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6 Best Nutrition Certifications
6 Best Nutrition Certifications
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Are you considering getting a nutrition certification but don’t know which program to go with?
Not sure what the differences are, the advantages of each, the pros and cons, study parameters, and other insider information?
Today you are in luck. Below, I have compiled some insider information to help aspiring Nutrition Coaches make the best choice. And that last comment there — “best choice for them” — is an important one. The best nutrition coaching certification is the one that is best for you. As you’ll see below, there are a number of factors that need to be considered before landing on a certification.
Be sure to check out our blog on the Best Personal Trainer Certification if you are interested in adding fitness and nutrition together as a service.
Note: There is a difference between a nutrition coach and a nutritionist. A nutrition coach is someone who provides guidance and support to help individuals achieve their nutrition-related goals, often focusing on behavior change and healthy habits. On the other hand, a nutritionist is a healthcare professional who has completed specific education and training in the field of nutrition and can provide personalized dietary advice, diagnose and treat nutrition-related conditions, and work alongside other healthcare providers. This blog goes over the certifications for nutrition coaching. Read more about the differences here.
What Cert is Best for You?
We designed this quiz to help you choose the perfect certification based on your learning style and goals.
Why Should You Trust Me?
As a registered dietitian, I have extensive education and training in the field of nutrition. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from the University of Kentucky, and have an NGA Natural Bodybuilding pro card. I have also passed a national examination to earn the registered dietitian credential.
My education and training have equipped me with a deep understanding of the science of nutrition, including the metabolism of nutrients, the role of nutrition in disease prevention and management, and the principles of evidence-based nutrition practice.
As a practicing dietitian, I have experience working with individuals with a wide range of nutrition needs and preferences, from athletes looking to optimize their performance to individuals managing chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. I am able to create individualized nutrition plans and recommendations based on the latest research and evidence-based practices.
Given my background in nutrition science and my experience as a practitioner, I am well-qualified to evaluate and rank nutrition certification programs. I can assess the quality and content of each program, as well as the credentials and reputation of the issuing organization.
Additionally, I can consider how well the program aligns with the latest research and evidence-based practices, which is essential for ensuring that individuals who complete the program are prepared to provide sound nutrition advice and guidance.
Here are the top certifications and the breakdown of each one:
- ISSA Certified Nutritionist
- NASM Certified Nutrition Coach (NASM-CNC)
- Fitness Mentors Fitness Nutrition Specialist Certification
- ACE Health Coach Certification
- AFPA Nutrition & Wellness Consultant Certification
- Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification
Let’s get into it.
Best Nutrition Certification: A Look into 5 Key Criteria For Each
A few things we will look at in each certification is their price, expected study time, number of test questions and the pros and cons of choosing the certification.
ISSA Certified Nutritionist
COST
★★★★★ 4/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 4/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics.
- Emphasis on individualization and behavior change.
- Flexibility to complete the program at your own pace.
- Affordable pricing compared to other certification programs.
- Lifetime access to course materials and resources.
- EREPS Approved Training Course
Cons
- Minimal emphasis on coaching skills and business development.
- May not meet eligibility requirements for certain job positions or healthcare settings.
- No prerequisites or education requirements, which may lead to a lower level of expertise among certified individuals.
- Limited networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry.
Criteria Overview
Price: $799
Expected Study Time: Study at your own pace. 3-5 hours per week, expected to take 4 months. Must sit for an exam within 12 months of registering.
Number of Test Questions: 363
Summary:
ISSA does refer to their certifications as a nutritionist, which can get a bit confusing. There is no regulation on using the term, but for this comparison, the certification is the same as a nutrition coach certification.
ISSA’s Certified Nutritionist certification trains you on the ins and outs of nutrition but also places emphasis on the psychology of eating well and making good dietary choices. These principles can help coaches understand and plan based on their clients’ needs, according to the program.
Starting at $799
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
As a registered dietitian, I believe that the ISSA Nutritionist certification is an excellent option for individuals seeking a comprehensive certification in nutrition.
The program covers a wide range of nutrition-related topics with an emphasis on individualization and behavior change, which are important aspects of nutrition coaching. The flexibility to complete the program at one’s own pace and lifetime access to course materials and resources make it a convenient and affordable option. Additionally, the accreditation by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) provides a level of credibility and recognition in the industry.
