What is the difference between a Dietitian, a Nutritionist and a Nutritional Therapist?
The different titles ‘Nutritional Therapist’, ‘Nutritionist’ and ‘Dietitian’ can be very confusing. However, when it comes to helping their clients they each have their own very distinct role to play in the field of food and diet. In line with the definitions set out by their associated professional bodies – the BDA (British Dietetic Association), BANT (British Association for Applied Nutrition and Nutritional Therapy), The Nutrition Society, and ION (The Institute of Optimum Nutrition) – we have detailed below the practitioner types to help you choose the professional best suited to your circumstances. Dietitians use the science of nutrition to devise eating plans for patients, in order to treat medical conditions. They also work to promote good health by helping to facilitate a positive change in food choices amongst individuals, groups and communities. They have all been trained to university degree level or above, and many dietitians work in a hospital or clinical environment (usua
