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“Registered Dietitian” and “Dietitian” are regulated terms in Canada, and only professionals meeting specific accredited standards may use these titles. In British Columbia, “nutritionist”, “registered holistic nutritionist”, “certified nutrition counsellor”, “nutrition coach”, “certified nutrition practitioner”, and other similar titles are not regulated by a professional governing body or college. Therefore, there is no protection or liability for the public. 

Dietitians in BC:

Have graduated with a minimum 4-year bachelor of science degree from an accredited university program in dietetics

Have completed a minimum of 1250 hours of a comprehensive, professionally-supervised practicum in diverse settings including: clinical, community, public health nutrition, and research

Have written a national licencing exam

Are registered and regulated by the provincial regulatory body, the College of Dietitians of BC, which acts to protect the public must report continuing education to the regulatory college annually

Are a recognized health professional in the BC Health Professions Act, similar to Pharmacist, Physiotherapist, or Medical Physician, and able to use the protected title Registered Dietitian or Dietitian

In summary, all Dietitians are nutritionists but not all nutritionists are Dietitians.

Dietitians provide personalized nutritional advice that can help you make realistic and sustainable healthy lifestyle changes. They can also help manage diseases such as Diabetes, Cancer, Heart Health, Autoimmune disorders and Gastrointestinal issues. A registered Dietitian educates their clients on better overall nutritional understanding.

“A Certified Diabetes Educator is a health professional, committed to excellence in diabetes education, who has a sound knowledge base in diabetes care/management and education processes, as well as good communication skills and who has passed the Canadian Diabetes Educator’s Certification Board (CDECB) exam.”

Learn more: www.cdecb.ca

A physician referral is not required for dietitian services. Check with your Extended Health Benefit Plan today to find out if you’re covered for Registered Dietitian services! If not, our services are tax deductible.