Dietician or Nutrionist?

3RMomma
3RMomma Posts: 55 Member
edited December 2024 in Food and Nutrition
I've lost 40+lbs so far and I'm only about 5lbs from my goal, but I was thinking about meeting with someone to talk a little more about what I should be putting into my body. I don't really cook and have been eating a lot of raw foods during my weightloss journey. I'm wondering if I should see a dietician or a nutritionist? Anyone in either of these fields and can tell me the difference?

Replies

  • lyttlewon
    lyttlewon Posts: 1,118 Member
    A dietitian must have a specific level of education and certification. A nutritionist's is not required to be certified, is not regulated and can have varying levels of education.
  • kmmealey
    kmmealey Posts: 76 Member
    HI,

    Not sure but I think the terms are interchangeable? RD, or Registered Dieticians, are have at least an undergraduate degree & many have graduate degrees. Many health insurers will pay for visits with RDs. I'm not sure but you may need an MD referral, depending on your health insurance or the regs in your state.

    The website for the Academy of Nutrtion and Dietetics = eatright.org (formerly known as the American Dietetic Association. There are lots of great links & info on the site for consumers.

    Congrats on your weight loss.
  • carriempls
    carriempls Posts: 326 Member
    A dietitian must have a specific level of education and certification. A nutritionist's is not required to be certified, is not regulated and can have varying levels of education.

    Yes - spot on.

    That said, education is only one factor. Experience, personal style, etc. will matter as well.
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