Risky eating behaviors in nutrition professionals: Are we immune to what we teach?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32870/jbf.v6i11.129Keywords:
Conductas alimentarias de riesgo, Comportamiento alimentario, Profesionales de la nutrición, Salud mental en el ámbito sanitarioAbstract
Nutrition professionals are often regarded as health role models, not only because of their technical knowledge but also for their role in promoting healthy eating behaviors. However, various studies have documented the presence of disordered eating behaviors (DEB) and eating disorders (ED) among both students and practicing professionals in the field, revealing a significant contradiction with their educational and therapeutic roles. This phenomenon raises ethical and professional concerns, as such behaviors may compromise not only the physical and emotional well-being of the nutritionist but also the quality of the nutritional counseling they provide. Social and academic pressures to maintain an “ideal” body image, continuous exposure to normative aesthetic discourses, and a culture of professional performance are factors that may contribute to the onset or persistence of DEB. Additionally, there is a real risk that these patterns will be unconsciously reproduced in patients, reinforcing restrictive or unhealthy eating ideals. This perspective article aims to analyze the personal, educational, and ethical implications of DEB in nutrition professionals. It also reflects on the limited institutional response to this issue and the urgent need to implement preventive strategies within academic and workplace settings. Finally, it emphasizes the importance of promoting self-care, offering psychological support, and building safe spaces that encourage a more conscious, empathetic, and coherent professional practice aligned with the principles of holistic health.
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