Nutrition experts who have studied the effects of diet and dietary supplements on health are known as dietitians and nutritionists. Although the titles should not be used interchangeably, both are considered to be healthcare professionals. Dietitians typically possess more credentials and education, but this is not always the case.
Dietitians are specialists in the field of dietetics, which studies the effects of diet on health. Typically, a dietitian will work with a client to modify their diet in response to a medical condition and/or individual objectives. A bachelor’s degree with coursework approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics is required for a registered dietitian to obtain certification. Supervised experience at an accredited healthcare facility, community agency, or food service corporation is also required. A national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration is also required to maintain board certification.
After their names, dietitians are identified by the letters “RD” (registered dietitian) or “RDN” (registered dietitian nutritionist). Registered dietitians frequently work in the food service industry or as a member of a medical team in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. Universities sometimes hire dietitians to teach, conduct research, or address nutrition-related public health issues.
Registered nutrition dietetic technicians are also accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Nutrition dietetic technicians work alongside registered dietitians and typically have an associate’s degree. The term “nutritionist” can be applied to anyone who provides general nutritional advice. After their name, they are identified by the letters “NDTR” (nutrition dietetic technician, registered).Dietitians are subject to stricter regulations than nutritionists, and anyone with no formal education may legally practice as a nutritionist.
Nutritionists focus on general nutritional goals and behaviours as opposed to dietitians, who are qualified to diagnose eating disorders and design diets to treat specific medical conditions. Schools, hospitals, cafeterias, long-term care facilities, and athletic organizations frequently employ nutritionists.
To obtain the protected title of certified nutrition specialist (CNS), many nutritionists have advanced degrees and have passed nutritionist certification boards. For sports nutritionists, this is especially true.
The Certification Board for Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) is the only organization that can issue this title. Before being allowed to sit for the exam, applicants must have a master’s degree in nutrition (or a related field) and at least 1,000 hours of practical experience.4 Only those who have passed the CBNS boards and met the requirements for practical experience can legally add the letters “CNS” (certified nutritional specialist) after their names.
Credentials for Dietitians and Nutritionists Dieticians can earn the registered dietitian (RD) credential through the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Dietitians are required to achieve a baccalaureate degree from a program approved by ACEND; complete a supervised clinical program that is approved by ACEND; successfully complete the CDR registration test, complete the required credits for continuing professional education to keep your registration.
The Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (CBNS) offers nutritionists the opportunity to earn the certified nutrition specialist (CNS) credential. Nutritionists are required to get a master’s or doctoral degree in a related field; completing 1,000 hours of supervised experience in the field; achieving success on the CBNS certification exam; and completing the required professional education to keep your certification.
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