5 Common Myths About Eating Disorders (From an Eating Disorder Dietitian)

Eating disorders are often misunderstood, which can make it difficult for those struggling to seek help. As an eating disorder dietitian, I frequently encounter misconceptions that create shame, stigma, and unnecessary fear. Separating fact from fiction is crucial, which is why understanding myths about eating disorders can empower both individuals and their loved ones. Working with a dietitian for an eating disorder is about support, understanding, and personalized guidance—not judgment or blame.

Here are five common myths about eating disorders, debunked with compassion and clarity.

1. Myths About Eating Disorders: They Only Affect Teenage Girls

While eating disorders are often stigmatized to be associated with adolescent females, the reality is that they can affect anyone—men, women, nonbinary individuals, children, and adults of all ages. As a dietitian who works with many clients with an eating disorder or history of eating disorders, I’ve seen clients across every demographic, and each person’s experience is unique. Recognizing that eating disorders are not limited by age or gender helps create a supportive, inclusive approach to care.

2. Myth: Eating Disorders Are Just About Food 

It’s common to think that eating disorders are solely about what, when, or how someone eats, but they are often rooted in emotional, psychological, and social factors. Food behaviors are usually a symptom, not the cause. An eating disorder dietitian typically works with the patient's therapist to address both the nutritional and emotional aspects of recovery, helping individuals rebuild a healthy relationship with food while addressing underlying stress, trauma, or anxiety.

3. Myth: You Can Tell Someone Has an Eating Disorder Just by Looking at Them

Appearance is not a reliable indicator of an eating disorder. People of all shapes and sizes can struggle with disordered eating. As a dietitian for an eating disorder, I focus on understanding behaviors, mental patterns, and health markers rather than making assumptions based on body size or weight. This approach creates a safe space for healing without judgment.

4. Myth: Recovery is Quick and Linear

Many believe that once someone starts treatment, recovery will be fast and straightforward. In reality, recovery is a deeply personal process with ups and downs. Working with an eating disorder dietitian provides ongoing support, education, and reassurance throughout the journey, helping clients develop long-term, sustainable strategies for both physical and emotional well-being.

5. Myth: Only Extreme Restriction or Purging Counts as an Eating Disorder

Eating disorders can manifest in many ways, including binge eating, emotional eating, orthorexia, or cycles of restriction and overeating. No matter how a disorder presents, a dietitian for an eating disorder can help identify patterns, ensure nutritional adequacy, and guide a client toward balanced, nourishing habits. Every experience is valid, and every path to recovery is important.

Work with a Registered Eating Disorder Dietitian

At Couture Wellness, we approach eating disorder recovery with compassion, inclusivity, and individualized care. Our team of registered dietitians creates personalized strategies that honor your lived experience, identity, and mental health alongside your nutritional needs.

When you work with us, you receive:

• Holistic guidance that addresses both food and emotional well-being

• A judgment-free space to explore your relationship with food

• Personalized meal planning, nutritional support, and education

• Support tailored to your unique body, lifestyle, and healing journey

Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone. Couture Wellness is here to provide the care, understanding, and support you deserve, empowering you to rebuild a balanced, nourishing relationship with food and your body.

Book with us to get started.