Choosing well
Nutritionist in Bamber Bridge or nutrition club?
Looking for a nutritionist in Bamber Bridge, south-east of Preston, to lose weight or eat better? A dietitian, a nutritionist and a nutrition club each have their own role. Here is who does what, when to see your GP first, and what the club offers.
At a glance
Dietitian, nutritionist or nutrition club, who does what
| Dietitian | Nutritionist | Nutrition club | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who they are | A health professional, registered with the HCPC. | A title not protected by law. Registered Nutritionists are on a voluntary register and hold at least a degree in nutrition science. | A place where a coach trained in nutrition supports you, alongside other members. |
| What they do | Assess, diagnose and treat diet and nutrition problems, including medical conditions. | General advice on food and health, depending on their training. | Help to balance your meals and keep track of your habits, with no diagnosis. |
| How often | A few appointments, spread over several weeks. | A few appointments, spread over several weeks. | Every day, with breakfast at the club in the morning. |
| Cost | Free on the NHS, usually through your GP practice. Some areas let you refer yourself. Private appointments are paid. | Usually paid privately. | A free assessment. The price of the programme is explained at the assessment, with no obligation. |
| Who it suits | An illness, an allergy or a pregnancy that calls for a special diet. | Wanting general advice on eating well. | Changing your habits, in good health, with friendly company. |
When to see your GP first
- A long-term condition such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, kidney or heart disease.
- Medication for diabetes, a blood thinner such as warfarin, a weight loss injection, or any medicine that affects your appetite or your weight.
- Being underweight, with a BMI below 18.5.
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- An eating disorder, or a relationship with food that causes you distress.
- Weight or eating worries in a child or a teenager.
- A food allergy, coeliac disease or another condition that needs a special diet, or stomach or weight loss surgery.
- Cancer, or treatment such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
- Losing or gaining weight without trying, or a loss of appetite, especially after 60.
In these cases, see your GP. They can refer you to an NHS dietitian if needed. The club can come afterwards, alongside your care, once you have talked it over with them.
Dietitian or nutritionist, what the law says
Dietitian is a title protected by law. Only professionals registered with the Health and Care Professions Council, the HCPC, may use it. Nutritionist is not a protected title. The Association for Nutrition keeps a voluntary register of Registered Nutritionists.
At the club, the coaches are trained in nutrition. They are neither doctors nor dietitians, and never present themselves as such.
What the club adds
It all starts with the free assessment at the club. The daily support is described on the programme page.
Frequently asked questions
Is the club a substitute for a nutritionist?
How can I check who I am seeing?
Can I join the club while seeing my doctor?
Should I see a nutritionist or join a nutrition club?
The club in Bamber Bridge
267 Brindle Road
Walton Summit Centre
Bamber Bridge PR5 6YP, directions in a new tab, south-east of Preston
People come to the club from Bamber Bridge and the surrounding area, Higher Walton, Clayton Brook, Gregson Lane, Brindle, Clayton-le-Woods, Walton-le-Dale, Lostock Hall, Farington, Hoghton, Whittle-le-Woods, Samlesbury, Buckshaw Village, Leyland, Penwortham and Preston.
Opening hours
Monday to Friday, from 6am to 11am
Saturday, from 7am to 12:30pm
Closed on Sunday
Free assessment
Book your free assessment
Choose lunchtime, afternoon or evening, and the club rings you back.
5.0 on Google
Your free assessment
- No obligation
- With a personal coach
- At the club in Bamber Bridge, Walton Summit Centre