Nutritionists and Dietitians near West Hollywood, CA
![Photo of Dr. Leandro Pucci, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/8e052fb3-6443-4ae5-b146-43f925f13195/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Leandro Pucci
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CKNS, LDN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90046 (Online Only)
Do you want to improve your metabolic health? Struggling with weight, and blood sugar, you are on GLP-1 medication, have issues with male and female hormones, or mental and physical performance? I strive to identify the root cause of my patient's health concerns and develop data-centric, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle interventions based on the low-carb spectrum of Medical Nutrition Therapies that address individual needs, not just fix the symptoms. I can help you reach your health goals with a Personalized and Sustainable plan that fits your goals and concerns.
Do you want to improve your metabolic health? Struggling with weight, and blood sugar, you are on GLP-1 medication, have issues with male and female hormones, or mental and physical performance? I strive to identify the root cause of my patient's health concerns and develop data-centric, evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle interventions based on the low-carb spectrum of Medical Nutrition Therapies that address individual needs, not just fix the symptoms. I can help you reach your health goals with a Personalized and Sustainable plan that fits your goals and concerns.
![Photo of Yasaman 'yasi' Ansari - Yasi Ansari Nutrition, MS, RDN, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c3d62381-3ee7-41f1-a800-272b389292d4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Yasi Ansari Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hollywood, CA 90069
I am a Registered Dietitian & Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). I have had >10 years of experience in a variety of sports & clinical settings. I specialize in working with adult and adolescent athletes in sports such as dance, gymnastics, performing arts, ice skating, cross country/track, soccer, swim, volleyball, lacrosse, tennis, softball, football & basketball. Additionally, I also specialize in working with athletes struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating. I focus on a food-first approach that is nourishing and personalized to each athlete to help them perform their best and supports their health.
I am a Registered Dietitian & Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD). I have had >10 years of experience in a variety of sports & clinical settings. I specialize in working with adult and adolescent athletes in sports such as dance, gymnastics, performing arts, ice skating, cross country/track, soccer, swim, volleyball, lacrosse, tennis, softball, football & basketball. Additionally, I also specialize in working with athletes struggling with an eating disorder or disordered eating. I focus on a food-first approach that is nourishing and personalized to each athlete to help them perform their best and supports their health.
![Photo of Bre Pottebaum, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/0eea2a29-e327-4374-8476-e1cb3b136315/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bre Pottebaum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90069 (Online Only)
I’m Bre, the proud founder of NutritionbyBre. I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in the Southern California area of Los Angeles, California. I believe in a comprehensive nutrition approach that is realistic and doable. I can tackle any nutrition need, from medical nutrition therapy to weight loss. With the help of NutritionbyBre, clients receive comprehensive nutrition assessments, one-on-one nutrition counseling, and customized meal plans for weight loss or other health conditions.
I’m Bre, the proud founder of NutritionbyBre. I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) in the Southern California area of Los Angeles, California. I believe in a comprehensive nutrition approach that is realistic and doable. I can tackle any nutrition need, from medical nutrition therapy to weight loss. With the help of NutritionbyBre, clients receive comprehensive nutrition assessments, one-on-one nutrition counseling, and customized meal plans for weight loss or other health conditions.
![Photo of Ashley Lytwyn, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5931858a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
The best part of working with my clients is seeing the mental shift that occurs with nutritional therapy. I work with a lot of people who have been imprisoned by restrictive diets and have beaten themselves up for years because they feel like a failure. At Nutrition Unveiled, the most important thing that occurs is developing a positive relationship with the mind, body, and food, and learning to nourish and treat the body rather than deprive and hurt the body. Happiness creates a much deeper level of health than any number on the scale ever will!
The best part of working with my clients is seeing the mental shift that occurs with nutritional therapy. I work with a lot of people who have been imprisoned by restrictive diets and have beaten themselves up for years because they feel like a failure. At Nutrition Unveiled, the most important thing that occurs is developing a positive relationship with the mind, body, and food, and learning to nourish and treat the body rather than deprive and hurt the body. Happiness creates a much deeper level of health than any number on the scale ever will!
