NUTRITION & GENERAL INFORMATION
Nutrition is the
study of the relationship between diet and states of health and disease. It is defined as the
study of food. Absence of adequate nutrients can cause certain diseases to take hold that can
potentially result in death.
Between the extremes of optimal health and death from starvation or malnutrition, there is an
array of disease states that can be caused or alleviated by changes in diet.The science of
nutrition attempts to understand how and why specific aspects of diet have specific influences
on health.
Dietitians and nutritionists plan food and nutrition programs and
supervise the preparation and serving of meals. They help to prevent and treat illnesses by
promoting healthy eating habits and recommending dietary modifications, such as the use of less
salt for those with high blood pressure or the reduction of fat and sugar intake for those who
are overweight. Dietitians also manage food service systems for institutions such as hospitals
and schools, promote sound eating habits through education, and conduct research. Major areas
of practice include clinical, community, management, and consultant dietetics.
Career Possibilities:
Applicable UCCS Graduate Programs:
M.S.N. Nursing
Statistics:
Median Wages for dieticians and nutritionists: $42,630
Employment in 2002: 49,000 employees
More than half of all jobs were in hospitals, nursing care facilities, outpatient care centers,
or offices of physicians and other health practitioners. State and local government agencies
provided about 1 job in 5—mostly in correctional facilities, health departments, and other
public-health-related areas. Some dietitians and nutritionists were employed in special food
services, an industry made up of firms providing food services on contract to facilities such as
colleges and universities, airlines, correctional facilities, and company cafeterias. Some
dietitians were self-employed, working as consultants to facilities such as hospitals and nursing
care facilities or providing dietary counseling to individuals.
Projected Need for 2002-2012: 21,000 additional employees
Employment of dietitians is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations through
2014 as a result of increasing emphasis on disease prevention through improved dietary habits. A
growing and aging population will boost the demand for meals and nutritional counseling.
UCCS Clubs:
Beth-El Student Nurses Association
Pre-Med Society
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