:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/GettyImages-1298837231-904aa4ca93414ae4bd7f21d57b131ad7.jpg?w=780&resize=780,470&ssl=1 "What is best to see for health problems or weight loss?")
Key takeaways
- Registered dietitians (RDs), also called dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), are food and nutrition experts specially trained in the nutritional treatment of disease, disease prevention, and overall promotion of health and well-being.
- Dietitians and RDNs have graduated from an accredited dietetics program, have completed supervised practice, passed a registration examination, and must accumulate continuing education hours.
- Nutritionists are not regulated in many states and, therefore, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist; their certifications are often unregulated.
A dietitian, also known as a professional dietitian (RD) or dietitian nutritionist (RDN), completes a supervised practice program, passes a national registration examination, and assists in treating health conditions. On the other hand, there are no standard requirements to qualify as nutritionistand they often provide general health advice.
What can dietitians do compared to nutritionists?
Care provided by dietitians and nutritionists
Dietitians can treat certain conditions with medical nutritional therapy, including:
Nutritionists can:
- Advisor for general health problems
- Provide general information about diet and nutrition
An unlicensed nutritionist cannot provide medical nutrition therapy to treat a specific health problem through food and nutrition.
The main difference between dietitians and nutritionists is the scope of what they can do:
- Registered dietitians are able to provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT), which involves treating illness through nutritional interventions. Many dietitians also offer advice on disease prevention and general health and wellness.
- Nutritionists can give advice on general nutrition for overall health. In some states, unlicensed nutritionists are not allowed to offer personalized meal plans or specific advice on health concerns.
Dietitians and nutritionists focus their work on helping you eat healthier to improve your overall health. They typically assess their clients’ nutritional needs and help them develop meal plans and healthy eating habits.
Dietitians and nutritionists can work in a variety of settings, including:
- Hospitals
- State and local government
- Retirement homes
- Clinics
- Cafeterias
What should you consult for weight management?
Registered dietitians and certified nutrition specialists can help you manage your weight. However, dietitians can offer more detailed eating plans, especially when addressing specific health concerns.
Because dietitians have been trained in the science and applications of food and nutrition, as well as human physiology and biology, they are highly qualified to provide weight management education and counseling.
The table below compares who to consult to manage your weight goals.
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If you have a chronic illness or health problem
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If you have a history of eating disorders
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If you have food allergies
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If you are breastfeeding, pregnant or planning to become pregnant
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If you have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more
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If you do not suffer from a chronic illness
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If you’re looking for general tips for healthier meals and snacks
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If you are in good overall health but want to improve your health and well-being
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If you want a coach to support you and make you accountable for your weight and health goals
How does their education differ?
Education, training, and credentials are some of the main areas in which dietitians and nutritionists differ. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, but only those with certain qualifications can call themselves a registered dietitian and registered dietitian nutritionist.
Dietitian
Registered dietitian nutritionists receive accreditations from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). The minimum educational requirement for a registered dietitian is a bachelor’s degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). However, many RDs and RDNs hold advanced degrees.
In 2024, the minimum degree required to become a dietitian increased from a bachelor’s degree to a master’s degree.
In addition to graduating from an accredited dietetics program, dietitians must also complete a 1,200-hour supervised practice requirement and pass a national registration exam.
Dietitians must respect established standards and a code of ethics and ensure that their services fall within their scope of practice (activities that they are authorized to carry out in their profession). They must also meet continuing professional education requirements to maintain their registration.
Nutritionist
Some organizations certify nutritionists, such as the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS). However, the training and requirements for different nutritionist certifications can vary widely and many are unregulated.
Many states do not require nutritionist certification. It is possible for anyone in these states to call themselves a nutritionist.
Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) is a credible nutritionist certification, certified by the BCNS. A minimum of a master’s degree and 1,000 hours of supervised practice are required. Eligible individuals must take and pass a board exam and then regularly complete continuing education.
Before asking anyone for nutrition advice, make sure they have the appropriate training and certifications. RDN and CNS are two paths that require education, supervised practice, examinations and continuing education.
If your dietitian or nutritionist does not have credible certifications, you may be following advice from someone who provides inaccurate and potentially harmful nutritional information.
How much does a consultation with a dietitian or nutritionist cost?
The costs of meeting with a dietitian and nutritionist can vary greatly. The average cost per consultation can range from $50 to $200. Location, additional training and specializations, and years of experience may vary the price.
With insurance
If you have health insurance:
- Nutritionist and health coach services: These are generally not covered in most insurance plans.
- Services of a professional dietitian: Many insurance companies allow a certain number of visits to a dietitian each year. Depending on your coverage, you may be required to pay a copayment for your visit. Depending on the dietitian, she may or may not be in network with your insurance, which may impact how much you have to pay.
If you meet with a dietitian in a hospital or health care office, it is likely that they are accredited with insurance companies. However, always check with your individual insurance company for coverage beforehand.
If you meet with a dietitian in private practice, they may or may not accept insurance. Always ask beforehand if you would like your visit to be covered by your insurance plan.
Without insurance
Nutritionists and health coaches are generally not covered by insurance and will most likely be self-paid.
If a professional dietitian does not accept insurance, they should be able to provide you with a great invoice (an itemized bill for services received) that you can submit to your insurance to see if they (your insurance) will reimburse you for the visit. Providing a superb invoice is not a guarantee of insurance coverage.
Some dietitians and nutritionists in private practice who only accept self-payment may offer packages with multiple visits at a discounted rate. This may be a good option if you know you want or need multiple visits and are trying to save money.
