The Prevalence and Perception of Disordered Eating and Eating Disorders Among Dietetic Students, Interns, and Graduates at a University

Abstract

Disordered eating (DE) and eating disorders (EDs) are behaviors indicative of unhealthy relationships between food and body image. They may require mental health interventions and have implications for dietetic practice when they occur in dietetic professionals. This was a cross-sectional study about them delivered over the internet to students, interns, and graduates of nutrition and dietetics at a university. About half (53%) of respondents indicated having a personal experience with DE or an ED. The results of this study may be useful for educators in designing higher education that supports future nutrition professionals in the achievement of healthy relationships with food and body image.