Dietitians — typically shorthand for “registered dietitians” (RDs) and “registered dietitian nutritionists” (RDNs) — are highly trained food and nutrition experts who may work one-on-one with clients or in other settings like hospitals and clinics, wellness centers, or corporate or public health settings.
Deeper dive
As of 2024, aspiring dietitians need at least a graduate degree; those credentialed before then needed at least a bachelor’s degree. Dietitians have also completed at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice and passed a national exam.
Some specialize in certain populations and hold more specific credentials such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), and oncology nutrition (CSO).
While all dietitians are nutritionists, not all nutritionists are dietitians. In fact, “nutritionist” is often more of a lay term that, in some states, doesn’t require any specific schooling or training. Some states do license or protect the title, though.
When reporting on nutrition, it’s usually a better bet to seek an RD or RDN. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ media department can direct you to an appropriate spokesperson. Professionals who have a Ph.D. in nutrition or a related field are generally well-qualified too — particularly for research, but not necessarily clinical, questions.
Fun Fact!
The sixth letter of dietitian is spelled with a “t,” not a “c” — and many dietitians are so adamant about correcting the misunderstanding that they have merch.