Meal Planning for Healthy Living
Master the art of meal planning to nourish lives, empower change, and confidently support every client’s unique needs. |
Overview
Learn the essentials of meal and menu planning in this single subject, perfect as an elective for students in our Certified Women's Health & Wellness Coach Program, and a key unit in the Professional Certificate in Meal Planning. This course is an excellent choice for anyone interested in including meal and menu planning in their client offerings or developing their skills around food planning and preparation for healthy living.
Dive into the process of collating meal data and collaborating with clients to create nutritious eating plans that support health and wellbeing.
You have the opportunity to complete practical tasks, including planning, assessing, and developing recipes, while exploring a variety of meal planning software and tools.
Whether you have a background in nutrition, health coaching, fitness, or are keen to expand your knowledge, this course is the ‘how to’ for meal planning. Available to students from anywhere, including Australia, NZ, the UK, USA, Canada, Europe, and more.
Dive into the process of collating meal data and collaborating with clients to create nutritious eating plans that support health and wellbeing.
You have the opportunity to complete practical tasks, including planning, assessing, and developing recipes, while exploring a variety of meal planning software and tools.
Whether you have a background in nutrition, health coaching, fitness, or are keen to expand your knowledge, this course is the ‘how to’ for meal planning. Available to students from anywhere, including Australia, NZ, the UK, USA, Canada, Europe, and more.
Details
How you will learn >
WCGE04: Meal Planning for Health Living
Learning and teaching
We use modern blended learning approach. This course is designed for flexibility and ease, with downloadable topic-based textbooks in PDF format, guided instructions to keep you on track, and an interactive workbook packed with videos, tasks, and note-taking space. You'll also gain access to essential readings, templates, and tools for extended learning. Stay up to date with the latest in nutrition and health, and make the most of this dynamic, evidence-based learning experience!
Assessment methods
At Well College we see assessments not as tests but as learning tools, they are not meant to trick you, rather they are designed to provide you with another learning opportunity.
The on-line assessment for this unit includes a set of 48 multiple choice questions in total, each topic has a set of questions to complete, so you can pace yourself through the unit. The assessment is open book and untimed and you can choose to take up to 3 attempts to complete.
Once you have completed and passed your quiz, you will be granted access to download your Certificate along with a Statement of Continuing Education Points.
Learning at WCG
The classes you take will vary based on your course, offering different formats for meaningful interaction with staff, industry professionals, and peers. WCG courses focus on active learning rather than passive large-scale lectures, with content typically provided online through readings, videos, and other on-demand materials.
Learning and teaching
We use modern blended learning approach. This course is designed for flexibility and ease, with downloadable topic-based textbooks in PDF format, guided instructions to keep you on track, and an interactive workbook packed with videos, tasks, and note-taking space. You'll also gain access to essential readings, templates, and tools for extended learning. Stay up to date with the latest in nutrition and health, and make the most of this dynamic, evidence-based learning experience!
Assessment methods
At Well College we see assessments not as tests but as learning tools, they are not meant to trick you, rather they are designed to provide you with another learning opportunity.
The on-line assessment for this unit includes a set of 48 multiple choice questions in total, each topic has a set of questions to complete, so you can pace yourself through the unit. The assessment is open book and untimed and you can choose to take up to 3 attempts to complete.
Once you have completed and passed your quiz, you will be granted access to download your Certificate along with a Statement of Continuing Education Points.
Learning at WCG
The classes you take will vary based on your course, offering different formats for meaningful interaction with staff, industry professionals, and peers. WCG courses focus on active learning rather than passive large-scale lectures, with content typically provided online through readings, videos, and other on-demand materials.
COURSE STRUCTURE >
There are four topics to complete the unit. Within each topic is a:
Estimate approximately 20 hours of study.
Continuing Education
Students enrolled in a WCG Diploma, Program or Certificate where this subject is a core elective, will have free ongoing access to the Coaching, Health and Business Live Classes.
- Downloadable PDF Text Book
- Readings and Resources
Estimate approximately 20 hours of study.
Continuing Education
Students enrolled in a WCG Diploma, Program or Certificate where this subject is a core elective, will have free ongoing access to the Coaching, Health and Business Live Classes.
UNIT content >
Module 1. Principles of Meal Planning
Establish a strong foundation in healthy eating and meal planning principles that will empower you to become an effective planner. Explore the diverse profiles of your clients and the tailored planning services you can offer to meet their unique needs.
Dive into the meal and menu planning process, learning essential tools and techniques to create personalised, achievable plans. Discover how to shop and prepare meals for different client types, while motivating them for positive change. You'll also learn how to source suitable recipes that align with your clients' goals.
Finally, we’ll cover the fundamentals of healthy eating, emphasising the benefits of a varied diet. This section includes updated insights on food quality, such as sustainable production, whole foods, organic produce, glycaemic index and blood sugar, and the impact of processed and ultra-processed foods on health.
