Many people ask me what the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian is.
Simply put: a dietitian is a nutritionist; however, not all nutritionists are dietitians.
It's important to know if the person who is giving you the advice is qualified and skilled.
A dietitian has formal education and training and completes the following:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited dietetics program (master’s degree after January 1, 2024).
Completes a minimum of 1,000 hours of supervised training.
Passes the national exam and obtain licensure (if required by the State). Florida licensure is required.
Completes on-going continuing education approved by the Commission on Dietitians and Registration (CDR)
Commits to following a code of ethics.
Dietitians use one of the following credentials: RD (registered dietitian) or RDN (registered dietitian nutritionist). It's a preference to the clinician on which one they use.
Nutritionists are a self-proclaimed title who may have little to no education. They are not recognized by medical professionals as the Registered Dietitian who can be found in a wide range of settings including but not limited to hospitals, doctor's offices, grocery stores, food service companies, gyms, and pharmaceutical companies etc.
Dietitians may also earn further specializations to add further credentials behind their RD title. The specializations are obtained through additional hours of focus in the field and passing a board certification. Continuing education in the area of specialization is often required annually for renewal.
Some examples include:
Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES)
Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC)
Certified Specialist in Oncology (CSO)
Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR)
It's important to know who you are talking to when it comes to your or your loved one's health.
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