Frequently Asked Questions
Nutrition For Athletes of All Levels
What is the difference between a Dietitian and Nutritionist? Sports Dietitian vs Dietitian?
To become a Registered Dietitian (RD), you must: (1) complete an undergraduate 4-year program at an accredited university that includes coursework including nutrition, physiology, and other sciences (2) apply to and successfully complete a dietetic internship program including 1200 hours of hands-on, supervised practice. These internships are often unpaid and the matching progress is rigorous, (3) Successful completion of an exam (similar to a board exam).
RDs require a certain number of continuing education hours every 5 years to maintain the credential. RDs are also held to a professional code of ethics. The term nutritionist isn’t regulated, so therefore anyone can call themselves a Nutritionist (without specific or formal education required). When deciding on whether to see an RD or Nutritionist, it’s important to ask about education, experience and find out what area they specialize in. You want to make sure the individual is trained in your specific needs!
A Sports Dietitian, also known as a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), is an RD that has gone through specialized, extensive training to serve active individuals and athletes. The CSSD credential requires documentation of 2000 practice hours in addition to successful completion of the CSSD exam. Additionally, 1500 hours of practice hours and re-testing every 5 years is required to hold this credential.
Where do you see clients?
We see clients virtually, via phone or video.
Do you only offer nutrition services to athletes?
If you have a body and you move it consistently, you are an athlete! We work with athletes and active people at all different levels.
What experience do you have in sports nutrition?
Since Natalie completed her dietetic internship at the University of Buffalo, she has had many unique experiences in the field of Sports Nutrition. I have worked with athletes and groups all around the Western NY area. including University at Buffalo athletics, Buffalo Triathlon Club, Buffalo Jr Sabre’s and various local high school teams. She also sees clients virtually from all over the world. Her experience in working in corporate nutrition, eating disorders, sports and out-patient nutrition has allowed her to build her skillset to serve a wide variety of athletes.
The internet has a lot of great resources...can't I just use those to educate myself and improve my performance?
Google can be our friend and foe! In a world where we are inundated with nutrition articles and news on a daily basis, what we really need to know is the science. Nutrition is complicated and is NOT a black and white issue, though the media and influencers can be quite convincing that is it! We keep up to date on the science and practice science-based nutrition recommendations. Furthermore, much nutrition advice you find on the web is generic. When working with us, you will get individualized, specific recommendations based on your health, needs, and goals.
How long will we work together?
In our 1:1 coaching, we work with clients for a minimum of 4 months. The timeline is ultimately up to you, but many clients find most benefit working together for 6-12 months. If you aren’t ready for this commitment, we offer a membership and classes where you can still learn and get close proximity to us to ask your nutrition questions.