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What a dietitian does

A dietitian uses food and nutrition science to prevent and treat medical conditions. Qualification is typically a BSc or MSc in Nutrition and Dietetics, and registered dietitians (RD) complete supervised hospital training. The term "nutritionist" is not always protected, so check qualifications. Clinical dietitians work with doctors in hospitals and clinics to plan diets for specific conditions.

When to see a dietitian

• Diabetes or prediabetes: planning carbohydrates, portions and meal timing.
• Weight loss or weight gain, obesity and before or after bariatric surgery.
• PCOS, thyroid disease and fatty liver, where diet plays a major role.
• High cholesterol, high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Kidney disease, with limits on protein, potassium and phosphorus.
• Pregnancy, breastfeeding, child nutrition and elderly nutrition.
• Food intolerance, coeliac disease, anaemia and vitamin deficiencies.
• Sports nutrition and cancer-related nutrition support.

What to expect

The dietitian reviews your history, reports, usual diet and preferences, and builds a realistic plan with local, familiar foods rather than a rigid, expensive regimen. Review visits track weight, tests and habits. Useful reports include HbA1c, lipid profile, thyroid profile, hemoglobin, ferritin, vitamin D and B12.

Healthy eating basics

Fill half your plate with vegetables, include pulses, whole grains and adequate protein, limit sugar, refined flour, fried and packaged foods, use less salt, drink water and eat at regular times. Be wary of extreme crash diets, miracle supplements and promises of rapid weight loss.

Fees and choosing

Consultation fees commonly range from about ₹400 to ₹2,000 and may vary, with follow-up packages priced separately. Check qualification and experience with your condition; online consultations are common. Compare dietitians and book on Lab Dekho.

Trusted References

This guide is original content informed by recognised medical and public-health sources. For further reading:

• NABH – hospital accreditation standards
• NABL – laboratory accreditation
• Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY
• Ministry of Health & Family Welfare
• Mayo Clinic – Patient care & health information
• Cleveland Clinic – Health Library
• WebMD – Health A–Z

Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. Costs and fees are approximate and vary by provider. Institution names are given for orientation only; check current services and timings directly. In an emergency, call 108 or 112.