Nutritionists and Dietitians in Riverside, CA

Photo of Tracy Rachae Granberry, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Tracy Rachae Granberry
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505
Tracy has worked in the health and fitness industry for over 30 years as a Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer. She truly believes that proper nutrition and exercising regularly is fuel for the body and soul. Specialties: Diabetes, Weight Loss, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Digestive Issues, Food Sensitivities, Sports Nutrition.
Tracy has worked in the health and fitness industry for over 30 years as a Registered Dietitian and Personal Trainer. She truly believes that proper nutrition and exercising regularly is fuel for the body and soul. Specialties: Diabetes, Weight Loss, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, Digestive Issues, Food Sensitivities, Sports Nutrition.
(909) 351-3127 View (909) 351-3127
Photo of Michelle Missy Porteous, MS, RD, CDE, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Michelle Missy Porteous
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDE, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92505
Have you recently been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol? Or, are you chronically plagued with the pain or discomfort of IBS, Migraines or Fibromyalgia? Has eating, the one thing you always felt you could control, now begun to feel it is controlling you? Missy has helped hundreds of people overcome and reverse health conditions, establish healthy food relationships, get off the dieting roller coaster, and learn how to have an ENJOYABLE lifestyle full of energy.
Have you recently been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol? Or, are you chronically plagued with the pain or discomfort of IBS, Migraines or Fibromyalgia? Has eating, the one thing you always felt you could control, now begun to feel it is controlling you? Missy has helped hundreds of people overcome and reverse health conditions, establish healthy food relationships, get off the dieting roller coaster, and learn how to have an ENJOYABLE lifestyle full of energy.
(951) 379-3204 View (951) 379-3204
Photo of Jan Kielmann - Functional Wellness, DCN, MS, CNS®, IFMCP®, RHGs, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Functional Wellness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS®, IFMCP®, RHGs
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92501
Are you suffering from cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, chronic pain or degenerative conditions? Have you been diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder and are ready to tackle it? If you have a simple or complicated problem - we help you to break the cycle of chronic disease. We offer evidence-based clinical nutrition, specializing on preventive, functional, integrative and personalized nutrition. We help optimize pregnancies, children's health, hormones, methylation, detoxification, energy, concentration, memory, mood, digestion, quality of life, work performance, skin conditions, joint pain, digestive issues, immune defenses, headaches, migraines, anxiety, stress, emotional support and general well-being.
Are you suffering from cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, chronic pain or degenerative conditions? Have you been diagnosed with an auto-immune disorder and are ready to tackle it? If you have a simple or complicated problem - we help you to break the cycle of chronic disease. We offer evidence-based clinical nutrition, specializing on preventive, functional, integrative and personalized nutrition. We help optimize pregnancies, children's health, hormones, methylation, detoxification, energy, concentration, memory, mood, digestion, quality of life, work performance, skin conditions, joint pain, digestive issues, immune defenses, headaches, migraines, anxiety, stress, emotional support and general well-being.
(909) 298-1486 View (909) 298-1486
Photo of Alysia Vega, LDN, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Alysia Vega
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverside, CA 92502  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a California-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice, Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients both virtually across the U.S. Karuna is a group practice specializing in nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate the pillars of lifestyle medicine and nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. I truly enjoy helping clients explore their relationship with food, movement and their bodies.
Hello! I am a California-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice, Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients both virtually across the U.S. Karuna is a group practice specializing in nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate the pillars of lifestyle medicine and nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. I truly enjoy helping clients explore their relationship with food, movement and their bodies.
(858) 683-1993 View (858) 683-1993

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Juan M Ramirez, RDN, CPT, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Juan M Ramirez
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CPT, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Corona, CA 92880
Are you frustrated that the weight isn’t coming off even though you’ve been hitting the gym for months? I’ve got the solution for you! ¡Hola! I’m Juan M Ramirez, a Spanish-speaking Registered Dietitian and owner of Highview Nutrition. As a nutritionist and certified personal trainer, I specialize in helping individuals get toned and manage type 2 diabetes through personalized strength training and cutting-edge nutrition plans.
Are you frustrated that the weight isn’t coming off even though you’ve been hitting the gym for months? I’ve got the solution for you! ¡Hola! I’m Juan M Ramirez, a Spanish-speaking Registered Dietitian and owner of Highview Nutrition. As a nutritionist and certified personal trainer, I specialize in helping individuals get toned and manage type 2 diabetes through personalized strength training and cutting-edge nutrition plans.
