Across gastroenterology clinics, nutrition care is becoming an essential part of managing complex digestive disorders. Yet many clinicians still face a common challenge: finding dietitians with advanced training to support patients with specialized nutritional needs. A new credential aims to close that gap.

The Dietitians in Gastrointestinal Disorders (DIGID), a specialty practice group within Dietitians in Medical Nutrition Therapy of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, has introduced the Board Certified Specialist in Digestive Health (CSDH) credential. Offered through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR), the credential formally recognizes registered dietitians with expertise in digestive health and gastrointestinal diseases.

To earn the CSDH, dietitians must complete at least 2,000 hours of GI-focused practice and pass CDR’s specialty examination. By defining clear standards for advanced competency in GI nutrition, the credential helps gastroenterologists more easily identify dietitians who can contribute meaningfully to patient care.

The new credential also reinforces DIGID’s long-standing collaboration with the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA). Together, the organizations continue to develop evidence-based nutrition resources for clinicians and patients, highlighting the essential role of nutrition in managing digestive diseases. AGA’s Dietitian Directory helps clinicians and patients identify qualified nutrition professionals, and the CSDH designation provides additional clarity for practices building or updating multidisciplinary teams.

DIGID leaders working with AGA note that the credential supports a shared objective: improving access to high-quality nutrition care in GI settings by connecting physicians with dietitians who have advanced, disease-specific expertise. As awareness of the CSDH grows, DIGID anticipates broader recognition of GI nutrition specialization and strengthened collaboration between dietitians and gastroenterology care teams.