Which professional provides nutrition counseling for performance enhancement and recovery?

The Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD) is the professional specifically trained to provide nutrition counseling that focuses on enhancing athletic performance and aiding in recovery. This specialized credential signifies that the individual has advanced knowledge and expertise in sports nutrition, making them well-equipped to develop tailored nutrition plans for athletes and active individuals. These plans often address the unique dietary needs associated with different types of training, competition schedules, and recovery protocols.

In contrast, while a Registered Dietitian (RD) possesses a solid foundation in nutrition, they may not always have the specialized training or focus on sports performance that a CSSD has. A Health Coach generally provides broader wellness support and may not have the detailed knowledge specific to sports nutrition, and a Personal Trainer mainly focuses on physical training and exercise without the specific expertise in nutrition counseling related to performance enhancement. Therefore, the CSSD stands out as the expert in nutrition for athletic performance and recovery.