our knowledge and enhance my/our skills to serve you better.

Bridging the Gap- Say it with me, “ Let’s do this!”

Let’s make the term "dietitian" feel more approachable. We need to focus on positive, empowering communication, educate about what dietitians actually do, and create a warm, non-judgmental space to build trust and support.

Moving Forward

Embrace the positive choices you have made and know that it’s perfectly okay to seek out a dietitian for support—think of it as a step toward a more peaceful and fulfilling relationship with food and health. I love sharing success stories and real-life examples, my hope for you, is one of inspiration and to show you how working with a dietitian can help you adopt these principles and achieve a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Ultimately, the goal is to help you find peace around your health and relationship with food, cutting through the noise and confusion that often surrounds nutrition. By addressing these perceptions directly and embracing a supportive, holistic approach, you can impact your life right now.

You don’t have to be afraid of a dietitian. I’m here to help you feel safe and build a healthy relationship with food. And hey, if it makes you feel better, you can call me a "food whisperer or nutrition navigator"—just know I'm here for you, without judgment or scary diets.

Stay healthy and empowered,

Kim