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Compassionate Atypical Anorexia Dietitian Nutritionist in Colorado, Body Image Counseling for Lasting Healing and Recovery

Embark on a transformative path, transitioning from recovery in Atypical Anorexia to complete healing and holistic well-being. Our certified dietitians offer compassionate care, guiding you towards enduring recovery and empowering you to regain trust and freedom in your relationship with food and body. Embrace life with a renewed sense of wellness and vitality as you navigate this journey toward full well-being.

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What is atypical anorexia?

A person with atypical anorexia has all the symptoms of a person with anorexia nervosa, including the restriction of food intake, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. Those that struggle with this eating disorder, however, may not have a significantly low body weight. In fact, their weight may be in the ‘healthy’ range. Despite not meeting the exact weight criteria, those with atypical anorexia nervosa still experience severe psychological distress and impairment due to their disordered eating behaviors.

Medical nutrition therapy for atypical anorexia patients:

At Side By Side Nutrition, our certified dietitians offer personalized outpatient nutrition counseling tailored specifically for people dealing with Atypical Anorexia.

Our approach is grounded in a holistic philosophy that prioritizes behaviors, and overall well-being, fostering a positive relationship with food and our bodies, and practicing self-compassion rather than fixating on numbers. This philosophy forms the foundation of values-aligned, intuitive, sustainable health and well-being. Our focus lies in assisting clients in cultivating a sustainable, empathetic, respectful, and trusting connection with food, body image, and self.

It's essential to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment to address physical and emotional health needs. With offices in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, Colorado, as well as Woodinville, Washington, we extend our services to patients from across the state and country, providing both in-person and online nutrition counseling. Recovery is possible.

 
 

What is the difference between atypical anorexia and anorexia nervosa?

Atypical Anorexia Nervosa is a term used to describe a presentation of anorexia that does not align with the stereotypical image of extreme thinness typically associated with the disorder. People with atypical anorexia may still experience significant restrictive eating patterns, intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image, similar to those with classical anorexia nervosa.

The distinguishing factor is that individuals may present within a weight range that is not considered “significantly” low according to traditional diagnostic criteria. Despite not meeting the criteria for low body weight, the physical and psychological challenges these people face are as serious as those with classical anorexia nervosa.

 

Atypical Anorecis is not uncommon and affects many.

Despite its name, it is not uncommon and represents a significant portion of individuals struggling with eating disorders. This subtype challenges the conventional perception of anorexia nervosa, which is often associated solely with extreme thinness. In reality, many people with eating disorders may present within a weight range that does not meet the traditional diagnostic criteria for low body weight.

Here are some key points highlighting the prevalence and characteristics of atypical anorexia:

  • Misconceptions about Anorexia: The stereotypical image of an extremely underweight individual has sometimes led to misconceptions about the prevalence of anorexia. Atypical anorexia challenges these stereotypes by demonstrating that individuals with a higher weight and people of all weights can also struggle with severe restrictive eating patterns and distorted body image.

  • Psychological and Behavioral Patterns: Atypical anorexia shares many psychological and behavioral patterns with classical anorexia nervosa, including intense fear of gaining weight, preoccupation with food and body image, and restrictive eating habits. The focus shifts from weight alone to encompass a broader understanding of disordered eating behaviors and their impact on well-being.

  • Health Consequences: Despite not meeting the traditional criteria for low body weight, individuals with atypical anorexia can still experience severe health consequences. These may include nutritional deficiencies, cardiovascular issues, and disruptions in hormonal balance, highlighting the importance of recognizing and addressing the disorder based on overall health rather than weight alone.

  • Prevalence: Research suggests that a significant proportion of individuals with anorexia fall into the category of atypical anorexia. This underscores the need for a more inclusive understanding of anorexia nervosa that considers various presentations and acknowledges the diversity of individuals affected by these disorders.

  • Importance of Recognition and Treatment: Recognizing atypical anorexia is crucial for providing appropriate care and support. Individuals struggling with atypical anorexia may face unique challenges and may benefit from a tailored treatment approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the disorder.

