There are many buzz words surrounding the world of fitness and food intake – and the results of both.  We do hear the titles dietician and nutritionist a great deal, especially on radio and tv, in the media generally as families take their advice on a very regular basis.  There is an essential difference between the two professions – and these are mainly focused in their qualifications.  Dieticians have to be regulated healthcare professionals and can work with folk who have all kinds of medical considions, which involve very careful and precisely worked out food intake at some stage.  Nutitionists  are generally less qualified if at all, but may just have an interest and practice in the subjects of healthy eating and lifestyle choices – they will be working with individuals to enhance their already fairly healthy lifestyles.  They do assist folk with minor dietary concerns and can guide on lifestyle changes to bring very substantial improvements but they are not usually qualified to do so.

Dieticians in the UK must be qualified to at least degree level in dietetics and may well also have a masters or doctorate as well as supervised practical experience.  They can assess, diagnose and treat dietary issues that relate to illness and diseases such as heart problems.  They are an essential part of any team within a healthcare setting.   They will also be called upon for advising the food industry, healthy eating campaigns and sports nutrition issues.  The scope is enormous.