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That's a great question and not always easy to figure out. In most states, anyone can claim to be a "nutritionist" but if you stick to receiving advice from a registered dietitian (RD) you should be ok. To become a RD you have to complete extensive schooling as well as pass a national board exam while also completing continuing education credits.
This might not be an easy task and you are wise to be skeptical. The term “nutritionist” is unregulated in most states; therefore anyone can call themselves a nutritionist. This is not the case for a medical doctor (MD), registered nurse (RN), or registered dietitian (R.D.). A Registered Dietitian is considered a credible resource for nutrition information.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.