What if effective medical nutrition therapy (MNT) isn’t just about labs and protocols—but also about the nervous system? In Part 3 of this MENTORD Podcast series, Bethany and Danielle show how integrating nervous system awareness into nutrition counseling can transform the way dietitians deliver care.

They explain why regulation is a core clinical consideration (not an add-on), how stress physiology impacts nutrition behaviors, and how to adjust care plans based on what’s happening in real time. Whether you’re supporting clients with eating disorders, GI issues, or simply want to become a more attuned provider, this episode brings both nuance and practicality to your practice.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why nervous system regulation is essential in medical nutrition therapy.
• How stress physiology shapes food behaviors and treatment outcomes.
• Practical strategies to recognize dysregulation in your clients (and yourself).
• Ways to adapt care plans for better alignment with client states.
• Why co-regulation is a clinical skill every dietitian should practice.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Polyvagal Institute

Venn Diagram of Autonomic Nervous System States

Responsive Feeding Therapy

Freebies & Tools

Nervous System 101 for Dietitians → Download Now

Stay Connected

• 📲 Follow us on Instagram → @mentordpod
• 🌐 Website → https://www.mentordpod.com/

Hosts

• Connect with Bethany: B. Wheeler Nutrition → @bethanydietitian
• Connect with Danielle: Southern Nutrition → @southernutritionllc

Extras

• ✨ Anti-Diet Designs Merch → Shop Now
• 🎧 Share this episode with another dietitian who needs mentorship

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss what’s next—follow The MENTORD Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and share it with another dietitian who needs mentorship.

About the Hosts:

Bethany Wheeler and Danielle Southern are registered dietitians with years of experience in outpatient care, eating disorder treatment and private practice mentorship. Together, they created The MENTORD Podcast to provide the support, tools and real-world conversations that dietitians wish they had in school.