FAQ

We serve the public by regulating admission to the profession. Dietitians and nutritionists have completed a four-year accredited bachelor’s degree in dietetics and an accredited internship, have passed the national dietetics exam, and submit evidence of continuing education every year. This ensures you get ethical, competent care.

In Nova Scotia, the titles dietitian and nutritionist are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. In order to use either of these titles in Nova Scotia, registration with NSCDN is mandatory according to provincial law. In Nova Scotia, dietitians and nutritionists are regulated health professionals. They undergo comprehensive and rigorous training. Their role is to educate their clients about nutrition and support people to better understand the health impact of their food choices.

Dietitians work in the community, health care, food services, and private practice. As practitioners, they support individuals and groups to improve eating habits and address the nutritional needs of people with complex health problems to improve health outcomes.  As policymakers, they advise government at all levels on population health strategies and regulatory measures. They are leaders in all aspects of food systems, including food security and sustainability, food service management, production, and marketing. Dietitians conduct research, answering questions and translating science into best practices. They are educators and teach other health professionals, school teachers, fitness instructors, and future dietetic professionals.

Search for a consulting dietitian or nutritionist on the Dietitians of Canada or the Dietitians Network of Nova Scotia websites.

We’re here to ensure you receive quality care. If you feel you’ve experienced unprofessional or unsatisfactory care, visit our Make A Complaint page.