The effect of registered dietitians on quality of life, eating, and nutrition knowledge of adults with eating disorders

Abstract

Background: Eating disorder (ED) treatment can include psychologists, registered dietitians (RD), and/or physicians. Insufficient research exists regarding RDs and ED treatment. Objective: Describe impact of RDs on ED treatment and quality of life (QOL). Methods: Cross-sectional sample of participants ages 18+ years with ED history completed online survey with ED QOL and RD helpfulness questions. Quantitative data was analyzed in SPSS. Narrative responses to question on RD effects on recovery were coded by two researchers separately, then consensus reached. Results: Participants (n=70) were 87.1% (n=61) white, 90% (n=63) female, and RD treatment group (n=60). Most participants had positive perceptions of RD impact on recovery and described RDs as helpful, supportive educators. QOL improved significantly in both RD and non-RD treatment groups (p<0.001, p=0.008), without a significant difference between groups (p=0.193). Conclusions: Results suggest RDs contribute to recovery. Future research needs include their effects on ED treatment in larger, diverse samples.