A pediatric dietician is a medically qualified individual who medically examines the physical, behavioral, and mental health of children. They are trained to diagnose and treat a broad range of childhood illnesses in children under the age of 18.

Becoming a pediatric dietician requires an undergraduate degree in Nutrition or Dietetics with coursework that is specific to the guidelines set by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics. Upon completion of the course, they can choose from a variety of work settings that are available throughout the country.

The duties of a pediatric dietician include curating a well-balanced diet for children. Along with that, they also work on curating a weight management diet and nutritional assistance.

A pediatric nutritionist, on the other hand, is someone who has not necessarily taken a course in Nutrition or Dietetics but is well informed on kids’ nutrition and can advise kids on proper eating habits.

Pediatric nutritionists also help prepare special diets since the digestive and mastication system in kids is different than that of adults. Nutritionists offer nutrient-optimized diets that consist of food that can be easily chewed through and digested.