Title confusion

I often get asked what is the difference between a ‘nutritionist’, a ‘nutritional therapist’ and a ‘dietician’. Even health professionals can be confused and use the terms interchangeably and often incorrectly.

Nutritional therapists use a variety of diagnostic tools to assess and identify potential nutritional imbalances which may be contributing to someone’s symptoms and health concerns. They then address the imbalances and help support the body to restore health. They work with individuals to achieve their own optimal health, whether they are looking to enhance their health and well being or for support with chronic conditions. They consider each person to be unique and provide personalised nutrition and lifestyle plans, rather than generic, ‘one-size-fits-all’ advice.

Nutritional therapy is a complementary medicine, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Therapists will always refer any patient to their GP if ‘red flag’ signs and symptoms are indicated. They also work together with other medical professionals, as part of a coordinated programme in which the patient would benefit from nutritional therapy support.

Dieticians work mainly in the NHS. They use nutrition science to create diet plans for patients to treat medical conditions as well as promote good health by helping people make better food choices.

Only Dieticians and Nutritional Therapists are trained in clinical practice to give one-to-one personal health advice. Both must have full professional indemnity insurance.

Nutritionists work in a range of settings, including research, education and policy development. They have a good understanding of the scientific basis of nutrition and provide information and guidance about the impacts of food and nutrition on health and wellbeing.

The title ‘nutritionist’ is not protected by law which means that anyone can say they are a nutritionist. Always make sure that the practitioner you choose to see is registered with the relevant professional regulatory association. This ensures they are properly trained and qualified and that these qualifications have been kept up to date. You can tell this by looking at the letters after their name eg mBANT, mANP, rCNHC, rGNC.