Are You a Nutrition “Purist” or “Realist”?

It seems as though these days everyone has an opinion about the field of nutrition. There is a an old saying that “some people think they are experts on eating, because they eat.” So, that could mean the whole human race perceives themselves as nutritional experts! For me, it seems that is the case sometimes! Of course, some of those people are experts with years of college level education under their belts, but some are simply uninformed, uneducated, or misdirected, but very interested in the field of nutrition. That begs the question about being a  nutrition “purist” or “realist” in terms of professional conduct.

What I know for sure is that more people in more and varied fields are now providing nutritional advice to the American consumer. And, more nutritional advice is rapidly and readily available these days at the touch of our fingers as well as from “doc google.” So, this blog is about how those of you that give nutritional advice handle the words you choose while guiding those you are attempting to help with nutrition. It is also meant as food for thought for the consumer who is seeking nutritional guidance. So let’s take a look at nutrition “purist” or “realist” thinking!

Nutrition Purists

It seems as though some of those disseminating nutritional advice are best described as purists. Insisting on great precision or correctness in a particular discipline is a purist. It seems that, more and more, those that are guiding consumers are often leaning to what I call this purist mentality. This purist mentality is along the lines of “the diet must be perfect, no junk, sugar, fat, and so on.”  I must add at this point that I would love my clients to eat only at home, eat only healthy unprocessed foods, and in the correct portion sizes. With that stated, my experience tells me the purist mentality does not necessarily fit all or even most people.

Nutrition Realists

A realist is a person who accepts the world as it is. Then, deals with it, but realistically. This appears to be the case for those practitioners who have counseled for a long time. I tell my clients that I can design what I feel to be the  “perfect” eating plan. However, if they cannot follow it long enough to help their health, then what good is it?

I’m a realist. I would be happy to have my clients switch to a flavored green tea rather than a Starbucks Frappuccino! That’s right, the flavored green tea might not have the same nutritional edge as plain green tea, but it’s a start in the right direction! That’s what I want from my clients-to move in a better dietary direction.

Take away thoughts on being a nutrition purist or realist

One size does not fit all, especially when telling people how to eat. The concept of tailoring a diet to an individual means that like a pair of slacks or suit, the “diet” can be tailored with time. As the person’s nutritional requirements and acceptance of dietary change evolve, so can the diet.

How do you choose to counsel your clients?  And consumers, what nutritional guidance has worked for you? Here is one consumer link to find guidance that might help you find the nutrition “slacks” that best fit you!