What Degree Do You Need to Be a Nutritionist in a Chiropractic Office?
Chiropractors take a holistic approach to health that recognizes the importance of sound nutrition. In fact, the American Chiropractic Association has a Council on Nutrition that encourages the use of nutrition in chiropractic practices. To that end, chiropractors may hire or associate with professional nutritionists to work with their patients. Although nutritionists’ education, training and other requirements vary by state, a rigorous academic program followed by industry-accepted continuing education and training will ensure that you'll be qualified to work in nearly any chiropractic office you choose.
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Nutritionist vs. Dietitian
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Although consumers often use the terms nutritionist and dietitian interchangeably, there’s an important difference. Since use of the title nutritionist is unregulated, anyone can use it, according to Nutritionist-World. A dietitian, on the other hand, is a nutrition professional who has earned the title by meeting standards established by the American Dietetic Association (ADA), which is the national licensing department for nutritionists and dietitians. A chiropractor’s patients are best served by a nutritionist who meets minimum ADA standards.
Education
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Registered dieticians must have, and nutritionists should have, at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition or a related area, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Some nutritionists have graduate degrees as well.
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Licensing
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In most states, you must have a license to work as a nutritionist. In New York, for example, a license is required of anyone who uses the terms “certified dietitian," “certified nutritionist” or “certified dietitian-nutritionist.” The ADA oversees certification in all states. State laws vary and change, so check with your state’s licensing board for current requirements.
Certification
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Although chiropractic nutritionist positions don’t always require it, having a certification demonstrates that you’re a committed and well-qualified professional. The ADA’s primary certifications -- Registered Dietitian and Dietetic Technician, Registered -- require that you have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school approved by the ADA; complete a qualified 6- to 12-month internship; pass a national exam; and meet continuing education requirements. The ADA also offers specialty certifications that address the needs of specific patient populations.
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