What does RDN or RD mean?
To start, the credentials of RD and RDN are interchangeable. RD is the acronym for registered dietitian. RDN is the acronym for registered dietitian nutritionist. RDN is just a more recent designation. Dietitians can choose which credential they would rather use. RDs and RDNs are health professionals who study the science of food and nutrition and their impact on human health. RDs and RDNs translate the science into information people can use and apply to their life and health needs regarding food and nutrition choices.
Registered dietitians work in various settings and almost every field, including healthcare, long-term care facilities, education, fitness, wellness, business, technology, and the food industry.
What does a Nutritionist mean?
The term “nutritionist” is not a regulated term in the United States, which means that anyone can call themselves a nutritionist without any formal training or education. Some individuals who call themselves nutritionists may have completed a degree in nutrition or a related field, while others may have no formal education in nutrition at all.
Why choose a Registered Dietitian (RD) or a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) over a Nutritionist?
The terms “registered dietitian nutritionist” (RDN) and “nutritionist” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.
A registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) is a healthcare professional who has completed a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field, completed a supervised practice program, and passed a national examination. RDNs are also required to complete continuing education to maintain their credentials. RDNs are trained to provide evidence-based nutrition advice and medical nutrition therapy to individuals with medical conditions or specific dietary needs. RDN’s in the state of Florida are required to obtain and maintain a license from the Florida Department of Health while a nutritionist remains unmonitored and unregulated.
Therefore, while both RDNs and nutritionists may provide nutrition advice, RDNs have a higher level of education and training and their credentials are regulated by professional organizations and state licensing boards. It’s important to verify the credentials of any healthcare professional before seeking their services.
RDNs are board certified and continue their education throughout their careers. Many RDNs hold additional board certifications. As food and nutrition experts, RDNs are committed to improving people’s health in their community.
Learn More!
To learn more about St. Petersburg Nutrition’s RDNs visit our about me page! Also visit the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics page to learn all about the governing body for Dietitians and obtain access to reliable evidence based nutrition information.
