10 Common Myths About Seeing a Dietitian (And the Truth Behind Them)

Many people are interested in nutrition counseling but hesitate because of misconceptions about what a dietitian does, what it costs, and how it works. Today we’re busting the most common myths we hear at AP Nutrition — so you can feel confident about taking the next step toward better health.

Myth #1: “Nutritionists and Dietitians Are the Same Thing”

Truth: Anyone can call themselves a “nutritionist,” but Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are licensed healthcare professionals with advanced training and strict credentialing.

To become an RDN, a dietitian must:

• Complete an accredited bachelor’s or master’s program in nutrition/dietetics

• Finish 1,000+ hours of supervised practice

• Pass a national board exam

• Maintain continuing education throughout their career

This level of training ensures dietitians provide evidence-based, medically appropriate nutrition care. When you see “RD” or “RDN,” you can trust you’re working with a qualified professional recognized by insurance.

Myth #2: “Coconut Oil Is a Health Superfood”

Truth: Coconut oil has been marketed as a miracle ingredient, but the science tells a more balanced story. While it does contain some medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that may have unique benefits, coconut oil is still very high in saturated fat. Diets high in saturated fat are linked to increased heart disease risk.

That doesn’t mean you can never use coconut oil — but it’s not a magic superfood. It should be enjoyed in moderation and balanced with healthier fats like olive oil, nuts, seeds, and avocados. A dietitian can help you sort fact from hype when it comes to “superfoods” and choose the right fats for your overall health.

Myth #3: “Carbs Are Bad for You — Especially if You Have Diabetes”

Truth: Carbohydrates often get blamed for diabetes, but not all carbs are created equal. The key is the type and quality of carbs you eat. Whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals that actually help with blood sugar control and heart health.

The carbs that cause trouble are those paired with added sugars and unhealthy fats (like pastries, fried foods, or soda). These can spike blood sugar and add excess calories without nutrition. A dietitian can help you learn how to balance carbs with protein and healthy fats so they support steady energy and better diabetes management — rather than avoiding them altogether.

Myth #4: “High-Protein Diets Are Best for Everyone” and “You Can’t Get Enough Protein From a Plant-Based Diet”

Truth: Protein is important, but more isn’t always better. Very high-protein diets may not be appropriate for everyone, especially people with kidney concerns. Instead of chasing extreme protein intake, balance is key.

It’s also a myth that you can’t get enough protein on a plant-based diet. Foods like beans, lentils, soy, nuts, seeds, and whole grains provide plenty of protein — often with extra benefits like fiber and heart-healthy fats. With a thoughtful approach, plant-based eaters can easily meet their protein needs, support strength, and reduce risks for chronic diseases.

Myth #5: “Only people with diabetes need a dietitian.”

Truth: While dietitians play a key role in diabetes care, we also specialize in heart health, digestive issues, kidney disease, cancer recovery, and eating disorders. Nutrition affects every system in the body.

Myth #6: “Dietitians judge what you eat.”

Truth: Our role isn’t to shame or judge — it’s to help you find balance and create a healthier relationship with food. Nutrition counseling is collaborative and supportive.

Myth #7: “Appointments are inconvenient.”

Truth: At AP Nutrition, all visits are telehealth. That means you can meet with a dietitian from the comfort of your home, anywhere in Washington or Oregon.

Myth #8: “Seeing a dietitian is expensive.”

Truth: Most insurance plans cover dietitian visits at little or no cost. AP Nutrition is in-network with UnitedHealthcare, Premera, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, First Choice, Medicare, and Medicaid — which means your sessions may be free or have just a small copay.

Myth #9: “Dietitians only give you a meal plan.”

Truth: While we can provide meal planning support, we rarely create meal plans as part of our care. Dietitians focus on long-term strategies, behavior change, and practical solutions tailored to your lifestyle — not cookie-cutter meal plans or fad diets.

Myth #10: “Nutrition Advice Online Is Just as Good as Seeing a Dietitian”

Truth: The internet is full of nutrition advice — but much of it is conflicting, oversimplified, or just plain wrong. Even when the information is accurate, it’s often generalized and not designed for your unique health needs, preferences, or medical conditions.

A registered dietitian provides personalized, evidence-based guidance that takes into account your health history, lab results, lifestyle, and goals. Individualized care matters — it ensures you get a plan that’s safe, sustainable, and truly effective for you.

📅 Ready to Work With a Dietitian?

Don’t let misconceptions hold you back. Nutrition counseling is accessible, practical, and often insurance-covered.

👉 Book your discovery call today and get started with AP Nutrition.

✍️ Author

Written by Alie Purcell, MS, RD — Registered Dietitian and founder of AP Nutrition. Alie provides telehealth nutrition counseling across Washington and Oregon and is in-network with most major insurance providers including UnitedHealthcare, Premera, Regence, Aetna, Cigna, Medicare, and Medicaid. She specializes in diabetes management, heart health, digestive nutrition, intuitive eating and sustainable weight management.