Tailoring Nutritional Approaches for Recovery in EDS, POTS & MCAS Patients

In this presentation we will explore the unique challenges faced by individuals dealing with both eating disorders and chronic illnesses such as Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).

The presentation will begin with an overview of these conditions, enhancing understanding of their impact on nutrition and recovery. Attendees will develop essential skills for recognizing these conditions and making informed and appropriate referrals.

Participants will learn to evaluate and select tailored nutrition interventions that address the specific needs of individuals with co-occurring eating disorders and chronic illness. Additionally, evidence-based non-nutrition recommendations will be discussed, equipping attendees with strategies to effectively manage the complexities of recovery for this vulnerable population.

Presented by: Lauren Adler Dear, RDN

Lauren Adler Dear is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with a group private practice in Boston, MA. She specializes in digestive health and eating disorders, and has developed a strong interest in how the two overlap. Lauren uses an evidenced-based approach to treat a wide range of conditions including eating disorders, IBS, IBD, SIBO, gastroparesis, functional dyspepsia, GERD, eosinophilic esophagitis, mast cell activation syndrome, histamine intolerance, and postural orthopedic tachycardia syndrome (POTS). She also incorporates the principles of intuitive eating and Health at Every Size to help clients foster a positive relationship with food and body. When GI conditions and eating disorders overlap, Lauren uses her expertise in both subject areas to help clients simultaneously treat both concerns.

Lauren is trained in clinical hypnotherapy and offers this modality as an adjunct treatment to help manage digestive symptoms and co-occurring anxiety. Lauren understands the importance of addressing both the brain and gut, as they are directly connected, and there is often a cycle of GI pain and discomfort intertwined with anxiety.

Lauren enjoys training other dietitians and interns on the overlap of digestive conditions and eating disorders. She has spoken on these two topics at the Multi-Service Eating Disorders Association (MEDA) Annual Conference, Massachusetts Annual Nutrition Convention and Exposition (ANCE), Central Massachusetts Dietetic Association, Simmons University, and yearly at the Harvard University GI Motility and Brain-Gut Disorders Course. She also has collaborated with Marci Evans, RD to create a professional training resource for clinicians, "Digestive Disorders and Eating Disorders: A Complicated Mix."

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