The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) started in 1994, and it has seen many changes in society and the holistic nutrition industry over the last 30 years. CSNN was the first school to offer onsite class training for holistic nutrition practitioners and since then it has not only perfected the onsite class training format, but it has also become proficient in offering an online self-study format and online live interactive format. Offering a variety of formats addresses the various needs of our adult learners. Currently, there are over 12,000 graduates worldwide.
As leader in the holistic nutrition education industry, CSNN was the first school to create a Code of Ethics (Appendix A) and Scope of Practice (Appendix B) for its students and graduates. While no governmental regulation exists in this self-regulated industry, their self-imposed adherence to the code of Ethics, Scope of Practice and principles learned at CSNN set very high standards. In addition, CSNN is one of the few schools to offer a national board exam that speaks to the qualifications of its graduates.
The science of nutrition is fast evolving, and CSNN’s curriculum team continually researches scientific studies and papers to incorporate into CSNN’s holistic nutrition curriculum. CSNN provides its students and graduates with the tools they require to become effective practitioners working alongside other health care practitioners. These tools include comprehensive intake forms, clinical case studies, motivational interviewing elements, and well-rounded courses. CSNN is the only school that has an industry active Alumni Association that provides networking, mentorship opportunities, and support to graduates.
CSNN’s Natural Nutrition Program and Enhanced/Intensive Natural Nutrition programs are recognized under the Private Vocational Schools Act in Alberta, the New Brunswick Private Occupational Training Act, The Private Career Training Institutions Agency (PCTIA) in British Columbia, and the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005. CSNN’s programs and workshops are also recognized by Canadian associations Canadian Association of Natural Nutritional Practitioners (CANNP) and Canadian Association of Holistic Nutrition Professionals (CAHN-Pro), and National Association of Nutrition Professionals (NANP) in the U.S.
What is the difference between holistic nutrition that CSNN teaches and functional holistic nutrition?
Fundamentally there is no difference.
Functional Nutrition understands that food is a natural approach to help reestablish balance, replenish nutrient deficiencies, and rejuvenate the body. The purpose of Functional Nutrition is to identify and address the root issues of specific health concerns. Functional Nutrition takes a more individualized approach to one’s health, as it considers genetics, cultural, lifestyle habits such as exercise, sleep, and stress levels; Functional Nutrition is a holistic approach to wellness and whole body health.
Functional Holistic Nutrition incorporates the above plus includes one’s mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Functional Holistic Nutrition encompasses all aspects of one’s health; their environment (both work, home, and personal), their diet, lifestyle habits, outlook on life, plus their mental and emotional attitude.
While both Health Coaches and Holistic Nutrition Practitioners can help their clients, the key differences between the two professions are their scope of practice, their training, and the associations that support them. Find out more about the difference.
