Final Verdict
Overall, there are many online nutrition coaches to choose from; however, since nutrition coaching is not a licensed profession, anyone can call themselves a nutrition coach, so it is best to explore each company's credentials. The best programs are led by Registered Dietitians who have the experience and education required to treat complex concerns. Each nutrition coach has their own focus and expertise, including everything from weight loss to managing chronic conditions.
Many of the programs include virtual sessions with your coach, personalized plans, ongoing support between sessions, and education and coaching around disordered eating and specific health concerns. Programs include an initial assessment, and some programs offer a free consultation to see if it is a good fit before committing to a program. Overall, there are many reputable online nutrition coaches available virtually. It’s best to determine your budget, find out if you have insurance benefits, and decide what goals you want to focus on so you can find a coach best suited to your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do Online Nutrition Coaches Do?
Online nutrition coaches work with clients virtually to improve their diet, lose weight, manage health conditions through proper nutrition, and improve disordered eating patterns. Program length can range from a one-time session to over six months and often include weekly, biweekly, or monthly virtual sessions, meal plans, online courses, and messaging to your coach between sessions.
How Much Do Online Nutrition Coaches Charge?
Online nutrition coaching programs can cost as little as roughly $55 per month to upwards of around $200 per session. Some online nutrition coaches accept insurance, while others will provide you with a bill to submit to your insurance afterward for possible reimbursement.
Is an Online Nutrition Coach Worth It?
If you want to reach your health goals, exercise alone is often not enough. Proper nutrition is an important piece, and an online nutrition coach can help you understand the right foods to eat, when to eat them, and how to put together a well-balanced plan to suit your needs. If you have complex medical concerns or suffer from a chronic condition, a nutrition coach can help you eat well to decrease symptoms and help you live a full and happy life.
How Do I Choose an Online Nutrition Coach?
When looking for an online nutrition coach, it is best to first consider your budget, time commitment, insurance coverage, and location. When looking for a credible program, we read each nutrition coach's bio and find those who have the education and experience to support their services. Since nutrition coaching is not a regulated field, many professionals offer these services but may not have the same credentials as others. Registered Dietitians have extensive schooling and fieldwork requirements, making them best suited to provide nutrition coaching, especially for complex medical needs.
Can Online Nutrition Coaches Recommend Supplements?
Many online nutrition coaches recommend supplements, but that does not always mean they are qualified to do so. It is best to take advice from Registered Dietitians trained on supplement uses and possible interactions with other drugs. It is also important to note that some coaches are sponsored or benefit from supplement sales, which is essential to keep in mind when taking supplement advice.
Methodology
We researched 12 online nutrition coaches in the U.S. to find the best ones for different health and fitness goals, beginning our search online looking for nutrition coaches who offer services virtually. Standout options had a variety of plans to choose from and had one or more Registered Dietitians on staff. We also looked at companies that employ both a team of coaches, as well as independent coaches who specialize in specific populations. Nutrition coaches who did not have a Registered Dietitian on staff, offer virtual services, or provide information on their programs on their website didn't make our list.
Overall, hiring an online nutrition coach is a great way to learn more about nutrition, learn how to best fuel your body, keep you accountable to a plan and help you reach your health goals faster than going at it alone.