Holistic nutrition professionals in Illinois now have important statutory clarity. The Illinois General Assembly has added exemption language to 225 ILCS 30 (Dietitian Nutritionist Practice Act) that allows holistic nutrition professionals to practice within their defined Scope of Practice.
The National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) continues to advance legislation that protects public health while also acknowledging the valuable role holistic nutrition professionals play in supporting wellness and preventive health care. This updated exemption language provides clear statutory recognition that qualified practitioners may offer non-medical nutrition services without being licensed dietitians or nutritionists, including to (reference Section 20. Exemptions in 225 ILCS 30:
- Provide individualized nutrition recommendations for wellness and primary prevention
- Offer health coaching, holistic and wellness education
- Support non-medical weight management
- Deliver other nutrition-related services that do not constitute Medical Nutrition Therapy
- Practice as long as they do not represent themselves as a licensed dietitian nutritionist or use protected titles
This is a significant step forward for holistic nutrition professionals in Illinois. It ensures you can continue doing what you do best, empowering clients through food, lifestyle strategies, and education, while maintaining clear boundaries around medical nutrition therapy and protected professional titles.
We are proud of the efforts that helped bring this clarification forward and look forward to supporting Illinois practitioners as they confidently serve their communities.
Together, we continue expanding access to safe, individualized, and preventive nutrition support across the country.
https://law.justia.com/codes/illinois/chapter-225/act-225-ilcs-30