Dietitian or dietitian: what are the differences and how to choose?
Weight gain, eating disorders ... There is a solution to every problem: that's why dietitians and nutritionists exist. But how do you know which specialist to consult? We are evaluating.
What is the training of dieticians and dieticians?
Dietitian: To practice this profession, a two-year training is required. Students can choose between two courses of study: BTS in Dietetics and DUT in Biological Engineering and the Nutrition option. After obtaining the diploma, nutritionists can practice in health institutions such as hospitals, clinics or convalescent homes, but also in research laboratories or in private clinics.
Dietitian: Training to be a doctor - a nutritionist is longer: Students must start with six years of medical school, after which they can specialize directly in endocrinology and diabetes or earn a university diploma in food. Two courses that can be completed by the Supplementary Specialized Study Diploma (DESC).
Dietitians can practice their profession in a health facility, such as a hospital, clinic, medical clinic, or even in a sports center and school group, but they can also establish themselves on their own.
Who consults according to his problem?
Dietitian: His role is to help his patients adopt good eating habits. So it can be advised as part of the weight loss process, or as part of smoking cessation accompanied by a desire not to gain weight, for example.
Dietitian: treats health problems related to food. People with eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia, etc.), obesity or even diabetes can refer to it.
How much does a consultation cost?
Dietitian: He can apply identical rates to all consultations or set a higher price for the first, often longer, consultation. Thus, the latter can range from 35 to 50 euros in the regions and from 45 to 60 euros in Paris, while follow-up consultations can range from 25 to 35 euros in the regions and from 35 to 50 euros in Paris. They are not covered by Social Security.
Dietitian: Here again, prices may vary if the doctor is under a Sector 1, Sector 2, Sector 3 agreement or not. Social Security pays 70% of the agreed rate.
Good to Know: Dietitians are also called “dietitians,” but “the term “dietitian” is a qualification that does not define the profession. This qualification can be used by anyone (doctor, engineer, dietician, etc.) with training in nutrition” , you could read on the AFDN website.