Identifying nutrition experts is not always easy. The American Dietetic Association (ADA),founded in 1917, is recognized as the leading professional organization for dietetians, dietetic technicians, and other nutrition professionals in the United States. Dietitians are individuals trained in nutrition science, food science and food management. Dietitians plan and implement normal and therapeutic diet therapy in a wide variety of settings.
Nutrition professionals are recognized by their academic and internship training. The following definitions will clarify these terms.
| Dietitian | A person trained in nutrition science, food science and diet planning and diet therapy. |
| Dietetic Techician | A person who has completed a minimum of an associate's degree from an accredited college or university, completed approved course work and a supervised internship experience. |
| Dietetic Techician, Registered (DTR) | A dietetic technician who has passed a national examination and maintains registration through continuing education. DTR after their name is a legal designation. |
| Licensed Dietitian (LD) | State or federal law has granted dietitians permission to use a certain title (like dietitian or registered dietitian) and offer certain services based on meeting specific qualifications and criteria. LD after their names is a legal designation. |
| Nutritionist | A person who studies nutrition science. Some nutritionists are registered dietitians while some are self taught with questionable education. This is a generic term. |
| Registered Dietitian (RD) | A person who has completed a minimum of a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, completed approved course work and a supervised internship experience, and passed a national examination, and maintains registration through continuing education. RD after their name is a legal designation. |
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