Dietitian: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What dietitian is

A dietitian is a nutrition professional who reviews your health history and eating habits, then builds a food plan for goals or conditions such as diabetes, allergies or digestive issues. The title is often protected, so ask about credentials.

Signs you need it

  • Your doctor suggested working with a dietitian
  • You manage a condition and want a food plan that fits it
  • You have food allergies or intolerances and want help planning
  • You are unsure how to eat during pregnancy, illness or recovery
  • You want a plan based on your health history, not a general diet

What the pro does

  • An intake covering health history, medications, labs your doctor shares and eating habits
  • Setting goals with you and, if you wish, your doctor
  • Building a food plan around your needs and preferences
  • Teaching label reading, portions and meal planning
  • Follow-up visits to adjust the plan

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • The dietitian's credentials and specialty
  • Session length and number
  • Whether insurance is accepted
  • In person or video
  • Coordination with your doctor
  • Meal plans and materials included

What a written quote should spell out

  • Session length and number of visits
  • Which materials are included
  • Billing and insurance details
  • Cancellation terms
  • How the dietitian will share information with your doctor, if you choose

Questions to ask before you hire

  • What credential do you hold, and how can I verify it?
  • Do you have experience with my condition?
  • Do you coordinate with my doctor?
  • Do you take my insurance?
  • How do you handle food preferences or cultural foods?
  • How often will we meet?

Red flags

  • Promising to reverse or cure a condition
  • Selling supplements as part of the plan
  • Telling you to change medication
  • Extreme restrictive plans
  • No credential or license information

What you can do yourself

You can keep a food log, read labels and plan meals ahead, but a dietitian can tailor a plan to your health history. Talk with your doctor before big changes to your diet, especially with a medical condition.

Licenses and permits

Dietitians are commonly licensed or registered by the state, and the title is often protected. Ask for the credential and check it with your state licensing board.

Dietitian questions

Do I need a referral?

Sometimes for insurance. Ask the practice.

Can a dietitian help with allergies?

They can help plan meals around allergies. Your doctor handles diagnosis.

Is a dietitian the same as a nutritionist?

Titles differ by state. Ask about credentials.

Will I be put on a strict diet?

A good dietitian builds around your life and health needs.

Pro reviewers

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