A registered dietitian (RD) is a nutrition expert with a minimum of a graduate degree from an accredited dietetics program. They must also complete an internship, pass a national exam, and fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The terms registered dietitian and registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) are protected and regulated terms that are interchangeable. Students interested in becoming a dietitian study a variety of subjects, such as food and nutrition sciences, foodservice management, business, communication, statistics, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, anatomy, and chemistry. After completing the necessary coursework, students take part in a supervised practice program, known as a dietetic internship, which consists of a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised practice. They are then eligible to sit for the registered dietitian exam, administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, to earn the title of registered dietitian.
Registered dietitians work in various settings, including health care, food service, public health, sports nutrition, media, public relations, research, schools, and universities. Most people seek advice from an RD at a healthcare facility or private practice. Many insurance plans cover visits with a dietitian for medical nutrition therapy. RDs are trained to help individuals navigate nutrition needs for various situations, such as managing health conditions, seeking weight loss advice, looking for nutrition education, working on children’s eating habits, or seeking advice on improving diet while trying to conceive. On the other hand, the term “nutritionist” is unregulated and without a standardized definition. People who studied nutrition in school but did not pursue the RD credential, those who hold certificates from unaccredited programs, or individuals who are passionate about nutrition may refer to themselves as nutritionists. There is no specific degree required to become a nutritionist, and some may only hold a certificate from an unaccredited program.
When seeking one-on-one nutrition advice, it is recommended to see a dietitian rather than a nutritionist because dietitians are the most qualified experts in the field. Unlike dietitians, nutritionists are not recognized medical professionals, and therefore, visits to a nutritionist are unlikely to be covered by insurance. If choosing to see a nutritionist, it is important to inquire about their education and qualifications before following their advice. The differences between a dietitian and nutritionist lie in the required degrees and training for each, as well as the settings in which they work. While registered dietitians must undergo specific education and training to earn their title and are regulated by governing bodies, nutritionists do not have standardized requirements and are not recognized medical professionals. It is important for individuals seeking nutrition advice to be aware of these distinctions to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.
