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.

We are excited to participate in Eating Disorders Awareness Week, this February 24th-March 2nd! We are celebrating “Unifying through community and connection,” a campaign led by Collaborative of Eating Disorders Organizations (CEDO). Monte Nido aims to spread the message of understanding, support, and unity both within the eating disorder community and for those who don’t know what it’s like to live with an eating disorder.  

Raising Awareness & Breaking the Stigma

This year, we are aiming to reach as many people as possible who may not be aware of these life-threatening mental illnesses. It is important to be aware of the types of eating disorders, as well as common signs and symptoms to look out for in yourself and your loved ones. Catching an eating disorder early is key to recovery and we hope you learn something new from this information.

What is an Eating Disorder?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that involve disturbances in eating behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. The most common types include binge eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa. These disorders are multifaceted and can be influenced by a combination of factors, including biological, psychological, and sociocultural influences. Each individual’s experience with an eating disorder is unique, and there is no single cause, making these conditions complex to understand and navigate.

Eating disorders can be life-threatening, and affect individuals of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. It’s crucial to recognize that these disorders do not define a person. People struggling with eating disorders are much more than their condition, and recovery is always possible. These challenges, while difficult, can be overcome with the right support and treatment.

Understanding Different Types of Eating Disorders

Understanding the different types of eating disorders—whether it’s binge eating, anorexia, or bulimia—can help you identify struggles in yourself or your loved ones. Gaining this knowledge is an important first step toward recognizing the signs and seeking appropriate help. No matter the disorder, it’s important to know that support is available and recovery is within reach for everyone affected.

Anorexia Nervosa 

Anorexia nervosa comes with an intense fear of gaining weight, and involves behaviors like fasting, limiting food, or engaging in extreme exercise routines. For some, it also includes the use of diuretics or laxatives, or even vomiting after meals. A few signs and symptoms to look for in anorexia are a distorted body image, food restriction, obsessive thoughts about weight, food, and calories, and feelings of guilt or shame after eating.

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that often involves feelings of shame, guilt, and a lack of control around food. This disorder is characterized by periods of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, which can have serious physical and psychological consequences. If you or someone you care about is struggling, some common signs and symptoms are going to the bathroom right after eating, engaging in harsh exercise routines, eating in secret or hiding food, and a fear of not being able to stop eating.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED)

Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period, accompanied by a lack of control over eating. Those with BED may eat rapidly, often until uncomfortably full, and may eat even when not physically hungry. They may feel embarrassed, disgusted, or guilty afterward, leading to eating alone or in secret. Unlike other eating disorders, BED does not involve compensatory behaviors like purging.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Individuals living with ARFID, or Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, often experience food aversions, significant anxiety around eating, or simply a lack of interest in food altogether. These restrictive eating behaviors go far beyond being a 'picky eater'—they impact both mental and physical health. ARFID involves severely limited calorie intake due to rigid and restrictive eating habits, leading to growth delays, weight loss, and malnutrition at any age. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by a fear of weight gain or a desire to be thin.

Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorders (OSFED)

OSFED is an eating disorder that encompasses five types of eating disorders according to the DSM-5: atypical anorexia nervosa, sub-threshold bulimia nervosa, sub-threshold binge eating disorder, purging disorder and night eating syndrome. OSFED is a serious condition requiring treatment. Characteristics of OSFED include significant distress or impairment due to eating behaviors or negative body image, similar symptoms to atypical anorexia, purging disorder, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, and symptoms do not meet the full criteria for other eating disorders

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The Power of Community: Connecting & Unifying for Recovery

Being part of a community in eating disorder recovery helps to navigate the ups and downs of the recovery journey where having a supportive network can make all the difference. Connecting with others who share similar experiences provides a sense of understanding that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether through group therapy, support groups, or online communities, knowing you're not alone in your struggles can reduce feelings of isolation and shame. The shared experience of others fosters empathy and validation, which can be essential for healing.

Unifying in raising awareness also helps break down stigma. Eating disorders are often misunderstood or dismissed, which can prevent people from seeking the help they need. By coming together, the community can educate others, raise awareness, and advocate for better access to care. Through collective strength, those in recovery can feel empowered to not only focus on their own journey but also contribute to a larger movement that challenges societal expectations and promotes healing for everyone.

