Dietitian

Dietitians are passionate about food, nutrition, and health. They implement specific diet strategies to manage patients' chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Dietitian Job Description

Assess the nutritional well-being of patients and take note of their existing illnesses.
Conduct talks on diet and nutrition to prevent or manage specific diseases.
Plan diets for patients (e.g. adding more fruit in the patient's diet if the patient needs more vitamins etc.)
Help patients align nutrition goals with personal goals.
Work with Doctors and other Healthcare professionals to manage and check patients' health status.

Note

People often have the misconception that Dietitians are a kind of "food police". They don't work to make people skinnier, but they help make patients healthier.

A day in the life

Dietitian

Dietitians use scientific knowledge to guide individuals towards healthy eating, empowering them to make good choices. Watch to see how they do it.

What you should know about Dietitian jobs in Singapore

Nature of work

You'll assess clients' nutritional needs, develop and implement nutrition programs, and evaluate and report on the outcomes.

Key advice

Ensure that you keep up with any certifications or licences to assure clients of your competence and dedication to the field.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Take up an internship and/or shadowing opportunity with a hospital or senior Dietitian. You can email different organisations and non-profits to ask for job shadowing.

A bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics is required. In Singapore, only Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) offers a bachelor of Science with Honours in Dietetics and Nutrition.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Dietitian career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Human Physiology

In-depth understanding of human Physiology to assess nutritional needs and the impact of diet on the body.

Biochemistry

Knowledge of Biochemistry to understand how nutrients are metabolised and their role in health and disease.

Dietetics Software and Tools

Skilled in specialised software or tools for planning, nutrient analysis, and record management.

Soft Skills

Communication

Excellent communication skills for effectively conveying dietary advice and motivating clients.

Empathy

A strong sense of empathy to understand and address clients' challenges and concerns related to diet and nutrition.

Decision Making

Ability to make informed decisions based on clinical assessments, dietary needs and individual client goals.

“We examine patients, assess their nutritional needs and recommend an appropriate feeding plan. ”

Charles Lew, Principal Dietitian

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Will the role of Dietitians be redundant with dietary information easily available on the internet?

Internet articles or celebrity diets may not suit everyone. Dietitians tailor advice and plans for patients based on their unique needs.
Where can Dietitians work after studying Dietetics in Singapore?

Dietitians can work in hospitals, the Food and Beverage industry, Pharmaceutical, or Consulting companies. After gaining work experience, they can also join educational institutions as Lecturers.
What’s the difference between Dietitians and Nutritionists?

The main difference lies in their qualifications and professional registration. Dietitians have a more regulated and extensive education and training background, making them qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy and work in clinical settings.
What type of patients do Dietitians often work with?

Dietitians often work with a variety of patients including, but not limited to, individuals with chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
What is important to consider when assessing an individual's diet plan?

Dietitians assess the patient's medical conditions and plan a diet plan based on factors like food preferences and allergies, dietary intake and lifestyle to ensure that it fits the individual.