My Experience With a Dietitian
I started with a new dietitian last week and am completely revamping my eating schedule. These things can be overwhelming and sometimes unsafe when you’re in a neurodivergent body. Here’s what I look for in a dietitian, benefits of seeing one, and how we can safely adjust food intake without restriction. Keep in mind that I do not have an eating disorder and treatment for an ED will be different.
I’ve seen a few dietitians for a few sessions over the last 5 years. Each has taught me new things to incorporate into my daily routine to help me figure out what my body responds best to. The first helped me realize how badly I needed electrolytes. This was a huge first step that I’ve now done consistently for years. The second helped me plan small meals with added fat to stabilize blood sugar while navigating parosmia (certain foods tasting/smelling like sewage) and a new POTS diagnosis.
Last week, I saw my third dietitian that I found on the EDS society professional directory. We’ve only had 1 session together but she’s already provided me with so much information that I feel hopeful. Here’s what I look for before even starting with a provider:
Licensed in my state and if not local, do they offer telehealth
Good reviews: Google tells a lot so I check here first
3 key words I look for on their site:
Holistic: Takes into account the whole person and how multiple conditions interact
Health at every size (HAES): Will focus on building healthy habits without tying worth to your body size
Specialties: Intuitive eating (helps you learn to trust your body), neurodivergence, autoimmune disorders, lipidema (Many don’t know this even exists so it tells me they understand more about co-ocurring conditions)
EDS healthcare professional directory: They at least have some understanding of EDS/HSD and/or co-occuring conditions
Finances: Do they accept my insurance? If not, what is the cash pay? Am I locked into a contract? (I personally prefer less salesy unless I have a specific, short term goal, but this isn’t automatically wrong). Blue Cross Blue Shield insurance generally covers a dietitian without a copay as part of the Affordable Care Act. It’s worth calling your insurance company to figure out your benefits.
Ultimately, my provider spent 2 hours with me virtually, sent me for updated blood work and hormone testing, and worked with me to come up with a realistic plan. We’ll start treatment this week but I’ve been able to start implementing grocery swaps based on her initial suggestions.
I highly recommend everyone see a dietitian in some capacity to build healthy habits and to help meet nutrition guidelines as many of us navigate having multiple conditions that sometimes work against each other.
It’s not a moral failing that you have health issues, but we can use nutrition and movement strategically to give us some relief and support.
Grocery Haul Vlog
After meeting with my dietitian I went searching for the new brands that were recommended for me! Take a look at what I’ve been trying.
Re-Lyte
These are the electrolytes I’ve take daily for 1-2 years! They’re part of my routine because they work great for me. Save with code JENNADPT.
EDS Society Directory
This is the directory where I found my provider. Even if someone isn’t in your local area, it may be work looking for a virtual appointment. Give it a try!
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This blog is written based on personal experience and is not medical advice. Always ask your doctor for individual concerns and support.