The Difference Between a Nutritionist and a Dietitian

Hi guys, this is Elizabeth Hanawalt. I have been asked several times the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist, and there are some big differences.

First of all, you need to remember that Dietitians are certified, they have to have a four-year degree, and they have to have an internship in order to graduate with a degree. And the internship can be various lengths of time.

After that, you have to take a board exam, and then to remain board-certified, every five years, you have to take 75 hours worth of continuing education credit. If you don't, then you'd have to take the test again.

As for a Nutritionist, all I can say is that somebody could just write a book about anything nutritional and call themselves a Nutritionist. That's the basic difference. You want somebody that's certified and that knows how to deal with this stuff. So that's basically the difference between the two. If I wrote a nutrition book, I'd still call myself a Dietician and not a Nutritionist.

Do you have any questions? I'd love to see if I can help you in improving your health.  Contact me and let's chat!