Meet the Dietitian: Jodie Mouton

Meet Registered Dietitian Jodie Mouton, that is more than your average dietitian – she is also a personal trainer!

 

Why did you become a Registered Dietitian?

From a very young age I knew I always wanted to work within the health sector, but never knew which route was intended for me. My aunt studied to be a Dietitian and after she told me stories about her work, I knew that was what I wanted to do!

 

Where did you study (degree and/ or postgrad)?

I moved from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town to study my undergraduate degree, then moved to Queenstown for my community service year before moving back to PE, that would always be home for me. I am currently studying my Masters degree at Nelson Mandela University, they have such an incredible Dietetics department.

 

Where do you work and what does your job entail? 

At the moment I work predominantly in the sports sector, I work as the in-house Dietitian and Personal Trainer at a gym and absolutely love it. I see patients for weight loss, diabetics, patients with IBS and hypertension, among others. I make up super individualized and easy-to-follow meal plans and information pamphlets. I also provide personal training that accompanies healthy eating so well.

 

What do you enjoy most about the work you do? What are the most satisfying moments?

The types of patients I see are really relatable and generally I am able to connect well with them, I think the most satisfying thing is seeing how exercise,  great nutrition and determination can completely change a person’s life.

 

What has been your career highlight? 

I have been recruited to work at a few corporate wellness events and also be on the radio, those definitely are some of the highlights of my career.

 

What are the most challenging aspects of your career?

I must admit that this career is more challenging than I expected, at least speaking as a private practicing dietitian, marketing and finding patients is a big task if you work alone – but I am so proud of the progress I have made and I am learning all the time.

 

What are the three things that you think people should stop saying when they meet a dietitian?

I wish people wouldn’t be so afraid to talk to a dietitian, we don’t bite! I think people are scared of the truth and dietitians are all about speaking truth, but I wish that people embraced it and take the advice (if any) as a helping hand.

I also wish people stopped asking “So what do you think about banting”, and then expect a short concise answer.

And finally, I wish people stopped asking about weight loss pills or shakes. Eating healthy isn’t difficult at all, and your health should never be taken for granted. You only have one body, treat it as best as you can!