Do you need clarification about the difference between a nutritionist and a dietician? It's a common and important question to understand if you want to make informed decisions about your health. Let's take a closer look at the two professions and the unique services they offer.

Difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian

Both nutritionists and dietitians are experts in food and nutrition, but they have different scopes of work.

Nutritionist

In Indonesia, a nutritionist is an individual who has completed an accredited degree program in nutrition science and has earned either a Bachelor of Nutrition or a Master of Nutrition degree. Graduates in nutrition can apply their knowledge in various fields, such as working with food manufacturers or state agencies involved in nutrition research. Additionally, nutritionists can work in academia as researchers or teachers.

According to Verywell Fit, nutritionists have the ability to provide advice on health and nutrition issues and educate the public and clients on certain diets. You can utilize the services of a nutritionist to consult on your daily diet to prevent disease or alleviate certain health problems.

However, nutritionists cannot treat patients or clients with medical problems. If it is related to a medical problem, the person authorized to handle the patient is a dietitian.

Read more: The Danger Of The Fruitarian Diet, Only Eating Fruits All Day

Dietitian

A dietitian, also known as a dietitian, is a health professional who has completed formal education and earned the title of RD or registered dietitian. This profession can be obtained in Indonesia after completing a Bachelor of Nutrition program or a D3 or D4 program in Nutrition and Nutrition Academy.

After completing your nutrition education, you must pass a competency exam to earn the RD title.

Read more: Want A Diet, This Is An Alternative To A Healthy White Rice Replacement

After obtaining an RD credential, a dietitian can work in hospitals to provide nutritional advice to the medical team regarding patients with both acute and chronic illnesses. Additionally, a dietitian can address the nutritional requirements of patients who are receiving long-term care.

Dietitians may offer private patient care to individuals who have recently undergone surgery or those suffering from chronic diseases such as diabetes or kidney disease. They are also essential in the treatment of patients with eating disorders like bulimia or anorexia nervosa. When treating patients with eating disorders, dietitians work in collaboration with psychologists or a team of psychotherapists and do not work alone.

Dietitians and nutritionists are needed to treat dietary problems in patients in hospitals, athletes, and people with eating disorders, as well as food manufacturers and state institutions authorized to make policies. You can consult a dietitian, nutritionist, or nutrition specialist if you have an eating disorder. 

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

Want to know information about nutrition, food and other diet tips? Check here, yes!