The Untold Side of Becoming a Dietitian
This may surprise you, but most dietitians I know didn’t choose this career because they just naturally loved healthy eating.
Here’s the thing: we didn’t grow up obsessed with green smoothies or craving chia pudding. I’ve worked with many Registered Dietitians (RDs) and nutrition students, and the stories I hear most often are deeply personal.
The most common theme I hear? Transformation.
The Story Behind the Career
Some dietitians grew up managing blood sugar because they have type 1 diabetes. Others faced GI conditions or major food allergies. Many struggled with their relationship with food, found healing, and felt inspired to help others.
There are RDs who were athletes and realized nutrition gave them an edge early on. And yes, some just love food: cooking, baking, and experimenting with recipes.
For me, it was an abrupt change in my GI health that altered the course of my career. I spent more than five years struggling with food intolerances, cutting out many favorites, and trying to find balance with IBS symptoms. Nutrition became a big part of my recovery both mentally and physically.
In time as other struggles surfaced, I also turned to what I’d learned through nutrition to help me manage other parts of my health, including endometriosis, fertility, and the energy dips that used to hit hard in the afternoons. Each step deepened my respect for how food connects to so many parts of well-being.
If You’ve Ever Worried About Being Judged
I tell you these stories because if you’ve ever been hesitant to work with a dietitian, please know we’re not here to judge your food choices. Many of us have been through our own challenges, and that experience shapes how we approach this work with understanding, not criticism.
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been at a gathering that involves food (and let’s be honest, most do!) when someone finds out I’m a dietitian. Almost immediately, they look at their plate and say something like, “Oh, I don’t usually eat this.”
It happens all the time: people suddenly become hyper-aware of what’s on their plate, or they comment on the fact that I’m eating dessert too.
But the truth is, I’m not judging. And we as RDs aren’t judging. We like all the tasty foods too!
Food is part of connection, comfort, and culture. It’s not something to feel guilty about.
Every dietitian has a story. If you’ve ever felt uncertain or self-conscious about food, know that many of us have been there too.
What I Believe as a Dietitian
Healthy eating isn’t black or white.
It’s not about extremes or perfection.Your long-standing habits matter—but they can change.
You can make a different choice at any time.What you eat most of the time shapes your health.
What you eat some of the time doesn’t. Treats are part of life.There’s no one perfect diet.
You have more flexibility than you think.Healthy eating shouldn’t feel like a chore.
It should fit your life in a way that feels good and sustainable.
Author Note
I originally wrote this piece as an introduction on my website for those exploring one-on-one work, but it also felt like a great way to open this new writing space: blog.courtneyoconnor.com. Are we still calling it a “blog” these days?
I’m Courtney, a Registered Dietitian of over 15 years helping people simplify nutrition without stress.
I write about nutrition, metabolic health, intuitive eating, and whole-person wellness—blending science, mindfulness, and compassion.
Nutrition should feel clear and approachable, not overwhelming. Here, you’ll find evidence-based insight and small, practical shifts that support balanced living.
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