According to the National Eating Disorders Association, 20 million females and 10 million males currently suffer from an eating disorder in the United States. The best way I know to explain an eating disorder is a psychological illness that manifests itself through food and restriction. Recovery from an eating disorder requires 1.) commitment from the individual and a true wish to live a happy and healthy life, 2.) the support of family and friends through the entire process and after treatment is concluded, and 3.) the collaboration of experts in the fields of medicine, psychology, and dietetics. Certified Eating Disorder Dietitians play an important role in the recovery process because they can help an individual suffering from an eating disorder learn to love food and appreciate food's contribution to a happy life. They can educate individuals how to enjoy all foods and gain freedom from dieting and restricting. In the recovery process individuals learn that life is much more than the food and learn to let go of that control factor in their life, but first they have to learn to eat and enjoy again and that is how a registered dietitian can help save a life.