![Photo of Sarah Mirkin, RDN, CPT, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/83312776-194f-4d5c-a792-533717458863/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, GERD, bloating, irregularity, gas? Does food & your weight feel like a constant battle? Do you feel like if you were thin, or never bloated & free from digestive issues, life would be easy? The answer is "YES" for most people. You don't need to struggle. I can teach you how to eat so you feel & look your best! My approach is practical. I will help you establish a healthy relationship with food, heal your gut, and reach your health & weight goals permanently. I've written 2 books. The first book is for weight loss for women over 40 and the 2nd on the low FODMAP diet. Let me help you!
Do you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, GERD, bloating, irregularity, gas? Does food & your weight feel like a constant battle? Do you feel like if you were thin, or never bloated & free from digestive issues, life would be easy? The answer is "YES" for most people. You don't need to struggle. I can teach you how to eat so you feel & look your best! My approach is practical. I will help you establish a healthy relationship with food, heal your gut, and reach your health & weight goals permanently. I've written 2 books. The first book is for weight loss for women over 40 and the 2nd on the low FODMAP diet. Let me help you!
![Photo of Nazanin Blitshteyn, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/fd5ad04e-935e-4028-96c0-b638a996c3a0/2/320x400.jpeg)
With my vast experience and success in Nutrition consulting I am able to deliver results to people that want to loose weight, keep the weight loss off and to achieve a more healthier energetic life. My approach is different because I combine counseling with nutrition therapy to produce stellar results that are long lasting. I give my clients the tools they can use to live a healthy, productive and happy life. I truly believe that the mind is the most powerful tool and needs constant counseling, coaching and training to accomplish any goal. Choose me as your partner and win.
With my vast experience and success in Nutrition consulting I am able to deliver results to people that want to loose weight, keep the weight loss off and to achieve a more healthier energetic life. My approach is different because I combine counseling with nutrition therapy to produce stellar results that are long lasting. I give my clients the tools they can use to live a healthy, productive and happy life. I truly believe that the mind is the most powerful tool and needs constant counseling, coaching and training to accomplish any goal. Choose me as your partner and win.
![Photo of LeeAnn Weintraub, MPH, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/da137cc7-98ba-4969-9629-b0dec8880495/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in private practice for over 10 years. I work with individuals, families and organizations to problem-solve nutrition concerns and improve health outcomes. I offer a nonjudgmental, straightforward and evidence-based approach. I listen to you and gather all necessary information to provide a nutrition plan and recommendations that work for you. It is my pleasure to be your nutrition guide! Follow me on Instagram @leeannsweintraub for my weekly easy and delicious recipes.
I am a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) in private practice for over 10 years. I work with individuals, families and organizations to problem-solve nutrition concerns and improve health outcomes. I offer a nonjudgmental, straightforward and evidence-based approach. I listen to you and gather all necessary information to provide a nutrition plan and recommendations that work for you. It is my pleasure to be your nutrition guide! Follow me on Instagram @leeannsweintraub for my weekly easy and delicious recipes.
![Photo of Katerina Varnum, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ab9d0d23-1923-45f7-a0bf-fbe793e831ca/2/320x400.jpeg)
No, you don't need drugs to improve your blood sugar, lose weight, or deal with PCOS. Yes, medications might seem convenient; however, this road goes nowhere. With time, your drug quantity will increase because these drugs can’t treat the causes of your problems. Based on the latest research, effective treatment of diabetes and PCOS can be achieved by working with gut microbiome. I use gut microbiome in my practice not only to lower insulin resistance and lower blood glucose but also for weight loss, getting regular periods, and improving the ability to conceive for girls with PCOS.
