How Is A RDN Different From A Nutritionist? Registered Dietitians Nutritionists (RDN’s) know the science of nutrition. They have degrees in nutrition, dietetics, public health or a related field from well-respected, accredited colleges and universities. Registered Dietitians Nutritionists are food and nutrition experts who have followed specified educational and professional requirements from an accredited program. This includes a bachelor’s degree (about half of all RDN’s actually hold advanced degrees), completion of a Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education (CADE) program. The CADE program includes classes in biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, and an internship of at least 900 hours. In addition to all of that, an RDN has passed a standardized national exam to obtain their license, which must be maintained by completing Continuing Education credits each year–this ensures that your RDN is current and up-to-date on trends and issues. Dietitian Nutritionists are regulated the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics — you can find more information on their website at www.eatright.org. Some RDN’s may call themselves “nutritionists,” but not all nutritionists are Registered Dietitian Nutritionists. The term “nutritionist” by itself does not have a legal definition or license in the state of Texas. Some states have licensure laws that define the scope of practice for someone using the designation “nutritionist,” but in other states, virtually anyone can call him- or herself a “nutritionist” regardless of education or training. Top Ten Reasons A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Can Benefit You 1. You have diabetes, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, digestive problems, or another nutrition related disease. 2. You want to eat smarter. You are ready to make some healthy changes (such as vegetarianism, organic foods, probiotics, etc.). 3. You want to improve your performance in sports. 4. You’re pregnant or trying to get pregnant. 5. You need guidance and confidence for breastfeeding your baby. 6. Your child/teenager has issues with food and eating healthfully. 7. You need to gain or lose weight. 8. You’re caring for an aging parent. 9. You are considering or have had gastric bypass surgery. 10. You or your child has food allergies. Information listed on this page can be found at www.eatright.org. To get started on the path to better health, give us a call at (281) 684-4733 or fill out our form below.