How to Find a Certified Nutritionist

• Step 1

  Determine the reason you're seeking a nutrition professional. This reason will determine what type of professional you should seek out. If you have any type of chronic disease, illness or injury, you should find a registered dietitian (RD). RDs are recognized professionals who legally provide medical nutrition therapy. Nutritionists can provide general nutrition education, but in many states they cannot lawfully treat a medical condition through nutrition intervention unless they are registered dietitians.

• Step 2

  Question professional-sounding titles. Most states in the United States don't regulate the terms "nutritionist." Thus, anyone unqualified or unlicensed can deem themselves nutritionists. Dr. Stephen Barrett, a leader in fighting nutrition quackery, doubts the qualifications of "certified nutritional consultants," "certified nutritionists" and "certified clinical nutritionists." RDs must earn a bachelor's degree, pass rigorous training and a comprehensive exam, complete continuing-education courses, and work according to a set code of ethics. Registered dietitians can be nutritionists, but nutritionists cannot legally call themselves registered dietitians.

• Step 3

  Research licensing laws in your state. For example, in Missouri, the only nutrition professionals who can legally practice are registered dietitians. No other nutritionists are eligible for licensing in the state since they do not meet the educational and professional standards. Look for "RD" or "LD" after the nutritionist's name. LD indicates "licensed dietitian."

• Step 4

  Examine the accreditation status of the institution that granted the professional's degree through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education. According to CHEA, degree mills, illegitimate providers that grant bogus certificates and degrees, pose threats to public safety. The term "certified" makes no guarantee as to credibility or educational standards. Some nutritionists receive their mail-order certificate for a small fee with no education required.

• Step 5

  Search your local, state or national dietetic association for the professional's name. Use a reputable search engine such as the American Dietetic Association's "Find a Nutrition Professional." Ask your medical provider for a reputable referral. You can also verify a registered dietitian's status through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

• 3
• RDs can earn accredited certifications through CDR and other medical organizations in areas such as pediatric, renal, diabetes and sports nutrition. Seek out a dietitian with advanced training to get a specialist in your area of need.
• RDs can earn accredited certifications through CDR and other medical organizations in areas such as pediatric, renal, diabetes and sports nutrition. Seek out a dietitian with advanced training to get a specialist in your area of need.
• Science does not support quick cures or heavy supplementation. Watch out for nutritionists purporting miracle cures---most healthy individuals receive the nutrients they need from foods. Nutrition professionals should advocate getting vitamins and minerals from foods first and only support supplements when warranted. A nutritionist who sells supplements presents a conflict of interest; avoid those that do.
• Science does not support quick cures or heavy supplementation. Watch out for nutritionists purporting miracle cures---most healthy individuals receive the nutrients they need from foods. Nutrition professionals should advocate getting vitamins and minerals from foods first and only support supplements when warranted. A nutritionist who sells supplements presents a conflict of interest; avoid those that do.

References & Resources

• 1. American Dietetic Association Nutrition Education vs. Medical Nutrition Therapy
• 2. Quackwatch: Where to get professional nutrition advice
• 3. American Dietetic Association: registered dietitian requirements
• American Dietetic Association: Find a nutrition professional
• US Department of Education
• CHEA