RDN vs Nutrtionist: What’s the Difference?

If you are wondering what in the world is the difference between an RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) and a Nutritionist, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve all heard the word “nutritionist,” whether it be on the news or what an influencer calls themselves. Some of us may have heard the word “dietitian.” Fewer of us know what an RDN, or RD, which can be used interchangeably, is.

The long and the short of it is simpler than you might think. The answer is credentials!

Nutritionist:

To start, ANYONE and I mean anyone can call themselves a “Nutritionist.” That means your cousin’s half uncle’s wedding photographer’s 5-year-old niece can, in fact, call herself a Nutritionist. Now, while ice cream from breakfast actually sounds like a pretty sweet idea, I think we’d all agree that a 5-year-old probably doesn’t have the credentials nor the understanding of how to help a person with Diabetes or Preeclampsia maintain their conditions, let alone guide a client in proper nourishment.

RDN:

An RD has put in a great deal of time, energy, and learning to earn their degrees and credentials; at an incredible financial sacrifice. Below is a breakdown:

Schooling: As of 2024 a minimum of a Master’s degree is required. At the fastest track, this could take about 6 years to complete. Or, it could take as many as 8 years or more for some.

Unpaid Internship: 1,000 hours of working unpaid internships is required. Some schools can require more.

RD Exam: One must pass a national exam.

State Requirements / Continuing Education: Each state has their own specific licensing requirements. Continuing education requirements are required to be completed every 5 years to maintain the credential.

All of this is to say, a person who has earned the title of RDN has worked their tails off to be an educated and esteemed professional.

Think of this next time an influencer tells you that carbs are bad for you!

Source: https://www.eatright.org/become-an-rdn