How to Become a Holistic Nutritionist

holistic nutritionist career

Nutrition is huge. We all know that. But many of us are in the dark about how to benefit from the right nutrition. Doctors get less than a few hours of nutrition education. And, let’s face it, Western medicine is laser-focused on treating symptoms. Not the root cause. That is why the role of a holistic nutritionist is so important.  

If you are someone who wants to help others advocate for their health and learn to heal root causes, the role of the holistic nutritionist may be perfect for you. Whether you’re thinking about the career opportunity or want to go all in, this comprehensive guide will help you.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nutritionists and dietitian jobs are expected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033. This is faster than the average across all jobs.  

Let’s take a look at how to become a holistic nutritionist!  

What is a Holistic Nutritionist? 

First, let’s define what a holistic nutrition is… 

A holistic nutritionist is a health practitioner who looks at the whole picture to improve overall health. Not just one symptom. They do this by addressing the body, mind and spirit. They promote health through whole, natural foods and balanced nutrition and tailor their recommendations to each person.  

Here are just some of the conditions they help manage:

  • Stress/Anxiety 
  • Autism  
  • Autoimmune disorders 
  • Heart disease 
  • Kidney issues 
  • Chronic pain 
  • Developmental disorders 

Beyond diet, holistic nutritionists consider stress levels, sleep quality, lifestyle habits and emotional health to create a plan. They want to find and fix the root causes of health issues. Not just treat the symptoms. And they do so by combining nutrition, lifestyle changes and natural remedies for long term health and vitality. 

What Education is Required to Become a Holistic Nutritionist? 

There is no national education requirement to become a holistic nutritionist. At least not yet. However, you will need a Certificate of Holistic Nutrition from a program approved by the National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP). With this achievement, you can earn board certification.  

A qualifying certificate program must have a minimum of 24 credits.  

Some states require a specific degree to become a nutritionist. For example, a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Sciene may be required in some states to earn the title of nutritionist.  

What you need to do: 

  • Complete 500 hours of work experience in the holistic nutrition field  

Top 3 Holistic Nutrition Education Programs Approved by NANP 

  • Bauman College Holistic Nutrition Culinary Arts 
  • Nutrition Therapy Institute  
  • Portland Community College Institute for Health Professionals  

Check out the full list of NANP approved holistic nutrition programs here 

How Much Money Does a Holistic Nutritionist Make? 

The salary of a holistic nutritionist varies depending on your experience and location. For example, in California, the median salary for the role is $53,428. The highest salary in California for the role is $88, 821 with the lowest being $32,074. Nationwide, the average salary for a holistic nutritionist is $54,137.  

According to Zip Recruiter, the following are the top five states with the highest average salary for a holistic nutritionist: 

Washington – $61,315 

New York – $59,228 

Massachusetts – $59,124 

Alaska – $58,302 

Vermont – $57,561 

What is the Difference Between a Holistic Nutritionist and a Conventional Nutritionist? 

Not all professionals are created equal. Especially when it comes to health and nutrition advice. Welcome to the world of holistic nutritionists versus conventional nutritionists. Two professionals, one goal–to keep you fueled and feeling your best. But very different approaches. Let’s break it down. 

The Vibe: Mindful Healing vs. Science-Based Strategy 

Holistic Nutritionists 

Your nutrition BFFs who love kale and kombucha. They care about everything in your life, from stress levels and sleep habits to emotions and what’s in your fridge. It’s not all about counting calories but nurturing your body, mind, and spirit overall. 

Example: Got digestive issues? They might recommend a gut-friendly meal plan and a yoga session to ease your stress. 

Traditional Nutritionists 

More like a personal coach for your diet. They lean on hard science, government-backed dietary guidelines, and specific nutrient recommendations. Their mission? To help you meet health goals like managing diabetes or improving heart health. 

Example: They’ll hand you a precise meal plan to regulate your blood sugar-no yoga mats required. 

Education and Training 

Holistic Nutritionists: Usually, they get their credentials from special wellness programs, like the Institute for Integrative Nutrition or Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. These particular certifications focus on holistic health approaches and natural remedies; however, regulations can vary.  

Conventional Nutritionists: They hold conventional qualifications, generally a degree in dietetics or nutrition, including clinical internships and licensure. They are probably also registered with professional boards, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

What They Can Do for You 

Holistic Nutritionist: Excellent in telling you how you can live naturally, healthily, and as happily as you can. Will help you bring your eating or lifestyle choices more in tune and provide suggestions, without diagnosing/treating certain problems. Think wellness coaching, tailored food plans, and supplement tips. 

Traditional Nutritionists: Suitable for those who need a food professional to help them manage a particular health problem, such as hypertension, obesity, or even food allergies. They are those professionals dealing with medical nutrition therapy in collaboration with doctors for maintaining good health through diet. 

Where You’ll Find Them 

Holistic Nutritionists: At retreats, holistic health centers, or private practices, sharing smoothie sips talking about clean eating and mindfulness. 

Traditional Nutritionists: These are the professionals working in hospitals, schools, nursing homes, and clinics, crunching the numbers for you on how much protein, carbs, and fat you’re getting, and creating evidence-based diet plans. 

The Food Philosophy 

Holistic Nutritionists: “Eat whole, organic, and as close to nature as possible.” They might recommend cutting out processed foods and switching to natural, nutrient-dense meals. 

Traditional Nutritionists: “Everything in moderation.” They’ll work within your reality. Even if that includes fast food. And they help you make healthier choices. 

What is it Like to Be a Holistic Nutritionist? 

As a holistic nutritionist, you will learn about each of your client’s symptoms and wellness plans. And you will act as their guide/coach to reach their wellness goals. You will use lab tests, like bloodwork or HTMA, and use the results to map out an personalized wellness plan.  

A pivotal part of your role as a holistic nutritionist is educating your patients. You’re going to teach them about how food affects and nurtures their bodies, which allows them to heal root causes.  

A big part of your job in the holistic nutrition industry will involve educating patients—and often their families—on how food can affect their bodies and how to make the best choices for their personal wellness. Unlike traditional Western medicine, holistic nutrition is about healing the whole body and mind.  

In addition to diet, you’ll recommend vitamins and supplements and examine lifestyle factors. This includes activity level, sleep, exercise, and stress. From there, you will give your patients the tools and education that will help them get back on track.  

Holistic Nutrition Career Q&A: 

  1. What does a holistic nutritionist do? A holistic nutritionist incorporates whole foods, natural remedies, and lifestyle modifications to achieve optimal wellness. They assess the eating patterns of customers, advise nutrition programs, and further consider stress factors, sleep, and physical activity for long-term health benefits. 
  1. What certifications or qualifications are needed to become a holistic nutritionist? Though requirements do vary by state, most often holistic nutritionists complete a program from such an institution as the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, and/or the National Association of Nutrition Professionals, NANP. Others pursue board certification through organizations like the Holistic Nutrition Credentialing Board, HNCB. 
  1. Where do holistic nutritionists work? They may work in private practice, wellness centers, functional medicine clinics, corporate wellness programs, supplement companies, or even as educators, writers, and consultants in the health and wellness industry. 
  1. What salary can one expect as a holistic nutritionist? Salaries depend on location, specialty, and experience. Holistic nutritionists in private practice can earn from $50,000 to over $100,000 annually, depending on clientele and business success. 
  1. What are the biggest trends in holistic nutrition right now? Gut health and microbiome balance, personalized nutrition, adaptogens, plant-based diets, and functional foods are just a few of the current trends. Many holistic nutritionists also integrate mindfulness and stress management techniques