The internet, social media and our friends are full of advice about nutrition. But much of it is incorrect or misleading.

That's where registered dietitians come in. These certified health care professionals can help you reach your weight goals, create an eating plan to help you manage disease and more. Check out why it may be helpful for you to partner with a dietitian.

What's the difference between a nutritionist and dietitian?

Anyone can use the title nutritionist. Someone may read a book, increase their nutritional knowledge, and call themselves a nutritionist.

A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has at least a four-year degree from an accredited dietetics program. They have completed more than 1,000 hours of training and passed an exam. They also take part in ongoing education. Many RDs have graduate level education and certifications to specialize in specific health conditions.

Because of their extensive training, registered dietitians can understand a person's health conditions, diet and social and environmental life factors. That allows them to provide personalized care.

Nutrition can be a complex topic, so it's important to see a qualified professional. Registered dietitians evaluate and implement evidence-based information to treat your specific needs.

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What does a dietitian do?

Registered dietitians can work in a variety of settings, including:

  • health care
  • community and public health environments
  • food service operations
  • research
  • private practice
  • corporate wellness

Registered dietitians are an important part of the health care team. Some people think RDs just write meal plans for patients to follow. But this couldn't be further from the truth.

Registered dietitians review a patient's tests, labs, health history, eating behaviors and lifestyle. They partner with the patient to come up with a plan to address key concerns. RDs often follow up with the patient to see how the plan is going and make adjustments to help move the patient closer to their goal.

Often, registered dietitians help patients make lifestyle changes, such as what to eat or how to exercise. RDs support patients through the challenge of changing their daily habits.

Explore classes for patients led by our registered dietitians

Why would someone need a dietitian?

Everyone could benefit from working with a dietitian. If you want help finding balance in your lifestyle and eating behaviors, you should see a dietitian.

Even if you don't have an illness or other major concern, it can still be helpful to meet with a registered dietitian. Preventing chronic illnesses before they start is important to living a long and healthy life. Registered dietitians can help you make proactive changes and adopt healthier habits.

When should I see a dietitian?

The world (and internet) is full of misinformation about nutrition. Registered dietitians can help wade through the fad diets, offer different perspectives and provide ongoing accountability.

RDs can help you with the following:

  • Manage chronic diseases such as diabetes or heart disease
  • Help if you want to gain or lose weight
  • Find out if you have possible food allergies or intolerances and help you manage life with food allergies
  • Help you try a different eating pattern such as vegan or vegetarian
  • Improve your athletic performance
  • Learn simple healthy tips like how to eat more vegetables

How can a dietitian help me with weight loss?

Many people think weight loss is as easy as calories in minus calories out. However, there's so much more that goes into our health and weight balance that you may not realize, including sleep patterns and stress levels.

Yes, a registered dietitian can help you make healthier food choices and fit exercise into your weekly routine. But it's also important to find an RD that uses a more holistic approach to weight management. This can include mental health balance and mindfulness practices.

Learn about 7 weight loss tips to shed pounds and keep them off for good

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Can a dietitian help me manage chronic diseases?

Absolutely. Registered dietitians work alongside providers, nurses, social workers, psychologists and more. While RDs can't make modifications to medications, they can help with the nutrition side of chronic diseases. Knowing what to eat, how much to eat, and when to eat are just some of the questions RDs can help you answer. Good nutrition is important for preventing chronic diseases too. RDs want patients to feel good, and good nutrition helps with that.

Explore our health library of conditions and treatments

What does a dietitian not do?

Registered dietitians won't judge you. They won't be the food police. And they won't tell you which are good foods vs. bad foods. RDs want to help you find a better relationship with food and help nourish your body in a more wholesome way.

How can I meet with a registered dietitian at UC Davis Health?

We have more than 30 registered dietitians that see patients from infants to the elderly in our outpatient clinics. Ask your primary care or specialty care provider for a dietitian referral.

Health Management and Education also has classes focused on diabetes, heart health, high blood pressure, weight management and more.

Check out our Health Education classes that can support you

Learn about primary care and why you should partner with a provider for your health

This blog was written by Angela Salas and Olivia Moss, both registered dietitians at UC Davis Health.