About Abby

There’s often a misconception of dietitians’ role being the food police however I am here to set the record straight, the truth couldn’t be more opposite.

Let me introduce myself, my name is Abby Hsiao (pronounced “shall”) and I am a dietitian who is passionate about food, especially our relationship with food. I was born in Taiwan, grew up partly in the US, and moved to B.C. some 12 years ago. I obtained my dietetics degree from UBC (University of British Columbia) and completed my practical education with Interior Health Authority. Since practicing as a RD (Registered Dietitian), I have worked in many areas of nutrition, both in the hospital and in the community, all over the lower mainland for Vancouver Coastal Health, Fraser Health, and Providence Health Care.

My primary interest and focus in the field of dietetics is eating disorders and disordered eating.

In my experience as a dietitian specialized in eating disorder treatment, I have witnessed the insidious nature of popular diet-culture and the ever-increasing pursuit of thin-ideals at the detriment of health both mental and physical. Often the ones that suffer the most are our young and vulnerable youths.

I, myself, became a dietitian in part because I saw close friends and family members fallen ill from disordered eating behaviours and eating disorders.

I am informed in the complexity of the relationship between food, weight, and how we see ourselves. I have learned the language of disordered thinking where seemingly harmless comments from others or images from media can turn into triggers that spiral into the trap of dieting and obsession with food. I understand how tempting a simple notion of wanting to look/feel differently can snowball into something out of control. I also know how helpless and powerless it feels to be stuck in a negative pattern or to watch your loved ones suffer and not knowing what to do.

Fortunately, my experience and training have taught me and many clients I’ve worked with that it is never too late. There are supports, resources, and tools that can help turn it all around. All that is required is time, patience, and compassion.

I founded this practice based on the geniune desire to help anyone who is struggling with their relationship with food and body. If that is you or your loved ones, I want you to know, I see you and I want to help.

Besides eating disorder/disordered eating treatment, our team of dietitians here can also look after other nutrition concerns based on your needs. Check out the team to learn more and find the right dietitian for you.