Registered dietitian Rachel Hilts helps newcomers navigate nutrition

Rachel Hilts didn’t always know she wanted to be a dietitian. She originally planned to study biology at Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, but after discovering the field of dietetics, everything fell into place. “I had always been interested in nutrition, but I didn’t even realize being a dietitian was an option,” she says. “Once I learned more, it just clicked.”

Today, Rachel works as a registered dietitian at the Newcomer Clinic in Halifax, a specialized program within Nova Scotia Health that supports refugees and immigrants as they navigate healthcare in a new country. She provides one-on-one nutrition counseling, helping patients manage a wide range of health concerns, such as digestive issues, nutrition, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

“We work together to make realistic, achievable nutrition goals that fit their life,” she explains. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. It’s really about finding what works for each person.”

Working at the Newcomer Clinic comes with unique challenges. Rachel often encounters language barriers, cultural food preferences, and limited access to familiar ingredients. “A big part of my job is making sure my recommendations align with foods that are accessible and culturally appropriate,” she says. “I also work with other health professionals to help address things like food insecurity and isolation.”

For many of her patients, adjusting to a new healthcare system can be overwhelming. Rachel works closely with interpreters and community organizations to provide the best possible support.

One of Rachel’s favourite parts of being a dietitian is simplifying nutrition for her clients. “There’s so much overwhelming information out there,” she adds, noting it’s challenging to know what’s factual.

“I love breaking it down, making it practical, and helping people feel confident in their food choices.”

She also wants to dispel some common misconceptions about her profession. “People often think dietitians only focus on weight loss, and while that’s something we can support when appropriate, it’s just a small part of what we do. Nutrition focuses on overall health, not just weight.”

With Nova Scotia’s integrated, team-based approach to healthcare, Rachel is excited to see dietitians becoming more involved in primary healthcare clinics across the province. “It’s great to see doctors referring directly to dietitians in the clinic instead of having to send patients elsewhere,” she says. “It makes access easier and allows us to support people before small issues become bigger health concerns, helping to reduce demand on other parts of the healthcare system.”

Photo of Rachel Hilts, a registered dietitian, working at the Newcomer Clinic in Halifax, NS.