When Food Feels Hard: Understanding Eating Disorders

Host: Courtney Luecking, PhD, MPH, RDN, Extension Specialist for Maternal and Child Health, Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition, Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Kentucky

Guest: Abbigail Pace, PhD, RDN. Department of Dietetics and Human Nutrition

Join host Dr. Courtney Luecking and guest Dr. Abbigail Pace as they explore how eating disorders differ from common food and body concerns. This episode covers types of eating disorders, warning signs, physical and mental impacts, and prevalence statistics.

Dr. Pace explains when to seek help, who to contact (primary care providers, dietitians, certified eating-disorder professionals), and offers guidance for friends and family on supporting loved ones with compassion. Resources like NEDA, Health at Every Size, and intuitive eating approaches are highlighted, along with encouragement for those in recovery.

For more information:

National Eating Disorder Association Grace Holland Cozine Resource Center Project Heal Find a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist Kentucky Eating Disorder Council

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