(951) 724-3314 View (951) 724-3314
Photo of Gwendolyn Moore Mph Rd - Nutrition by Gwen Consulting, MPH, RD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nutrition by Gwen Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
If you are experiencing food sensitivities related to migraines, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's or any digestive abnormalities then you have landed on the right website. Get tested to identify foods that are triggering inflammation. Others report significant improvement when following the LEAP/MRT Anti-inflammatory food plan. Also specializing in weight loss, diabetes management, alternative & functional nutrition with a Food as Medicine approach.
If you are experiencing food sensitivities related to migraines, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohn's or any digestive abnormalities then you have landed on the right website. Get tested to identify foods that are triggering inflammation. Others report significant improvement when following the LEAP/MRT Anti-inflammatory food plan. Also specializing in weight loss, diabetes management, alternative & functional nutrition with a Food as Medicine approach.
(714) 643-8757 View (714) 643-8757
Photo of Brittany Bettingen, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Brittany Bettingen
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Glendora, CA 91740
I am a Registered Dietitian with experience treating hormone imbalances, inflammation and gut/digestive issues that manifest in conditions such as PCOS, pre diabetes, insulin resistance, weight gain, bloating and IBS. Clients often come to me seeking not only the treatment for their symptoms, but to identify the root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. I help my patients regain a sense of confidence in their body and eating patterns. I work with patients with goals to lose weight, improve their fertility/hormone balance, restore digestive health & regain a sense of energy as well as brain function & memory.
I am a Registered Dietitian with experience treating hormone imbalances, inflammation and gut/digestive issues that manifest in conditions such as PCOS, pre diabetes, insulin resistance, weight gain, bloating and IBS. Clients often come to me seeking not only the treatment for their symptoms, but to identify the root causes as to why they have those symptoms in the first place. I help my patients regain a sense of confidence in their body and eating patterns. I work with patients with goals to lose weight, improve their fertility/hormone balance, restore digestive health & regain a sense of energy as well as brain function & memory.
(949) 541-4468 View (949) 541-4468
Photo of Nesreen Khouraki, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nesreen Khouraki
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Menifee, CA 92584
I'm Nesreen - an eating disorder dietitian with a passion for helping guide individuals to a healthy relationship with food and the body. Eating disorders are diseases of connection, and I support clients to rebuild connection to themselves- their senses, their body's cues and function, enjoyment of food, and honoring their worth and the need for life source- food. From rebuilding connection to ourselves, the connections to others and the environment begins to realign and heal, and energy flows.
I'm Nesreen - an eating disorder dietitian with a passion for helping guide individuals to a healthy relationship with food and the body. Eating disorders are diseases of connection, and I support clients to rebuild connection to themselves- their senses, their body's cues and function, enjoyment of food, and honoring their worth and the need for life source- food. From rebuilding connection to ourselves, the connections to others and the environment begins to realign and heal, and energy flows.
(949) 998-4520 View (949) 998-4520
Photo of Tianna Nilsen - Temecula Dietitians, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Temecula Dietitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Lake Elsinore, CA 92530
We are highly experienced non-diet and weight-inclusive dietitians. We treat all conditions including eating disorders, diabetes, heart disease, women's health issues, allergies, family nutrition, intuitive eating and more. We are currently accepting new 1:1 clients via in office and telehealth. We are in-network with IEHP, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of CA, and Health Net. With our clients we focus on attainable health behaviors for sustainable health and wellness.
We are highly experienced non-diet and weight-inclusive dietitians. We treat all conditions including eating disorders, diabetes, heart disease, women's health issues, allergies, family nutrition, intuitive eating and more. We are currently accepting new 1:1 clients via in office and telehealth. We are in-network with IEHP, Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of CA, and Health Net. With our clients we focus on attainable health behaviors for sustainable health and wellness.
(442) 444-2023 View (442) 444-2023
Photo of Alicia Higgason - Nutritive Healing, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nutritive Healing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
Canyon Lake, CA 92587
We help clients establish a healthy foundation to incorporate into their individual work and lifestyle routine. This includes personalized meal planning, nutrition education, lifestyle behavior goals, hormone balance and gut healing assessment. Our areas of specialty focus on general nutrition reset, inflammatory bowel diseases, like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease, IBS, Small intestine bacteria overall, acid reflux/GERD, bloating, family and pediatric nutrition.
