The history of nutritional counseling begins with the ancient texts of traditional (alternative) medicine. Nearly all cultures believed a proper diet ensured better health. Ayurvedic, Chinese, Greek, Native American and European systems used diet as a mean for prevention and treatment of disease.
Development of Nutritional Counseling
Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine stressed the importance of particular foods in the diet. In spite of a lack of hard science, ancient people linked particular diseases to a lack of a particular food. Most 16th century mariners realized scurvy could be prevented on long voyages, with the consumption of citrus fruits. Native Americans cured sailors of scurvy with a tea made from the Eastern White Cedar tree.
In 1915, Elmer Mc Collum began to study the cause of Rickets. He and his associates experimented with various diets. This led to the discovery of vitamin A and B. In 1925, Mc Collum’s work led to the identification of vitamin D. These early observations aided in the discovery of other vitamins and the establishment of the field of nutrient science.
The formation of the American Institute of Nutrition in 1928 provided the foundation for further nutritional research. By the mid 20th century, scientists were able to isolate more nutritional compounds. As the science advanced, the role of nutrients in disease or disease prevention was more clearly understood.
Nutritional Counseling Today
Today, nutritional counseling is part of a comprehensive plan used to treat individuals who suffer from or are at risk of developing heart disease, renal dysfunction and diabetes. It is also used in the treatment of cancer, infertility and obesity. Currently, trained, certified nutritional counselors provide counseling. In most states of the U.S., individuals desiring certification must hold a 4-year degree, complete coursework in nutrition and undergo several hours of clinical work. Certification is final upon passing an exam.
Programs in alternative medicine often require nutrition coursework and certification in their curriculum.
