FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • What is the difference between a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and nutrition coach?

    • The simple answer is - it depends on where you live! Certain states have certain jurisdiction around terminology regarding oneself as a specialist in the field of nutrition. A registered dietitian (RD) is a nutritionist (sometimes seen as RDN - registered dietitian nutritionist) but a nutritionist is not always a dietitian. Dietitians must complete rigorous coursework approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics and complete 1,200+ hours of supervised practice in the field - aside from the endless volunteering, long nights studying, and part-time jobs in the field. At the end of it all, there is a comprehensive exam for registered dietitians that must be passed in order to become a dietitian. In some states, one cannot call themself a nutritionist without being a dietitian. In some states, there is some education required to be called a nutrition coach. A nutrition coach cannot provide medical nutrition therapy and personalized nutrition plans - only basic nutrition education that is readily available to the public.

  • What is state licensure?

    • Some states require that registered dietitians go one step beyond obtaining the RD/RDN after their name. In the State of Delaware, I had to fill out an application, provide various forms of proof of my RD credentials, and pay dues to legally be able to practice medical nutrition therapy in the State of Delaware. Each state has different laws and they can be found at the Center for Nutrition Advocacy's website.

  • Why did I become a registered dietitian?

    • I've always had an interest in nutrition and trying to find the best ways to fuel my body for performance. My family history also includes a lengthy list of chronic disease, with the majority of them sharing a relationship with diet and disease. Despite this, I applied as a biology major to the University of Delaware and completed nearly two years before switching my major to something I loved. I remember being in a study lounge my freshman year of college, memorizing environmental biology facts when I looked over at my best friend's homework (Hi, Lauren!!) and she was making a MEAL PLAN for HOMEWORK! I was so confused and intrigued I didn't know what to do with myself. That was when I discovered that I could make a living off of food and the rest was history!

  • How can I become a registered dietitian?

    • To become a registered dietitian, you must attend an accredited dietetics program and take the classes necessary to apply to the dietetic internship. If accepted into an internship, you then complete 1,200 hours of supervised practices in key areas of nutrition. After successful completion of the internship, you must study and pass the RD exam - which is a comprehensive test of everything you've learned throughout undergraduate studies and the internship.

  • Where and when did you take your classes to become a registered dietitian?

    • I attended the University of Delaware for four years of undergraduate studies to obtain a degree in Dietetics. Aside from nutrition courses, I took classes in biology, chemistry, counseling, psychology, and statistical analysis - just to name a few! After I graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Dietetics, I began my dietetic internship at the University of Delaware. I completed 1,200+ supervised practice hours in clinical, community, food service, and sports nutrition. Upon completion of the internship, I studied for the CDR exam (RD exam), passed it, and obtained state licensure!