We help clients establish a healthy foundation to incorporate into their individual work and lifestyle routine. This includes personalized meal planning, nutrition education, lifestyle behavior goals, hormone balance and gut healing assessment. Our areas of specialty focus on general nutrition reset, inflammatory bowel diseases, like Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease, IBS, Small intestine bacteria overall, acid reflux/GERD, bloating, family and pediatric nutrition.
(951) 916-1880 View (951) 916-1880
Photo of Marina A Savelyeva, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Marina A Savelyeva
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tustin, CA 92780
I am Marina, Registered Dietitian in Newport Beach, CA - your partner in achieving optimal health. With 17+ years of experience, I specialize in disease management and personalized nutrition plans. Don’t get overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice. Online searches can't provide all the answers that is why you need a dietitian to provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your needs. I have published cookbooks "Easy Gastric Sleeve Cookbook" and "The Plant-Based Weight Loss Solution," that offer practical and delicious solutions for weight management and healthy living. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me today!
I am Marina, Registered Dietitian in Newport Beach, CA - your partner in achieving optimal health. With 17+ years of experience, I specialize in disease management and personalized nutrition plans. Don’t get overwhelmed by conflicting dietary advice. Online searches can't provide all the answers that is why you need a dietitian to provide clear, evidence-based guidance tailored to your needs. I have published cookbooks "Easy Gastric Sleeve Cookbook" and "The Plant-Based Weight Loss Solution," that offer practical and delicious solutions for weight management and healthy living. Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with me today!
(949) 625-2499 View (949) 625-2499
Photo of Preeti Soni, MS, RD, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Preeti Soni
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDCES
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92620
I am an Integrated Medicine Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Trained in Low FODMAP diet from Monash University for IBS. I have over 12 years of professional experience. I focus on improving gut health, mental health, and metabolism to achieve a sustainable result. I use a client-centered model of care and incorporate evidence-based nutrition principles. I am passionate about helping women and men of all ages improve their health. I am a plant-based dietitian. I take insurance and non-insurance-based clients.
I am an Integrated Medicine Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. Trained in Low FODMAP diet from Monash University for IBS. I have over 12 years of professional experience. I focus on improving gut health, mental health, and metabolism to achieve a sustainable result. I use a client-centered model of care and incorporate evidence-based nutrition principles. I am passionate about helping women and men of all ages improve their health. I am a plant-based dietitian. I take insurance and non-insurance-based clients.
(949) 919-7353 View (949) 919-7353
Photo of Elizabeth Lee, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Elizabeth Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92618
Look no further if you’re seeking a health-centered, weight-neutral dietitian! I may be the right fit for your needs if you: ▸ Need help managing blood sugar/cholesterol/blood pressure without being fearful or avoidant of food ▸ Can use a trained professional’s help with navigating through all the nutrition noise ▸ Don’t want to sacrifice enjoyment of food to achieve your health goal ▸ Are ready to break the cycles of diets for an approach that doesn’t leave you feeling ashamed and defeated ▸ Are searching for pre- and post-bariatric surgery support that understands the unique mental and physical transitions involved.
Look no further if you’re seeking a health-centered, weight-neutral dietitian! I may be the right fit for your needs if you: ▸ Need help managing blood sugar/cholesterol/blood pressure without being fearful or avoidant of food ▸ Can use a trained professional’s help with navigating through all the nutrition noise ▸ Don’t want to sacrifice enjoyment of food to achieve your health goal ▸ Are ready to break the cycles of diets for an approach that doesn’t leave you feeling ashamed and defeated ▸ Are searching for pre- and post-bariatric surgery support that understands the unique mental and physical transitions involved.
View
Photo of Roxy Ballesteros - RM Wellness Dietitians, MDA, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
RM Wellness Dietitians
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MDA, RD
Verified Verified
Coto De Caza, CA 92679
If you're confused by the dietary advice out there and struggling to understand what's truly beneficial for your health, you've come to the right place! My personalized nutrition counseling cuts through the noise and gives you clear, evidence-based guidance tailored just for you.
If you're confused by the dietary advice out there and struggling to understand what's truly beneficial for your health, you've come to the right place! My personalized nutrition counseling cuts through the noise and gives you clear, evidence-based guidance tailored just for you.
