By Sophia Priolo. Sophia is currently in the Nutrition and Dietetics MS, RDN program at Thomas Jefferson University. She recently graduated from Penn State with a Bachelors in Science from their Nutritional Sciences program. Growing up dancing 7 days a week and balancing schoolwork, friends and family, she slowly started to develop a passion for nutrition and fueling her body. She also saw how harsh things could be mentally and physically being a young performer in such an intense environment. Her passion for dance allowed her love for it to grow tremendously, inspiring her to pursue nutrition and dietetics. 

What is food insecurity? The insecurity is typically known as the condition of not having access to sufficient food or adequate food quality to meet someone’s basic needs. Food insecurity can be scary as many people may not know where their next meal is coming from. 

As I browsed research on food insecurity I looked into the performers and people of New York as my basic audience. The True Cost of Living report released by The Fund for New York City and United Way, states that nearly 3 million people in New York do not make enough money to pay for basic living expenses like rent, utilities, and food. Often, food is the first thing to be compromised when money is tight. This is because many people may put their money towards more “essential” things – paying rent before they get evicted, turning the heat on during the winter, or when a parent gives the little food they do have to their child instead of feeding themselves.

The first program I came across that raises awareness for food insecurity and helps those struggling is “City Harvest- Rescuing Food for NYC.” This program strives to educate the importance of balanced meals and why everyone should have equal opportunity to have food on their plate. City Harvest is a nonprofit organization that provides teaching skills for finding, preparing and creating healthy and affordable meals. This program has 5 locations across New York including The Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and Washington Heights/ Inwood. City Harvest looks to farms, restaurants, grocers, wholesalers, and manufacturers for donations so they can provide adequate nutrition to the city of New York. Some ways to access food through City Harvest is through their food rescue center located in Sunset Park Brooklyn, one of the 23 food rescue trucks or tractor trailers running 7 days a week or through one 400 food pantries, soup kitchens or other community food programs across New York City. City Harvest has so many partners and distributors who try their very best to feed the people of New York free of charge.

Things To Know:

A food bank is known as a nonprofit that safely stores foods that will soon be delivered to local food programs like food pantries. Food banks can be big or small, and store food donated from local neighbors, retailers, grocery stores and restaurants. Feeding America is the official website to locate the closest food bank in your area. 

A food pantry is a distribution center where families and individuals can go for food within their local community. A good way to remember the difference between the two is that the food bank acts as a primary outlet to store and distribute food to a smaller outlet – a food pantry – meeting the needs of those who do not always have access to food. If you would like to locate the closest food pantry in your area visit foodpantries.org.  

What resources are there besides food banks?

SNAP

SNAP is the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. This program targets those from low-income households, providing them with some financial support to help them buy groceries. You do have to apply to receive SNAP benefits, and must meet specific eligibility criteria surrounding income requirements. That said, it helps so many families big and small throughout the U.S., so it never hurts to apply! Once you are approved for SNAP benefits you will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer, EBT, access card to make food purchases.  

WIC

WIC is the USDA’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children. The WIC program aims to safeguard the health of low-income women, infants, and children up to age 5 at risk for malnutrition. Although WIC mainly focuses on providing supplemental food and formula distribution, they also offer nutrition education, breastfeeding support, health care referrals, and health and nutrition screenings. This is a great way for women in the arts who are busy or may not make enough money to help provide for themselves and their families. 

Need help dealing with high food prices in New York?

Trader Joes might have just become your best friend! As many may know, New York can be an expensive place to live, where the rent is high, people are unique, and food is pricey all over. Not only is New York home to some of the most beautiful and famous restaurants in the world, but it is also home to some very expensive grocers! However, Trader Joe’s famously has the same prices in every state – so you are getting the same food prices as you would at a Trader Joe’s in the mid-west! There are approximately 34 Trader Joe’s locations in New York (as of 2024) coming across as one of the most affordable supermarkets. 

What should you be prioritizing in the food store on a low budget?

Ever hear of an ingredients household? The ingredients is the backbone of what makes a meal so great a delicious. Prioritizing ingredients at the grocery store can lead you to so many different meals throughout the week and will save you money in the long run, as ingredients tend to be cheaper than a whole meal. Some ingredients that can set a foundation for a meal include; dry beans, dry nuts, oats, pasta, rice, canned goods, potatoes, eggs, spices, and more. All these things have a pretty long shelf life and you can make so many different meals. Different types of meats can also stay good for an extended period of time especially if you freeze it. Another thing to remember is you can always buy some frozen produce to add to your meals for fiber and more flavor. You don’t always have to buy what is fresh and prepared already because it will be more expensive and have a shorter shelf life. If you want to plan some meals down to the exact penny check out these apps for some guidance and help: Mealboard app and Budget Bytes Food Blog and MyPlate.  

What is MyPlate? 

• MyPlate is the official website for the USDA official guidelines to healthy eating. It is a spin off of the food pyramid that provides an educational based learning to those trying to fix their daily meals to meet an individuals daily needs. MyPlate consists of fruits, vegetables, grains, protein foods and dairy and fortified soy alternatives. MyPlate offers a list of nutrient-dense foods under each category to add to your plate while also giving serving sizes. MyPlate is a great resource for families and individuals struggling with shopping or budgeting because it can provide you with so many meals and ideas just from giving the website a quick look. 

How to stretch your dollar for your food priorities? 

Often people will compromise their eating habits or food in general to pay for other necessary expenses. Here are some strategies to help you stretch your dollar to meet one’s dietary needs on a low budget: 

• Try not to stop at convenience stores, fast food restaurants or eat out too often. Although it may seem convenient at the moment, in the long run it will add up to your overall weekly costs and may not be the most energy dense food choice to keep yourself from crashing throughout the day. Often people will stop at a fast food or convenience store for a quick meal to feed their hunger needs and then experience a crash in their energy levels at some point throughout the day.  

• Go to the store with a grocery list. It is important to plan your meals and snacks for the week because it can prevent impulse buying and disorganization. If you plan out meals and snacks week by week, you will start creating a sense of awareness of the quantity and quality of each item being purchased in the store.  

