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What are the first steps I should take to become a nutritionist?

Is there any specific degrees I need to get?

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Nikkia’s Answer

There are two options for Nutritionist: Community Nutritionist and Clinical Nutritionist. To prepare for either path a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics is a good start. You will also need to complete an internship to become a Registered Dietician (RD). The internship typically begins after completing your Bachelor's in Nutrition and Dietetics and lasts for one-year. The internship will provide the clinical experience and the practical hours necessary to become an RD.
Thank you comment icon I appreciate you taking the time to answer this. Lisset
Thank you comment icon Thank you for sharing your perspective. Diana
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GIRISH’s Answer

I encourage you to subscribe to nutritionfacts.org and make it a habit to read one article every day for the rest of your life. This is an excellent first step. You don't need to be a vegan or adhere to a vegan diet. This site offers a wealth of free information on nutrition, and its author, Dr. Greger, has written at least four books that you absolutely need to borrow from the library and read from beginning to end. He also produces amazing 2-5 minute videos that are extremely informative.

Best regards,
Girish Kalva, MD
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James Constantine’s Answer

Dear Lisset,

I embarked on my journey as a dietitian-nutritionist in Australia 35 years ago, when the qualification was a postgraduate diploma. This was preceded by my Bachelor of Science in Biological Chemistry. Today in the USA, the path involves earning a Bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics, followed by accreditation as a Certified Dietitian-Nutritionist (CDN). Gaining practical experience in community health and hospital-based clinical settings is also crucial to master Therapeutic Dietetics.

I've always been a trailblazer, stepping outside the conventional box by venturing into the realm of computer nutrition education software programming. I recall a patient from 1994 who criticized a one-day sample menu I provided, deeming it grossly inadequate. She had to wait two weeks for her follow-up consultation, during which she confessed her confusion about what to eat on most days. She was dissatisfied with the limited food group options and yearned for a comprehensive 14-day food menu.

To address these gaps in my nutrition education resources, I created MenuWise. It was a rewarding experience to work with clients who had limited education. My approach resonated with them, and I soon became a sought-after dietitian in private practice in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. I even had the opportunity to present my software at a meeting of the Association for Dietitian-Nutritionists in Private Practice, thanks to Professor Capra. One of the attendees was a dietitian-nutritionist for a Brisbane Football Team.

In an unexpected turn of events, the Brisbane Broncos began a winning streak shortly after.

I hope your journey in this field is as rewarding and fulfilling as mine has been!

Best,
Jim
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Erin’s Answer

You will first complete your bachelors degree. That would be in Nutrition, Dietetics, etc. Be sure that while you are completing your bachelors, you are volunteering in something food or health-related (could be American Cancer Society Relay for Life, soup kitchens, Meals on Wheels, etc.). Also make sure you get some work experience. Working in the hospital food service is a good option for college students! Then you will need to apply for a dietetic internship or complete your master's. Now all Registered Dietitians have to have their masters. Dietetic Internships are typically two semesters. You may have some that you can get master's credit for while you are completing rotations. After your internship, you will need to pass the RD board exam.
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Danielle’s Answer

To practice nutrition in the United States and become a credentialed registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) you would need to enroll in a verified dietetics program. After completing the program, you can then apply to internships (like a residency). Once your internship is completed you can sit for your board exams to obtain your credentials. Don’t be fooled by online nutrition certification classes or degrees in nutrition, this is not the route to go if you plan to work with people, work in hospitals, sports teams, open a private practice etc. Many universities have dietetics programs, especially state schools.
Thank you comment icon Thank you, Danielle! Diana
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