Dietitian vs. Nutritionist: Who should I Trust forNutrition Advice?

In a world of unlimited access to information, it is challenging to filter through all of the
noise to find accurate nutrition recommendations. Social media has opened the doors for us to
freely create and share our opinions, knowledge, and experiences. With one swipe, we can
watch videos that show us anything from “A Day in my Life on a Fast Metabolism Diet” to
“Protein Powder Reviews” to “Snack Ideas to Help Manage Diabetes”. But who can we trust to
separate nutrition fact from fiction? There are two nutrition professionals that may come to mind:
dietitians and nutritionists.
What is the difference between a registered dietitian nutritionist and a
nutritionist?
A nutritionist is a self-proclaimed title for someone who provides nutrition advice. There
are no specific requirements or regulations to become a nutritionist. They may or may not have
an educational background in nutrition and dietetics—or they might simply have an interest in
the field. Nutritionists can work in social media, gyms, natural health food stores, private
practices, and wellness centers. In most cases, insurance does not cover services provided by
nutritionists.
In contrast, registered dietitians (RDs) or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are
licensed nutrition experts who provide personalized, scientifically based recommendations
tailored to a person’s specific needs. Dietitians are recognized as medical professionals, so
most insurance plans cover their services. However, it’s important to check with your individual
insurance provider, as coverage may vary.
What does it take to become a dietitian?
To become a dietitian, there are many requirements someone must meet before they are able to
claim the title of a dietitian. A dietitian must:
● Earn a bachelor’s degree
● Complete core competencies in an accredited dietetics program
● Earn a master’s degree
● Complete at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice
● Pass a national credentialing exam
● Meet state-specific regulatory requirements
● Stay up-to-date on the field of dietetics through continuing education
Where would I find a dietitian?
Dietitians work in nearly all areas involving food. From corporate wellness and medical
devices to athletics and fitness, the field of dietetics offers a wide range of specialties. The most
well-known areas include:
● Clinical dietitians: Work in hospitals or clinics to ensure patients receive adequate
nutrition for healing through food, protein shakes, supplements, tube feeding, and more.
● Food service dietitians: Evaluate menus, develop new recipes, manage food costs and
inventory, and oversee kitchen staff.
● Outpatient dietitians: Provide one-on-one counseling to help clients achieve their
nutrition goals through personalized strategies.
● Community dietitians: Work in food banks, teach cooking or nutrition classes, or
contribute to public health nutrition programs and policy development.
So, when you come across that exciting new diet trend on social media, talk to your
dietitian to determine if it’s right for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Plans
should be tailored to each individual’s goals, medical history, and lifestyle. By working with a
dietitian, you’ll receive guidance that’s evidence-based, practical, and personalized to support
your long-term health.
By Natalie Yook