You are most likely to make your eating habits the most important in your quest to better health.

You can get help from a professional nutritionist in your quest for better health. There are many things you need to consider.

Learn which Credentials are available

There are many terms in the food industry. It is important to research each person’s education and credentials before you hire them.

It is important to ensure that you hire the right person to give sound advice and that your payment plans are compatible with their services.

These key points will help you see the bigger picture and determine what professional you need.

Registered dietitians may also be nutritionists. Not all nutritionists can be registered.

“It is important to remember that not all registered nutritionists can be registered dieticians. Technically, anyone interested in nutrition can call themselves a nutritionist in some states.

Registered dietitians can either add an “RD” or an “RDN” to their name.

RDN stands for “registered dieetic nutritionist”. Dietitians can use both RD and RDN interchangeably.

  • Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program offering a broad science and nutrition curriculum
  • I completed a dietetic internship
  • Passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s national examination.
  • To maintain their credential, continuing professional education is necessary.

This rigorous process ensures RD/RDNs are equipped with the right tools to provide safe and effective nutritional counseling.

It is possible that a nutritionist or holistic nutritionist was not awarded this title under a standard system.

Ditkoff states that some nutritionists may have a nutrition education but not a registered dietitian credential (although they can still use it after taking a short online course).

This is not to say that nutritionists don’t care about your best interest. However, they might not have the same education or certification as RD/RDN.

RD/RDN Services may be eligible for insurance reimbursement.

Insurance is also important. Ditkoff explains how only RDs (or RDNs) are authorized and accredited to perform services that are allowed under current healthcare laws.

Only RDNs or RDs can provide nutrition counseling in many state.

Take a moment to think about your “Why”.

Ditkoff suggests that you consider the reason for seeking out a nutritionist. There are many areas of expertise that dietitians can be skilled in. However, choosing a dietitian who can meet your specific health needs is important.

A dietitian may specialize in diabetes while another might be trained in eating disorders.

Before meeting with anyone, think about why you want nutrition counseling.

It is possible to work with your doctor and create goals and plans for achieving them. If motivation starts to fade, these reasons will motivate you to keep going.

Red Flags to Be Watch

Ditkoff warns people that it probably will if something sounds too good to be true. These gimmicks are great for attracting people but they don’t have to be based on science or your unique body.

Ditkoff states that proper nutrition advice should be individualized and evidence-based. They also advise against assuming a 30-day miracle cure will work for everyone. Then, they can return to their old habits in just a few weeks.

Get your questions ready

After you have chosen the person/people you want to work with, it’s smart to create a list of questions to ask them.

Learn about their nutritional philosophy.

Ditkoff states that many dietitians offer complimentary consultations to get to know you and their nutritional philosophy.

While a nutritionist in London might talk about eliminating whole food groups, this may not be the right approach for you. It might be a good idea for someone else.

Discuss your experiences and goals with them.

To be able to ask about other people’s experiences in these areas, she recommends you create a list of all your goals and conditions.

Get insurance quotes upfront.

Ditkoff recommends you make a plan for payment and insurance before you start your first session. “

She said that although some dietitians may be in-network, others might not. You should always have all details ready before you get hit with unexpected bills.