• This also gives you time to do some research on different products in a store.  A lot of times store brand foods can be cheaper than name brand foods.  

• Try to prevent food wasting. When you are putting groceries in the fridge try to put food with a shorter shelf life towards the front, so you don’t forget about them. This also is especially important for those whole meal prep: you meal prep: store your meals in a visible place so you don’t forget about your pre-prepped meal allowing it to go to waste. 

Food insecurity is not just a matter of hunger, but a complex issue that affects the health, well-being, and future opportunities of millions of people worldwide. By utilizing the resources about it is the first step in tackling food insecurity for those who have families big or small. Solving this problem is important not only to stop hunger but also to help people escape poverty, improve education, and build stronger communities.

Need more help? Check out Health For The Arts, a new-york non-profit founded by The Broadway Dietitian, Libby Parker.

By Intern Julianna Isaacson. Julianna is a current master’s student at Thomas Jefferson University studying Nutrition & Dietetics. She will be graduating in Fall of 2025. Julianna plans to pursue a career as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist helping those with complex dietary restrictions plan and cook meals. Her undergraduate degree is from The Culinary Institute of America in Applied Food Studies with a concentration in Asian Cuisine. When Julianna is not studying or working part time as a personal chef she loves baking and spending time with her friends and family.

A day in the life of a theater worker is anything but ordinary. Between rehearsals, fittings, and impromptu auditions remembering to eat can be very difficult. Adding in trying to find a quick, nourishing, meal that doesn’t break the bank and won’t weigh you down during your star-studded performances – almost impossible. 

Remember the ACT eating tips for days that are jam-packed with rehearsals:

• Avoid-
• Foods that are hard to digest or cause indigestion. This will vary from person to person but a good rule of thumb is to avoid rich cream sauces, high-fat/fried foods, high fiber (shortly before lots of movement), and carbonated beverages. Do your best to avoid energy drinks! Stay energized by eating small, frequent meals throughout the day and staying hydrated. If you need caffeine choose tea or coffee instead.
• Choose- 
• Meals that are light yet satisfying, and easy on the digestive system. Some ideas could be salads with spinach, quinoa, and a light vinaigrette, wraps with turkey and avocado, or the recipe suggestions which are located further down in this post.
• Think-
• Lean proteins like chicken or turkey, paired with vegetables and whole grains. Plant-based proteins such as tofu or chickpeas are also a great choice.

The key to a successful rehearsal day is not just about the quality of your performance but also how well you care for yourself. Packing a satisfying, nourishing lunch is an important part of staying at the top of your game. That’s why we at The Broadway DietitianⓇ are presenting Encore Worthy Lunches: simple and delicious meal ideas for jam-packed rehearsal days. The following recipes are perfect to prepare in bulk for multiple meals to take on the go for those busy days. 

*Important food safety tip: keep leftovers refrigerated until ready to eat to prohibit the growth of bacteria. When packing to go, add ice packs.

Chicken Fajitas 

[Watch Instructional Video]

Ingredients:

3 boneless skinless chicken breasts 

1 medium onion

1 lime 

3 bell peppers- assorted colors 

3 tablespoons olive oil- divided 

1 teaspoon chili powder  

1 teaspoon smoked paprika 

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cumin 

Salt to taste- start with ½  teaspoon add more if needed 

Instructions:

1. Cut the onion into slices and bell peppers into long strips. 
2. In a separate bowl combine chili powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, cumin, and salt. Mix well.
3. Cut the chicken into strips and toss with the spice mixture, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and the juice of one lime. 
4. In a large frying pan preheat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium high heat. 
5. Add the seasoned chicken in batches to the preheated pan and cook for about 3-5 minutes. Flipping the chicken halfway through. Avoid crowding the pan. Remove the chicken from the pan once it reaches 165 degrees fahrenheit then set aside.
6. In the same pan add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions to the pan and saute for about 2 minutes. Then add the bell peppers and saute for an additional 2 minutes. Add the chicken back to the pan and stir until combined. 
7. Serve with tortillas and additional lime if desired. 
8. Enjoy!

Peanut Butter Noodles 

[Watch Instructional Video]

Ingredient: 

6 oz of your choice of noodles (soba, rice noodles, or even spaghetti)

1 tablespoon pure sesame oil

2 tablespoons smooth peanut butter

1 tablespoon honey

2 tablespoon soy sauce

1.5 tablespoons rice vinegar 

1 garlic clove, minced

Optional garnishes: sliced green onions, soft boiled eggs, and/or sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Cook and drain the noodles according to package directions.
2. In a medium bowl mix together: sesame oil, peanut butter, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and garlic.
3. Place cooked noodles into the bowl with the sauce mixture. Toss to coat. 
4. Optional: top each serving with sliced green onions, a soft boiled egg, and sesame seeds.
5. Enjoy!

Chickpea pasta salad

[Watch Instructional Video]

Ingredients: 

1 pound short shaped pasta of choice (Farfalle, Fusilli, Penne)

2 cups cherry tomatoes- halved

1 large cucumbers- diced

1.5 cup bell peppers assorted colors- diced

1 15.5 oz can of chickpeas- drained 

4 stalks of green onions- sliced

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1 cup italian salad dress of choice 

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package directions, drain and rinse under cold water. 
2. In a large bowl add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell peppers, chickpeas, green onion, cooled pasta, and salad dressing. Mix well.
3. In the same bowl add the feta cheese. Mixed delicately to keep large chunks of feta.
4. Serve immediately or for better results refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5. Enjoy!

It can be difficult balancing a busy schedule while also trying to eat well. We at The Broadway DietitianⓇ hope these recipes can help make that challenge even just a little bit easier.

Break a leg, stay hydrated, and enjoy your meal!

Some more ideas for on-the-go meals and snacks:

Check back for blogs, vlogs, and follow Libby on instagram @thebroadwaydietitian and my YouTube channel (click image to go to it).

