Eating disorders (EDs) are serious, complex mental illnesses characterised by severe disturbances in eating behaviours. Body image, which encompasses our thoughts, feelings, and attitudes toward our bodies, can strongly influence the risk of developing an ED.
In Australia, around 1.1 million people are currently living with an ED, and one in three are dissatisfied with their body. Body Image and Eating Disorders Awareness Week (1-7 September 2025) aims to raise awareness of these issues. This year’s theme, “Unpacking the Why: What Causes Eating Disorders?”, invites us to explore the many factors that contribute to poor body image and EDs, and highlights the importance of accessing trusted holistic health and support services in Australia for recovery and ongoing wellbeing.
Genetics can play a substantial role in eating disorder risk factors. Having a parent or sibling with an ED or a mental health condition increases a person’s likelihood of developing one, and research shows females are at greater genetic risk for disordered eating than males. Scientists are also investigating the role of the gut microbiome, as well as the link between autoimmune conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and coeliac disease, and EDs.
While genetic factors cannot be changed, the environment can be shaped to reduce risk. Dietitians work with families to foster a positive, supportive food environment, discourage unnecessary restrictive diets, and ensure nutrition plans for chronic conditions are safe, balanced, and realistic.
Certain personality traits and mental health conditions can make someone more vulnerable to an ED. Perfectionism, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional instability, impulsivity, and compulsivity are often observed among individuals with EDs. Past trauma, abuse, or neglect can also increase susceptibility.
In these cases, dietitians can assess nutritional and medical histories, provide compassionate nutritional counselling, and collaborate with psychologists and other health professionals to support both physical and mental wellbeing. Encouraging intuitive eating, honouring hunger and fullness cues, and promoting flexible, balanced eating habits are also integral to dietetic practice.
Social and cultural influences can be powerful. Higher educational attainment has been linked with more restrictive eating behaviours, while food insecurity is associated with binge-type eating. Media exposure also plays a major role, with appearance ideals and diet culture messaging impacting both men and women. Such exposure often leads to dieting, one of the strongest predictors of ED development.
The role of dietitians in eating disorders includes countering these influences by providing evidence-based education, challenging food myths, and encouraging critical thinking about media messages. They may also integrate strategies such as feeding therapy to rebuild a positive relationship with food.
Eating disorders are the result of a complex interplay of eating disorder risk factors, including biological, psychological, and socio-cultural influences. Understanding these risks facilitates earlier identification of high-risk individuals and more tailored support.
If you are concerned about someone who may have an eating disorder, encourage them to seek help from their GP or an experienced dietitian. The role of dietitians in eating disorders is essential in providing compassionate, evidence-based care.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with eating behaviours or body image concerns, don’t wait to seek help. At Holistic Me, our team provides trusted holistic health and support services across Australia, from dietitian care to NDIS supports and behaviour therapy. Reach out today and take the first step toward recovery and long-term wellbeing.
Written by Jujube Yuen, APD