Registered Dietitian (RD) and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) are the same. Both the words are used interchangeably. Lets’ not get confused with the terms coach or nutritionist.

An RD/RDN must complete bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition, or nutritional science. Approximately fifty  percent of all RD/RDNs hold Masters/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 and other nutrition-related classes.

All RD/RDNs pass a comprehensive national examination to be registered. 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: Any one on the road can  call themselves coach, nutritionist/coach with no qualification.

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