Dietitian vs. Nutritionist

Dietitians and nutritionists are both health professionals who deal with food and how it affects the body.

A dietitian is a health professional who gives advice on what to eat (and not eat) in order to maintain health. They work to plan and modify healthy diets, often in a clinical setting (hospital or nursing home). They can also provide individual or group counseling. A registered dietitian (RD) needs to complete a Bachelor's degree and other qualifications.

A nutritionist is a health professional who works with food and nutrition science with the goal of preventing diseases related to nutrient deficiencies. They study nutrients in isolation and as they interact in foods. The education level of nutritionists varies greatly.

The two careers are very similar, though dietitian requires more formal education and certification and has broader opportunities to apply expertise.