Tell us about yourself!

My name is Sydney Engberg (she/her) and I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), MS, LD, CPT (Certified Personal Trainer), at The Emily Program’s Eating Disorder Treatment Center in Atlanta, Georgia. I have been with The Emily Program since August of 2021.

What would you like people to know about the role of a Registered Dietitian?

I want people to know that being a dietitian is not just making meal plans and evaluating what people eat. There are so many paths that you can take as an RD, including food product development, food service, school nutrition, public policy and advocacy, clinical/hospital nutrition, and 1:1 nutrition counseling. Contrary to popular belief, we don’t always “eat healthy” and we aren’t judging what you eat.

How do you view the importance of nutrition in helping clients repair their relationship with food?

I believe it is important to say that healing your relationship with food is one of the biggest challenges of recovery and is also one of the most beautiful gifts you can give yourself. Even though people often believe dietitians are only managing a meal plan, know that we are so passionate about unpacking your beliefs about health and diet culture. That’s why most of us got into the job!

What piece of advice would you give to those struggling with eating disorders?

Trust those who have walked this path before you and know that this discomfort is temporary. It can be so hard to feel like the struggles of recovery are endless, but I promise it gets easier!

Strangest job you’ve ever had?

When I was middle school I worked for companies like Monsanto doing something we call “detasseling.” Look it up for a more detailed description ?

What’s something you’re really proud of?

I am proud that I can publicly speak to large groups without crying — and I actually enjoy it! When I was younger I would get so nervous that my voice would shake and I would inevitably have tears in my eyes.

What do you like to do when you aren’t working?

I consider myself a serial hobbyist! I love to learn new things and get my hands dirty. You may or may not find me gardening, baking, or making cheese on the weekends.