We’ve all heard the phrase “abs are made in the kitchen,” but what does it really mean? While exercise certainly plays a key role in building core strength and toning your physique, the truth is that no amount of sit-ups or planks will reveal your abdominal muscles if they’re hidden under layers of body fat — and this is where nutrition comes into play.
Whether your goal is fat loss, muscle gain, performance improvement, or general well-being, what you eat often has a more significant impact than how you train. Many fitness experts argue that success in any fitness journey is 70–80% down to what’s on your plate. Training is important, but nutrition is essential.
Why Nutrition Comes First
Training increases energy expenditure, improves strength and endurance, and helps stimulate muscle growth. However, nutrition provides the fuel your body needs to perform and recover. Without a balanced diet, your training efforts may not yield the results you’re hoping for.
Here are a few ways nutrition can make or break your progress:
- Fat Loss: A calorie deficit is essential for fat loss. While exercise contributes to this, controlling calorie intake through nutrition is far more effective. It’s easier to reduce your daily intake by 300 calories than to burn an extra 300 through exercise alone.
- Muscle Gain: Consuming enough protein, along with overall calories, is critical to support muscle repair and growth. You can train hard in the gym, but without proper nutrition, your muscles won’t have the building blocks they need.
- Performance: Carbohydrates fuel high-intensity training, while healthy fats support hormone production. Micronutrients like iron, B vitamins, and magnesium also play a role in energy production and focus. A poor diet can lead to fatigue, poor recovery, and lack of progress.
- Health & Longevity: Balanced nutrition supports immune function, digestive health, hormone balance, and mental clarity — all of which contribute to a better quality of life, both inside and outside the gym.
The Case for Expert Support
Despite the abundance of online resources, understanding nutrition at a deeper level can be overwhelming. Generic meal plans and “one-size-fits-all” advice may not suit your unique needs, preferences, or goals. That’s where expert guidance becomes invaluable.
If you’re serious about making a sustainable change — whether you’re looking to lose fat, build lean muscle, improve energy levels, or manage a health condition — seeking help from a qualified professional can save you time, confusion, and frustration.
But who should you speak to: a nutritionist or a dietitian?
Nutritionist vs Dietitian: What’s the Difference?
Both nutritionists and dietitians work in the field of nutrition, but there are some important distinctions between the two — especially in terms of training, regulation, and scope of practice.
Nutritionist:
- A general term for someone who advises on food, diet, and healthy eating.
- May or may not have formal qualifications — the title isn’t legally protected in the UK.
- Some nutritionists hold degrees or diplomas and are registered with professional bodies like the Association for Nutrition (AfN).
- Typically work in private practice, wellness centres, gyms, or public health campaigns.
- Focus on promoting overall health, weight management, sports performance, and preventative nutrition.
Dietitian:
- A legally protected title in the UK, dietitians must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
- They hold a degree in dietetics or a related field, with clinical training.
- Can work in hospitals, clinics, and community settings.
- Qualified to diagnose and treat complex health conditions related to diet, such as diabetes, eating disorders, IBS, food allergies, and more.
- Often referred to by GPs for medical nutrition therapy.
So, Who Should You Choose?
If you’re generally healthy but want personalised guidance on weight management, fitness nutrition, or building better habits, a registered nutritionist may be suitable. They can help tailor your food choices to your goals and lifestyle in a practical and supportive way.
If you have a specific medical condition or need specialist advice for health-related issues, it’s best to consult a registered dietitian. Their clinical background ensures you get evidence-based guidance that aligns with your medical needs.
Key Takeaways
You can train as hard as you like, but if your nutrition isn’t aligned with your goals, your results will be limited. The phrase “abs are made in the kitchen” reminds us that what you eat matters — perhaps more than how you move. Whether you’re trying to lean out, bulk up, or simply feel more energised and healthy, prioritising nutrition is the smartest move you can make.
And if you’re unsure where to start, don’t guess — ask an expert. Choosing the right professional support can help you create a realistic, science-backed plan that fits your lifestyle and brings long-term success.