How to Seek Help for Eating Disorders & Support Resources

Seeking help for an eating disorder is a crucial step toward recovery, and there are many resources available to guide you through this journey. The first step is recognizing the need for support, which can be challenging but is essential for healing. At Monte Nido, we offer a full continuum of care, including virtual day programming, in-person day programming, and 24/7 residential and inpatient care across the country. 

Remember, recovery is possible, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. It’s important to reach out to friends, family, or support networks who can provide encouragement during the recovery process.. The key is to take that first step toward help, no matter how big or small. If you are struggling with your recovery journey, visit the link in our bio to learn about our eating disorder treatment programs.  You don't have to face an eating disorder alone.

Taking Action for Eating Disorder Awareness & Support

There are many ways to get involved this week and spread awareness. Whether in-person or online, conversations about eating disorders help break down the stigma and educate others. 

Please remember, it’s also okay if this week feels difficult or triggering for you. If you need to take a step back, unplug from social media, or lean on your support system, we encourage you to do so. Your well-being and recovery come first. If you are interested in joining an alumni support group or exploring treatment options, check out our alumni page here. If you are ready to take the first step in seeking treatment for yourself or a loved one, please reach out to us or give us a call at 888-228-1253. 

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The rise of GLP-1A culture

As the use and availability of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) continue to rise, the eating disorder community must start having conversations about how to approach this shift. While medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are approved for treating conditions like diabetes, they are increasingly being used for weight loss. With over 120 similar drugs currently in development, it's crucial to better understand how GLP-1RAs—whether prescribed for diabetes or weight management—affect eating disorder treatment, especially for binge eating disorder. As the debate over weight loss intensifies, the growing focus on weight stigma can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and lowered self-confidence in individuals in larger bodies. This desire for an “easy fix” to weight concerns is also leading to medication shortages, which impacts people who are prescribed GLP-1RAs for other medical conditions. There needs to be greater concern in the medical field about the potential effects of these medications on individuals struggling with eating disorders.

What are GLP-1As?

GLP-1RAs are approved for diabetes management in the U.S., Canada, and other countries, and are available as both pills and injections. These medications regulate blood glucose by stimulating insulin release and suppressing glucagon production.¹ They also slow stomach emptying and affect brain pathways that control appetite, which can increase feelings of fullness and reduce food intake.

While GLP-1RAs are effective, they come with side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and constipation, while rarer but more serious issues can also occur. There is limited research on their long-term effects.²

GLP-1RAs are celebrated for weight loss in adults, though this loss plateaus over time and the weight can be substantially regained after stopping the medication.^{3, 4, 5, 6}  Currently, GLP-1RAs are not approved for eating disorder treatment.

In terms of short-term weight loss, GLP-1RAs show effectiveness. For example, the STEP 2 study on semaglutide with lifestyle changes showed an average weight loss of 33.7 lbs over 68 weeks, compared to just 5.7 lbs without the medication.^{4, 6} However, weight loss typically slows after this period, and some participants even gained weight, diminishing the overall effect.  

Effectiveness of binge eating disorder treatment and GLP-1As

Caloric restriction can directly conflict with the goals of eating disorder treatment, and the current studies on GLP-1RAs are insufficient to draw meaningful conclusions. More targeted research is needed, specifically examining how GLP1-RAs affect eating disorder behaviors. This includes differentiating between pathological and non-pathological restriction, tracking client outcomes over extended periods, exploring the misuse of these medications in eating disorder populations, and understanding how binge eating would likely rebound significantly once the medication’s appetite-suppressing effects wear off.⁴

As the use of GLP-1RAs increases, it's crucial for eating disorder treatment programs to prepare for a growing number of clients who are already using these medications.

Approaching this issue with empathy is essential. Understanding why a client is taking GLP-1As, particularly if it's for weight loss, helps inform the risk assessment. The potential risks need to be weighed carefully to determine if they outweigh the benefits for the client’s treatment.

Evidence-based treatments for binge eating, such as therapy and non-weight-loss prescription medications, are already available and proven as effective treatment.

In a treatment setting that emphasizes regular meals and mindful eating, medications that reduce appetite can create significant challenges. Side effects may disrupt the ability to follow a structured meal plan, leading to discomfort and potential setbacks in treatment.

