Colitis Nutritionists and Dietitians in Barrie, ON

Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc, BScHN
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MHSc, BScHN
Online Only
I look forward to working with you! I have over 20 years of experience and will help you meet your goals, one step at a time! Feel free to book a free discovery call to learn more about the services I provide.  Nutrition counselling  Genetic/DNA swab test (Nutrigenomix) for personalized nutrition (general health, sports, fertility and more)  Meal planning services  Meal planning services for childcare/daycare settings  Dietary assessment + supplement plan  Detailed nutrient analysis/report  Grocery store tour (individual or group)  Pantry makeover (virtual or in-home)
I look forward to working with you! I have over 20 years of experience and will help you meet your goals, one step at a time! Feel free to book a free discovery call to learn more about the services I provide.  Nutrition counselling  Genetic/DNA swab test (Nutrigenomix) for personalized nutrition (general health, sports, fertility and more)  Meal planning services  Meal planning services for childcare/daycare settings  Dietary assessment + supplement plan  Detailed nutrient analysis/report  Grocery store tour (individual or group)  Pantry makeover (virtual or in-home)
(705) 998-3002 View (705) 998-3002
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Barrie, ON L4N
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a RD with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition with people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic & acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, eating disorders, weight management, IBS, GI issues & allergies. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
Accepting NEW patients-next day appts available for phone & video sessions. I have 20+ years experience as a RD with a wide range of experiences. I specialize in infant, pediatric & adult nutrition with people 0-99. I am well-versed in all chronic & acute diseases including cancer, diabetes, infant feeding/introducing solids/picky eating, eating disorders, weight management, IBS, GI issues & allergies. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics & private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(365) 398-0757 View (365) 398-0757
Photo of Vanessa Hurley - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, recover from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your baby? You have come to the right place-we can help you reach your goals! We provide personalized nutrition care + meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
(289) 312-3565 View (289) 312-3565
Photo of Jenna Zaika, Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, RD
Jenna Zaika
Nutritionist/Dietitian, BASc, RD
Serves Area
My mission is to support you in finding ways to nourish your body AND your soul, while incorporating all of the foods that bring you joy. I use a warm, weight-inclusive, compassionate, and refreshing approach. If you have lost the joy of eating, are tired of restricting foods (especially the ones you love!), dieting, adhering to ‘food rules’, counting calories, weighing yourself, and doing exercises that you dread, it may be time to try a new and refreshing approach. Covered by many health benefit plans. We also now have a therapist on our team! Collaborative care can go a long way in helping to heal your relationship with food.
My mission is to support you in finding ways to nourish your body AND your soul, while incorporating all of the foods that bring you joy. I use a warm, weight-inclusive, compassionate, and refreshing approach. If you have lost the joy of eating, are tired of restricting foods (especially the ones you love!), dieting, adhering to ‘food rules’, counting calories, weighing yourself, and doing exercises that you dread, it may be time to try a new and refreshing approach. Covered by many health benefit plans. We also now have a therapist on our team! Collaborative care can go a long way in helping to heal your relationship with food.
(226) 407-7604 View (226) 407-7604
Photo of Michaela Harron, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Michaela Harron
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Michaela! I understand how overwhelming it can feel to manage the stress that often surrounds food choices, and I’m here to help you build a healthier, more balanced relationship with eating. Whether you’re struggling with digestive issues like IBS, managing disordered eating, or navigating weight concerns, my goal is to provide personalized, practical strategies that empower you to feel in control of your well-being.
Hi, I’m Michaela! I understand how overwhelming it can feel to manage the stress that often surrounds food choices, and I’m here to help you build a healthier, more balanced relationship with eating. Whether you’re struggling with digestive issues like IBS, managing disordered eating, or navigating weight concerns, my goal is to provide personalized, practical strategies that empower you to feel in control of your well-being.
(365) 536-1605 View (365) 536-1605

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
3 Endorsed
Online Only
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, heal from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your infant or deal with picky eating? We can help you reach your goals! We also create personalized nutrition care & meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
NEW patients welcome! Do you need help managing your chronic health diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease or obesity? Is your goal to lower your high blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol or weight? Do you want to improve your overall relationship with food, heal from an eating disorder, boost your energy levels or feel more confident in your body? Are you overwhelmed or unsure how to introduce solids or allergens to your infant or deal with picky eating? We can help you reach your goals! We also create personalized nutrition care & meal plans tailored to your unique lifestyle & food preferences.
