Nutritionist vs Dietitian

Healthy eating is a simple yet complex concept. The media is full of conflicting messages that tout the benefits of healthy lifestyles while vilifying people with bodies that don’t fit inaccurate, yet commonly used health metrics such as body mass index (BMI). Christy Harrison, MPH, RD, CDN, and author of the book Anti-Diet identifies the popular phrase diet culture as a “set of beliefs that worships thinness and equates it with health and moral virtue.”

As with other public health issues in the United States, the idea of healthy eating is confusing at best and polarizing at worst. While cultural knowledge is shifting toward self-acceptance, patients living with or are at risk of developing diet-related illnesses may wonder: what does “healthy eating” mean? Who can people trust to help them start and sustain healthy eating habits? The answer is nutritionists and dietitians.

Nutritionists may have a degree in nutrition or a related field, while dietitians must complete an accredited dietetic program and pass a national registration exam. Some states require dieticians to have a master’s degree or even complete a registration process. In addition, many nutritionists are certified by the American Board of Nutrition or the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

When choosing between a nutritionist or dietitian career, it’s essential to consider future clientele. Both nutritionists and dietitians promote general dietary guidance. However, clients dealing with more complex health issues—such as disordered eating or diabetes management—are more likely to seek out the services of a dietitian since they have more training in specific areas. Generally, dietician services are covered by insurance, whereas nutritionist services are likely to be paid out-of-pocket.

Millions of Americans struggle with obesity, and the $2 billion diet industry fuels the disinfodemic on healthy eating. Diets don’t work, and they can actually be harmful to health. Qualified nutritionists and dietitians can help people overcome dysfunctional eating habits and make healthy choices that promote holistic health. Dietitian and nutritionist careers are poised for growth in the coming decade, with an anticipated increase of 7 percent, which is predicted to create 5,100 new jobs from 2021 to 2031, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2022).

In short, dietitians and nutritionists work with individuals and groups to promote good health through healthy eating habits tailored to their health needs. However, dietitians can provide individualized dietary advice and counseling on physical and mental health outcomes, whereas nutritionists generally provide general advice about healthy eating.

Read on to learn more about the similarities, differences, career outlook, salary, and educational requirements to become a nutritionist or dietician.