Moreover, GLP-1RAs can be misused as a way to manage negative body image related to weight and weight gain. This unhealthy usage can prevent clients from reconnecting with their natural hunger and fullness cues and hinder their ability to process emotions about body size and shape.  

Navigating the intersection of eating disorder treatment and weight loss medications

When navigating the use of GLP-1As in eating disorder treatment, it’s essential to recognize that if a client meets the criteria for this medication, the decision to continue or discontinue it during treatment ultimately is theirs. However, clinicians should ensure that clients are fully informed about the potential risks and benefits of using these medications in the context of their treatment. The provider then needs to assess the overall impact on eating disorder treatment and whether or not it is feasible or too risky to do.

For clients taking GLP-1RAs in relation to binge eating disorder, it’s crucial to explain that binge eating is often a physiological response to restriction. GLP-1As, which suppress appetite, can exacerbate restriction and ultimately contribute to cycles of binge eating.⁴ Since GLP-1RAs are not approved for binge eating and there is limited research on their efficacy for this condition, it’s important to highlight other evidence-based treatments which may be more appropriate. Be transparent that if the client discontinues the medication, they may experience an increase in binge episodes.  They need to know that weight loss in itself can negatively impact their relationship with food and ultimately their success in eating disorder treatment.

Even if a client is prescribed GLP-1RAs, they may remain eligible for binge eating disorder treatment. However, clinicians should be aware that these medications may interfere with the client’s ability to adhere to a structured eating plan, which is a key component in eating disorder recovery.

The conversation about GLP-1RAs should begin with respect for the client’s autonomy in making medical decisions. It’s important to understand why the client is taking the medication and whether it’s serving the intended purpose such as diabetes treatment. If the client is using GLP-1As for weight loss, acknowledge the broader societal context of weight stigma and the pervasive influence of diet culture, which may lead them to seek weight loss solutions. Validating their feelings and offering empathy can help create a productive dialogue.  

Although the conversation surrounding GLP-1RAs in the eating disorder field can be contentious, it’s important to lead with empathy and recognize all that goes into making the decision to take weight loss medications.  

Sources:

1. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2022) Ozempic (semaglutide) injection precribing information, revised. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/209637Orig1s009lbl.pdf

2. Bartel, S., McElroy, S. L., Levangie, D., & Keshen, A. (2024). Use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in eating disorder populations. International Journal of Eating Disorders, 57(2), 286–293. https://doi.org/10.1002/eat.24109

3. Rubino, D., Abrahamsson, N., Davies, M., Hesse, D., Greenway, F. L., Jensen, C., Lingvay, I., Mosenzon, O., Rosenstock, J., Rubio, M. A., Rudofsky, G., Tadayon, S., Wadden, T. A., Dicker, D., STEP 4 Investiga- tors, Friberg, M., Sjödin, A., Dicker, D., Segal, G., ... STEP 4 Investiga- tors. (2021). Effect of continued weekly subcutaneous semaglutide vs placebo on weight loss maintenance in adults with overweight or obe- sity: The STEP 4 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 325(14), 1414–1425. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.3224

4. Wadden, T. A., Bailey, T. S., Billings, L. K., Davies, M., Frias, J. P., Koroleva, A., Lingvay, I., O'Neil, P. M., Rubino, D. M., Skovgaard, D., Wallenstein, S. O. R., Garvey, W. T., & STEP 3 Investigators. (2021). Effect of subcutaneous semaglutide vs placebo as an adjunct to intensive behavioral therapy on body weight in adults with overweight or obesity: The STEP 3 randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 325(14), 1403– 1413. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.1831

5. Wilding, J. P., Batterham, R. L., Davies, M., Van Gaal, L. F., Kandler, K., Konakli, K., Lingvay, I., McGowan, B. M., Oral, T. K., Rosenstock, J., Wadden, T. A., Wharton, S., Yokote, K., Kushner, R. F., & STEP 1 Study Group. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after with- drawal of semaglutide: The STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(8), 1553–1564. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14725

6. Davies, M., Færch, L., Jeppesen, O. K., Pakseresht, A., Pedersen, S. D., Perreault, L., ... Lingvay, I. (2021). Semaglutide 2 4 mg once a week in adults with overweight or obesity, and type 2 diabetes (STEP 2): A ran- domised, double-blind, double-dummy, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. The Lancet, 397(10278), 971–984. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(21)00213-0