Every second Wednesday in March is Registered Dietitian Day in the United States. This is a day to commemorate and celebrate those individuals working in the field of dietetics as nutrition professionals. But what exactly is a Registered Dietitian and how is it different from a Nutritionist?
Registered Dietitian (RD) is a legally protected professional title only able to be used by individuals who are registered the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). In order to achieve this registration there are several prerequisites. A person seeking to become an RD must first complete a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition/Dietetics; however many will hold master’s degrees as well. Either during or upon completion of required coursework an internship encompassing 1200 hours must be completed. All of this must be done via a college or university with a CADE accreditated (Commission on Accreditation of Dietetic Education) academic and internship program. Once all college courses and the internship are passed and completed a registration examination must be passed in order to become a Registered Dietitian. In order to maintain registration 75 hours of continuing education must be completed every 5 years. Many states also have and require licensure of RD’s.
What is a Nutritionist then? That is not as easy to explain. Maybe a Nutritionist is an RD, but probably not. Maybe they hold a degree in nutrition, maybe not. Perhaps they have a certificate from an online certificate giving company that says they are a Nutritionist. You just never know. There are people who are pretending to be professionals everywhere and they are looking to make a quick buck off of you. It is crucial when choosing a nutrition professional to help you manage your health that you choose one who is educated in the field and is held accountable for their actions. You would do that for a nurse, physician, physical therapist or hair stylist, wouldn’t you?
Where can you find an RD? Well dietitians work in many areas including hospitals, school systems, private practice, WIC and dialysis clinics and nursing homes. You can also find them writing books, speaking at health conferences and doing research. Be sure to check the credential of any and all health professionals before seeking information or counseling from them. If you are looking for an RD visit www.eatright.org and click on the “Find a Registered Dietitian” tab to find one practicing near you.
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