What is a Registered Dietitian (RD)? The difference between a Dietitian & Nutritionist in Canada

A Registered Dietitian (RD) is a regulated health professional specializing in food and nutrition. In Canada, becoming an RD requires:

✔ Earning a Bachelor’s degree in nutrition

✔ Completing an accredited internship

✔ Passing the Canadian Dietetic Regulatory Exam (CDRE)

Once credentialed, dietitian's are regulated just like Registered Nurses, Pharmacists, or Dental Hygienists. They must also complete continuing education each year to stay up to date with the latest evidence-based nutrition research.

Dietitian vs. Nutritionist: What’s the Difference?

The term “Dietitian” is protected across Canada, meaning only those who meet the rigorous education and training requirements can use the title.

However, “Nutritionist” is not a protected term in most provinces, meaning anyone—even those with minimal training—can call themselves a nutritionist.

The exception? In Alberta (where I practice), Quebec, and Nova Scotia, “Nutritionist” is a protected term and means the same thing as “Dietitian.”

For example:

✅ As an RD in Alberta, I can call myself a Dietitian or Nutritionist.

❌ But in Saskatchewan, anyone can call themselves a Nutritionist, regardless of their training.

I know—it’s confusing! I hope there’s more consistency in the future for better public understanding.

Other Nutrition Titles

You may have seen titles like Nutrition Therapy Practitioner or Registered Holistic Nutritionist. These are not regulated health professionals. While they may have completed training programs, the terms “Registered” or “Practitioner” do not mean they are government-regulated.

Remember:

✅ Dietitian is the Canada-wide protected title for highly trained nutrition professionals.

✅ In Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, “Nutritionist” means the same as “Dietitian.”

Why Regulation Matters

As a Registered Dietitian in Alberta, I am a member of the College of Dietitians of Alberta (CDA), which ensures RD's provide safe, ethical, and evidence-based care.

This means I am:

✔ Held to the highest standards of practice

✔ Required to stay up to date on nutrition trends & research

✔ Committed to busting nutrition myths and providing reliable, science-based information

I hope this helps explain what I do as a Registered Dietitian! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.