In conclusion, atypical anorexia is a common and significant subtype of anorexia nervosa, challenging stereotypes and emphasizing the need for a more comprehensive understanding of eating disorders. Acknowledging the diverse ways in which individuals can experience and express these disorders is essential for promoting early identification, effective treatment, and improved outcomes for those affected.

 

Why is it important to address atypical anorexia?

Providing quality and specialized care for those with atypical anorexia is crucial for these folx’s well-being and recovery. Despite not aligning with the traditional criteria for low body weight, this illness can incur severe health implications. Nutritional deficiencies, cardiovascular issues, and hormonal imbalances are only some of the health implications that can manifest, requiring timely intervention to address both physical and mental well-being.

Furthermore, atypical anorexia shares many psychological and behavioral characteristics with classical anorexia nervosa, including a profound fear of weight gain, fixation on food and body image, and restrictive eating habits, which all greatly impact the quality of the life of the individual struggling. Addressing these psychological factors is crucial for fostering overall well-being and facilitating recovery.

Moreover, without intervention, just like other eating disorders and disordered eating, atypical anorexia can progress to more severe stages, exacerbating the challenges associated with disordered eating behaviors. Early identification and treatment are critical in stopping the escalation of these behaviors and increasing the likelihood of successful recovery.

 
 
 

We believe people are meant to discover true nourishment through a self-compassionate, self-accepting, and holistic lens. In our practice, our clients are empowered to become their own nutrition experts. Our role is to gently lead them towards body trust and acceptance, and ultimately, open up their lives to more.

We want to work with you.

 

Why are people with atypical anorexia less likely to seek treatment than those with anorexia?

Several factors contribute to the lower likelihood of individuals with atypical anorexia seeking treatment compared to those with classical anorexia nervosa:

  • Misconceptions and Stigma: The stereotypical image associated with anorexia may lead to misconceptions and stigma. People with atypical anorexia, who may not exhibit extreme thinness, might not recognize their own experiences as aligning with the stereotypical image, delaying or avoiding treatment.

  • Normalization of Behaviors: Individuals with atypical anorexia may engage in restrictive eating patterns and have distorted body image, but they might perceive these behaviors as less severe. This normalization may result in a lack of awareness or acknowledgment of the seriousness of their condition, delaying seeking professional help.

  • Social Comparison: Those with atypical anorexia may engage in social comparisons, believing their struggles are less significant. This comparison may discourage them from seeking treatment, perceiving their challenges as less valid or severe.

  • Lack of Awareness: Limited awareness of atypical anorexia among the general public and healthcare professionals contributes to challenges in recognizing and diagnosing the condition. This can result in delayed referrals and access to appropriate treatment.

  • Fear of Judgment: Fear of judgment, whether from healthcare providers, friends, or family, can be a significant barrier to seeking treatment. Individuals may worry about not being taken seriously due to their weight falling outside traditional diagnostic criteria, leading to reluctance to disclose their struggles.

  • Lack of Comprehensive Screening: Healthcare providers may not always conduct comprehensive screenings for eating disorders, particularly if the focus is primarily on weight-related criteria. This can result in missed opportunities for early identification and intervention for individuals with atypical anorexia.

  • Internalization of Societal Norms: Societal norms equating thinness with health and beauty can contribute to internalized beliefs about the acceptability of restrictive eating behaviors. Individuals may be less likely to seek treatment if they perceive their behaviors as aligned with societal expectations around body size.

Addressing these barriers requires increased awareness, education, and a shift in societal and healthcare norms to encompass a more inclusive understanding of eating disorders, including atypical anorexia. Encouraging open conversations about disordered eating behaviors and body image concerns can help reduce stigma and facilitate early intervention for individuals with atypical anorexia.

 

What does a dietitian do for ED?

Our devoted team of nutrition experts specializing in eating disorders is dedicated to guiding clients toward a journey of healing that transcends fear and shame. By addressing concerns around food and dismantling negative body image perceptions and behaviors, we empower clients to reclaim ownership of their relationships with food and body and to shift their outlook, beliefs, and behaviors towards love, respect, and acceptance. This transformation paves the way for sustainable recovery and lasting wellbeing. Together, we strive to eradicate feelings of shame related to food and body image, identify triggers that fuel self-doubt, and nurture a trusting relationship with both food and body, creating space for our authentic selves and true values to emerge and thrive.