By Domenica Angelo & Libby Parker, MS, RD, CDN, CEDS-C

Domenica is currently a graduate student at Thomas Jefferson University in their MS/RDN program. She is excited to gain the tools to become a successful dietitian and wants to make a positive impact on the health and wellness of individuals who struggle/lose their love for food. 

Did you spend any significant time learning about eating disorders (ED) in your education? No? You’re not alone. Most medical professionals spend only around one class period learning about EDs, and are supposed to treat this complex population!

It can be tricky to get the best treatment for a patient if you do not know the specific terminology and assessments used by ED specialists. This article will help medical professionals understand this terminology. Understanding what these terms mean can be crucial in any medical setting.  This is a chance to educate yourself a little more about disordered eating, treatments, and what values are important to look at when assessing an individual at risk for this mental illness.

Medical / Assessments: 

Orthostatic Vitals

Taking blood pressure at two (or three) different positions with specific timing between measurements is how we assess if an individual has orthostatic hypotension (a quick drop in blood pressure). This is done by having the patient’s blood pressure taken while in a supine position, (potentially again while sitting), then asked to stand and measure their blood pressure again. The physician should be additionally asking/making notes about the patient’s dizziness. 

Orthostatic hypotension

A condition in which your blood pressure suddenly drops at least 20 points when you stand up from a seated or lying position. Hypotension often presents as dizziness upon sitting or standing and possibly fainting from a quick change in position. This is commonly associated with anorexia nervosa.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Orthostatic hypotension. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/orthostatic-hypotension#:~:text=Orthostatic%20hypotension%20is%20a%20condition,Blurred%20vision 

Why are these measurements important to eating disorder specialists?

Orthostatic hypotension is a marker of a weakened cardiovascular system due to starvation. The mechanism that maintains blood pressure is compromised due to the alteration of the autonomic nervous system, which is a result of disordered eating behaviors and should signal a need for intervention. 

Source: Graphics, C. (2019, November 25). Orthostatic hypotension-what do I need to know?. Avalon Hills. https://avalonhills.org/orthostatic-hypotension-what-do-i-need-to-know/ 

Bradycardia

Bradycardia is a slowed heart rate. An average adult’s resting heart rate is between 60 – 100 beats per minute, but with bradycardia, the resting heart rate is less than 60 beats per minute. 

Why do eating disorders cause bradycardia? 

Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is the restriction of energy intake relative to an individual’s requirements. This eating disorder has a deathly impact on the heart. The restriction of nutrients causes muscles to shrink including the heart. The impact of anorexia nervosa (AN) forces the body to reserve energy because of severe malnourishment, and the body’s response to this is a slow heart rate to conserve the energy that has been lost. 

Eating disorders are mental health disorders, while other mental health disorders normally do not affect the physical health of an individual to such an extent, eating disorders can severely damage an individual’s physical state. Anorexia Nervosa has many medical complications and cardiac issues are the most common and are accounted for most deaths. Internally, losing a significant amount of weight in a rapid period causes stress on the heart. 

Sources: Mehler, MD, FACP, FAED, CEDS, P. S. (2022, May 1). Bradycardia: How severe is too severe? understanding bradycardia in eating disorders (May 2022).

Robyn L. Goldberg. https://askaboutfood.com/bradycardia-how-severe-is-too-severe-understanding-bradycardia-in-eating-disorders-may-2022/ 

Strickland, K. (2022, September 22). 6 significant health risks of anorexia nervosa. Walden Eating Disorders. https://www.waldeneatingdisorders.com/blog/6-significant-health-risks-of-anorexia-nervosa/#:~:text=The%20malnutrition%20associated%20with%20anorexia,heart%20rate%20to%20conserve%20energy. 

Athlete’s Heart 

Patients with anorexia nervosa may indicate their low heart rate as having an “athlete’s heart.” Due to being extremely active, or even an actual athlete, the patient may believe they have the lower heart rate of a conditioned athlete. 

These individuals could be working out, but their malnourished/starved heart is not because of their “athletic condition.” If a physician were to ask a patient with severe anorexia nervosa to move, they would show an abnormal heart rate (orthostatic hypotension) just by standing up from a lying position. Additionally, the patient would have a spike in heart rate that a conditioned athlete would not have for the minimal exertion of going from resting to walking a short distance.

 “Moreover, ultrasound of the heart in these patients reveals small, thin heart chambers versus a normal chamber size seen in athletes. Unfortunately, few medical providers are well-trained in understanding this issue. The idea of the “athletic heart” is often accepted by healthcare professionals, whereas a trained eating disorder expert would recheck the pulse following minor exertion and recognize that bradycardia — appearing alongside a very low body weight — is a likely indication of anorexia nervosa.”(Mehler, MD, FACP, FAED, CEDS, 2022)

Mehler, MD, FACP, FAED, CEDS, P. S. (2022, May 1). Bradycardia: How severe is too severe? understanding bradycardia in eating disorders (May 2022). Robyn L. Goldberg. https://askaboutfood.com/bradycardia-how-severe-is-too-severe-understanding-bradycardia-in-eating-disorders-may-2022/ 

Contraindication of hormonal birth control (BC) when an ED client has amenorrhea 

An early sign of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is amenorrhea, which is the absence of menstrual cycles. The result of low food intake or high physical activity disrupts the hypothalamic signals to the pituitary gland, which impacts the menstrual cycle. Since the body is enduring long periods of stress on every organ, another factor the individual with anorexia nervosa might face is a loss of BMD (bone mineral density). “The reason for bone density loss is considered to be related to the low body mass index, a low caloric intake, a low intake of calcium and vitamin D, low estrogen levels, low insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, and cortisone supplements.” (Bergström et al., 2013) 

Physicians began treating patients with AN with estrogen treatment/ birth control to prevent loss of BMD, but in many studies, it was proven that oral therapies can not repair or prevent low BMD as improved nutrition is the most important factor for bone health in patients. In the studies, they all concluded that the lack of effect of estrogen on bone density is depressing the IGF-1 levels even more. Although there is a lot of evidence that hormone treatment does not prevent a loss of BMD, many clinicians still prescribe birth control to their patients, because of the induced menstrual cycles on the week “off.” These cycles give a false sense of health because they are masking the underlying issue. 

