Despite an overload of nutrition information from the internet, social media, celebrities and wellness gurus, a new survey shows most Australians strongly back the advice of a qualified nutrition professional.

The Omnipoll survey of more than 1,200 adults found almost nine in 10 Australians (85%) trust the nutrition advice of a dietitian.

The first-of-its-kind survey revealed just 27 per cent trust nutrition advice from the internet, and less than one in four have confidence in the nutrition advice of healthy eating bloggers (23%) and TV chefs (22%). “The current digital age means that, when we have a question on nutrition, a mosh pit of information is available at our fingertips. So, it’s not surprising that figuring out what to eat has never been more complex or confusing,” said Professor Clare Collins, an Accredited Practising Dietitian.

But according to this latest survey, Australians trust that expert guidance can make all the difference.“Because Accredited Practising Dietitians have a scientific qualification, it reassures people that they have spent a lot of time - in fact, at least four years at university - studying nutrition science.

“This gives them a solid grounding in evaluating scientific research and using their skills to translate the research into advice tailored to each individual.  

“You need to be cautious about nutrition advice found online, including from celebrities or wellness gurus who don’t have a qualification in nutrition science. Instead, check any nutrition claims with a health professional,” said Prof Collins.

Hundreds of dietitians across the country will join forces to launch Australia’s first Smart Eating Week, from 12-18 February, which celebrates the role Accredited Practising Dietitians play in inspiring and supporting Australians to live healthier lives.

Many dietitians specialise in an area of nutrition, such as gut health, allergies or intolerances, mental health, eating disorders, heart disease, diabetes management, cancer care, and paediatrics, so can offer up-to-date and trustworthy advice and support.

“Let’s face it, because we’re all unique, with our own health challenges, goals, and lifestyle, ‘smart eating’ will mean different things to different people, and how we go about achieving it will be different too. When it comes to getting the best nutrition advice, turn to an Accredited Practising Dietitian,” said Prof Collins.