Testimonials
Achieve recovery. Heal your relationship with food and body.

Compassionate Male Anorexia Treatments and Help with an RDN in Colorado, Body Image and Nutrition Counseling for Men for Lasting Healing and Recovery

Embark on a transformative path for recovery from Anorexia to complete healing and holistic well-being. Our certified dietitians offer medical nutrition therapy and compassionate care, guiding you toward enduring healing. We empower 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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Anorexia Nervosa Treatments in Males:

At Side By Side Nutrition, our certified dietitians provide outpatient medical nutrition therapy and personalized, one-on-one nutrition counseling designed specifically for men dealing with anorexia. According to NEDA (the National Eating Disorders Association), approximately 1/3 of the people who struggle with eating disorders are male.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. We will tailor your nutrition therapy to your specific needs. 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.

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.

 

 

Myths surrounding anorexia in men:

Many men encounter obstacles when seeking treatment for eating disorders. These obstacles include:

  • societal perceptions that link eating disorders to women

  • feelings of stigma and shame

  • low levels of awareness and acknowledgment

  • symptoms that may not conform to stereotypes

  • lack of treatment options designed specifically for men

  • a stigma around mental health issues

  • potential biases among healthcare providers

  • concerns about loss of control and independence

  • limited peer support

  • scarcity of research on eating disorders in men.

    Overcoming these barriers involves challenging stereotypes, raising awareness, and establishing inclusive support networks tailored to the unique needs of men with anorexia. Men deserve the right to access compassionate care and receive nutrition therapy on their path to recovery. Seeking help demonstrates strength.

SYMPTOMS OF ANOREXIA IN MALES:

Awareness of the signs of anorexia in men can lead to early detection and intervention.

  • A preoccupation with weight and appearance

  • Excessive exercise, preoccupation with missing workouts

  • Restrictive eating behaviors

  • Lowered sex drive

  • Fatigue and dizziness

  • Gut health problems (constipation)

  • Hair loss

  • Depression

  • Avoiding occasions where there is food (family meals, holidays etc.)

  • Irregular heartbeat

  • Dehydration

If you or someone you know are experiencing any of these symptoms, reach out for help. Recovery is possible.

 
 

We want to work with you.

 

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 diverse 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 a comprehensive initial assessment, where we delve into your unique needs, exploring your past and present relationship with food, body image, and health history. With your permission, we work collaboratively to understand your goals and aspirations for our partnership. In our specialized work with Anorexia Nervosa, we prioritize the holistic healing of the individual by fostering a positive relationship with food and body.

 

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, allowing for a renewed sense of freedom and openness in life. Through targeted interventions, we address the root causes of disordered eating, working towards liberating individuals from the constraints of Anorexia Nervosa.

 

Go Beyond Symptom Management - Shift Body Image Perception

Our focus extends beyond mere symptom management; we strive to instill a profound shift in body image perception, promoting self-acceptance and a genuine appreciation for one's unique identity. By dismantling the mental and emotional barriers imposed by the eating disorder, we empower our clients to embrace a life unburdened by constant thoughts, fostering a newfound sense of joy, purpose, and possibility. Follow-up sessions form the core of our work together. We thoroughly examine your relationship with food and body, addressing challenges and co-creating individualized tools. We delve into body image exploration, dismantling external influences of food and body shame, and establish supportive structures as needed. Our goal is to help you increase variety and flexibility with eating, learning to respond to your body's hunger and satiety cues, and developing a joyful relationship with 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

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

 

Is anorexia more common in men or women?

Anorexia can impact individuals of any gender, but historically, it has been more commonly diagnosed in women. It's crucial to note that the reported cases may reflect a gender bias, as men might not seek help as often, leading to potential underdiagnosis in this population.


Can anorexia cause infertility in men?

Anorexia can potentially lead to hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies that may affect fertility in both men and women. Seeking medical advice is crucial for personalized guidance.


Does anorexia cause low sex drive in men?

Anorexia may contribute to hormonal changes that can impact libido and sexual function in men. However, individual experiences can vary, and professional consultation is recommended for comprehensive assessment.


How common is anorexia in men?

Anorexia is less common in men compared to women according to those diagnosed, but the prevalence is rising. Men also experience societal and body image pressures that can contribute to the development of anorexia.


How many men in the U.S have anorexia?

Exact numbers are challenging to determine, but it is estimated that a significant number of men in the U.S. experience anorexia. Many cases may go unreported or undiagnosed.


What are the signs and symptoms of anorexia in men?

Signs may include significant weight loss, preoccupation with body image, restrictive eating, excessive exercise, and social withdrawal. Men may also experience muscle loss and hormonal changes.


What causes anorexia in men?

Causes of anorexia in men are complex and can include societal pressures, body image concerns, genetic factors, and psychological triggers. It is essential to address these factors in a holistic treatment approach.


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.