Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dietetics?

Dietetics means the integration and application of the principles derived from the sciences of nutrition, biochemistry, food, physiology, and management and from the behavioral and social sciences to achieve and maintain a person's health throughout the person's life. It is an integral part of preventive, diagnostic, curative, and restorative health care of individuals, groups, or both.

"Dietetics and nutrition practice" shall include assessing nutrition needs and status using appropriate data; recommending appropriate dietary regimens, nutrition support, and nutrient intake; improving health status through nutrition research, counseling, and education; and developing, implementing, and managing nutrition care systems, which includes, but is not limited to, evaluating, modifying, and maintaining appropriate standards of high quality in food and nutrition care services.

What does C.D.E. stand for?

C.D.E. stands for "Certified Diabetes Educator"

What does LD/N stand for?

LD/N stands for "Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist".

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a disorder of carbohydrate metabolism, characterized by inadequate production or utilization of insulin

What is a registered dietitian?

A registered dietitian is a reliable, objective, professional source of food and nutrition advice who can separate facts from fads and translate the latest scientific findings into easy-to-understand nutrition information. A registered dietitian can provide personal attention to create an eating pattern and nutrition program designed for you.

The title "Registered Dietitian" means a individual is registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration, the accrediting agency of the American Dietetic Association.

What is a licensed dietitian/nutritionist?

This title means a person licensed pursuant to Dietetics and Nutrition Practice (ss. 468.501-468.518)

What is a nutritionist?

A nutritionist can be someone who graduated with a degree in nutrition or read a book by someone that considered themselves a nutritionist, and since they read their book they call themselves a nutritionist. See the difference? There is no organization or legal definition of a nutritionist. Technically anybody can call themselves a nutritionist, but not everybody can call themselves a dietitian, and if they do, they should have the credentials RD after their name.

Be careful whom you get your information from. There are a lot of people who think they know nutrition and also give advice, but that doesn't mean they are qualified to be giving the advice. You also can't always believe what you read. Don't be afraid to do some research on a topic. When in doubt, ask a registered dietitian.

Is a license required?

No person may engage for remuneration in dietetics and nutrition practice or nutrition counseling or hold himself or herself out as a practitioner of dietetics and nutrition practice or nutrition counseling unless the person is licensed in accordance with state licensure. While all registered dietitans are nutritionists, a nutritionist is not a registered dietitian!