Nutritionist

Often in America we use the terms “nutritionist” and “dietitian” interchangeably, assuming that both generally advise on good health. Some people are adamant that there is no difference; that a dietitian is really just a certified version of a nutritionist, while others maintain that a dietitian is exclusively for health problems while a nutritionist helps with a general plan for good health, even for people without issues. For most people, the difference rarely matters too much, but for people looking to pursue one of these options as a profession, or for someone with a real, medical need for one of the other (instead of just advice), the difference can be serious and vital.

1. Certificate

With the rise in popularity of the profession of nutritionist, many schools have started to take certification as a nutritionist to be a more serious topic. In some schools, this is now a legitimate profession, separate from a dietitian, who studies good health practices. Some associations like, for instance, the American Association of Nutritional Consultants, will purportedly give out certificates stating one is a nutritionist without any form of verification, and some people claim that anyone who offers advice to another on good health practices can be considered a nutritionist. The Certification Board of Nutrition Specialists, though, is supposedly far more stringent about its regulations and certifications. Recently, some states have begun requiring actual degrees in order to officially allow one use of the title “nutritionist”, though it really depends on the area.

2. Purpose

A nutritionist is usually considered to be more concerned with teaching good health practices to the general public. For instance, a nutritionist may hold seminars or conferences educating people on good health, while a dietitian may be more inclined to have a practice to meet with people who have serious dietary issues affecting their health. Furthermore, a person who may be advising in health matters may find themselves accidentally falling into the position of a nutritionist. Someone who has worked within the sports field for many years may find him or herself advising others on the best diets to achieve good results in the sport, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

3. Insurance

Since some nutritionists can claim the title without having been certified, some insurance companies will only offer coverage to people seeking the health opinions of a dietitian. “Nutritionist” is considered to be a looser title, and so is not always recognized as a health professional by insurance companies, so seeing one may not be covered by insurance.