Legally, anyone can give advice and call themselves a nutritionist in Ontario. Registered dieticians, however, must earn an accredited 4-year degree that includes science and nutrition courses, do an internship, pass an exam, and are held accountable to the College of Dieticians of Ontario on an ongoing basis. Just like all regulated health professionals, dietitians are committed and required to stay on top of emerging research, skills, and techniques, and adhere to principles of professional practice. “Dietitian” is a protected title across Canada, just like physician, nurse and pharmacist. Some dietitians have a job title that includes nutritionist, such as “community nutritionist”. To be sure you’re accessing the most qualified nutrition professional, look for the initials RD or PDt (DtP in French) after the health professional’s name.