The gastrointestinal tract, or GI tract, includes everything involved in digestion, from the organs of the digestive tract – the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, small and large bowel, rectum and anus, as well as the organs of the biliary system – pancreas, liver, gallbladder and bile ducts.
There are many reasons why the GI tract does not function efficiently and those who have digestive conditions or have had surgery that affects their digestive system will usually have special dietary requirements. I am a gastroenterology specialist dietitian and will provide tailored nutrition interventions that take into account your medical history, nutritional intake, socio-economic factors and lifestyle. This will enable you to follow a nutritionally adequate plan in order to achieve and maintain optimum health.
If you are suffering with any of the conditions listed below and would like help in managing those conditions please contact me. Irritable bowel syndrome (in some circumstances trialling a low FODMAP diet may help and I am trained to help you with this)
Coeliac Disease
Inflammatory bowel disease: Crohn’s and Ulcerative Colitis
Reflux
Over active stoma following surgery
Short bowel syndrome
Pancreatitis (acute and chronic)
Malabsorption
Alcoholic liver disease
Non alcoholic fatty liver disease
Autoimmune liver disease
Hepatitis
Cholecystitis
Pre and post liver transplant
There are approximately 3 million people in the UK living with malnutrition and the majority of these are living in their own homes. Common signs of malnutrition are:
● Unplanned weight loss
● Fatigue
● Changes in mood
● Loss of appetite
● Disinterest in food/fluids
● Loss of muscle strength
A balanced diet is essential for wellbeing and health and if you are suffering from a poor appetite or are malnourished, including energy dense foods and drinks can help you to reach your nutritional requirements without significantly increasing portion sizes.
I can help you achieve your goals by providing evidence based advice, information and support. I am a firm believer of the “food first” approach and can provide you with ideas and recipes in order for you to empower yourself to achieve your desired weight gain and optimise your health and I will continue to support you throughout your journey.