Nutrition is about more than restrictive eating and fueling your body with the right things. Theresa DeLorenzo, DCN, RD, Director of Logan University’s Master of Science in Nutrition & Human Performance (MSNHP) and Applied Nutrition & Dietetics (MSAND) programs, believes that having a better awareness of cravings, paired with physical movement, is best for long-term well-being.
A licensed yoga instructor with over 200 hours, Dr. DeLorenzo runs her own practice, Nutrition for Optimal Performance, writes blogs and creates podcasts. She also published “Crave: My Journey from Restrictive Eating to Fueled and Thriving,” a book for those healing their relationship with food.
Dr. DeLorenzo recently presented at Logan’s Symposium 2025, drawing from her own experience and clinical work. She encouraged attendees to rethink the way they approach nutrition with mindfulness, curiosity and compassion.
What is Mindful Eating?
Mindful eating isn’t about a perfect diet, Dr. DeLorenzo explains, it’s about slowing down, tuning in and honoring what your body is asking for.
“Our bodies are always talking—we’ve just been taught to ignore them,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “Cravings aren’t bad. They’re messages. For example, craving red meat after a long run may signal a need for iron. Ignoring these cues can lead to overindulgence later, like mindless snacking at night.”
She recommends pausing before reaching for food and asking: “What am I really craving: energy, comfort, nourishment, or something else?” As you eat, pay attention to how the food looks, smells and tastes, and be aware of hunger cues.
The Gut-Brain Connection in Mindful Eating
Dr. DeLorenzo says she often has to explain to patients the key role gut health plays in mental well-being.
“Serotonin is produced in the gut,” she said. “But when we’re stressed, eating inflammatory foods, and our gut lining is compromised, that serotonin can’t reach the brain effectively via the vagus nerve. It becomes a vicious cycle of stress, poor food choices and even more stress.”
Mindful eating practices help break the cycle, reducing inflammation, calming the nervous system and supporting gut-brain communication. She encourages meals built around whole foods, fiber, healthy fats and protein.
“Naked carbs, like plain pretzels and paste without protein, can cause energy crashes and trigger further cravings,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “When cravings are honored with nutrient-dense foods, the body feels more satisfied.
Mindful Movement: Yoga as Therapy
By integrating yoga into her nutrition practices, Dr. DeLorenzo helps clients reconnect with their bodies beyond the plate. Through one-on-one yoga sessions, she gently guides clients to notice physical sensations without judgment—building the foundation for intuitive eating and stress management.
“Yoga isn’t supposed to be an exercise to gain muscle,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “It’s a tool to reconnect with yourself and pull us out of our heads and into our bodies. Some days your body is energized and strong. Other days it’s tight and tired. That’s not failure—that’s your body’s feedback.”
Training the Next Generation of Nutrition Experts
With unique courses exploring topics like Gut Microbiome, Nutrition and Behavior, and Nutrigenetics and Nutrigenomics, Logan’s nutrition programs go beyond foundational nutrition science. Under Dr. DeLorenzo’s leadership, students learn to integrate nutrition with performance and functional health.
“Mindful eating and movement aren’t buzzwords,” Dr. DeLorenzo said. “At Logan, we’re preparing health science professionals to understand the full picture for patients’ long-term health.”
Learn more about launching your career in nutrition here.