(289) 302-6726 View (289) 302-6726
Photo of Allysa Solberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MAN
Allysa Solberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MAN
Online Only
Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of food for your health and well-being? I’m here to support your nutrition journey with personalized virtual consultations tailored to your lifestyle and goals. I specialize in nutrition for managing IBS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, I offer guidance in reproductive health and fertility nutrition. Whether you're seeking to address specific health concerns or simply aiming to embrace a healthier lifestyle, I’m here to help you boost your energy, health, and overall well-being.
Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of food for your health and well-being? I’m here to support your nutrition journey with personalized virtual consultations tailored to your lifestyle and goals. I specialize in nutrition for managing IBS, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular conditions. Additionally, I offer guidance in reproductive health and fertility nutrition. Whether you're seeking to address specific health concerns or simply aiming to embrace a healthier lifestyle, I’m here to help you boost your energy, health, and overall well-being.
View
Photo of Elke Sengmueller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RN, BASc, BScN
Elke Sengmueller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RN, BASc, BScN
Newmarket, ON L3Y
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: Digestive disorders (IBS, Crohn's Disease, Colitis, Celiac disease, Constipation, Reflux/GERD), Eating Disorders, Body Image Issues, Mental Health, Emotional Eating, Intuitive Eating, Picky Eaters, & Enteral Nutrition (tube-feeding).
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
Specialties: Digestive disorders (IBS, Crohn's Disease, Colitis, Celiac disease, Constipation, Reflux/GERD), Eating Disorders, Body Image Issues, Mental Health, Emotional Eating, Intuitive Eating, Picky Eaters, & Enteral Nutrition (tube-feeding).
ALERT: Wait list CLOSED until August. N.B.: I do NOT offer weight loss counselling. I have worked over 25 years caring for Surgery, ICU, Gastroenterology, Paediatrics (newborn to teens), Eating Disorders (all ages), and Mental Health/Addictions/Trauma clients. I use my extensive clinical experience and current evidence-based research, combined with a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, to help motivated clients improve their physical and emotional health, while mending their relationship with food. I am also a Registered Nurse, which enhances my ability to provide comprehensive care.
(905) 581-0911 View (905) 581-0911
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
Accepting NEW patients for phone/video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(343) 655-0646 View (343) 655-0646
Photo of Julia Stanislavskaia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MScFN, BSc
Julia Stanislavskaia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, MScFN, BSc
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My main areas of expertise are digestive diseases (reflux, IBS, Crohn's, colitis and celiac), infant feeding, eating disorders in children and adults, mental health, weight management, heart health (high cholesterol, high blood pressure), anaemia and other nutrient deficiencies, vegetarian and vegan diets.
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
My main areas of expertise are digestive diseases (reflux, IBS, Crohn's, colitis and celiac), infant feeding, eating disorders in children and adults, mental health, weight management, heart health (high cholesterol, high blood pressure), anaemia and other nutrient deficiencies, vegetarian and vegan diets.
If you are feeling unwell due to digestive symptoms, inflammation, fatigue, migraines, discomfort with your body and weight or mental health issues and feel that your problems may be related to food, contact me to explore how I can help you. I counsel on a wide variety of health issues from food sensitivities and eating disorders to weight management and heart health, among others. I work with people of all ages and have extensive experience in assessing and supporting complex patients with multiple conditions.
(647) 371-5843 View (647) 371-5843
Photo of Colleen Miller, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Colleen Miller
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
Colleen's practice focus is all this digestive health related. Colleen works with clients regularly for the following health conditions and interests: Food allergies, food intolerances and food sensitivities, celiac disease, digestive concerns arising from surgery or disease such as bowel cancer, diverticulosis/diverticulitis, indigestion, bloating and more.
Colleen's practice focus is all this digestive health related. Colleen works with clients regularly for the following health conditions and interests: Food allergies, food intolerances and food sensitivities, celiac disease, digestive concerns arising from surgery or disease such as bowel cancer, diverticulosis/diverticulitis, indigestion, bloating and more.
(647) 371-5517 View (647) 371-5517

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Courtney Wilson - Empower Nutrition & Wellness Co - Courtney Wilson, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN , RD
Empower Nutrition & Wellness Co - Courtney Wilson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN , RD
Online Only
Hi there - Welcome to Empower Nutrition & Wellness Co. I am so excited to share that Empower is accepting clients for 1-on-1 virtual nutrition counselling in Ontario. A little bit about me: I am a Registered Dietitian in Ontario and 2025 marks my 10th year in practice. I’ve worked in a variety of clinical settings; however, my absolute passion area of practice is working with people who experience challenges in their relationships with food and body. I also specialize in eating disorder and disordered eating support. Unsure of where to start or if we'd be a good fit? Let's connect via free connection chat.
