Value of a dietitian

The words “dietitian” and “nutritionist” are often used interchangeably, and many people are confused about the difference between the two. A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a food and nutrition professional who has undergone many years of rigorous academic and practical coursework to obtain required credentials. A RD is qualified by training and examination to evaluate people's nutritional health and needs. The term "nutritionist" is only governed by law in a few states, and in those states it is used to interchangeably with the words "Registered Dietitian." The best way to know whether someone is qualified to practice nutrition under the law is to ask him/her if s/he is a Registered Dietitian.

To become an RD, a person must at minimum earn an undergraduate degree in nutrition, food science, or food management, including courses in several other related subjects (chemistry, anatomy and physiology, management, psychology, etc.); complete a minimum of 900 hours of accredited pre-professional experience; pass a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (the credentialing arm of the American Dietetic Association ), and maintain up-to-date knowledge and registration by participating in required continuing education activities, such as attending workshops, doing research, taking courses, or writing professional papers. In most states, dietitians are also required to maintain a license to practice nutrition.

Why would someone wish to consult a dietitian? The RD is the professional specifically qualified to address your health from the nutrition perspective. Dietitians can provide services ranging from weight management to sports performance improvement to nutritional management of chronic diseases such as diabetes. Nutritional requirements change through the lifecycle, and a dietitian can help you meet your goals during each phase of your life.