appropriately broached by the registered dietitian nutrition- ist. Most eating styles, including those founded on religious beliefs, allow latitude in light of medical needs. For exam- ple, a member of the Muslim faith is allowed to eat nonhalal food if no halal food is available; a member of the Jewish faith is not allowed to fast on even the most holy of fast days if it will harm his or her health. Patients who are struggling with religious beliefs that conflict with their need for eating disorder treatment may benefit from referral to a religious leader of their faith who can help reconcile the conflict or grant permission to follow medical advice that seems to contradict with religious teachings.
