Dietitian vs. Nutritionist

Dietitian

  • Minimum 4 years Nutrition degree from an accredited University

  • Minimum 30 weeks supervised practical training (generally unpaid)

  • Extensive competency exam (to use RD title)

  • Active registration with provincial Regulatory body (to ensure ethical, evidence-based practice) 

  • Title "Registered Dietitian" is protected (like Physician or Pharmacist)

  • Carry liability insurance

  • Complete ongoing continuing education 

Nutritionist

  • Anyone can use this title

  • It is not protected

  • This can include adding the words "registered", "certified" or "licensed"

What does a Dietitian Do?

What people think we do: give out meal plans, tell you what you aren't allowed to eat, and hand out Canada's Food Guide

What we actually do: help individuals learn and understand aspects of your health, body and illness or diseases.  Build a positive relationship with food.  "Tweak" your diet or lifestyle to be in line with your goals.  It's not all about weight; although weight (higher or lower) may have some health implications, a change in weight is not the goal but rather a bi-product.

Did you know?

Certain qualified Dietitians (with additional specialized training) are capable of feeding people through tubes (enteral) or IV's (parentral).  Can assist with swallowing difficulties (dysphagia).  Can provide Medical Nutrition Therapy: dietary changes proven to positively impact chronic disease such as Kidney disease (improving eGFR), Diabetes (improving A1C), Blood Pressure (reducing systolic values) and High Cholesterol (reducing LDL).