While the certification may not have the same level of recognition as some other certifications, it still provides a solid foundation of nutrition knowledge for individuals seeking to enhance their skills and expertise in the field.
Overall, the ISSA Nutritionist certification is a great option for individuals seeking a comprehensive and flexible nutrition certification.
NASM Certified Nutrition Coach
COST
★★★★★ 3.5/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 4/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics with an emphasis on practical application.
- Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
- Focus on behavior change and coaching skills.
- Recognition and credibility in the fitness industry.
- Access to the NASM EDGE app, which provides tools and resources for coaching and client management.
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to some other certification programs.
- Limited recognition outside of the fitness industry.
- Limited focus on business development and marketing strategies.
- May not meet eligibility requirements for certain job positions or healthcare settings.
- Renewal requirements may be time-consuming and costly.
Criteria Overview
Price: $899
Expected Study Time: Around 60 hours of total study time.
Number of Test Questions: 100
Summary:
In addition to learning what NASM calls “cutting edge nutrition information,” this course incorporates general nutrition knowledge with program design around building muscle and losing fat.
These skills focus on mental plateaus as they relate to diet and nutrition as well as psychological principles that trainers can use to help their clients get results.
Starting at $899
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
In my experience in the world of nutrition, the NASM Nutrition Coach certification has received positive reviews from individuals who have completed the program. Many reviewers have praised the program’s emphasis on practical application and coaching skills, particularly for those who plan to work with clients in the fitness industry.
The accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) has also been mentioned as a notable aspect of the certification, adding credibility and recognition in the industry.
Additionally, the NASM EDGE app has received positive feedback for its accessibility and usefulness in client management.
Some reviewers have mentioned that the cost of the program is higher compared to other certifications, but the quality of education and the credibility of the certification justify the investment.
Overall, the NASM Nutrition Coach certification seems to be a great option for individuals seeking a comprehensive and practical certification in nutrition coaching within the fitness industry.
Fitness Mentors Fitness Nutrition Specialist Certification
PRICE
★★★★★ 5/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 5/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 5/5
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics.
- Emphasis on online coaching business, which is in high demand.
- Training on branding, pricing, and client acquisition strategies.
- Flexibility to complete the program at your own pace.
- Option to access the course materials for a lifetime.
- Recognized by the National Board of Fitness Examiners
- Affordable pricing compared to other certification programs.
Cons
- Some may prefer in-person classes
- Newer certification program
- Limited recognition in other countries.
Criteria Overview
Price: $499
Expected Study Time: At your own pace – can be as little as 1 month.
Number of Test Questions: 60
Summary:
By enrolling in the Fitness Mentors Fitness Nutrition Specialist Certification program, you can learn comprehensive knowledge about nutrition and acquire skills to establish your own online nutrition coaching business.
The program covers various aspects such as branding, recommended software, pricing strategies, and effective methods to attract new clients to expand your business and attain financial independence.
Starting at $499
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
As a registered dietitian, I believe that the Fitness Mentors Fitness Nutrition certification is a great option for individuals who want to enhance their knowledge and skills in nutrition coaching.
The program provides comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics and emphasizes the development of an online coaching business, which is a growing trend in the industry. It also offers training on branding, pricing, and client acquisition strategies, which are essential skills for building a successful coaching business.
Moreover, the program is flexible, allowing individuals to complete it at their own pace and access the course materials for a lifetime.
Overall, the Fitness Mentors Fitness Nutrition Specialist certification is an affordable and valuable investment for anyone interested in the nutrition coaching profession.
ACE Health Coach Certification
COST
★★★★★ 3/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 4/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Pros
- Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition, fitness, and behavior change.
- Emphasis on the development of coaching skills and building a client-centered practice.
- Access to a variety of resources and tools, including the ACE Pro Advantage program.
- Recognition and credibility in the industry.
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.
Cons
- Relatively high cost compared to other certification programs.
- Requires specific prerequisites, which you can find here.
- Limited focus on business development and marketing strategies.
- May not be recognized in certain regions or countries.
- Renewal requirements may be time-consuming and costly.
Criteria Overview
Price: $1299 – $2299
Expected Study Time: At your own pace – you have up to 6 months before expiration
Number of Test Questions: 150 (125 scored and 25 experimental questions)
Summary:
ACE places its education focus on business practices and how existing personal trainers can make more money selling nutritional coaching as an additional service.
