Why Seasonal Change Impacts Food and Body Image
Seasonal changes bring on shifts in more than just temperature. When the weather changes, so do the clocks, both externally and internally. As the sun sets later and it stays light outside for longer, our bodies shift and adjust our hormone levels and circadian rhythms accordingly. As spring comes around, diet culture applies pressure to start to “get ready for summer” by increasing rigorous exercise and disordered eating behaviors. Societal messaging can play a role in the pressure felt to undergo a full body transformation. This can trigger a resurgence of body awareness and dissatisfaction, as we try on clothes, replace what no longer fits, and maybe prepare for upcoming vacations. Nutrition counseling in NYC can support you in navigating seasonal pressures to engage in disordered eating and body image concerns.
When it comes to switching out closets, it can be helpful to take a very intentional and mindful approach. Trying on and organizing one section of clothing at a time can be helpful to avoid getting overwhelmed. If an item does not fit, it should be packed up and removed from your line of sight, and donated, sold or otherwise disposed of. Holding onto clothes that no longer fit in the hopes that you lose weight to fit into them again only perpetuates body dissatisfaction. Purchasing new clothes that fit you properly is crucial for your comfort and can help you feel more confident.
How Nutrition Counseling in NYC Addresses Disordered Eating
Nutrition Counseling in NYC with a Registered Dietitian can be instrumental in healing from disordered eating. Registered Dietitians NYC can work with clients to stabilize intake and normalize regular and adequate eating patterns. Appetite changes are normal throughout this process, and having a registered dietitian on board can help normalize and support this. Some behaviors that may be of concern and point to disordered eating are rigidity in mealtimes, restricting entire food groups, counting calories, withdrawing from social events and keeping strict food logs.
The Role of a Registered Dietitian in NYC in Body Image Work
A Registered Dietitian in NYC can do more than just create a meal plan. Body image work is a crucial part of repairing your relationship with food. Registered Dietitians can provide education and clinical insight on the functions of our bodies, beyond their physical appearance. Dietitians bring this expertise when it comes to collaborating with the rest of the care team, as advocates who care and are qualified to help. Combining educational expertise with the emotional coaching helps achieve compassion-focused care.
Nutrition Therapy Options for Eating Disorders in NYC
When it comes to outpatient nutrition counseling in NYC, sessions may be conducted in person or virtually. Benefits of in-person care include medical monitoring, structure, and face to face connection. Virtual care allows for more flexibility, comfort and increased accessibility. Someone who may benefit more from in-person services are those who need more accountability, medical monitoring, or just connect better when face to face with their providers. This also comes in handy for those who do not have a private space to conduct calls from and prefer to have a designated space and office to go to.
If outpatient is not the right fit for you, there are several higher level of care facilities and programs local to NYC. These programs offer increased support with more frequent appointments, in person monitoring, and support groups to give a different perspective on recovery.
How to Choose a Dietitian in NYC for Seasonal Support
It is important to do your research when choosing a dietitian in NYC. Finding someone who has experience with eating disorders is imperative to ensure you get the best, most individualized care possible. It may be helpful to understand their approach to weight prior to getting started, as this is a huge factor in determining what recommendations may look like. Your dietitian could specialize in weight loss, or practice from a weight neutral approach, both of which would result in very different care plans. Insurance coverage may also be helpful to consider. Determining upfront what the cost of care will look like ensures accessibility and consistency.