Health and Fitness : VGH Dietitian, Sara Wattnem, Earns Specialized Eating Disorder Certification

Virginia Gay Hospital is proud to announce that Sara Wattnem, Registered Dietitian, has officially earned her Inclusive Eating Disorder Specialist (IEDS) Certification, expanding access to specialized eating disorder nutrition care for patients in the region.

The IEDS certification recognizes advanced training in the nutritional treatment of eating disorders across the full spectrum, including Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), anorexia, bulimia, body dysmorphia, and related conditions. With this certification, Sara is now able to provide comprehensive, evidence-based nutritional care tailored to each patient’s unique needs.

“Previously, there was limited access locally to the nutritional component of eating disorder care,” Wattnem shared. “This certification allows us to bridge that gap, keeping patients closer to home while also helping them get in sooner to receive the nutritional support they need.”

Eating disorder treatment is most effective when it includes a multidisciplinary approach, and nutrition therapy is a critical part of recovery. By offering this specialized service at Virginia Gay Hospital, patients no longer need to travel long distances for care, reducing barriers and improving continuity of treatment.

Patients interested in receiving eating disorder nutrition services may do so with a referral from their primary care provider or behavioral health provider.

Virginia Gay Hospital remains committed to expanding services that improve access to high-quality, patient-centered care close to home.

For more information or to inquire about referrals, please contact Virginia Gay Hospital.