Presentation of Eating Disorders in Clinical Practice and the Role of Nutrition Therapy

Abstract

Eating disorders are serious mental health disorders characterized by persistent disturbances in eating that impair physical health and/or psychosocial functioning. Widespread screening for eating disorders can help reduce disparities in diagnosis and may prevent the physical, psychological, and social consequences associated with delayed treatment. Evidence-based recommendations involve intervention by specialized mental healthcare providers; however, dietitians are pivotal in the prevention, identification, and treatment of eating disorders, leading to improved outcomes for the patient. Developing skills aimed at identification of disordered eating and basic treatment guidelines is of critical importance due to the ubiquity of these behaviors and symptoms.