Nutritionist vs dietitian in Singapore: what is the difference?

The short answer

In Singapore, a dietitian is generally the right choice if you need clinical nutrition care for a disease, especially in a hospital setting. A nutritionist can be a good choice for general nutrition, prevention and wellbeing. The Singapore Nutrition and Dietetics Association (SNDA) describes Accredited Nutritionists as giving nutrition and dietary advice to the healthy population, while Accredited Dietitians have additional clinical nutrition knowledge and are trained to work with people with various diseases.

Key differences

What is regulated in Singapore

According to SNDA's FAQ, there are at present no statutory regulations governing the practice of nutrition and dietetics in Singapore, and no registration or licence is required to practise dietetics. The Allied Health Professions Council registers list diagnostic radiographers, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, radiation therapists and speech-language therapists, but not dietitians or nutritionists.

This means that a title on its own tells you little, so accreditation and training are worth checking. SNDA's proficiency standards set out what it expects of accredited professionals, and its criteria include a recognised qualification, continuing professional development and a commitment to its code of conduct.

You can check its current lists of Accredited Dietitians and Accredited Nutritionists. Not every practitioner applies for accreditation, so ask about qualifications directly as well.

When to choose a dietitian

• Your doctor has referred you for medical nutrition therapy.
• You are in hospital or have just been discharged and need a nutrition plan as part of your care.
• You need nutrition care for a disease and want someone with clinical dietetics training.

When to choose a nutritionist

• You want to improve your general diet, energy or wellbeing.
• You want to prevent problems and build healthier habits.
• You want help with food choices, weight goals or performance.
• You want an approach that looks at lifestyle as well as food.

Practice varies between individuals, so ask about a practitioner's experience with your specific concern. If you are not sure whom to see, ask your doctor first.

How Sheeba Majmudar works

Sheeba Majmudar is a nutritionist in Singapore with a Master of Science in Human Nutrition (USA) and more than 20 years of clinical practice. She is not a dietitian, a medical doctor or a naturopathic doctor, and she does not diagnose conditions. Her work uses functional analysis of blood tests, personalised food and supplement plans, and natural therapies. She can work alongside your GP or other practitioners.

You can read more about her naturopathic nutrition approach, or about the Dropzone weight loss program she created.

Frequently asked questions

This page is general information, not medical advice or diagnosis. Sheeba Majmudar is a nutritionist, not a medical doctor. Please speak to your doctor before starting any health or dietary programme, and before changing any medication. Individual results vary. See our terms and conditions.