Ever wonder if a nutritionist and a dietitian are the same thing? You are not by yourself. Though they are sometimes used synonymously, these two words really refer to different professions with different responsibilities and credentials.
Let’s dissect it now. A dietitian is a healthcare practitioner having fulfilled rigorous license and educational criteria.
Usually holding a degree in nutrition or dietetics, dietitians pass a national exam, complete an authorized internship, Dietitians working in the United States are sometimes referred to as Registered Dietitians (RDs) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs.).
Providing medical nutrition therapy for disorders including diabetes, heart disease, and food allergies, they work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and private practices.
Conversely, a nutritionist is a more generic phrase. Depending on where they work, some dietitians may not demand any particular education or certification even if some have official training. Some areas allow anyone to call themselves a nutritionist, hence it’s crucial to verify their qualifications before offering recommendations.
As the adage goes, “all dietitians are nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are dietitians.” A dietician is your best friend if you seek specific, scientifically supported guidance on controlling a health issue. For general dietary advice, though, a skilled nutritionist can also be quite helpful.