Hi there - Welcome to Empower Nutrition & Wellness Co. I am so excited to share that Empower is accepting clients for 1-on-1 virtual nutrition counselling in Ontario. A little bit about me: I am a Registered Dietitian in Ontario and 2025 marks my 10th year in practice. I’ve worked in a variety of clinical settings; however, my absolute passion area of practice is working with people who experience challenges in their relationships with food and body. I also specialize in eating disorder and disordered eating support. Unsure of where to start or if we'd be a good fit? Let's connect via free connection chat.
(226) 458-3114 View (226) 458-3114
Photo of Doreen Hsu - Sustain Nutrition Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN, RD
Sustain Nutrition Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MScFN, RD
Markham, ON L3P
If you're a parent struggling with trying to get your child to eat, I can help you get unstuck. Don't give up on what feels like a hopeless situation. You're not alone and you don't need to solve it on your own. I have helped hundreds upon hundreds of parents overcome their child's nutrition issues. Message me to see how I can help you and your family also. To the busy mom: you're the glue to your family, and your health and wellness is just as important as everyone else's. Don't delay on taking care of yourself, reach out and see how I can help you feel better, stronger and healthier. You deserve it.
If you're a parent struggling with trying to get your child to eat, I can help you get unstuck. Don't give up on what feels like a hopeless situation. You're not alone and you don't need to solve it on your own. I have helped hundreds upon hundreds of parents overcome their child's nutrition issues. Message me to see how I can help you and your family also. To the busy mom: you're the glue to your family, and your health and wellness is just as important as everyone else's. Don't delay on taking care of yourself, reach out and see how I can help you feel better, stronger and healthier. You deserve it.
(289) 512-2893 View (289) 512-2893
Photo of Misha Roy - CBT Wellness and Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness and Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L4T
Accepting NEW clients. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
Accepting NEW clients. Imagine your ideal health journey-You want more energy, less stress around food, and confidence that what you eat is truly supporting your health. Maybe you’re managing diabetes, digestive issues, or food intolerances. Perhaps you’re navigating weight changes, pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or building strength for sports and fitness. You may even be balancing complex needs like food allergies, hypertension, or diabetes. This is where we can help. Our dietitians have 15+ years of experience helping individuals & families find realistic, enjoyable & sustainable ways to eat well without strict diets.
(289) 275-4567 View (289) 275-4567
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Although I can help with any nutrition-related condition, I specialize in obesity management and eating disorders; gut problems (including Crohn's, colitis, celiac, diverticular disease and IBS); and pediatric feeding (including nutrition during pregnancy, introducing solids, picky eating, allergies and growth concerns).
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
Although I can help with any nutrition-related condition, I specialize in obesity management and eating disorders; gut problems (including Crohn's, colitis, celiac, diverticular disease and IBS); and pediatric feeding (including nutrition during pregnancy, introducing solids, picky eating, allergies and growth concerns).
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(289) 204-0170 View (289) 204-0170
Photo of Vanessa Hurley, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Vanessa Hurley
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
I am accepting NEW patients for phone & video sessions for people of all ages 0+. I have 20+ years of experience providing evidence-based food & nutrition advice as well as compassionate care to infants, kids, teens, adults & seniors. I will work with you to create the best possible plan to meet your food & nutrition goals. Healthy eating is not just what you eat, but also why & how you eat. I can also work with you on ensuring you develop & maintain a heathy relationship with food, while integrating intuitive eating principles & mindful eating strategies. Let’s work together to make positive & lasting changes to your health.
(365) 544-5153 View (365) 544-5153
Photo of Jessica Wong, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MAN, RD
Jessica Wong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MAN, RD
Online Only
I am a passionate health advocate with experience counselling clients in all ages and backgrounds. I work clinically and privately as a Registered Dietitian in the GTA and in Peterborough, ON. I am especially passionate about culturally appropriate care and helping clients find nutrition solutions that works best with their own individual and family lifestyle no matter what budget, work style and time constraints there might be. I am equipped to support clients experiencing health, digestive or chronic disease management challenges.
