7 Kitchen Tools to Enhance Your Plant-Based Cooking
Xavier Toledo, MS, RD, LDN
July 1, 2024
By
Xavier Toledo, MS, RD, LDN
Navigating the world of nutrition can be confusing, especially when you’re trying to understand the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist. I often find myself explaining this distinction to people in my orbit. Even members of my family sometimes confuse me for a nutritionist. While there’s never any malice behind these moments, they remind me that although it may be obvious to me, the exact role of a dietitian—and what goes into becoming one—is not common knowledge. That’s why I want to help clarify what a dietitian is and how they can support you in achieving your nutrition goals, be that choosing more plants or otherwise.
First, let’s recognize that there are great nutritionists who have helped and continue to help many people improve their lives. There are indeed nutritionists who can provide valuable advice and support for those looking to improve their diet and overall health. However, there are key differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to understand.
Registered Dietitians (RDs) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) have undergone extensive training and education, including:
In contrast, the term “nutritionist” is not regulated in many places, meaning anyone can call themselves a nutritionist regardless of their education or training. While some nutritionists pursue formal education, it’s not a requirement. Consequently, nutritionists are typically not covered by insurance, as dietitians are widely recognized as the qualified authorities in nutrition, while the title of nutritionist lacks the same level of professional credibility.
You might have noticed that dietitians often have a series of letters following their names. For example, when I use my name in a professional setting, I write “Xavier Toledo, MS, RD, LDN.” These abbreviations can be confusing, so let’s break them down:
Education Level:
Credentials:
Licenses:
Advanced Certifications:
Dietitians are formally trained nutrition experts who are equipped to provide evidence-based advice and individualized nutrition plans. Here are some reasons why you might consider seeing a dietitian:
Dietitians are uniquely equipped to guide you through your plant-based journey, whether you’re fully plant-based, looking to add more plants to your diet, or somewhere in between. They can help you:
While doctors play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating illnesses, most medical schools offer limited training in nutrition. “Today, most medical schools in the United States teach less than 25 hours of nutrition over four years. The fact that less than 20 percent of medical schools have a single required course in nutrition, it’s a scandal. It’s outrageous. It’s obscene,” said David Eisenberg, adjunct associate professor of nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, during a 2017 PBS NewsHour segment.[1]
Fortunately, there are doctors who educate themselves on nutrition due to its importance in health. For example, at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM), I have the privilege of working with doctors who truly understand the importance of nutrition in health. PCRM promotes prevention through nutrition, conducts clinical research, and advocates for higher standards in medical practice. The physicians there are well-versed in nutrition and seamlessly integrate it into their work.
Dietitians specialize in nutrition and complement doctors by providing detailed nutritional guidance. This collaboration ensures comprehensive care, addressing both medical and nutritional needs, and promotes better health outcomes.
Understanding the role of dietitians and the unique support they offer can empower you on your nutrition journey. Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health, manage a specific condition, or explore plant-based eating, a dietitian can provide the guidance and expertise you need. I hope this helps clarify the differences and the value that dietitians bring to the table, making it easier for you to make informed decisions about your health and nutrition.
Good news: Xavier will be offering personalized nutrition counseling to the Choose More Plants community soon. This service will be tailored to your unique needs and goals, helping you make sustainable dietary changes. Join his waiting list to be the first to know about pricing, availability, and detailed service information when it launches.
Beyond nutrition counseling, Xavier is available for consulting, talks & workshops, and more. Learn more here.
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