RESUMEN
Purpose: Many transgender (short form: trans) people are experiencing disparities within Canadian health care systems, including nutritional and dietetic health care systems. This research explores the views, beliefs, and experiences of Canadian dietitians about trans nutritional care and seeks to understand how dietitians can better address the nutritional needs of trans individuals. Methods: Semistructured online interviews were conducted with 16 Canadian dietitians. Interviews were transcribed and the data were analyzed thematically. Results: Three main themes were created; (1) There's an Unjust System, (2) We've Come a Long Way, and (3) Not Just Checklists and Rainbows. The participants explored the historic nature of the Canadian dietetic profession and noted the connection between cis-normativity and the erasure of trans identities. They also explored how dietitians could better address the health needs of trans people, including moving beyond the acknowledgement of trans identities to changing the way gender is viewed in the profession. Conclusion: The dietetic profession must move beyond surface-level activities and rethink gender. Recommendations include adding trans-focused care training into the profession, creating safer spaces for trans individuals, advocacy and allyship, and recruiting trans people to the profession.
RESUMEN
Purpose: Our aim was to explore Canadian dietitians' knowledge, beliefs, and values relating to the nutritional care of Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, and other queer groups (2SLGBTQ+).Methods: The research was qualitative and used a poststructural theoretical lens. Interviews were conducted with 16 Canadian dietitians. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results: Three themes were noted: (i) moving away from the binary; (ii) systemic discrimination and 2SLGBTQ+ experiences; and (iii) professional organizations and advocacy. The participants discussed structural, professional, and cultural barriers that affect the nutrition and health experiences of sexual and gender diverse groups.Conclusion: Dietetic institutions and regulatory bodies must provide sexual and gender diversity resources and engage in activities that acknowledge the lives and nutritional concerns of sexual and gender diverse people. Such advocacy is a means to provide more inclusive and equitable care. Key recommendations for structural changes within the profession include using an intersectional lens and a critical dietetic approach to nutritional care.