Name: Sylvia Lam See-way Age: 30 Occupation: Dietitian
Young Post: What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Lam: Dietitians have a knowledge of disease management while nutritionists do not. So nutritionists cannot design a diet for patients, such as those with cancer or kidney problems.
There is no official registration system in Hong Kong. Some so-called nutritionists have only taken a certificate course for a few months. There's no guarantee that the clients will benefit. The government should take steps to regulate the industry.
YP: What does your job involve?
L: I give my clients advice on diet and exercise. Some of them are diabetic, others have heart disease or are overweight. There's no standard healthy menu. I come up with a different diet for each individual.