Bergström, I., Crisby, M., Engström, A.-M., Hölcke, M., Fored, M., Kruse, P. J., & Sandberg, A.-M. (2013, May 20). Women with anorexia nervosa should not be treated with estrogen or … https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.12178 

​​

DEXA z/t-scores

The DEXA  (Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry) score tests for an individual’s bone density, which is used to determine whether an individual has healthy bone density, osteopenia or osteoporosis.

For those ages 20-50, Z-scores less than -2 indicate low bone mineral density for age.

For those older than 50, T-scores between -1 and -2.5 denote osteopenia. Anything lower than -2.5 denotes osteoporosis. 

Bone Health & Eating Disorders. Home – InsideOut Institute. (n.d.). https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/resource-library/bone-health-eating-disorders#:~:text=The%20DEXA%20scan%20generates%20a,(Robinson%20et%20al%202019) 

Why are these scores important regarding disordered eating? 

These scores show decreased bone mineral density and strength as the eating disorder progresses. Weight is the most consistent predictor of BMD at all skeletal sites (Grinspoon et al, 2000), associating Anorexia Nervosa with low bone mineral density and an increased risk of fracture (Fazeli & Klibanski, 2018). There is a correlation in both males and females between low body weight and low bone mineral density. 

Bone Health & Eating Disorders. Home – InsideOut Institute. (n.d.). https://insideoutinstitute.org.au/resource-library/bone-health-eating-disorders#:~:text=The%20DEXA%20scan%20generates%20a,(Robinson%20et%20al%202019) 

Blind Weight

A blind weight is when the patient is unable to see, or know, their weight. Often the provider will ask the patient to step on the scale backward so they are not facing the values, or using a scale that the provider can see the weight but the patient cannot. 

Why is this important?

Most individuals with this illness put a high value on the number on the scale, and strive to be a specific number or to have some sort of control. This number can also be a trigger for the eating disorder to resurface or intensify. The importance of taking a blind weight, and not telling the patient any descriptors of their weight can be beneficial to their recovery because the number on the scale is something that can alter their behaviors and consume their thoughts. By taking a blind weight it allows them to be able to engage more in their recovery. Because of the societal pressure on body size, blind weights can be beneficial to most patients that come through your doors, ED or not. 

Wood, C. (2023, February 23). What is a blind weight?. Christine Wood MD. https://www.christinewoodmd.com/post/what-is-a-blind-weight 

Levels of Treatment: 

Higher Level of Care (HLOC)

There is a hierarchy to disordered eating treatment. A HLOC is indicated for patients needing more than weekly sessions with eating disorder professionals, and referring to anything above outpatient level care. HLOC is for patients with more severe functional impairment and symptoms. HLOCs provide a safe and structured environment for patients who are dealing with these life-threatening disorders. 

Anderson, L. K., Reilly, E. E., Berner, L., Wierenga, C. E., Jones, M. D., Brown, T. A., Kaye, W. H., & Cusack, A. (2017, June 27). Treating eating disorders at higher levels of care: Overview and challenges – current psychiatry reports. SpringerLink. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11920-017-0796-4 

Outpatient (OP)

Outpatient care is the lowest level of care / least intensive. On a basic level, the individual will be seeing a dietitian, therapist, and possibly others on their treatment team on a regular (typically weekly) basis. Outpatient treatment may include other providers including psychiatrists, recovery coaches, and others. They should also be seeing their primary care provider on a regular basis (frequency depending on the needs of the individual). 

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

This treatment is offered approximately three hours a day ranging from 3-5 days a week. This type of program will best suit patients who are ready to be more independent in their lives. IOP typically includes meal support, group therapy, individual therapy, dietary sessions, and medication management. Many programs offer both in-person and virtual options of IOP. 

Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)

A step up from IOP, PHP is offered  6-8 hours a day five to six days a week. This is for individuals who need more supervision to complete their meals and avoid using behaviors. In these sessions, patients are still receiving individual and group therapy, meal support, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring. 

Simpson, C. C., Towne, T. L., Karam, A. M., Donahue, J. M., Hadjeasgari, C. F., Rockwell, R., & Kaye, W. H. (2021). Predictors of Stepping Up to Higher Level of Care Among Eating Disorder Patients in a Partial Hospitalization Program. Frontiers in psychology, 12, 667868. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.667868

Residential Treatment Center (RTC)

The patient will be living at the treatment facility 24/7 for often for a month or longer, depending on the client. This treatment incorporates the same services as IOP and PHP, plus more activities and greater medical oversight. The benefit of residential is the around-the-clock supervision to ensure safety and break behavioral patterns. It is ideal for a client to step down to PHP and/or IOP following their stay at RTC. To help them integrate back into “real life.”

Inpatient hospitalization

Is designed for eating disorder patients with medical instability. In this form of treatment, patients will not receive much, if any, psychological care, the focus is to medically stabilize the patient. This may include IV fluids, tube feeding, TPN (IV nutrition), and other medical procedures. Patients will be monitored for cardiac complications and refeeding syndrome. 

Treatment Team

In the great majority of eating disorder cases, there is a need for a specialized treatment team. Because eating disorders are complex illnesses involving both the brain and the body, the team may include a primary care physician, an individual therapist, a registered dietitian, a psychiatrist, and a family therapist. The treatment must work collaboratively and communicate to give the best service to the individual. 

Ideally, all of these team members are highly experienced and specialized in the treatment of eating disorders. Finding these providers is something The Broadway Dietitian can help with at all levels of care. 