No, you don't need drugs to improve your blood sugar, lose weight, or deal with PCOS. Yes, medications might seem convenient; however, this road goes nowhere. With time, your drug quantity will increase because these drugs can’t treat the causes of your problems. Based on the latest research, effective treatment of diabetes and PCOS can be achieved by working with gut microbiome. I use gut microbiome in my practice not only to lower insulin resistance and lower blood glucose but also for weight loss, getting regular periods, and improving the ability to conceive for girls with PCOS.
![Photo of Shannon Keefe - Integrate Nutrition, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/818784ff-5a0e-4fc4-abdc-c0ab66ff3195/2/320x400.jpeg)
Integrate Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90048 (Online Only)
I'm passionate about helping clients with food, nutrition, and how these intersect with your body systems. With a background in the fitness industry and as a mom of two, I specialize in sports nutrition and pre/post-natal care, ensuring my clients get the specialized support they need.
I'm passionate about helping clients with food, nutrition, and how these intersect with your body systems. With a background in the fitness industry and as a mom of two, I specialize in sports nutrition and pre/post-natal care, ensuring my clients get the specialized support they need.
![Photo of Rebecca Dardashti, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5ab24ee2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a GI-focused Dietitian, I’m here to guide and empower you to reduce your gastrointestinal symptoms, clarify the uncertainty of what and how to eat, and reduce the stress associated with eating. We will work together to develop an approach to eating that is sustainable, realistic, and doesn’t feel like deprivation! I have helped clients with bloating, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, SIBO, IBD (Crohn’s/UC), Celiac, diverticulosis/itis, esophageal disorders, and more. I am also experienced in counseling for weight management, diabetes, and general wellness.
As a GI-focused Dietitian, I’m here to guide and empower you to reduce your gastrointestinal symptoms, clarify the uncertainty of what and how to eat, and reduce the stress associated with eating. We will work together to develop an approach to eating that is sustainable, realistic, and doesn’t feel like deprivation! I have helped clients with bloating, constipation, diarrhea, IBS, SIBO, IBD (Crohn’s/UC), Celiac, diverticulosis/itis, esophageal disorders, and more. I am also experienced in counseling for weight management, diabetes, and general wellness.
![Photo of Shima Fazelimanesh, MS, RD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/603c89fe-e9c7-480d-bab1-6243154447ce/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Clinical Registered Dietitian and specialize in renal disease, diabetes, GI including enteral (Tube Feedings) & parenteral nutrition. In addition to my private practice, I am currently working as an acute care clinical dietitian at Olive-View UCLA Medical Center, & as an Organ Transplant Dietitian at Keck Medical Center of USC & an outpatient Dialysis Cedars Sinai Medical Center; additionally, have led outpatient diabetes education and weight loss and bariatric education classes at Olive View UCLA Medical Center. My goal is to help & teach my patients how to make nutritionally sound food choices to speed the recovery process.
I am a Clinical Registered Dietitian and specialize in renal disease, diabetes, GI including enteral (Tube Feedings) & parenteral nutrition. In addition to my private practice, I am currently working as an acute care clinical dietitian at Olive-View UCLA Medical Center, & as an Organ Transplant Dietitian at Keck Medical Center of USC & an outpatient Dialysis Cedars Sinai Medical Center; additionally, have led outpatient diabetes education and weight loss and bariatric education classes at Olive View UCLA Medical Center. My goal is to help & teach my patients how to make nutritionally sound food choices to speed the recovery process.
![Photo of Sarah Eichenbaum, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/7c05c758-a797-4114-a4b6-443406dd80fe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Eichenbaum
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
West Hollywood, CA 90046 (Online Only)
I work with people of all ages with a focus in eating disorders, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, and those seeking to better their relationship with food and body image overall. There is a lot of misinformation out there about how to eat and how to look, but everyone is unique and I work to help find what works best, and is healthiest, for you. I provide the tools and support needed to build healthy and sustainable habits around food and body image, to help you free yourself of restrictive and critical thinking, and will help you cultivate supportive habits to be nourished and happy.
