Dietitians are considered nutritionists, but not all nutritionists are dietitians.

  • Registered dietitians are nutrition and food experts who provide evidenced based guidance.

  • Required to have a bachelor’s and/or master’s degree with coursework approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics.

  • Completed over 1200 hours of supervised hours through an accredited internship.

  • Have passed a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetics Registration. In order to maintain this credential, they must complete a set number of professional education credits every five years.

  • Can work with persons with chronic disease such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease.

  • Provide Medical Nutrition Therapy to help reduce symptoms.

  • Recognized through insurance companies as a healthcare professional.

A nutritionist is someone who studied nutrition and may or may not have a degree or certificate to accompany it. There are no qualifications required for people who want to become a nutritionist, but there are degrees in nutrition for those who want to have formal training. There are some great ones out there too, but not the same as a dietitian.