Eating disorder treatment team: Alliance for Eating Disorders Awareness. National Alliance for Eating Disorders. (2023, July 10). https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/members-of-treatment-team/ 

Treatment Philosophies

Intuitive Eating (IE)

Popularized by dietitian authors Evelyn Tribole, and Elyse Resch, Intuitive Eating is, “an adaptive form of eating characterized by a strong connection with internal physiological hunger and satiety cues. Those who eat intuitively are not preoccupied with food or dieting and do not label certain foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’. The goal of intuitive eating is to reconnect our nature of listening to our cues of when we are hungry or full. Intuitive eating is mainly about trusting our bodies, because they will signal what is needed to fulfill our needs.”

Mauldin, K., May, M., & Clifford, D. (2022). The consequences of a weight-centric approach to healthcare: A case for a paradigm shift in how clinicians address body weight. Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, 37(6), 1291–1306. https://doi.org/10.1002/ncp.10885

Health at Every SizeⓇ (HAES)

This principle focuses on health not weight. The approach of HAES is to have confidence in every body, whether that is a larger or smaller body. HAES focuses on not using weight as a measurement for health because there are so many other factors to determine the health status of an individual. This approach strives for all individuals to enjoy a healthy-lifestyle, and to have access and dignity in healthcare. HAES focus is to allow people to trust their bodies and what needs their body is signaling.

In a nutshell, HAES is “A paradigm that supports “size- acceptance, to end weight discrimination, and to lessen the cultural obsession with weight loss and thinness” promotes “balanced eating, life-enhancing physical activity, and respect for the diversity of body shapes and sizes.” 

Mauldin, K., May, M., & Clifford, D. (2022). The consequences of a weight-centric approach to healthcare: A case for a paradigm shift in how clinicians address body weight. Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, 37(6), 1291–1306. https://doi.org/10.1002/ncp.10885

Non-Diet

The Non-Diet approach rejects diet culture/fad diets because they are typically too restrictive, and do not last long term. In fact, research shows that 95% of diets fail. By fail we mean the person cannot maintain the diet, and gains the weight back (usually plus some). This causes dieters to be on an un-ending cycle of dietitng, failing, and dieting again, leaving them defeated and unmotivated. Dieting is also the #1 precursor to developing an eating disorder. 

Instead of that, the Non-Diet approach focuses on healthy long-term habits. This is a “diet” that has no restrictions, and allows an individual to have freedom over an eating pattern. 

This approach, “emphasizes “eating in response to physiological dues, i.e. using hunger and satiety as regulators of food intake as opposed to dietary restraint, and enhancing body acceptance, regardless of whether an individual is successful at weight control.”

Mauldin, K., May, M., & Clifford, D. (2022). The consequences of a weight-centric approach to healthcare: A case for a paradigm shift in how clinicians address body weight. Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, 37(6), 1291–1306. https://doi.org/10.1002/ncp.10885

PhD, J. C. (2022, February 1). Why diets often don’t lead to long-term weight loss – what to focus on instead: Ohio State Health & Discovery. Ohio State Health and Discovery. https://health.osu.edu/wellness/exercise-and-nutrition/that-diet-probably-did-not-work#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20latest%20weight,people%20maintain%20that%20weight%20loss. 

Mindful eating

Mindful eating is relying on the body’s senses and to have the freedom to have any food choice to their desire in moderation. The term mindfulness means to be paying attention, and being present within the moment. In simple terms, mindful eating is an approach to pay more attention to the different emotions of food. By focusing on the difference between physical and emotional hunger the individual can acknowledge the emotions around food instead of judging the feelings. This approach allows the individual to become more attuned with their body, because this principle is not built on strict rules. 

“An approach to eating that supports becoming aware of “thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations related to eating, reconnecting with our innate inner wisdom about hunger and satiety.” It is conceptualized as “being aware of the present moment when one is eating, paying close attention to the effect of the food on the senses, and noting the physical and emotional sensations in response to eating.”

Mauldin, K., May, M., & Clifford, D. (2022). The consequences of a weight-centric approach to healthcare: A case for a paradigm shift in how clinicians address body weight. Nutrition in clinical practice : official publication of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, 37(6), 1291–1306. https://doi.org/10.1002/ncp.10885

Robinson, L. (2023, March 1). Mindful eating. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/mindful-eating.htm 

Nelson J. B. (2017). Mindful Eating: The Art of Presence While You Eat. Diabetes spectrum : a publication of the American Diabetes Association, 30(3), 171–174. https://doi.org/10.2337/ds17-0015

All Foods Fit

The All Foods Fit Model is the idea that all foods can fit into a person’s daily meal planning and preparation. The model does not support the idea of categorizing foods into black or white categories–such as labeling foods as “good” vs. “bad” or “healthy” vs. “unhealthy.” The model does not support engaging in fad or elimination diets, and “legalizes” all foods that the individual is not allergic to.

Dmckenzie. (2022, May 18). The all foods fit model to prevent disordered eating < marvelous minds. Marvelous Minds. https://www.marvelousminds.net/prevent-disordered-eating/ 

This blog was just a glimpse of knowledge as to what eating disorder specialists know. As stated earlier in this blog, many of us are not educated on the many layers involving eating disorders. It is such a complex mental illness and the specialists are here to help! Understanding just a few of the different terms, treatments, and additional knowledge about eating disorders can help specialists give a patient/client a step to recovery even sooner! 

The purpose of this blog is to give more awareness to make an impact on those affected by this complex mental illness. Eating disorders can be brought to remission and prevented with the right treatment and knowledge!!

If you need help finding appropriate treatment for yourself, or a client – please reach out! I offer consultation and education to other healthcare professionals, as well.

What is therapeutic treatment consulting?

This is something I didn’t even know existed until I was already doing it! Therapeutic consulting is a specialty service in which experienced clinicians help clients find the best therapeutic program for their unique needs. 

Popular in educational consulting for therapeutic schools and for substance use programs, this type of consulting relies on the unaffiliated consultant having a large network of programs (and constantly growing that network) that they visit and check in on to see what services they offer and philosophies they use. 

Therapeutic consultants assess the clients’ needs, look at resources such as insurance and location, and provide “matchmaking” for the client and program.

