Why choose a Dietitian?
What is the difference between a Dietitian and a Nutritionist?
Becoming an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) requires a minimum of 4 - 5 years of university training. Dietitians have the clinical training, knowledge and understanding to interpret and translate complex information to assist individuals on all nutrition-related topics from healthy eating to disease management and prevention. The information provided to individuals is based on the latest scientific evidence as ACD's are required to regularly undertake professional development to ensure they are up to date with the latest research.
Yes it is true that a Dietitian can also be referred to as a Nutritionist. However, a nutritionist is a very broad term as it can apply to someone who is a qualified nutrition scientist or even to someone who has an interest in nutrition but actually has very little to no training. By choosing a dietitian it will provide you with the confidence that your nutrition advise is coming from a trained and qualified professional who has the skill to determine fact from fiction.
By choosing an APD most private health funds will provide a rebate for the consultations, depending on the level of cover selected. Obtaining a care plan from your doctor means rebates from Medicare will also be provided for dietitian consultations when managing chronic health conditions.