I work with people of all ages with a focus in eating disorders, prenatal and postnatal nutrition, and those seeking to better their relationship with food and body image overall. There is a lot of misinformation out there about how to eat and how to look, but everyone is unique and I work to help find what works best, and is healthiest, for you. I provide the tools and support needed to build healthy and sustainable habits around food and body image, to help you free yourself of restrictive and critical thinking, and will help you cultivate supportive habits to be nourished and happy.
![Photo of Deirdre Paulson, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59f1ab00-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deirdre Paulson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90028
My approach to care is to address the whole person not just the diagnosis. As an experienced nutrition expert, I have worked for the past 15 years helping individuals improve their lives and maintain their health with nutrition therapy, positive mindsets and fitness. I believe strongly that food plays one of the biggest roles in our life with regard to maintaining our health and healing our bodies. Therefore, I believe that the food we consume should be a top priority in our lives.
My approach to care is to address the whole person not just the diagnosis. As an experienced nutrition expert, I have worked for the past 15 years helping individuals improve their lives and maintain their health with nutrition therapy, positive mindsets and fitness. I believe strongly that food plays one of the biggest roles in our life with regard to maintaining our health and healing our bodies. Therefore, I believe that the food we consume should be a top priority in our lives.
![Photo of Diane Campbell - Dietitian Diane, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ceafbb77-bcf6-4747-83fe-f716397c9cac/3/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Campbell has been a life changer as a Registered Dietitian for 20 years. Her areas of expertise include the treatment of patients with eating disorders, weight loss, gut health / IBS issues, & outpatient counseling for medical nutrition therapy and various nutritional needs. Diane has a magnetic personality that people naturally gravitate towards and open up to. Throughout her extensive experience in treating patients with eating disorders in private practice she has successfully helped hundreds of individuals overcome diseases. Diane is also a dynamic public speaker, available for speaking engagements and corporate wellness.
Diane Campbell has been a life changer as a Registered Dietitian for 20 years. Her areas of expertise include the treatment of patients with eating disorders, weight loss, gut health / IBS issues, & outpatient counseling for medical nutrition therapy and various nutritional needs. Diane has a magnetic personality that people naturally gravitate towards and open up to. Throughout her extensive experience in treating patients with eating disorders in private practice she has successfully helped hundreds of individuals overcome diseases. Diane is also a dynamic public speaker, available for speaking engagements and corporate wellness.
![Photo of Zoe Biggs, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/11411c05-712e-46fb-9cf4-08b39b9875fb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zoe's holistic approach integrates up-to-date nutrition science with intuitive eating. She facilitates guided discussions to understand each unique experience, creating a safe space for open communication. By exploring individual experiences, patterns, and beliefs surrounding food, she helps clients make transformative changes. Zoe promotes food as more than just nourishment, but also a part of our social and cultural connections.
Zoe's holistic approach integrates up-to-date nutrition science with intuitive eating. She facilitates guided discussions to understand each unique experience, creating a safe space for open communication. By exploring individual experiences, patterns, and beliefs surrounding food, she helps clients make transformative changes. Zoe promotes food as more than just nourishment, but also a part of our social and cultural connections.
![Photo of Derek Lipton Ms Rd Cssd, MS, RD, CSSD, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a7fb1a5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Derek Lipton Ms Rd Cssd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CPT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90020
Whether you're an elite athlete, a working professional trying to get a little extra out of your workouts, or just want to lose some weight to improve your health and energy, adding nutrition counseling will boost your results! I have years of experience working in clinical nutrition and as a Sports Nutritionist at the University of Georgia and Duke University, allowing me to work with a variety of clients. My goal is to make healthy eating second nature. You have a busy lifestyle, and I can provide you with the tools to maximize your health and performance while fitting your schedule.
Whether you're an elite athlete, a working professional trying to get a little extra out of your workouts, or just want to lose some weight to improve your health and energy, adding nutrition counseling will boost your results! I have years of experience working in clinical nutrition and as a Sports Nutritionist at the University of Georgia and Duke University, allowing me to work with a variety of clients. My goal is to make healthy eating second nature. You have a busy lifestyle, and I can provide you with the tools to maximize your health and performance while fitting your schedule.
