If you have a medical condition, take regular medicines or are starting a weight-loss medicine, see a registered dietitian: in many countries "dietitian" is a protected title that requires a recognised degree and registration. For general healthy eating, sport or wellness, a qualified nutritionist or a dietitian can both help.
Dietitian or nutritionist: why it matters
The two words are often used as if they mean the same thing, but in many countries they do not. "Dietitian" is a protected title in countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia and much of the United States, and practitioners must hold a recognised qualification and stay on a register. "Nutritionist" is open in many places, so training can range from a university degree to a short course. Our guide to dietitians and nutritionists explains the rules country by country.
You can check a dietitian's registration yourself: the HCPC register in the UK, the Commission on Dietetic Registration in the US, and Dietitians of Canada's directory or the College of Dietitians of Ontario in Canada.
How the quiz matches you
The quiz looks at what you want help with, whether you have a diagnosis or take medicines, whether a weight-loss medicine is involved, how you would like to meet and how soon you want to start. Anything medical is matched to a registered dietitian. Sport, family and general wellness can be matched to a dietitian or a qualified nutritionist. Product, label and market-entry questions go to a professional who works with food and supplement companies.
What happens after the quiz
Your answers become a suggested session. Press the button and the booking form opens with that session selected and your quiz summary attached, so you do not have to explain yourself twice. Your answers stay in your browser unless you choose to send the booking.
Book a video, phone or in-person session with a professional from our network. Your result can be attached so you do not start from scratch.
More free tools
- BMI calculator
- Calorie calculator
- Protein calculator
- Water intake calculator
- Fibre target
- Waist-to-height ratio
- Healthy eating check
- Compare two countries
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral to see a dietitian?
Not for a private session. Some health systems and insurers need a doctor's referral or prescription to cover the cost, which our country pages explain.
Can a nutritionist help with a medical condition?
For diagnosed conditions, medicines and weight-loss injections, we always match you with a registered dietitian.
Are online sessions as good as in-person ones?
For most nutrition care, yes. Video works well for assessment, planning and follow-up. In-person visits suit body-composition checks and some clinical needs.
Is the quiz anonymous?
Yes. It runs in your browser and nothing is sent unless you book.
