Name: Sneha Kantharia Desai
Academic Qualification: BSc in Food and nutrition from SNDT university , Mumbai (2012-2015)
PG Diploma in Dietetics (2017-2018)
Current position - Nutrition coach at Fitterfly Pvt. LTD
1. Why did you choose this profession?
To promote well-being in all age groups. I personally think that the eating habits of this generation are deteriorating and that we must act now to prevent future hardships.
2. How can one become a dietician in India?
By admitting yourself to an UGC-qualified university, you can choose a BSc with honors or pass and pursue a Master's in the same field.
3. What training, knowledge, or abilities are required for this field?
Knowledge, communication skills, and the co-relationship of biochemistry and nutrients.
4. What guidance would you provide a person thinking about this career?
Being creative and having your own unique approach to improving your clients' health is important. Avoid taking shortcuts and always work with determination.
5. What do you want people to understand right now about a dietitian's job?
The thing is that people assume that our work is very simple because we simply recommend the same foods to everyone, and they inquire about our consultations so casually. It's crucial to realize that it's a serious matter, and while you cannot ask for our advice at any time, it's not a simple task.
6. What is the most satisfying thing about your profession?
The most satisfying is witnessing individuals cultivate a positive relationship with food and improving their health on a daily basis.
7. What does a regular workweek look like in your profession?
A typical workweek in the nutrition industry is varied and dynamic. Combining meal planning, research, client interactions, and keeping up with current dietary trends are all part of the process.
8. What part of your job is the most difficult?
There are a few difficulties with the subject of nutrition that we run into. Tracking individual dietary demands and preferences is one of the hardest parts of the job. It might be difficult to balance each client's particular needs while also attending to their health issues and assisting them in making long-lasting adjustments.
9. We have heard that taking vacations during a patient-centered operation can be a little challenging. What are your views on it?
There can be certain difficulties while taking vacations when your job is patient-centered. The health and care of our patients come first at all times for us as healthcare providers. To give the finest care, though, we must keep a good balance between our personal and professional lives. Even on vacation, effective preparation, communication, and teamwork are essential. By guaranteeing enough coverage to our clients or giving them some tips and tricks in advance so that they can manage themselves better in some way when you are not available, this way we may take a break to refuel and come back with renewed and better energy to deliver first-rate patient-centered care.
10. Is consultation the only option available in this field, or are there other options?
Definitely not! It's a myth that we can only conduct consultations in this profession. Working as a qualified dietician is possible in a variety of settings. I have many friends in this field working as medical writers, social media managers, content developers, writers for nutrition and health books, blogs, and articles, researchers for product development, and instructors.
11. What is your opinion about the RD exam? Is it necessary to qualify for this exam to practice as a dietician in India, or is it just one choice?
In the field of nutrition, the Registered Dietitian (RD) test is quite valuable. Even though obtaining this certification may not be required in all nations, including India, it is not strongly advised, but if you can obtain it, there is no better option than this. It helps you grow in a lot of ways.
12. Debunking Myths: Is this true?
You always eat healthily.
I make an effort to eat a balanced, healthy diet, but like everyone else, I occasionally indulge in sweets, and it is completely normal to have them once in a while. The secret is to strike a lasting balance that serves my needs and enhances my general wellbeing. Or you can just experiment with a lot of healthy recipes and make yourself a good treat.
You never skip your workout.
Here, I will just correct one thing. I sometimes miss my workout, but I never miss out on my physical activity.
Even though I try to prioritize my workouts and maintain consistency, life can get busy or unexpected events can happen. However, I am aware of the value of physical movement for my general health and try to include it as much as I can in my daily activities so that even if I am missing a scheduled workout, some physical activity is there.
You have always maintained a healthy work-life balance.
It can be difficult to strike a balance between work and personal life, but I make an effort to keep the two in harmony. Setting limits, prioritizing self-care, and using good time management are crucial. Even though there could be times when the balance tips, I work hard to maintain it. Remember, it's a journey, and with deliberate work, we may design a happy and complete existence. Let's achieve that balance and make use of the best of both worlds!
Healthy meals can never be tasty.
Healthy food can undoubtedly taste good and have a lot of flavor! Healthy food is not bland or tasteless, contrary to popular belief. You can prepare delectable meals that are wholesome and delicious by using the correct ingredients, flavors, and cooking methods. Try different combinations of healthy products, fresh herbs, and spices to give your food a flavor boost. Example: Do not add a lot of salt, but for taste, you can use tamarind and lemon juice, so such swaps can make your food tasty and won't harm you in the long term.
13. What kind of diet did you eat while you were growing up? You always used to eat well, right?
I was fortunate enough to have a varied and balanced diet as a child. Meals that were well-balanced and included plenty of fresh produce, healthy grains, lean proteins, and other nutrients were a priority in my family's cooking. We enjoyed lovingly produced meals at home and occasionally indulged in sweets in moderation. I grew up with my grandmother, so there is no doubt I would prefer my traditional home cooked meals over anything.
14. Do your friends and family members think you're comparing what they eat when you go out with them? Do they ask you for guidance or suggestions, or do you offer them?
Despite my enthusiasm for nutrition, I accept each person's unique preferences and lifestyle choices. I'm happy to offer help and information if someone is looking for direction or ideas for healthier solutions.
15. Do you feel burned out when surrounded by patients or clients most of the time?
It might be emotionally and mentally exhausting to work with patients or clients, but I carefully maintain my wellbeing to avoid burnout. I put my self-care first, use stress-reduction strategies, and ask for help from coworkers and mentors.
16. With so many slimming products or supplements coming on the market or people opting for crash diets over a balanced diet, do you feel like your industry is becoming more commercialized?
The market's increased availability of supplements, crash diets, and slimming items gives the appearance that the nutrition sector is becoming more commercialized. But as a devoted professional, I continue to be dedicated to advancing evidence-based methods and supporting a healthy, sustainable approach to nutrition. This practice of mine won't ever change, but it is very sad to know that these things are increasing day by day.
17. What should one be aware of before entering this profession?
I would like to encourage the general public and future aspirants to embrace the potential of nutrition as a tool for their own and other people's well-being. Invest in this field with a sincere desire to help others live healthier lives. Keep learning, challenging yourself, and remaining curious to stay up-to-date on the most recent discoveries and developments. Always keep in mind that making little, regular changes to your lifestyle can have a big impact. Be sympathetic, sensitive, and committed to assisting others in achieving wellbeing. Let's use the transforming power of nutrition to change the world for the better together!
18. Lastly, what message would you like to give to future aspirants and the general audience?
My message would be: If you really want to be the change for tomorrow’s India , go for it:)
(NutriScope/GS)