Module 2. Data gathering and Collating
Discover the essential skills for collecting and analysing client data, utilising tools such as food diaries and food records. Explore the key factors involved in gathering and assessing food data, emphasising the importance of effective communication between coach and client. Learn how to accurately record data to enhance its validity, and develop strategies for working collaboratively with clients to ensure a comprehensive understanding of their nutritional habits.
Module 3: The Practice of Meal Planning
You’ve made it! Now it’s time to actually assess the data you’ve gathered and apply it to practical meal planning. In this module, you’ll explore various tools for evaluating food intake and meal data, including dietary diversity measures, healthy eating indexes, and a look at the Mediterranean Diet.
Learn how to use this information to create personalised meal plans that cater to individual needs. We’ll focus on tailoring plans to accommodate cultural preferences, incorporating diverse protein sources, and considering seasonal availability. Additionally, you’ll discover how to plan for varying energy and nutrient requirements to ensure optimal client outcomes.
Module 4. Special Dietary Requirements, Cultural Considerations, Professional Practice
In this final module, you’ll learn how to tailor your meal planning to meet the diverse needs of the broader community. Explore how different cultures have shaped eating preferences and discover ways to incorporate various dietary styles into your plans.
You’ll gain insight into special dietary requirements, including the critical differences between food allergies and intolerances. We’ll delve into common intolerances, such as gluten and lactose, ensuring you have a solid understanding of their implications for meal planning.
We’ll conclude with a focus on professional considerations, outlining duty of care, referring, and your obligations to clients as you create inclusive and thoughtful meal plans.
This course includes extensive learning activities to practice your craft each step of the way, including the use of various meal planning software and tools.
Establish a strong foundation in healthy eating and meal planning principles that will empower you to become an effective planner. Explore the diverse profiles of your clients and the tailored planning services you can offer to meet their unique needs.
Dive into the meal and menu planning process, learning essential tools and techniques to create personalised, achievable plans. Discover how to shop and prepare meals for different client types, while motivating them for positive change. You'll also learn how to source suitable recipes that align with your clients' goals.
Finally, we’ll cover the fundamentals of healthy eating, emphasising the benefits of a varied diet. This section includes updated insights on food quality, such as sustainable production, whole foods, organic produce, glycaemic index and blood sugar, and the impact of processed and ultra-processed foods on health.
Module 2. Data gathering and Collating
Discover the essential skills for collecting and analysing client data, utilising tools such as food diaries and food records. Explore the key factors involved in gathering and assessing food data, emphasising the importance of effective communication between coach and client. Learn how to accurately record data to enhance its validity, and develop strategies for working collaboratively with clients to ensure a comprehensive understanding of their nutritional habits.
Module 3: The Practice of Meal Planning
You’ve made it! Now it’s time to actually assess the data you’ve gathered and apply it to practical meal planning. In this module, you’ll explore various tools for evaluating food intake and meal data, including dietary diversity measures, healthy eating indexes, and a look at the Mediterranean Diet.
Learn how to use this information to create personalised meal plans that cater to individual needs. We’ll focus on tailoring plans to accommodate cultural preferences, incorporating diverse protein sources, and considering seasonal availability. Additionally, you’ll discover how to plan for varying energy and nutrient requirements to ensure optimal client outcomes.
Module 4. Special Dietary Requirements, Cultural Considerations, Professional Practice
In this final module, you’ll learn how to tailor your meal planning to meet the diverse needs of the broader community. Explore how different cultures have shaped eating preferences and discover ways to incorporate various dietary styles into your plans.
You’ll gain insight into special dietary requirements, including the critical differences between food allergies and intolerances. We’ll delve into common intolerances, such as gluten and lactose, ensuring you have a solid understanding of their implications for meal planning.
We’ll conclude with a focus on professional considerations, outlining duty of care, referring, and your obligations to clients as you create inclusive and thoughtful meal plans.
This course includes extensive learning activities to practice your craft each step of the way, including the use of various meal planning software and tools.
LEARNING OUTCOMES >
When awarded credit for this unit, a learner will:
- Be able to provide personalised, guideline-based meal plans for diverse and specialised dietary needs.
- Apply knowledge of food-related influences to coach sustainable healthy eating behaviours.
- Show an understanding of nutritional requirements across the lifespan based on endorsed guidelines and values
- Demonstrate a knowledge of dietary requirements for good health – variety, unprocessed, dynamic
- Display an ability to provide a meal plan that meets the overt needs of a client – energy, nutritional needs (servings, calories), taste and appeal
- Identify factors that promote and inhibit food intake (nutrition psychology)
- Explain how these factors can be used in achieving healthy eating habits
- Work with specialised dietary needs – coeliac, lactose, vegetarian (but not diagnosing or treating)
- Be able to design, provide and implement the plan within a coaching framework
- Recognise when to refer on and develop referral systems
Continuing Professional Development >
Learn how to confidently plan, assess, and create healthy, client-focused meals with this practical online course—ideal for health coaches, wellness professionals, and nutrition enthusiasts |
Fees
Fee Payment options >
This unit is $350 AUD.
