Dietitian or nutritionist? – See an expert for nutrition advice

Before we get into our Expert Examiner series it’s time to clear up a little confusion.

Dietitian or Nutritionist?

According to the Dietitians Association of Australia unlike some other countries, there are no rules in Australia governing the use of the terms ‘Dietitian’ and ‘Nutritionist’ and they may be used by Dietitians, nutrition scientists and nutrition graduates, or people with very limited nutrition qualifications. To make sure you are receiving expert nutrition advice, always enquire about the qualifications of a dietitian or nutritionist and in Australia look for an Accredited Practising Dietitian or the APD credential.

Look for the APD logo

So what are Accredited Practising Dietitians?

Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are recognised professionals with the qualifications and skills to provide expert nutrition and dietary advice. They know about food and health and can help you sort through the maze of nutrition information.

APDs are qualified to advise individuals and groups on nutrition related matters. They also have clinical training to modify diets to treat conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, cancers, gastro-intestinal diseases, food allergies and intolerances and overweight and obesity.

APDs have sound university qualifications accredited by DAA, undertake ongoing training and education and comply with the Associations guidelines for best practice. They are committed to the DAA Code of Professional Conduct and Statement of Ethical Practice, and to providing quality service.

APD is the only national credential recognised by the Australian Government, Medicare, the Department of Veterans Affairs and most private health funds as the quality standard for nutrition and dietetics services in Australia. It is a recognised trademark protected by law.

How to Find an APD?

You can search by locality or speciality for Australian APD’s at:

http://www.daa.asn.au/

Outside Australia:

You can find a qualified Registered dietitians here:

USA: http://www.eatright.org/

Britain: http://www.bda.uk.com/

New Zealand: https://www.dietitians.org.nz/

Canada: http://www.dietitians.ca/

And within other Member countries of the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations.