Description:
Eating disorders do not discriminate, affecting people of any size, age, gender, ethnic background, and
religion. Eating disorders within the Jewish community provides its own challenges and nuances, just as
any unique population does. Nonetheless, one of the biggest hurdles met by clients and clinicians alike is
how to keep kosher while in treatment, what that looks like, and various nuances that come along with it.
This webinar explores how Jewish religious observance intersects with clinical care, focusing on
supporting clients who keep kosher while in treatment. Participants will learn the basic tenets of keeping
kosher and what this looks like in outpatient, PHP, residential, and inpatient settings. The session
examines how dietary, and Sabbath observance can influence the client’s decision to enter high levels of
care, as well as practical considerations for honoring the Sabbath in Jewish holidays during treatment.
Special attention is given to the unique dietary requirements of Passover, and how nutrition and religious
practice overlap. The webinar also highlights the value of culturally informed nutritionists on the treatment
team and offers guidance on when and how to thoughtfully include the client’s Rabbi to support both
clinical and religious needs.
1. Relay basic tenants of keeping kosher
2. Keeping the Sabbath and Holidays While In Treatment
3. Unique dietary restrictions around the Holiday of Passover
4. Fasting holidays and fasting during recovery