![Photo of Cristal Medina, MS, RDN, RYT-200, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ab30e21a-7109-493f-a9f2-a9b06c32f44d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you ready to heal your relationship with food, movement, and your body? You don’t have to do it alone! I am a trauma-informed, anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Yoga Teacher. My goal is to help you learn how to make peace with food and relearn trust in your body. My specialized approach will help you reconnect with your body’s inner wisdom, free yourself of shame, and heal what no longer serves you. I can help you break free from dieting with intuitive eating counseling. I offer eating disorder treatment for Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, & disordered eating. I also offer body-positive yoga.
Are you ready to heal your relationship with food, movement, and your body? You don’t have to do it alone! I am a trauma-informed, anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Yoga Teacher. My goal is to help you learn how to make peace with food and relearn trust in your body. My specialized approach will help you reconnect with your body’s inner wisdom, free yourself of shame, and heal what no longer serves you. I can help you break free from dieting with intuitive eating counseling. I offer eating disorder treatment for Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, & disordered eating. I also offer body-positive yoga.
![Photo of Alaina Randazzo, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/6fd4056b-8184-46b6-838d-6c7c0b5b3cae/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alaina Randazzo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90036 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm Alaina, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders/disordered eating, IBS, endometriosis, and prenatal nutrition. In our work together, I will support you as you build a new relationship with food and work to address symptoms; one that is self-guided and enjoyable. While I specialize in the areas listed above, my approach is suitable for anyone looking for trauma-informed, ND-affirming, weight-inclusive nutrition support.
Hi! I'm Alaina, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders/disordered eating, IBS, endometriosis, and prenatal nutrition. In our work together, I will support you as you build a new relationship with food and work to address symptoms; one that is self-guided and enjoyable. While I specialize in the areas listed above, my approach is suitable for anyone looking for trauma-informed, ND-affirming, weight-inclusive nutrition support.
![Photo of Shari Havourd, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/c7c79208-05d4-43b4-a43d-1cdca9054f57/1/320x400.jpeg)
**Accepting In-Person & Telehealth Clients** My style is to work collaboratively and with compassion when helping my clients cope with their medical and mental health diagnoses, overcome dieting distress and improve their quality of life through nutrition and lifestyle changes. I offer evidence-based medical nutrition therapy, intuitive eating skills, mindfulness practices, and use functional labs and selective supplements when needed. I am passionate about addressing the gut-brain axis and conditions like ADHD, anxiety, autoimmune, depression, disordered eating, eating disorders, GERD, insomnia, IBS, IBD, and SIBO.
**Accepting In-Person & Telehealth Clients** My style is to work collaboratively and with compassion when helping my clients cope with their medical and mental health diagnoses, overcome dieting distress and improve their quality of life through nutrition and lifestyle changes. I offer evidence-based medical nutrition therapy, intuitive eating skills, mindfulness practices, and use functional labs and selective supplements when needed. I am passionate about addressing the gut-brain axis and conditions like ADHD, anxiety, autoimmune, depression, disordered eating, eating disorders, GERD, insomnia, IBS, IBD, and SIBO.
![Photo of Sapna Bhalsod, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/111628df-2296-475b-ae98-9aac3bb162b6/3/320x400.jpeg)
I help women cut through toxic diet culture to discover how to refuel and find wellness while managing chronic disease. Using the "Mind Your Own Plate" philosophy, I've flipped the focus to encourage fueling your body with foods that promote your unique needs.
I help women cut through toxic diet culture to discover how to refuel and find wellness while managing chronic disease. Using the "Mind Your Own Plate" philosophy, I've flipped the focus to encourage fueling your body with foods that promote your unique needs.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in West Hollywood?
To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.
What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.
In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.
When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.
How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?
The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.
Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?
If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.
Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.