The objective of this article was to carry out a historical analysis of the process that established the origin and the evolution of the nutritionist in Brazil. The methodology was based on a literature review of the history of Nutrition in Brazil from 1939 to 2000. As methodological criteria of analysis four transverse sections were established, corresponding to specific contexts of the history of this professional: 1939-1949, 1950-1975, 1976-1984, 1985-2000. Finally, the article tries to point out the mediate and immediate perspectives that can be visualized for the professional practice of the nutritionist during the XXI century.
history of nutrition; nutritionist; health occupations
