Frequently Asked Questions

Many people often use the terms “dietitian” and “nutritionist” interchangeably. Although these two professions are undoubtedly related, they maintain distinctive qualities. The biggest difference between dietitians and nutritionists lies in the legal restrictions that each title carries. Only nutritionists that become registered with Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) may legally declare themselves as "Dietitians" or more precisely, registered dietitians (RDs). Dietitians evaluate the health of their clients and or patients. And based on their findings, they advise clients on which therapeutic diet is suitable for them or what foods to eat. Dietitians are your food and nutrition experts and considered to be healthcare professions. 

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So what are the differences? Dietitians and nutritionists are certainly similar, but not quite interchangeable.

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What Is A Dietitian?

Generally speaking, the role of dietitian is more regulated than that of a nutritionist. While anyone can go to school to study health and nutrition, in the US, depending on where a person wants to practice, there are certain licensures and certifications that are mandated in order to practice. After earning a master's degree at an accredited university, dietitians typically complete an internship or practice program at a health care facility, food service company, hospital, or other organization. Upon completion, students can sit for their national examination; once they pass, they are free to practice as an R.D, or registered dietitian.

Dietitians organize food and nutrition plan and promote healthy eating habits to prevent and treat illness. They find work in food service businesses, or working with patients in hospitals, clinics and other healthcare facilities. Dietitians also work at colleges and universities, where they may teach nutrition and health classes, do research or focus on public health issues. 

Other dietitians choose to go into private practice allows practitioners more creative options for helping others and to develop their knowledge base. Private practice isn’t for everyone and is a big career decision, but for those who choose to pursue it, they often find the individualized and focused client therapy to be well worth it.

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What Is A Nutritionist?

In the US, the title “nutritionist” is not as regulated as “dietitian,” and tends to have a broader, more general meaning. The title is not generally protected, meaning that it can be used by anyone, unlike “doctor”, for instance, which requires proof of qualifications. Nutritionists typically do not have any professional training, and therefore, should not be involved in the diagnosis and treatment of any diseases.

There are nutritionist certification boards, which require applicants to have an advanced degree along with practical experience before taking their certification exam. Nutritionists who pass this test may refer to themselves as certified nutrition specialists, or C.N.S, which is a protected title.

Also, many doctors, including medical doctors, osteopaths, physician assistants, chiropractors and naturopathic doctors, practice clinical nutrition after completing extra work in the study of food and nutrition science.

One of the major differences is that a dietitian can help to diagnose eating disorders or help plan meals for the managing of symptoms of health problems. While nutritionists can certainly offer support in these areas, most of their work deals with food behavior. They teach clients about the general nutrition and health properties in food and offer nutrition supervision. 

It’s important to note that only nutritionists that become registered with Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) may legally declare themselves as registered dietitians. The nutritionist profession is much less protected under the law.