Describe the importance of research for eating disorder dietitians
Having worked in the eating disorder field for over 20 years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how much our understanding and treatment approaches have evolved. Many of the practices we now consider essential were unknown or unvalidated when I first entered the field. Research, whether through formal projects or independent literature reviews, has been critical to that progress. As a dietitian, I view staying informed through current research as a core professional value. It enables me to offer the most effective, evidence-based interventions and ensures that my clients receive the highest standard of care throughout their recovery journey.
Can RDs be involved with research if they are not seeking a PhD?
You don’t need to pursue a PhD to get involved in research as a registered dietitian. Opportunities can vary depending on where you live, but there are always ways to engage if you’re motivated. When I lived outside of the U.S. with limited access to formal research projects, I still found ways to stay connected to research by conducting my own literature reviews and seeking collaboration.
One practical way to get involved is to reach out to researchers in your area of interest and offer to volunteer. Many are open to support, especially from professionals with clinical experience. You can also connect with local universities or academic institutions to request access to libraries or research resources. Joining professional organizations, attending conferences, and engaging in online research forums can also open doors to collaborative opportunities. Ultimately, staying research-informed is possible from anywhere. It just requires initiative and curiosity.
How has being involved in research influenced your abilities as an ED RD?
Being involved in research has significantly shaped my development as an eating disorder dietitian. It has opened doors for me to participate in plenary sessions, workshops internationally and connect with researchers and clinicians from around the world. These experiences have broadened my perspective and deepened my understanding of evidence-based care across different cultural contexts.
But more than anything, being research-informed gives me confidence and a strong sense of purpose in my work. It feels incredibly rewarding to know that the treatment I provide is grounded in current, credible evidence—because my clients deserve nothing less.
What is it like to be involved in research?
Although I only worked in a formal research lab during my internship, research has always been an important part of my work as an eating disorder dietitian. Whenever I was working on a specific topic, I would set aside a few hours each week to focus on reading four to five research articles at a time and working around my clinical schedule. One topic that particularly interested me was the risk of low bone mineral mass in individuals with eating disorders. That deep dive led me to write up my findings and, over time, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to publish in scientific journals and present at both national and international conferences. It also opened the door for me to submit proposals and participate in plenary sessions, workshops and teaching sessions at the ICED, IAEDP, etc. These experiences have allowed me to stay engaged with the research world and contribute to the field, even outside of a traditional academic setting.
Describe the skills you’ve acquired that have been important to your development as an eating disorder dietitian
Through my experience with research, I’ve developed several skills that have made me a more effective eating disorder dietitian. First, I’ve gained deeper knowledge and clinical insight, which helps me make informed, evidence-based decisions tailored to each client’s needs. I’ve also developed discipline and consistency. Research requires focus, patience, and the ability to navigate complex information over time. My work has also earned recognition through publications, presentations, and teaching opportunities, which has helped me grow professionally and stay connected with the broader ED community. And it has given me tremendous confidence to work in this field. All these skills; knowledge, discipline, curiosity, confidence and communication are essential in a field that is constantly evolving. They help ensure that the care I provide is both current and compassionate.
How can one stay up to date on the most recent advances in eating disorders?
Some of the most effective ways to stay current include subscribing to professional journals, joining organizations like the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED), The International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (iaedp) and the International Federation of Eating Disorder Professionals (IFEDD) -which has their own Institutional Review Board to certify research studies as safe for human subjects- and attending conferences or webinars.
The IFEDD is now offering a stipend if we publish research related to the role of RD in the ED care!
Personally, I also recommend setting aside time regularly to read a few articles or scan abstracts. If you don’t have access to academic libraries, try reaching out to universities or local dietetic programs; they’re often open to sharing resources, especially if you’re volunteering or collaborating.
Staying research-informed is about curiosity and consistency. Even small steps can go a long way in helping you bring the best, evidence-based care to your clients.
What are the benefits of attending scientific conferences for RDs?
For me, scientific conferences were truly my school when it came to learning about eating disorders. Since my college education didn’t cover this area in depth, attending conferences became a vital part of my professional development. Becoming a member of organizations like the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED) and iaedp gave me access to expert-led sessions, current research, and a global community of professionals who were as passionate about ED treatment as I was. I dreamed about presenting in those big conferences and the dream came true!
Conferences offer much more than just education, they provide a space for connection, mentorship, and staying up to date with the latest evidence and clinical practices. As a dietitian, these experiences not only expanded my knowledge but also helped me feel more confident and supported by the care I was providing. And I have made so many friends!
How can one translate research into real-world practice?
Translating research into private practice doesn’t have to be complicated, it starts with staying curious and committed to learning. For me, one of the biggest benefits is the sense of confidence that comes from knowing I’m using the most up-to-date, evidence based practices. That foundation helps me make clinical decisions with more clarity and assurance.
It’s also genuinely exciting to bring insights from conferences or journal articles into sessions with clients or team discussions with colleagues. Research becomes something alive, not just information, but a tool I can adapt to meet each client’s needs. Sharing what I’ve learned with others also helps build a stronger, more informed professional community around me.
