Registered Dietitians are food and nutrition experts who apply the science of nutrition into practical solutions for health living, using their clinical expertise to help individuals make personal, positive lifestyle changes.
The “RD” credential may only be used by practitioners who are authorized by the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association. Individuals with the RD credential are leaders in the field of dietetics who have fulfilled specific requirements, having earned a least a bachelor’s degree (many RDs also hold advanced degrees) in nutrition and food science, completed an accredited, supervised practice program, passed a rigorous national examination and maintain their skills by meeting the profession’s continuing education requirements for re-certification.
While RDs are sometimes referred to as “nutritionists,” not everyone who uses this title is a “registered dietitian.” In many states anyone may designate themselves a “nutritionist,” regardless of education or training. So do your research when choosing a nutritionist and make sure he/she is a registered dietitian. Nutrition is not an opinion; it’s a science.