As an eating disorder therapeutic consultant, the professional must have an eating disorder clinical background (for me that is a Master’s level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Certified Eating Disorder Specialist – Consultant credential, and over 10 years of work experience in the ED field), and knowledge of the types of treatments that work for different types of people and diagnosis. 

What does this look like more specifically in my business?

As your eating disorder therapeutic treatment consultant, I come with over 10 years of experience in the eating disorder treatment world as a certified eating disorders specialist registered dietitian who had had clients come from and go to many treatment programs. Additionally, I worked in outreach and business development and was able to form relationships with hundreds of providers and programs throughout the country.

Now I work with you to provide a high touch service, matching your unique needs for eating disorder treatment with providers and programs nationwide. 

When you work with me you will get:

• A comprehensive assessment of your unique needs for eating disorder treatment including, but not limited to: your current diagnosis, your personality, special needs (like time for school or location), your insurance plan (if applicable), etc.
• Follow-up with your current providers to get information on your case
• A plan of action based on your initial assessment (what you need)
• Program and/or provider recommendations
• Going over your questions/what to expect at this level of care
• Vetting of programs 
• Help with organizing paperwork/pre-admissions needs 
• Step-down (follow-up) planning
• Education about eating disorders (whatever is needed; this is mainly for the family members)

Why a consultant versus asking friends for recommendations?

I will ask a lot of questions (and encourage you to!) to get a thorough understanding of you or your child. This is different than asking your friend or family member for help, as I can be an available and objective sounding board who can make expert recommendations and referrals. 

From the Therapeutic Consulting Association:

Not to mention, it’s a LIFE SAVING service!

Eating disorders don’t magically “get better.” Time is of the essence, and getting the wrong treatment can actually set someone back in dangerous ways. The more times someone bounces in and out of treatment, the more likely they are to gain new disordered behaviors and medical complications. 

Do it right the first time. 

If this sounds like it would be a help to you, apply for my consulting today. I only take on 3 clients at a time, so what are you waiting for?

Hey performers/theatre athletes – I have something for you!

If you are:

…trying to be a diet-culture drop-out.

…working on loving yourself in an industry that wants to change you.

…needing a pep-talk, and people who get you…

Then this is the group for you!

Led by Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and theatre person, Libby Parker, you will be in a safe environment to share and grow as we dig into a support/coaching group hybrid. 

This session is 6 weeks, Mondays 5-6 pm PST / 8-9 pm EST, through secure video calls, September 19 – October 24, 2022. 

Sign up by September 1 to be guaranteed enterance.  Email me with any questions. Libby@notyouraveragenutritionist.com

(you do not need to have/had an eating disorder to join this group. This is for those ready to make change in their life and industry!)

Check back for blogs, vlogs, and follow me on instagram @thebroadwaydietitian and my YouTube channel (click image to go to it).

I’m an international best-selling author!

What a crazy month this has been (also why you haven’t heard from me in a while). I was not only busy with normal life, but was in a car accident (I’m ok, but my car is not), and getting ready for a book launch!

Creating Impact: Changemakers who overcame adversity to create a positive impact in the world came out strong on Friday Oct 8th, and hit #1 best-seller in at least 6 categories in Australia, 3 in the UK, and 2 in the US (maybe more? I stopped checking at some point).

This is actually my 3rd book out in the world now. As you may know, my baby – Permission To Eat: a practical guide to working yourself out of an eating disorder during college, while celebrating the awesomeness that is you! Came out in 2019 with a bang, hitting #1 in a couple categories. But many of you don’t know about book #2, in which I was a collaborator on a college nutrition textbook! 

I’m not done writing! I love writing books, and have at least 3 more rattling around my head and computer. These next 3 are quite different; I have a novel (18K words in, and feeling overwhelmed on the process of keeping characters/settings straight), a memoir of change, and the one that will be of most interest to you: a health book for performers. 😉

Would you read it?

In the mean-time, check out Creating Impact (only $0.99 and all proceeds go to charity), and Permission To Eat. 

Both will leave you feeling empowered, and who doesn’t need more of that?

I get asked a lot what software and other tools I use in my nutrition private practice (especially now that I have a team!), so I wanted to make a round-up post of my go-to tools. These are the books, tools, and software I have found to be most useful after 9 years in practice and a lot of trial and error.

Software:

Google Drive & Google workspace

Literally my life is on google drive! It’s so great for shared documents so you can edit with your team in real time, and for writing blog posts/etc, I type directly into google drive because it autosaves and I can log-in to access my files from any computer. 

I now use Google workspace to have HIPAA compliant business-branded emails for my employees and to host google voice as the phone for our business.

Square Payroll

Square is probably the system you are familiar with when you pay at a coffee shop, or those phone card readers, but they have a whole backend payroll system that requires no equipment! I run payroll by myself easily with square. Square automatically deducts and sends taxes to the IRS, so I don’t have to calculate how much the employees actually get, I just add their hours and hit “run.” So easy.

Use the link above to get your first month free (It’s really not that expensive anyway).

Simple Practice EHR

This really is the simplest-to-use electronic health record system I’ve ever used, and it saves so much paper and time! Simple Practice does all of my client scheduling, notes, credit card billing, insurance billing, secure messaging, client forms, secure document management, and more! It was so easy to add my team and give them different levels of access. There are video/telehealth features that you can add on to your subscription for an all-in-one platform (Literally the only thing missing is fax – hey SP…).

Use the link above to get a free 30 day trial and a $50 subscription credit after you sign up for a paid account.

PicMonkey

A graphic design tool that I’ve used to make most of the images on this site and my social media. Only ~$45/year, and simple to use! I learned this before Canva, and I think it can do things that Canva can’t (plus Canva feels overused by everyone!).

Canva

But, Canva is a great program for a reason…another graphic design tool that I’ve used to make PDFs and some graphics. You probably know it already, if not check it out.

Recovery Record Phone App

Use connected to your health professional (RD, coach, or therapist) to have a trigger-free way of recording food and behaviors that your professional can see and give feedback in real-time. No calories/macros. Just what you ate, how you feel about it, and listing behaviors. Free for clients, cheap for professionals – you can link 1 client for free, and 4 for $8.99/month.