Recognizing that each individual holds the key to their own healing journey, our team of medical nutrition specialists facilitates a process of self-exploration and empowerment. Recovery from an eating disorder and disorder eating extends beyond overcoming the eating disorder; it involves cultivating a rich and empowered life through healing around food and body image.

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What does nutrition therapy include?

 

A Comprehensive Initial Assessment

Our holistic approach begins with an in-depth initial evaluation, delving into your individual needs by exploring your history with food, body image, and overall health. With your consent, we engage in a collaborative process to grasp your objectives and hopes for our collaboration and your journey toward full recovery.

 

Build Trust in the Body’s Natural Cues

Our approach is centered on breaking free from the constant thoughts and behaviors associated with the eating disorder that keep individuals stuck in a cycle of distress. Together, we embark on a transformative journey to build trust in the body's natural cues and become intuitive and trusting eaters, allowing for a renewed sense of freedom and openness in life.

 

Go Beyond Symptom Management - Shift Body Image Perception

Our focus goes beyond merely managing symptoms; we aim to facilitate a profound transformation in how body image is perceived, fostering self-acceptance and a genuine appreciation for one's unique self. By breaking down the mental and emotional barriers imposed by the eating disorder, we empower our clients to embrace a life free from never-ending negative food and body image thoughts, nurturing a newfound sense of joy, purpose, and opportunity. Follow-up sessions are central to our collaborative efforts. We thoroughly explore your connection with food and body, addressing obstacles and co-creating personalized strategies. We delve into body image examination, dismantling external pressures of food and body negativity, and establishing supportive frameworks as necessary. Our objective is to assist you in broadening the spectrum and adaptability of your eating habits, learning to nuture and tend to your body's signals of hunger and satisfaction, and cultivating a joyful relationship with both food and body.

 

Continued Support

Throughout your journey, we offer unwavering support, navigating the inevitable ups and downs. We celebrate your progress and stand by you as you cross the finish line. Our mission is not only eating disorder recovery but also the cultivation of a life that is rich, meaningful, and fully aligned with your values. We believe in the importance of this journey and the therapeutic relationship, and our dedicated dietitians are here to guide you every step of the way.

 

TESTIMONIALS

Testimonials List

Recent “graduate” from Side by Side Nutrition. I started working with SBSN to figure out how food worked after having an eating disorder for years. And I’m so happy I got so much more than that! SBSN introduced me to Self-Compassion and met me with an approach that never included shaming me. I looked forward to our sessions every week, even if I hadn’t done any of my work, because I knew she’d be understanding and work with me to figure out what I needed to make it happen. And none of that compassion and presence was lost when we had to switch to telehealth. When I started, I didn’t think healing from an eating disorder was possible. And I never in my wildest dreams imagined that I’d come out of it with an unshakable love for my body (certainly not a plus size body with chronic illness)! I’m so glad circumstances sent me here because I know I wouldn’t have gotten to this place with my previous dietician! I am STRONG, I am CONFIDENT, and I am in LOVE with myself! Thank you so much for helping me on my journey here! It wasn’t easy, but it was so worth it!

— Michaela Myers

I worked with SBSN at Side by Side after an eating disorder diagnosis, and it changed my life for the better. The entire team is incredibly supportive, patient, and full of resources. There's a lot of confusion out there about dieticians and nutritionists, and I'm lucky to have found a place that helped me the way no one ever had. I thought recovery was impossible for me, but it's not! You just have to find the right people, and that can take some digging. Side by Side is the real deal.

