Comment on 'twenty years of behavioural nutrition - a reflection on the road less travelled'.

Abstract

With great interest, I read the article by Lien et al. "Twenty years of behavioural nutrition - A reflection on the road less travelled". This commentary reflects the long-standing absence of a formal definition for "behavioral nutrition" (BN) and its implications for scientific and clinical communities. It highlights the Brazilian experience in conceptualizing BN as a scientifically grounded approach to modifying eating behaviors through a biopsychosociocultural perspective, moving beyond the outdated prescriptive role of the dietitian. The commentary also reviews the historical use of BN in publications, noting inconsistencies, conceptual conflation with "eating behavior," and limited clarity on what constitutes a BN intervention. A clearer, theory-driven definition and expanded discourse on behavioral approaches and models are essential to advancing the field.