GUT HEALTH DIETITIANS

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gut disorder that is characterised by bloating, abdominal pain and cramping and diarrhoea and/or constipation with symptoms experienced consistently over a minimum 6 month period. To diagnose IBS, other conditions must first be ruled out such as Crohn’s disease, coeliac disease or bowel cancer.

IBS is considered a chronic condition and can affect someone for many years. Fortunately, a dietitian can support you to make food and lifestyle changes that can help to manage and reduce many of the symptoms of IBS.

BLOATING AND INDIGESTION

Bloating can be painful and uncomfortable. Some amount of bloating after eating is normal, especially if you are eating higher fibre meals. However, bloating that is persistent and leaves you feeling like your belly is swollen and uncomfortable is usually related to excess gas or disturbances in the muscle movement of your digestive system or abdominal area.

Indigestion or reflux may show up as pain or discomfort in your upper abdominal area and may include a burning sensation in your chest. Symptoms can show up soon after eating and drinking and include feeling bloated or sick, burping and/or regurgitating.

If you experience these symptoms often, it may be a good idea to explore diet and lifestyle changes with a dietitian.

DIARRHOEA AND CONSTIPATION

Experiencing diarrhoea or constipation can cause a lot of discomfort and impact on your quality of life, leaving you feeling stressed about bathroom visits.

Diarrhoea is characterised by loose or runny bowel motions and can be caused by bacterial infections or viruses. It can also be caused by intolerances to foods or substances such as lactose, fructose, sugar alcohols or high fat foods.

Constipation refers to passing bowel motions infrequently. Bowel motions may also be firm and difficult to pass. Simple strategies can assist with constipation such as regular movement, eating enough fibre and drinking enough water each day. Sometimes the causes are more complex including motility issues and diseases such as diabetes, IBS and hypothyroidism.

EXCESS WIND OR FLATULENCE

Flatulence (gas) is the passing of wind through your digestive system. Some amount of gas is normal, especially if you eat a high fibre diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, grains and/or legumes. However, passing excess gas can feel embarrassing and uncomfortable.

Excess gas can be caused by eating certain high fibre foods that your body finds difficult to digest. Another cause includes eating or drinking in a way that introduces air to the stomach, for example eating too quickly or drinking carbonated beverages.

Working with a dietitian at Plant Nutrition and Wellness can help you identify causes of excess wind and strategies to manage symptoms.

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis which are conditions that lead to chronic inflammation of the digestive system. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fatigue, diarrhoea, malnutrition and weight loss. These conditions affect each person differently, however they can greatly affect your quality of life. There may be periods of remission and flare up which require different treatment approaches.

There is no known cure for IBD but it can be managed and symptoms can be improved with dietary and lifestyle changes. Working with a dietitian can help you to identify trigger foods, reverse malnutrition and improve uncomfortable gut symptoms.