Eating Disorders

Understanding Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex illnesses that affect one’s psychological, nutritional, and physical health. These conditions involve unhealthy eating behaviours and often coexist with emotional and mental health challenges. At Appetite for Nutrition, we recognize the importance of a comprehensive approach to treatment, where nutrition counselling plays a crucial role in the recovery process.

Common eating disorders we specialize in include:

• Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
• Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
• Binge Eating Disorder (BED)
• Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
• Other Specified Feeding and Eating Disorders (OSFED)
• Orthorexia
• Disordered Eating
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

ARFID: Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a diagnosed eating disorder characterized by restrictive eating behaviors. Individuals with ARFID may avoid foods due to extreme pickiness, mealtime anxiety, sensory processing issues, or fear of choking or gagging. This disorder can lead to serious nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, or an inability to grow properly, especially in children.

How Can Dietitians Help?

Our team of dietitians is skilled, trained, and experienced in working with a variety of eating disorders, including ARFID. We provide specialized nutrition support to:

• Creating a Regular Eating Routine: Establishing consistent meal patterns to support physical and emotional well-being.
• Reducing Mealtime Stress and Feeding Anxiety: Strategies to minimize anxiety and discomfort around food and eating.
• Nutritional Assessment and Support: Identifying and addressing potential nutrient deficiencies to support overall health.
• Addressing Eating Difficulties: Examining and addressing fears of certain foods, sensory processing issues, or rituals related to eating.
• Implementing Oral Nutrition Supplements: Recommending supplements such as Pediasure to ensure adequate nutrition intake.
• Developing Varied Meal Plans: Creating meal plans that incorporate accepted foods to increase variety and nutritional intake.
• Guiding Individuals and Families: Offering support and education to expand food choices and improve eating habits.
• Food Therapy Activities: Engaging in activities such as food play or cooking, either virtually or in person, to increase comfort and familiarity with different foods.

Our Approach

At Appetite for Nutrition, we take a compassionate and individualized approach to eating disorder nutrition support. Our goals are to:

• Support Recovery: Providing tools and strategies to help individuals achieve a balanced relationship with food and their body.
• Promote Nutritional Health: Ensuring adequate nutrition to support physical and mental well-being.
• Empower Clients: Offering guidance and encouragement to build confidence in making food choices that nourish the body.

Who Can Benefit?

Our eating disorder nutrition services are beneficial for individuals who:

• Are diagnosed with an eating disorder or suspect they may have one.
• Struggle with disordered eating behaviors or body image concerns.
• Desire support in improving their relationship with food and their body.
• Seek guidance on establishing healthy eating habits and routines.

Locations and Accessibility

We offer our eating disorder nutrition services through home visits in Victoria and Queensland, including Melbourne, Shepparton, Bendigo, Albury, and the Gold Coast. Additionally, our telehealth services are available Australia-wide, providing flexible and accessible support.

Our dietitians are registered with Medicare, DVA, TAC, WorkSafe, and NDIS, ensuring our services are accessible and covered for those eligible.

Get Started

To book a consultation with a dietitian specializing in eating disorders, please complete our online referral to be connected with the most suitable dietitian. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and take the first step towards recovery and a healthier relationship with food.