(949) 284-9712 View (949) 284-9712
Photo of Ilana Nurko, RD, LDN, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Ilana Nurko
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MS
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
Ilana has been a Registered Dietitian since 2017. She completed her dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago, IL. She specializes in providing medical nutrition therapy for various neurological conditions including epilepsy, post-traumatic brain injury, stroke prevention and post-stroke management, swallowing difficulty with use of modified diets, alternative routes of nutrition. Additionally, she also provides medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes, high cholesterol and weight loss. Ilana enjoys getting to know her patients and working with them overtime to achieve and further goals.
(630) 451-8974 View (630) 451-8974
Photo of Vanessa Avila Pomes, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Vanessa Avila Pomes
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Verified Verified
Claremont, CA 91711
Reverse pre-diabetes, improve type 2 diabetes, lower cholesterol, normalize triglycerides, improve blood pressure, and weight management. Nutrition plans are based on your unique lifestyle, and cardio-metabolic status. The goal of the nutrition plan is to help you improve symptoms (e.g. sugar cravings, fatigue, weight resistance, brain fog, low energy after meal etc.) and lab-markers (e.g. A1c, glucose, cholesterol, LDL-Cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure).
Reverse pre-diabetes, improve type 2 diabetes, lower cholesterol, normalize triglycerides, improve blood pressure, and weight management. Nutrition plans are based on your unique lifestyle, and cardio-metabolic status. The goal of the nutrition plan is to help you improve symptoms (e.g. sugar cravings, fatigue, weight resistance, brain fog, low energy after meal etc.) and lab-markers (e.g. A1c, glucose, cholesterol, LDL-Cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure).
(626) 263-5431 View (626) 263-5431
Photo of Olivia Moeller, MS, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Olivia Moeller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Verified Verified
Irvine, CA 92602  (Online Only)
I have worked with so many women (myself included) who feel lost and overwhelmed by their hormones and ability to get pregnant. If this is you, you are in the right place. I help women understand the root cause of their fertility challenges and hormonal imbalances so they can get pregnant. My signature 1:1 program will teach you step by step how to address the root causes of your symptoms and hormonal challenges so that you can leave the stress and overwhelm behind and finally start to heal.
I have worked with so many women (myself included) who feel lost and overwhelmed by their hormones and ability to get pregnant. If this is you, you are in the right place. I help women understand the root cause of their fertility challenges and hormonal imbalances so they can get pregnant. My signature 1:1 program will teach you step by step how to address the root causes of your symptoms and hormonal challenges so that you can leave the stress and overwhelm behind and finally start to heal.
(908) 734-9423 View (908) 734-9423
Photo of Christine Bou Sleiman, MS, RDN, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Christine Bou Sleiman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glendora, CA 91740
I use a whole foods approach to guide you to a healthier and happier lifestyle with the end goal of reducing or eliminating symptoms where food sensitivities can play a primary or secondary role. Some of these symptoms/medical conditions include: Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other digestive disorders, Diarrhea, Arthritis, Migraines, Hashimoto's, Eczema, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. I also specialize in plant-based diets. I offer specialized testing that helps me personalize diet, and lifestyle recommendations such as: micronutrient, food sensitivity, and gut microbiome testing.
I use a whole foods approach to guide you to a healthier and happier lifestyle with the end goal of reducing or eliminating symptoms where food sensitivities can play a primary or secondary role. Some of these symptoms/medical conditions include: Irritable Bowel Syndrome and other digestive disorders, Diarrhea, Arthritis, Migraines, Hashimoto's, Eczema, Fibromyalgia, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. I also specialize in plant-based diets. I offer specialized testing that helps me personalize diet, and lifestyle recommendations such as: micronutrient, food sensitivity, and gut microbiome testing.
(844) 505-3306 View (844) 505-3306
Photo of Danielle Hendrix, RD, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Danielle Hendrix
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CEDS
Verified Verified
San Bernardino, CA 92408  (Online Only)
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
Danielle is a Registered Dietitian who practices out of Health Loft. Danielle understands that making fulfilling, long-lasting, and healthful decisions requires patience and a solid client-provider relationship. Change can be challenging, and you need a supportive provider to help navigate the way as you create your own path. Danielle strongly believes that being healthy means not only taking care of our physical health, but also our mental health. Danielle understands that nutrition is not “one-size-fits-all”, and she will work to help you create a personalized plan of care to help you meet your goals.
(872) 219-0289 View (872) 219-0289
Photo of Yasaman 'yasi' Ansari - Yasi Ansari Nutrition, MS, RDN, CSSD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Yasi Ansari Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Irvine, CA 92618
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.
(949) 528-8760 View (949) 528-8760
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Riverside?

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.

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.

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.

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.