What is the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?
Dietitian is a protected title across Canada. Anyone can call him/herself a nutritionist, regardless of qualifications or education. Dietitians are required to have graduated from an accredited university program which includes a practicum working in various health care settings to obtain experience. Dietitians do not “just use Canada’s Food Guide” as is implied or stated by some alternative practitioners; however, we are compelled by our ethical and professional obligations to work with evidence-based resources to assess, educate and advise our clients. Dietitians are able to use a variety of approaches and methods (face-to-face via telehealth, email, graphic, video) to help our clients achieve their nutritional goals and better health and wellbeing.