I am a passionate health advocate with experience counselling clients in all ages and backgrounds. I work clinically and privately as a Registered Dietitian in the GTA and in Peterborough, ON. I am especially passionate about culturally appropriate care and helping clients find nutrition solutions that works best with their own individual and family lifestyle no matter what budget, work style and time constraints there might be. I am equipped to support clients experiencing health, digestive or chronic disease management challenges.
(289) 902-3527 View (289) 902-3527
Photo of Anna Prestia, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Anna Prestia
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
1 Endorsed
Mississauga, ON L5J
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
New patients welcome! I am a RD with over 20 years of experience providing expert nutrition care across all stages of life. have expertise spanning infant and pediatric nutrition, oncology, prenatal/post-natal nutrition, disordered eating, cardiac health, diabetes, weight management, weight concerns, cancer, GI conditions, allergies, anti-inflammatory nutrition & tube feedings. I have worked extensively in acute care hospital settings, as well as in outpatient clinics and private practice. I offer practical guidance that builds confidence, supports symptoms, and strengthens a positive relationship with food.
(548) 708-0455 View (548) 708-0455
Photo of Catherine Lin Rd, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Catherine Lin Rd
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
5 Endorsed
Markham, ON L3R
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
Accepting NEW patients-immediate openings! Are you tired of yo-yo dieting and constantly thinking about food? Do you want to ditch dieting for good and gain food freedom? Are you confused about what to eat? Do you want to break the cycle of overeating? We can work together to achieve your best weight and health using science based treatment and tools. I provide nutrition counselling in obesity management, diabetes management, digestive health, and chronic disease prevention and management. I have years of experience with helping individuals with making sustainable lifestyle changes.
(289) 312-4847 View (289) 312-4847
Photo of Theresa Silverthorn - CBT Wellness & Virtual Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
CBT Wellness & Virtual Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
4 Endorsed
Brampton, ON L6Y
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
Accepting NEW patients. We have immediate availability for daytime & evening appointments. Whether you’re a new mom navigating the world in an unfamiliar body, a parent looking to support their child with healthy habits, an adolescent looking to expand or improve their diet, or an adult ready to break free of the constant yo-yo dieting-I can help. It’s never too early or too late to focus on your relationship with food to create sustainable habits that support your entire well-being – physical, mental and emotional health. I have extensive experience treating binge-eating disorder, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa & ARFID.
(289) 723-1959 View (289) 723-1959
Colitis Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is colitis?
Colitis is a general term that refers to inflammation within the intestine. Symptoms of colitis include abdominal pain, bloating, mucus or blood in the stool, and diarrhea. In some cases, colitis may be caused by transitory viruses and infections, as well as food poisoning; however, some causes of colitis are more chronic. A common type of chronic colitis is ulcerative colitis, which is an irritable bowel disease (IBD) caused by inflammation and ulcers within the large intestine specifically. Crohn's disease is another form of IBD known to cause chronic colitis but is caused by inflammation throughout the intestine and is not confined to the large intestine.

What foods cause colitis?
There is little evidence to suggest that specific foods directly cause colitis. The causes of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, are not well-understood and are typically attributed to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. However, certain foods can exacerbate symptoms in individuals with colitis. Dairy products, high-fat foods, processed meats, and high-fiber foods can often worsen symptoms, as can beverages containing alcohol or sugar alcohol.

What diet is best for colitis?
There is no single diet that is best for colitis, so individuals with chronic colitis conditions often learn over time what specific foods exacerbate their specific symptoms and avoid those foods going forward. Because some foods that are known to exacerbate symptoms of colitis are often part of a well-balanced diet—such as vegetables and fruits high in fiber—individuals with colitis can be at an increased risk of nutrient deficiencies, such as iron, calcium, and vitamin A deficiency. Ensuring one is getting enough of these nutrients, either through alternative foods that do not cause flare-ups or through supplementation, can thus be essential for patients with colitis.

Can seeing a dietitian help with colitis?
Seeing a dietitian can be highly beneficial for individuals with colitis for several reasons. Many people with colitis experience periods of symptom flare-ups followed by periods of relative relief, so dietitians can be helpful in assisting clients in identifying food or nutrition-related factors that may contribute to or worsen these flare-ups. Moreover, chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) conditions can lead to weight loss and malnutrition. If a client is struggling to maintain their weight due to colitis, a dietitian can provide personalized nutrition advice and may be able to collaborate with other healthcare providers to ensure the client meets their nutritional needs while also minimizing their IBD symptoms.