Who gets to give dietary advice? Health coach fights law

NEW YORK (AP) — In California, Heather Del Castillo offered tips on natural eating as a health coach. But in Florida, the title didn't qualify her to give nutrition advice.

After getting a complaint that she was working without a license, Florida officials sent a cease-and-desist order and fined her $750. Del Castillo sued, saying her free speech rights were violated. Now, a federal court is expected to rule on her lawsuit as other states weigh regulations on professional dietary advice.

The case highlights the confusion around dietitians and health coaches, and how their qualifications differ.

"I literally didn't even know I was doing anything that was wrong," said Del Castillo, who noted her business was legal when she was living in California.

Health coaches like Del Castillo can get certificates from a variety of programs, but the title doesn't have a consistent meaning and anyone can use it. Many say they can give clients advice on how to achieve their health goals through lifestyle changes.

Registered dietitians complete months of supervised practice, pass a national exam and take continuing education courses — requirements that are echoed in the licensing laws of states that have them. While they too can help people meet health goals, dietitians say they also have the qualifications to advise patients managing chronic diseases or other medical problems.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, which represents registered dietitians, says Del Castillo's lawsuit poses a threat to other licensing laws that protect public health, such as those for doctors. It notes that it supports dietary licensing laws only for advice on medical conditions, such as diabetes and obesity.

"If they're talking about wellness and general nutrition, that would not be affected,"...