— Melanie Smith

As the director of an eating disorder outpatient clinic, licensed psychologist, and certified eating disorders specialist, I am extremely picky about the dietitians my team and I will collaborate with. I can say with full confidence that my team completely trusts Jamie Magdic and her entire team of dietitians. Jamie is incredibly compassionate and dedicated to her patients, in addition to being extremely knowledgeable . Side By Side Nutrition is one of our clinic's top picks for nutrition therapy. They are excellent, know eating disorders, and are actually weight-inclusive and HAES-informed. I would trust Side By Side Nutrition with any patient with any diagnosis in any stage of recovery.

— Dr. Janean Anderson

I started working with SBSN after 20 years of disordered eating and 3 years of eating disorder treatment. My RDs were always focused on my weight restoration and how I felt food, but never really got how I felt about my body. I have made bigger strides in recovery working with SBSN than I ever did with any other RD. SBSN is kind, compassionate, non-judgemental, and easy to relate to. I felt comfortable with SBSN starting from day 1. To quote my therapist, SBSN is a unicorn and you won't find anyone like them!

— Alexandria McCombs

When I started working with SBSN, I had been struggling with my eating disorder for over six years. I had worked with RDs and therapists before, but they solely focused on weight restoration and not the mental aspect of recovery, so I stayed stuck in my disorder while in a "recovered" body. SBSN's approach was unlike any other RD or eating disorder specialist I had worked with before in that she treats her clients as whole, multifaceted people and addresses so much more than just the food piece of recovery. They helped me to constantly challenge my eating disorder and tackle food fears while also teaching me about the importance of self care and self compassion in recovery and how I could incorporate these into my life. I truly feel that my work with SBSN not only helped me win my battle against my eating disorder but helped me to be a stronger, happier, healthier person in general now that I have those self care tools. It was so refreshing to work with someone with a holistic approach to eating disorders and body image issues and I cannot recommend working with her enough! Thank you so much SBSN for your support!

— Kacey

SBSN gave me peace and restoration in my mind, body, and life. I had deeply rooted issues surrounding food and my body, and I thought I would never recover from my concerns. I had my reservations about meeting a dietician on my first appointment, but the therapy is never diet-focused, and focused more on client-centered care and recovery. They tailor therapy sessions around your goals and comfort. They provide many resources for her clients to guide them through each phase of recovery. I will never forget SBSN, they were an essential factor in my recovery.

— Lauren

I am so thankful to this organization, they are helping me out so much in so many different areas. My dietitian is an outstanding registered dietitian to work with and Jamie has jumped hoops to make sure that I could get into this program and I am so humbled by their partnering care! I love the inviting and accepting feel of the staff and overall office feel, from when I walk in the doors through when I walk out after my appointment every time I come. I truly don’t know where I’d be if I didn’t have Side by Side guiding me through my healing journey. My eyes well with gratitude for this practice as I write this review! Thank you!!!

— Mary Sanders

Our team of Expert Dietitian Nutritionists Have Been Featured In:

 

Our Team of Dietitian Nutritionists, Expert ED and Medical Nutrition Counselors

 

The Side by Side Nutrition team has a team of 12+ outpatient registered dietitians. We provide online nutrition counseling to patients in Colorado and around the country. We offer one-on-one and family nutrition counseling for patients either online or in person, with offices located in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins. We specialize in eating disorder recovery and body image healing.

RD - Registered Dietitian
RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
MS - Masters of Science

As specialists in ED nutrition counseling our mission is rooted in compassion. We:  

  • Strive to create a safe and nurturing space for individuals on their journey to wellness. 

  • Understand the profound impact that eating disorders can have on one's life.

  • Are committed to fostering a supportive community where every client feels seen, heard, and understood. 

  • Work from an intuitive eating, HAES (Health at Every Size) Informed Approach.

  • Believe everyone has the right to high-quality care – accessibility and inclusivity are at the core of our values.

  • Stand firm in our belief in the possibility of full recovery. 

  • Continually invest in our education to stay at the forefront of the field.

  • Are committed to ongoing learning.

  • Channel all our resources into becoming the best eating disorder nutritionist counselors.

  • Are dedicated to guiding our clients toward a life of lasting health and empowerment.