AddiTIONAL fees >
There are no additional expenses.
We offer free Graduate Webinars in the areas of health and coaching. Register here.
Upgrade to Diploma, Program or Certificate and gain exclusive access to free, live mentoring classes both during your studies and beyond. Led by industry professionals, these small-group sessions provide real-world insights and practical skills.
Each month, explore rotating expert-led topics like marketing and business growth, functional testing, coaching strategies, health case studies, mental health, EFT, and more.
You have 21 days to upgrade to the Bundle to gain the extra BONUS elective and save.
We offer free Graduate Webinars in the areas of health and coaching. Register here.
Upgrade to Diploma, Program or Certificate and gain exclusive access to free, live mentoring classes both during your studies and beyond. Led by industry professionals, these small-group sessions provide real-world insights and practical skills.
Each month, explore rotating expert-led topics like marketing and business growth, functional testing, coaching strategies, health case studies, mental health, EFT, and more.
You have 21 days to upgrade to the Bundle to gain the extra BONUS elective and save.
Testimonial
"Studying at Well College Global has changed my life, from the first time I called they were very understanding of my goals and time.
I was able to study and juggle work and parenting roles to follow my passion to become a leading health and wellness coach.
What I love about studying with WCG is the community of like minded souls who encourage you along the way, and the multiple activities which Leanne and her team offer the students.
As well all the elective units are fun, current and packed full of information.
If you're serious about your health and want a college who will be present, support and back you 100 percent then I feel WCG is for you."
Dan Lange
BeeNourished
A little bit about Dan's journey with Well College.
Dan came to us as professional chef. He started studying with Well College in 2018 and completed the Professional Certificate in Meal and Menu Planning. Dan then went on to further his skills in nutrition and health and excelling in the then Nutrition & Health Coaching Certificate. He didn't stop there... Dan completed the Diploma in Coaching for Lifestyle and Wellbeing Management which includes the ICF Certified Coaching Professional Program, he was on the first intake Well College had for this program. Dan is now part of the Well College faculty and provides live classes in a number of areas to our student's and graduates. Dan works with clients 1:1 and in a national organisational setting.
I was able to study and juggle work and parenting roles to follow my passion to become a leading health and wellness coach.
What I love about studying with WCG is the community of like minded souls who encourage you along the way, and the multiple activities which Leanne and her team offer the students.
As well all the elective units are fun, current and packed full of information.
If you're serious about your health and want a college who will be present, support and back you 100 percent then I feel WCG is for you."
Dan Lange
BeeNourished
A little bit about Dan's journey with Well College.
Dan came to us as professional chef. He started studying with Well College in 2018 and completed the Professional Certificate in Meal and Menu Planning. Dan then went on to further his skills in nutrition and health and excelling in the then Nutrition & Health Coaching Certificate. He didn't stop there... Dan completed the Diploma in Coaching for Lifestyle and Wellbeing Management which includes the ICF Certified Coaching Professional Program, he was on the first intake Well College had for this program. Dan is now part of the Well College faculty and provides live classes in a number of areas to our student's and graduates. Dan works with clients 1:1 and in a national organisational setting.
Pathways from this Unit
Each of the four options below include the Meal Planning for Healthy Living (WCGE04).
You can start with this unit and credit it into any one of the below options, you can gain multiple qualifications.
Call us today on 02 9400 9759 to get started on your dream career.
You can start with this unit and credit it into any one of the below options, you can gain multiple qualifications.
Call us today on 02 9400 9759 to get started on your dream career.
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professional certificate in meal planning >>>
gain a qualification and insurance to meal plan > Five-unit program perfect for PTs, writers, bloggers, and those with a love of good eating who are looking to work with clients and their eating habits. Registration and insurance to cover you (AoN chat to your own insurer). Holds continuing education points for PTs. This unit is foundational in the certificate. FIND OUT MORE HERE |
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holistic wellness coaching >>>
Empowering Holistic Coaches: Explore, Integrate, and Transform Lives > Focused on holistic wellness coaching you'll explore techniques to support the whole person, life coaching style training, mental health and trauma awareness, Ayurveda, and extensive coaching practicum work. Add this unit as your elective choice. FIND OUT MORE HERE |
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women's Health and wellness coach certification >>>
niche in your area of women's wellbeing > Covering women's hormones, gut health, coaching practice, mental health and trauma awareness and more you'll be skilled in supporting women's wellness. Empower women to navigate their health and wellbeing challenges with confidence. Add this unit as one of your elective choices. FIND OUT MORE HERE |
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Grab Your Free Meal Planning Sampler CourseTake a look inside an elective in our coaching programs and the Meal Planning for Healthy Living. Learn how to meal plan safely so that you can help clients change their eating but do so without venturing into areas that might be out of the safe scope of practice.
Learn more about the Professional Certificate in Meal Planning. Absolutely no credit cards required – a freebie from us to you! |
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