About National Nutrition Month 2025
This National Nutrition Month, we reflect on this year’s theme, “Food Connects Us”. Food is more than just nourishment—it's a way to build relationships, share culture, and foster connection. For those in eating disorder recovery, reconnecting with food can be both challenging and deeply rewarding.
March also marks Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Day, a time to recognize the dedicated professionals who have supported your healing process through compassionate, evidenced- based nutrition care.
As we celebrate National Nutrition Month, it's important to recognize and honor our nutrition experts in eating disorder care—registered dietitians. These professionals play a crucial role in helping individuals rebuild their relationship with food and nutrition. Their expertise, dedication, and compassion have a lasting impact on those affected by eating disorders.
What Is a Registered Dietitian?
A registered dietitian (RD) is a food and nutrition expert who has met specific educational, training, and professional standards. RDs are qualified to assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for nutrition-related concerns. They are equipped to work with individuals in a variety of settings and address a range of co-occurring conditions.
In eating disorder treatment, you will work with a registered dietitian. Eating disorder dietitians require additional training, supervision, and have a wide breadth and depth of knowledge of eating disorders. Their work has a profound and lasting impact, helping individuals to navigate the difficult road to recovery and embrace a healthier, more positive relationship with food for the long term.
In treatment, dietitians create and implement meal plans, support weight restoration if needed, and work alongside the interdisciplinary team throughout the continuum of care. Their work is focused on guiding individuals through the often-challenging process of re-learning how to nourish their bodies in a healthy and values driven way. They help their clients navigate the mental and emotional obstacles that come with eating disorders, such as distorted body image, fear of weight gain, and obsessive thoughts about food.
Dietitians vs. Nutritionists: What’s the Difference?
The terms “dietitian” and “nutritionist” are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences in their training and scope of practice.
Registered dietitians (RDs) have formal, regulated education, professional credentials, and are licensed or certified to provide medical nutrition therapy, especially for those with specific health conditions, including eating disorders. Nutritionists may have training in nutrition, but their education and qualifications can vary, and their scope of practice is less regulated.
Registered dietitians can offer personalized nutrition care for specific health needs, including eating disorder treatment. If you’re seeking general nutrition advice, a nutritionist may also provide useful guidance, but it’s important to verify their qualifications and expertise for the most accurate support.
The Role of a Dietitian in Eating Disorder Recovery
For those on the journey of eating disorder recovery, reconnecting with food can feel overwhelming and complex. It may bring up a range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, and guilt, which can make this process even more challenging. Registered dietitians specializing in eating disorders are not only experts in nutrition but also provide essential emotional and psychological support. They work to create a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where individuals can explore their relationship with food and their bodies without fear of criticism.
Dietitians in this field understand the intricacies of eating disorders and provide support that goes beyond food. They are committed to helping individuals develop a sustainable and compassionate approach to nourishment that feels both empowering and healing. The goal is not just physical recovery but to foster a sense of confidence and self-compassion in how one relates to food and their body.
Dietitians individualize care, offering guidance and understanding as they navigate the difficult but transformative process of healing. Their expertise, coupled with their deep empathy, can make a significant difference in creating lasting, meaningful change in one's relationship with food and body.
Seeking Help for an Eating Disorder
Seeking help for an eating disorder is a vital and courageous step toward recovery, and there are numerous resources available to support you throughout this journey. The first step—acknowledging the need for help—can be difficult, but it is a critical part of the healing process. At Monte Nido, we provide a comprehensive range of care options, including virtual day programming, in-person day programming, and 24/7 residential and inpatient care, available nationwide.
Remember, recovery is absolutely possible, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to reach out to supportive friends, family, or networks who can offer encouragement and strength during this process. The most important thing is to take that initial step, no matter how small it may seem. If you're finding it hard to move forward in your recovery, visit the link in our bio to learn more about our specialized eating disorder treatment programs. You don’t have to face this challenge alone.
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