 

We Accept Insurance:

We are committed to ensuring that our clients have access to healthcare, and we make every effort to facilitate this. We accept insurance plans such as BlueCross Blue Shield (Anthem/Regence), United HealthCare (Optum), Aetna, and Cigna.

 
 

Dietitian for ED and Medical Nutrition Therapy FAQ

 

What is the rate of atypical anorexia?

Determining the exact prevalence of atypical anorexia presents challenges as it falls under the category of Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED) in the DSM-5. OSFED encompasses various eating disorders that don't neatly fit into specific categories like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. However, it is acknowledged as a significant concern within the spectrum of eating disorders, and healthcare professionals are becoming more aware of and diagnosing cases of atypical anorexia.

What is the difference between atypical anorexia and anorexia nervosa?

While both involve restrictive eating, atypical anorexia is characterized by individuals maintaining a higher weight than typically associated with anorexia nervosa. Both share similar behaviors and psychological aspects AND require/deserve treatment and support.

How many people have atypical anorexia?

Determining the exact prevalence of atypical anorexia poses challenges, but it is widely acknowledged as a significant form of eating disorder.

Do I have atypical anorexia? Symptoms of atypical anorexia?

Symptoms include restrictive eating, preoccupation with body image, fear of weight gain, and potentially maintaining a higher weight than the traditional diagnosis of anorexia nervosa.

Is atypical anorexia in the DSM?

Yes, atypical anorexia is included in the DSM-5 under the category of Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder (OSFED).

What causes atypical anorexia?

The causes of atypical anorexia are multifaceted and can include genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Societal pressures and body image concerns also contribute to the prevalence.

How to help someone with atypical anorexia?

Providing support entails promoting open communication and creating a positive environment while encouraging individuals to seek professional help. Collaborating with healthcare providers, specialized registered dietitian nutritionists, and mental health experts is crucial for developing a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to individual needs.

What insurance plans do you accept?

Side By Side Nutrition is in network with Cigna, Cigna Localplus, Aetna, BlueCross Blue Shield (Anthem/Regence), UMR, and United Healthcare. Prior to your visit, please call your insurance company to check your benefits. We can not guarantee coverage. 

For other insurance companies, we are out-of-network providers. This means we can provide you a superbill to submit to insurance for possible reimbursement. SBS can not submit superbills without a medical diagnosis. Payment is due at time of service for folxs using out of network benefits.

How does treatment work? What does a typical session look like?

An outpatient team consists of a dietitian, therapist, and primary care physician at minimum. Sessions are highly individualized and change from week to week depending on the needs, goals, behaviors, and journey of each client. Our dietitians are constantly assessing the needs, progress, safety, and next steps with their client’s short and long term goals in mind. 

An outpatient team works collaboratively to ensure clients get the best care for their recovery while staying in their day to day life. Clients in eating disorder recovery being treated on the outpatient level will typically visit with their dietitians 1-2x/week, therapist 1-2x/week, PCP monthly, and psychiatrist as needed.

I don’t live in Colorado, can we still work together?

Absolutely! We are passionate about making care accessible for you and offer telehealth services and online nutrition therapy when appropriate. We will meet via a HIPAA-compliant video conference platform and communicate between sessions using email. 

We provide nutrition counseling to clients from around the county. 

How do I get started?

You can schedule directly online here!

You can also contact us to help you schedule via our contact form here.

If you have any questions about working with us or scheduling, feel free to contact us via email or phone: contact@sidebysidenutrition.com or call us at 708-717-7394.

WHAT IS HEALTH AT EVERY SIZE?

Health at Every Size™ is a compassionate care framework that recognizes and promotes body diversity and holistic health. We recognize a focus on intentional weight loss causes harm, does not improve health, and further invokes weight stigma and discrimination. We believe any person in any size body can pursue health and create positive behavior change that prioritizes their individual health desires.

WHAT IS INTUITIVE EATING?

Intuitive Eating is an approach to eating that incorporates building body trust, intuitive responses, emotional awareness, and listening to your body. It encourages self-compassion, curiosity, trust, and a gentle attitude towards food in order to cultivate and maintain a sustainable, healthy, and trusting relationship with food and body image.