Doxy.me

This is the video platform we use for 1:1 client calls. Free, HIPAA compliant, video conferencing for health professionals…and unlike Zoom, no downloads! (So you can send it to your client the minute before a meeting.)

Tailwind

Social media scheduling app I used for Instagram and Pinterest for a long time but I recently switched to…

Later

Social media scheduling for Instagram. It’s super simple, and free for 30 posts/month! It’s great to see my posts planned out, and have a bunch of drafts saved.  

iMovie

Free video editing on macs! I use this for editing videos for youtube/whatever.

Tech:

Canon G7x mark iii camera is what I use for both vlogging and still photos. It’s a great point-and-shoot pocket-size camera. You probably see a lot of vloggers using this camera – very popular, for a good reason – I did my research.

Blue yeti microphone for podcasting or anywhere I need good sound quality on my computer. It plugs right into a USB.

Asus Zenbook laptop. My main laptop for probably 7 years now. This slim PC does it all (except iMovie)!

13”Macbook Air M1 (2020). When I started doing my own video editing I wanted to try a mac, and this being my first one has not disappointed! The battery life is incredible, and I love the way it scrolls on the track pad.

Green screen The pandemic sent my vocal classes to zoom, and to keep up with productions we were asked to have backgrounds for our scenes…enter this cool pull-down green screen, a’la school projector screen of my childhood. I love not having to set it up every time I want to use it, and it tucks neatly away in its roll when not in use.

Trainings/ courses / masterminds:

Fearless Practitioners – Adrienne Paczosa, RD, LD, CEDRD-S

has great courses on HIPAA/Insurance, PP paperwork, and “Boss Club” mastermind group for starting/growing your private practice!

I just finished her private practice “accelerator” group program, which helped me get a better understanding of the numbers in my business. 

Female Entrepreneur Association

FEA had the biggest impact on the design/branding of my business of anything I have done. It’s a monthly membership of masterclasses, and through it I learned how to do graphic design, write a book, learned about the law of attraction, and sooo much more.  The founder, Carrie Green, also wrote this great business book.

Elegant Excellence by Hilary Rushford

Had a huge impact in how I saw my business as systems that I could outsource more to staff, and deciding what is actually essential versus busy work. A must-do course! Plus she is super fun to watch (former musical theatre/broadway performer).

Money Mentality Makeover and Drop The MF Money Struggle by Amanda Frances

The money queen has changed my mindset around receiving money, and I seriously saw a big increase when I started watching & applying her insight to being open to receiving more money. She also was the first person to actually get me excited about journaling – go figure!

She also has a great book that I read before buying her courses.

Check back for blogs, vlogs, and follow me on instagram @thebroadwaydietitian and my YouTube channel (click image to go to it).

Oy, 2 questions I get a lot are, “why did you convert when no one in your family is Jewish?” and “what did you have to do to convert?”

I come from a very prodestant midwestern family. Not overly religious, but we went to church and Sunday school. I’m broadly Eastern-European.

I moved to California and married the Cali equivalent. Switching from one 6-letter Scottish last name to another 6-letter Scottish last name.

I won’t go into all the details on WHY I converted as an adult, everyone’s story is personal, but I will explain the process of becoming a Jew, as I had no idea what to expect!

My process took about 2 years once I decided I wanted to pursue Judaism. This sounds crazy from a Christian background, where to be a Christian you just believe in Jesus as the son of God and personal savior, you get baptized, but that’s it. It can be done in a moment. I was super involved in church/church groups in college and saw the process a lot. 

Becoming Jewish is much more involved. The “people of the book” as Jews lovingly call themselves, they want to be sure you are making a very informed decision and think about how the religion will fit in your life. 

I remember the episode of Sex and the City, when Charlotte goes to convert for marriage, and gets turned away 3 times. I was nervous this was the way it always happened. Now, I think that show was dramatizing the experience, and I was never dissuaded from the process, but everyone made sure I really thought about why I was doing it. 

So let’s chat about what really happened in my conversion process, and what to expect in a reform conversion.

(*disclaimer, this was my experience process, so yours might be a bit different especially if you are converting to an orthodox religion.)

Community involvement

Part of the process is being an involved member of the local Jewish community. Judaism is very family/community oriented. In fact I think there are schools of thought that you cannot be a Jew in isolation. Regardless, you need to get involved in the Jewish community to learn about the teachings, beliefs (which vary widely! A common joke is that among 3 Jews are 5 different opinions), and the culture especially in regards to holidays.

Jews are not just a religion, but also a race/ethnicity. So you can be Jewish and not religious (secular), or you can be a religious Jew but not have Jewish blood. All are true Jews.

I started my real process to Judaism by attending synagogues in my community. It was difficult at first, as I am naturally shy in new groups of people, and I didn’t know the format of the services. In the reform congregations I attended I felt very welcome and was encouraged to ask questions. 

The weekly service at the most basic level is a Friday night Shabbat service. Some synagogues will also have Saturday morning services, and other services throughout the week. 

Having grown up in Presbyterrian and Lutheran churches, the music and liturgy was different (so much Hebrew!), but overall the flow of the service was very familiar, including the benediction being verbatim what was said in many churches I attended. This makes sense as Christianity came from Judaism, Jesus was a Jew, and it is the same God and old testament. 

Over the 2 years I pursued conversion, I attended services at least once a month (until COVID), went to holiday events in the community (Rosh Hashanah apple & honey festival; Hanukkah lighting), and got on email lists to learn what was happening in the area. 

Education

A requirement for conversion is education. For reform conversion, a minimum number of hours (exactly how many I cannot remember) learning the basics of the religion taught by a Rabbi is required. The course I took was the “Miller Introduction To Judiasm” course, which was taught by my Rabbi to a small group of us. Some were converting, some were just curious about what their friend’s religions were about, and some were Jews that grew up secularially and didn’t have the background that others did. 

