Why Work with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)?

Let’s make one thing clear, Registered Dietitian (RD) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) are the same. But PLEASE don’t confuse the terms with ‘coach’ or ‘nutritionist’!

An RD/RDN must complete bachelor's degree in dietetics, nutrition, or nutritional science. Approximately half of all RD/RDNs hold advanced degrees. In 2024, it will be a requirement to have a Master’s degree to become a RD/RDN.

The journey to become an RD/RDN requires completing courses inclusive of food science, clinical dietetics, community nutrition, lifecycle nutrition, medical nutrition therapy, chemistry, biochemistry, microbiology, anatomy and physiology (yup, worked with cadavers), and other nutrition-related classes.

Before RD/RDNs pass a comprehensive national examination, we must complete an internship to gain detailed and hands-on experience. An internship is at minimum 1200 hours, usually unpaid of real life experience varying from inpatient, outpatient, disease specific, public health and much more.

In addition, we maintain our credential of RD/RDN through continuing education credits. Through our continuing education RD/RDNS are able to stay current on the latest research and best practices. And if I haven’t convinced you yet on why to work with an RD/RDN, get this: anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. Even you can be called a nutritionist. Literally anyone.

Choose a professional with a license. Choose an RD/RDN.