What’s the Difference Between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?

A dietitian and a nutritionist come under professionals who work in the field of nutrition, but there are certain differences between the two.

A dietitian is an approved healthcare professional who has finished a bachelor's or master's degree in dietetics. Other than that, they might have finished the internship and passed a national exam. Dietitians are eligible to work in various settings like hospitals, schools, and private practice, and are officially to provide medical nutrition therapy for persons with several health conditions.

A nutritionist is a professional who concentrates on the study of food and nutrition, but the term "nutritionist" is not controlled, and anyone can call themselves a nutritionist nonetheless of their education or training. Nutritionists can have variable levels of education and training, from a bachelor's degree in nutrition to self-taught experts.

A dietitian is a licensed healthcare professional who has accomplished general education and training, while a nutritionist may have changeable levels of education and training and is not controlled by a professional body. While seeking nutrition advice, it's always best to check with a registered dietitian, especially if you have a medical condition that needs specialized nutrition care.