Nutritional Therapy Association: Scope of Practice and the Five Foundations of Health

Nutritional Therapy Association (NTA) is a leader in functional, holistic nutrition education. It trains Nutritional Therapy Practitioners (NTPs)  to help individuals restore balance and vitality through personalized nutrition and lifestyle guidance.

Instead of focusing solely on calories, macros, or symptom management, the NTA emphasizes the body’s innate ability to heal itself when properly nourished. Its curriculum is rooted in bio-individuality—the idea that each person’s nutritional needs are unique—and guided by a framework known as the Five Foundations of Health.

What Is the Scope of Practice for an NTP?

Graduates of the Nutritional Therapy Association are trained to:

• Assess health, diet, and lifestyle patterns to uncover nutritional imbalances.

• Develop individualized recommendations based on nutrient-dense, whole foods.

• Educate clients about the relationship between nutrition, digestion, blood sugar, energy, sleep, and stress.

• Provide tools for sustainable, long-term wellness rather than temporary fixes.

• Work collaboratively with other health professionals when more specialized care is needed.

It’s important to note that NTPs do not diagnose or treat medical conditions. Instead, they focus on supporting the body’s natural healing processes by strengthening the foundations of health.

The Five Foundations of Nutritional Therapy

The NTA teaches that five key pillars form the basis of all health. When these areas are supported, the body is better equipped to achieve balance and vitality.

1. Nutrient-Dense Eating

Food quality matters. Nutrient-dense eating means choosing whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats. This ensures the body has the raw materials it needs for energy, repair, and resilience.

2. Digestion and Gut Health

Even the most nutrient-rich diet cannot help if the body cannot absorb it. Optimizing digestion and supporting gut health ensures that nutrients are properly assimilated, while also maintaining a balanced microbiome.

3. Blood Sugar Regulation

Stable blood sugar is essential for consistent energy, mental focus, mood balance, and metabolic health. NTPs teach clients how to build meals and habits that support healthy glucose regulation throughout the day.

4. Sleep

Restful, restorative sleep is vital for hormone balance, cellular repair, and overall well-being. Without adequate sleep, the body cannot recover or function at its best, regardless of diet quality.

5. Stress Management

Chronic stress impacts every bodily system, from digestion to immunity. The NTA emphasizes the importance of stress management strategies—such as mindfulness, movement, and proper nourishment—to support whole-body wellness.

Why These Foundations Matter

The Five Foundations are interconnected. For example:

• Chronic stress disrupts digestion.

• Poor sleep destabilizes blood sugar.

• Nutrient deficiencies magnify the effects of both.

By supporting all five areas, Nutritional Therapy Practitioners create a holistic framework that empowers clients to make lasting lifestyle changes. This approach goes beyond temporary diets, helping people build resilience and long-term health.

References

1. Nutritional Therapy Association. Our Mission and Programs. https://nutritionaltherapy.com

2. Nutritional Therapy Association. Foundations of Nutritional Therapy. https://nutritionaltherapy.com/our-philosophy/

3. Price, W. A. (1939). Nutrition and Physical Degeneration. Price-Pottenger Nutrition Foundation.