Starting at $1299
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
I believe that the ACE Health Coach certification is an excellent option for individuals looking to become certified health coaches. The program provides comprehensive coverage of nutrition, fitness, and behavior change, and is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA), which adds credibility and recognition in the industry.
The certification emphasizes the development of coaching skills and building a client-centered practice, which is essential for success in the field.
Additionally, the ACE Pro Advantage program provides a wealth of resources and tools to assist in developing coaching skills and building a successful practice.
While the cost of the certification may be higher than some other programs, the NCCA accreditation and recognition make it a valuable investment. Overall, the ACE Health Coach certification is an excellent option for individuals seeking a comprehensive and credible certification in health coaching.
AFPA Nutrition & Wellness Consultant Certification
COST
★★★★★ 4/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 4/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics with an emphasis on whole-foods nutrition.
- Affordable pricing compared to some other certification programs.
- Emphasis on holistic health and wellness.
- Flexible and self-paced online learning format.
- Accredited by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP).
- Lifetime access to course materials.
Cons
- Limited recognition and credibility in the industry compared to some other certifications.
- Minimal focus on coaching skills and business development.
- Limited networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry.
- May not meet eligibility requirements for certain job positions or healthcare settings.
- Renewal requirements may be time-consuming and costly.
Criteria Overview
Price: $799 – $949
Expected Study Time: As long as you need but you need to complete the exam within six months from enrollment.
Number of Test Questions: 250
Summary:
As the AFPA course name entails, this cert is a blend of nutrition and wellness principles rolled into one. It delves into the basics of diet planning, understanding nutrients, vitamins and minerals in one’s diet, and how to use food as energy.
In addition to the understanding and planning aspect, this course also helps you build essential skills for consulting clients and developing protocols. Further, there is an educational element geared towards prevention and how food can treat or reverse disease.
Starting at $799
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
Based on my own experience, and reviews from individuals who have completed the AFPA Nutrition & Wellness Consultant Certification program, it is a great option for those seeking a flexible and affordable certification in nutrition and wellness.
Many reviewers have praised the program’s emphasis on whole-foods nutrition and holistic health, which sets it apart from other certification programs. The self-paced online learning format has been mentioned as a convenient and accessible feature, and the lifetime access to course materials has also been appreciated.
The accreditation by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) has been mentioned as a notable aspect, adding credibility and recognition in the industry. While some reviewers have mentioned the limited recognition and networking opportunities compared to other certifications, the program’s emphasis on holistic health and wellness is valued by those seeking to work in alternative or complementary healthcare settings.
Overall, the AFPA Nutrition & Wellness Consultant Certification is a well-received option for individuals seeking a comprehensive, flexible, and affordable certification in nutrition and wellness with an emphasis on whole-foods nutrition and holistic health.
Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification
COST
★★★★★ 4/5
support
★★★★★ 5/5
CURRICULUM
★★★★★ 4/5
DIFFICULTY
★★★★★ 5/5
OVERALL
★★★★★ 4.5/5
Pros
- Comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics with an emphasis on behavior change.
- Emphasis on individualization and client-centered coaching.
- Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
- Access to the ProCoach software, which provides tools and resources for coaching and client management.
- Opportunities for continuing education and professional development.
- Recognition and credibility in the industry.
Cons
- Currently they require you to join a waitlist to get certified
- Higher cost compared to some other certification programs.
- Limited recognition outside of the fitness industry
- Limited focus on business development and marketing strategies.
- May not meet eligibility requirements for certain job positions or healthcare settings.
- Renewal requirements may be time-consuming and costly.
Criteria Overview
Price: $799 – $1428
Expected Study Time: As long as you need. 3-5 hours per week, expected to take 4.5 months.
Number of Test Questions: 180
Summary:
Often compared to a college level course, the Precision Nutrition certification simplifies complex diet and nutrition information so that you get a full understanding of the fundamentals and diet-planning that you can pass on to your clients.
The program also focuses on designing programs that help clients integrate dieting alongside fitness programs to help them set attainable goals.
Starting at $799
Prices listed are non-promotional, full-price, non-member prices.
As a registered dietician, I have found that the Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification has received positive reviews from individuals who have completed the program within my industry.
