What is a registered dietitian?
A registered dietitian (RDs) is a food and nutrition expert. RDs are trained to bridge the gap between human nutrition science and nutrition application in whatever setting they work.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
A registered dietitian has completed comprehensive educational requirements and successfully passed a national board exam. Most dietitians hold a state-issued license to practice nutrition. A nutritionist is an unregulated term and can apply to anyone varying from those with an advanced nutrition education degree to someone who simply feels strongly about nutrition. Nutritionists do not require licensure.
How can a registered dietitian help me or my child?
A registered dietitian will take a detailed look into your family’s lifestyle, food preferences, budget, cooking style, and medical history to tailor nutrition advice and practical guidance to help you or your child improve health. Through nutrition education, a dietitian can help your child grown appropriately, improve their sports performance, manage disease, improve their lab values, and fuel themselves well. Dietitians will work with you and your family wherever you are on your health journey and guide you step-by-step to better health through nutrition.
What does it take to become a dietitian?
The RD credential involves four components:
- Minimum of a bachelor’s degree with approved nutrition coursework.
- 1200 hours of supervised practice in an accredited dietitian internship (RD “clinicals”).
- Successful passing of the national dietitian board exam.
- Documented continuing education reported every five years.