Over 18 weeks we met and studied various parts of Judaism from “what is a Jew?” to Holidays, keeping Kosher, what Jews believe about God and death, history, and much more. We also had an intro to Hebrew class that was so helpful to understand some basic words we would see over and over.

While it was a lot of time, I absolutely loved learning everything we covered, and am so happy it was a requirement. 

Sponsoring Rabbi

You also need a Rabbi that will lead you through the process and vouch for you, that you will be a good addition to the community.  I was so thankful that the Rabbi that I asked said yes, and was very involved in my process. 

She blessed our home as we hung the Mezuzah at the front door, she taught my daughter (and me) about Judaism in “tot shabbat,” and she held my hand through the process. 

Choosing a Hebrew name

As we near the end of the process we are asked to pick a Hebrew name for ourselves. If you come from Jewish relatives, you may have a meaningful connection to a name, but for goys like me, it’s a little harder. I could choose literally any name in Hebrew. Did I want to go for pretty sounding, easy to write, meaningful… what is meaningful to me? 

Eventually I landed on “Liba” based on my English name, “Libby.” It means beloved. 

Personal reflection

If I had to pick a least-favorite part of the process, this would be it. I had to write an essay (only about 2 pages) about why I was choosing to convert, what my religious life had been like, how I was planning to practice Judaism in the home and include my (non-Jewish) family. 

I would guess most people convert for marriage, so choosing to do this when I had no family that was Jewish was difficult to explain. I still don’t feel I have the words to do it justice. 

Along those lines…

Spouse allowance

Another unique thing about Jewish conversion versus Christianity is that if you are married to a non-Jew who is not converting, the spouse must state to the Rabbi that it is ok for you to convert and practice Judaism in the home. They do not have to partake (though it is encouraged) but that they will not stand in your way.

This was the main reason I took 2 years instead of less time to convert. I wanted to make sure my entire family was comfortable with my decision so there would be no animosity. My husband has yet to join me for a service, but he has come to holiday events and lets me be me.

Beit Din

The second to last step is convening the Beit Din or rabbinic court. Composed of 3 Rabbis, the Beit Din decides whether or not you get to become a Jew. Only slightly intimidating. They read your reflection essay, and ask questions about your process. 

Being COVID time, my interview was held on zoom, and was less than a half hour start to finish. They very quickly said, “Mazal Tov! You’re a Jew!”

Phew!

But wait, there’s more… Mikveh!

The final step was the scariest, and the most religious feeling. This was submerging in the Mikveh, or ritual bath. The closest kosher Mikveh to me that did conversions was in LA, about a 4 hour drive away. 

Why it was scary is that I abhor putting my head under water. It is a fear of mine, to the point I don’t go under in a pool or any body of water (also why I choose not to do this in the Ocean, which was my only other choice). 

I’m so happy I did my research before going to the Mikveh, as films have not always put it in the best light. Netflix’s Unorthodox made it look very traumatic and that people would be watching your naked body. Shows like Younger made it look like a swimming pool that would have several naked women at the same time and tattoos were forbidden… I could go on.

Instead I looked to youtube videos of people actually going to the mikveh, and describing the process. For certain ceremonies,like conversion, a female attendant or rabbi will be present to pray and make sure you completely submerge. This was the case at my ceremony, but I did not feel that I was being watched. She just asked that I had cleaned myself appropriately, she didn’t look at my body, as in Unorthodox. 

Preparing for the Mikveh

Because of COVID I was told to do all my preparations at home, but under normal circumstances there is a preparation room at most Mikveh’s that you can use to do the following steps.

You need to remove all clothing, jewelry, hair pieces – anything that is not you. This includes removing nail polish, and making sure to wash well with no lotions or conditioner left on your body. It was the cleanest I’ve been since I was a baby. 

Each Mikveh has a preparation list, so I won’t go in depth here, but know that you need to be squeaky clean.

The actual ceremony

Once I was all clean and checked-in, the (female) Rabbi led me to the room that held the mikveh. The lights were low and candles were set around the water. 

The Mikveh itself is like a large hot tub. About 4 feet deep with steps descending into the water, a Mikveh has to meet certain requirements of a minimum volume of water and that it is fed by “living” water such as rain, a spring, a river, or similar. 

The Rabbi said she would leave me to disrobe and get into the water and ring a bell when I was ready. As I entered the water I felt more and more comfortable. It was warm and buoyant, and in the dimly lit room it felt cozy. At the edge of the pool were laminated sheets with the prayers I would need to read in Hebrew. I rang the bell and the Rabbi came in. She explained what we were going to do, she prayed over me, and then I had to read 3 prayers and submerge myself 3 times. The first time apparently I didn’t make it all the way under, and she made me submerge again. In-between, I was able to wipe my eyes with the towel I brought and placed by the pool (highly recommend if going under is as hard for you as it was for me). 

After I completed my part, she said that I did it, I was a Jew! She sang a song of joy in Hebrew, and then left me to have some alone time in the Mikveh. I used that time to reflect on my process, say thank you to God, and float in the water. 

Upon leaving, she gave me a certificate of conversion with my Hebrew name on it, and notified the Beit Din that I had completed the Mikveh. 

And that was it. 

It was strange that the only person who had witnessed this very meaningful moment was a complete stranger, and that I didn’t have anyone to talk about it with. 

I’m glad that I recorded these videos before and after to remember the day. 

VIDEO: Right before going into Mikveh 

VIDEO: Right after the Mikveh experience (I’m a Jew!) 

Now that it’s been a few months, I don’t have much to update you on. We are still in COVID times, so I haven’t been able to do much with the local community. Being that my family is not Jewish, I haven’t been able to experience much Jewish life, but my favorite practice is lighting the Shabbat candles on Friday night with my daughter, singing the prayer with my eyes hidden behind my hands. If you haven’t seen a toddler do this – you are missing out! It’s adorable.

I hope this article was helpful for anyone considering, or just wondering about, conversion. 

Shavua Tov!

Check back for blogs, vlogs, and follow me on instagram @thebroadwaydietitian and my YouTube channel (click image to go to it).