Meet Eating Disorder Dietitian, Courtney Skanderup

Get to know Registered Dietitian, Courtney Skanderup on our team

Courtney Skanderup is a a member of Dietitians of Canada and is registered with the College of Dietitians of Alberta and the College of Dietitians of British Columbia. Courtney specializes in disordered eating, mental health, emotional eating, intuitive eating, chronic disease, geriatrics/seniors health, swallowing issues. She strives to create genuine connections with clients and works to create an inclusive space for all.

In this article, we asked her to share a few things about herself so you can get to know her better. You can also read her full bio here: Meet Our Registered Dietitian Team

What is your background as a Dietitian?  

I was lucky to grow up with parents who were both great cooks. My dad loved good food and would make intricate and involved meals. He was known for his restaurant style meal presentation and elaborate fruit platters. My interest in food and nutrition definitely began with him! I wanted to learn more about cooking and how to make food taste good. Eventually, my interest in cooking turned to an interest in how to fuel myself properly for sport. I have always been active and participated in many activities including figure skating, biking, snowboarding, running, and provincial level field hockey.  

After I completed my internship in Kamloops, B.C., I decided to move back to my hometown of Calgary. I was hired as a sole charge Dietitian at a long term care facility that I still work at today. I also worked as a consulting Dietitian at both a massage clinic and family practice where I saw a multitude of clients. Over my years as a dietitian, I have worked with a variety of clients with varying health concerns, but have always found a spark when working with individuals with disordered eating. I have undergone further training in this area, including becoming certified as an Intuitive Eating Counsellor and completing a Masters in Dietetics with projects focused on disordered eating, weight bias, and prenatal and infant health. I love to learn and am always seeking opportunities to increase my knowledge.  

What is one myth you want to clear up about Dietitians?  

That we will lecture you on your food choices, judge you based on your eating habits, and tell you not to eat your favourite foods. We will do none of the above! I am interested in getting to know you as a person and understanding what is important to you. I take the approach that all foods fit and strive to work alongside you.  

What is your favorite nerdy nutritious food chosen for health?  

I love apples served with cheese slices or sliced cucumbers with salt and pepper. I usually eat at least one apple a day! I have even turned my boyfriend into an apple lover- we go through an absurd amount of apples in our household.  

What is your favorite soulful food chosen for taste, enjoyment, and social fun?

My favourite soulful food depends on my mood! I love ice cream, chocolate covered strawberries, puffed wheat squares, and cheddar Crispy Minis. I always include some kind of soulful food in my day!  

Something that people may not know about me:  

I am dog obsessed and almost took home a puppy from the Inca Trail (only kind of joking). I now share a dog with my boyfriend. Her name is Pepper and she is the best! I am always happy to see cute photos and videos of other people’s animals and frequently can be caught watching dog videos on Instagram. Another interesting thing about me is that I used to teach aerial yoga. I have not done it for a few years, but it was a super unique and fun way to move. I enjoyed doing tricks and spending an hour upside down.