Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are food and nutrition experts who must meet a set of rigorous professional and academic standards in order to hold their title. These standards include earning a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and/or dietetics, completing 1,200 hours of supervised practice, and passing a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. All of Everlong’s dietitians are registered and complete continuing education requirements each year.

No, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is not the same as a nutritionist.

An RDN is a regulated healthcare professional who has completed specific educational and clinical requirements. They hold a degree in nutrition or a related field, have completed a supervised internship, and have passed a national exam to become certified. RDNs are experts in the science of nutrition and are trained to provide personalized dietary advice and medical nutrition therapy for various health conditions.

The term nutritionist is broader and not regulated in the same way. In some states, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist without specific qualifications or training. A nutritionist may or may not have formal credentials, and their scope of practice can vary widely. If you require specialized dietary advice for medical conditions, it’s essential to seek guidance from a registered dietitian to ensure you receive accurate and evidence-based guidance.

During your initial appointment with your registered dietitian, you can expect a comprehensive assessment of your current dietary habits, health goals, and medical history. Your registered dietitian will ask detailed questions to understand your eating patterns and any challenges you may be facing with your nutrition. They may also ask for recent labs or measurements, such as weight and height, if necessary.

Your registered dietitian will provide personalized recommendations, including nutrition education, goal setting, and a customized plan, to help you make sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle. This consultation serves as a foundation for ongoing collaboration and support as you work together to achieve your desired health outcomes.

The frequency of sessions will depend on your individual needs and goals and can be discussed during your initial appointment. Most often, we work with our patients on a weekly or biweekly basis in order to establish the best plan of care and help them focus on their goals through all of life’s situations, such as holidays, events, and vacations.

Yes, you will have your own personal registered dietitian with whom you will meet each appointment.