Many reviewers have praised the program’s comprehensive coverage of nutrition-related topics with an emphasis on behavior change, which is a valuable skill for anyone working in the health and wellness industry. The certification also places a strong emphasis on individualization and client-centered coaching, which is essential for successful nutrition coaching. The accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) has been mentioned as a notable aspect, adding credibility and recognition in the industry. Additionally, the ProCoach software has received positive feedback for its accessibility and usefulness in coaching and client management.
While the cost of the certification may be higher compared to some other programs, the quality of education and the credibility of the certification make it a valuable investment.
Overall, the Precision Nutrition Level 1 Certification is a highly regarded option for individuals seeking a comprehensive and credible certification in nutrition coaching with a focus on behavior change and individualization.
How to Become a Certified Nutrition Coach
Step 1: Knock Out Your Prerequisites
Before you begin your nutrition coach certification course, you’ll want to ensure you have the prerequisites needed to be eligible. Unlike the process to become a personal trainer, the prerequisites to become a certified nutrition coach vary greatly from company to company.
Most companies that offer personal training certifications along with nutrition certifications require the below before you can sit for the final exam:
- 18 years or older
- High school diploma or GED
- CPR/AED certification
However, the certifications that are not associated with major fitness bodies such Precision Nutrition or Primal Health Coach do not have prerequisites in place.
The ACE Health Coach seems to have the most stringent prerequisites in place, including the above three requirements as well as proof of a current NCCA-certification, an associate degree in a wellness related field, a completed health coach training and education program approved by the National Board for Health and Wellness Coaches (NBHWC), or two years years of documented work experience in wellness-type programs.
Bottom line: if you are serious about a specific course, check out their prerequisites to ensure they work for you.
Step 2: Find the Best Nutrition Coach Certification for YOU
As mentioned earlier, there is no “best nutrition coach certification,” only certifications that are the most highly recognized. Nutrition education isn’t one-size-fits all, it’s up to you to determine what the best course is for your career and weigh all your options.
Further, consider how you learn best and how the options presented fit into your learning process. Another important consideration is time; how quickly do you want to get certified? Some options may be quicker than others and that may impact your final decision.
Step 3: Prepare for Your Exam & Pass!
Don’t overlook the importance of scheduling your final exam for your nutrition certification. Putting this off may result in long term procrastination. Still, you have to be realistic with your final exam date and your study timelines.
Once you knock out the exam and get certified, you are on your way to training with clients.
Step 4: Start Landing Nutrition Clients
Now that you have a fancy certification next to your name and have learned about how to work with clients and various nutrition goals, you can master the art of helping your clients achieve their goals.
Without further ado, let’s learn about some important considerations you should be aware of as you choose the best nutrition coach certification for you!
FAQs
You don’t need to be a personal trainer to get a nutrition certification. However, some nutrition
certifications, like the ACE Health Coach Certification, have a prerequisite that you have a
NCCA-accredited certification in fitness, nutrition, healthcare, wellness, human resources or a
related field. Check with the specific certification beforehand to understand the prerequisites. If
you are considering becoming a personal trainer first, check out the highly regarded FM-CPT.
According to salary.com, nutrition coaches have an average annual salary of $46,309 in the
United States.
The typical online nutrition certification can be completed in six months or less. Many of the
programs are self-paced, so it is entirely up to the student in terms of how quickly they prepare
and pass their final exam.
Yes, nutrition certifications don’t require a four year degree. While some programs can be
obtained within a college setting, many certifications are available online without a degree. Just
be sure to check the specific certifications’ prerequisites before enrolling for their respective
requirements.
There really is no “best” nutrition certification as the decision is highly subjective. The best
nutrition certification is the one that has the best course curriculum, price, and potential skill sets
for your professional goals.
A certified nutrition coach is a great career for those who love to help others meet their nutrition,
health and wellness goals. If you are passionate about people and food, this low stress, high
work-life balance job could be a great career for you.
Nutrition Certification Takeaway
A nutrition certification is an ideal option for those who want to help clients understand their
health and wellness through food. Whether as a standalone career or as an add-on to your
personal training or health career, the knowledge you gain can help others achieve their
personal goals.
The future for certified nutrition coaches looks bright as the industry is projected for continued
growth as more people place an emphasis on the healing and preventative powers of food. As
long as there is a trend for people wanting to improve their overall health, there should always
be a strong demand for professionals who can help them.
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