The Role of a Health Coach in Nutrition: Empowering Change within our Scope of Practice

Ann Garry

CEO & Director of Nutrition Training at Health Coaches Academy

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One of the most common questions we hear is:  "Can a Health Coach give nutrition advice?" Closely followed by: "Can a Health Coach create meal plans or recommend supplements?"

It’s a great question—and an important one. Nutrition is a vital part of wellbeing, and Health Coaches are often a client’s first point of contact when seeking to improve their health and lifestyle. Understanding what falls within a Health Coach’s scope of practice is essential to working ethically, professionally, and effectively.

So, Can a Health Coach Provide Information about Nutrition?

Yes - in a supportive and educational context. Health Coaches help clients in improving their relationship with food, understanding general nutrition principles, and adopting healthier eating habits.

They can talk about the basics of balanced meals, hydration, mindful eating, and the importance of whole foods. Coaches are trained to help clients implement changes that align with their personal goals, lifestyle, and values.

However, Health Coaches do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe nutrition protocols  for specific medical conditions. Therapeutic diets and or clinical nutrition advice falls within the remit of a qualified dietician or nutritionist.

Can a Health Coach Create Meal Plans?

Health Coaches can guide clients in structuring meals that aligns with their personal goals—whether that’s increasing energy, improving digestion, or managing cravings. They may  share examples or inspiration of nourishing meal ideas and recipes  while  encouraging clients to reflect on what works best for them.

What they don’t do is create prescriptive and personalised meal plans, especially for clients with diagnosed health conditions, unless they hold an additional qualification in clinical nutrition or dietetics. Instead, Health & Wellness Coaches take a collaborative, client-led approach, helping individuals build confidence and autonomy in making their own food choices.

Can a Health Coach Recommend or Sell Supplements?

Unless a Health Coach is also a qualified Nutritionist, Pharmacist or Doctor or has received recognised training in supplement use, they do not recommend or sell supplements—That said, a Health Coach might support a client in discussing supplement use with a qualified practitioner, or in researching options that have already been recommended to them. Again, the key is remaining in a supportive, educational, and non-directive role.

Can a Health Coach Prescribe Medication?

Health Coaches do not prescribe, recommend, or adjust medications under any circumstance. That responsibility is reserved for licensed medical professionals. If a client has questions or concerns about their medication, a Health Coach will always refer them back to their GP, specialist, or prescribing practitioner.

Complementary, Not Competitive: Health Coaching and Nutritional Support

Health Coaches are not replacements for Nutritionists - in fact, the most powerful outcomes are often achieved when these professions work together. A Nutritionist may provide a protocol, whilst a Health Coach helps the client navigate the practical and behavioural aspects of following that plan towards long-term success.

A Health Coach’s Role in Supporting Nutrition & Lifestyle

At Health Coaches Academy, we train our coaches to work holistically and ethically, with a strong emphasis on professional boundaries.

Health & Wellness Coaches play a role in supporting nutritional and lifestyle change, not through prescriptive plans or clinical interventions, but by helping clients take action, stay accountable and build healthy habits. They do so through the lens of behaviour change, client empowerment, and accountability. Our Level 5 Diploma in Health & Wellness Coaching equips our students and graduates with the knowledge and skills needed to:

• Provide general nutrition education and support healthy habit-building

• Encourage mindful eating and self-reflection

• Co-create realistic and sustainable lifestyle strategies

• Refer or collaborate with other healthcare professionals and specialists when needed

• Empower clients to take ownership of their health through self-awareness and goal setting

This client-centred approach ensures that clients are never told what to do, rather encouraged to explore what works for them - building confidence, autonomy, and meaningful change.

Want to Learn More?

If you're interested in becoming a Health and Wellness Coach or want to understand more about the scope of practice, qualifications, and how we train our students to work with clients around food and lifestyle— join one of our free introductory webinars. It's a great chance to learn more, ask questions, and discover if this path is right for you.

Register for a free introductory health coaching webinar here >>