How do you find a qualified nutrition professional?
There are many titles in use by so-called nutrition professionals, and it can be confusing to know who to turn to for nutrition advice.
Registered Dietitians are the health care professionals uniquely qualified to communicate accurate, up to date nutrition information to individuals and the public.
What is an RD?
RD: Registered Dietitian
In order to use the credential Registered Dietitian, a person must complete at minimum:
Once registered, RD's must complete a minimum of 75 hours of continuing education every 5 years to maintain RD status.
LD: Licensed Dietitian
The state of Idaho, as well as many other states, requires practicing RD's to be licensed with the Idaho Board of Medicine. Therefore, all RD's employed in Idaho are also LD's.
What is a "Nutritionist"?
I get asked this question all the time. "Nutritionist" is an unregulated title used by some individuals who lack recognized credentials and are unqualified to provide nutrition advice. While some RD's may also refer to themselves as nutritionists, a nutritionist who is not a registered dietitian cannot use the initials "RD". Other questionable titles include "nutrition consultant / certified nutritional consultant", "nutrition counselor", and "certified nutritionist" to name a few. Unfortunately, there are on-line and mail-order degrees and "diploma mills" who will award an official-sounding title or "certification" to anyone who pays the required fee and takes an on-line test. It's become trendy for gyms to offer nutrition counseling provided by staff who have taken a brief nutrition course and earned a certificate. To ensure quality and competence, always look for the RD credential.
Note: Some states have licensed the title “nutritionist“, so that only an RD can use that title. However, in Idaho anyone can call her/himself a nutritionist, regardless of education or training.
Many dietitians specialize in certain areas, for example diabetes, prenatal nutrition, or eating disorders. It is important to make sure the dietitian you work with has expertise with the condition are seeking help for.
To find a dietitian in your local area, log onto the website of the American Dietetic Association: www.eatright.org and click on “find a nutrition professional”. At this website, you can find information on pursuing a career in dietetics, as well as nutrition tips and advice.
1414 W. Franklin St., Boise, ID 83702
Phone (208) 342-2228 Fax (208) 343-0889
