Gastrointestinal (GI) Nutritionists and Dietitians in 12534

Photo of Debra Brown-Grossman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Debra Brown-Grossman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Hudson, NY 12534
For Adults, I specialize in Diabetes including Pre-Diabetes, PCOS, Fatty Liver and Digestive Issues and have had many years experience leading adult weight management groups including Mindful Eating.
Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN)and Pediatric Nutrition Specialist with over 40 years of clinical experience. I have treated people of all ages and backgrounds basing my advice on state of the art, well-established nutrition care guidelines supported by most major medical organizations. Due to my extensive background in clinical and outpatient pediatric nutrition, I am excited to bring parent feeding counseling and an individualized child non-diet approach to the Capital District of New York.
For Adults, I specialize in Diabetes including Pre-Diabetes, PCOS, Fatty Liver and Digestive Issues and have had many years experience leading adult weight management groups including Mindful Eating.
Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RDN)and Pediatric Nutrition Specialist with over 40 years of clinical experience. I have treated people of all ages and backgrounds basing my advice on state of the art, well-established nutrition care guidelines supported by most major medical organizations. Due to my extensive background in clinical and outpatient pediatric nutrition, I am excited to bring parent feeding counseling and an individualized child non-diet approach to the Capital District of New York.
(518) 241-4503 View (518) 241-4503

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Vicki Koenig, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Vicki Koenig
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Serves Area
Particular areas of expertise include Diabetes wellness and prevention; gut health/ digestive issues, lipids/heart health, guided use of supplements and improved weight.
Creating Wellness for Individuals and Businesses. As a Masters level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I've maintained a private counseling practice and consulting business for over 25 years. Drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of nutrition throughout the life cycle, I have a broad perspective when speaking, counseling, consulting and writing; I truly specialize in Nutrition for Wellness. As a Consulting Nutritionist, I keep up-to-date on all areas of health: from Head Start to Assisted Living with Weight Loss and Wellness in between. I'm now accepting more insurances. Please inquire!
Particular areas of expertise include Diabetes wellness and prevention; gut health/ digestive issues, lipids/heart health, guided use of supplements and improved weight.
Creating Wellness for Individuals and Businesses. As a Masters level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, I've maintained a private counseling practice and consulting business for over 25 years. Drawing on my comprehensive knowledge of nutrition throughout the life cycle, I have a broad perspective when speaking, counseling, consulting and writing; I truly specialize in Nutrition for Wellness. As a Consulting Nutritionist, I keep up-to-date on all areas of health: from Head Start to Assisted Living with Weight Loss and Wellness in between. I'm now accepting more insurances. Please inquire!
(845) 202-0972 View (845) 202-0972
Photo of Mary Ann Stockhauser - Mary's Nutritional Wellness PLLC , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Mary's Nutritional Wellness PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I specialize in gut health and can help reset your GI tract to reduce bloating, heartburn, intolerances, and bathroom troubles while increasing your digestibility, energy and concentration.
Welcome to Mary’s Nutritional Wellness PLLC! As a registered dietitian, I am here to provide you with the tools, resources & knowledge to give you long term success with food, nutrition & your body! Working with me is different than any diet you’ve ever tried. Incorporating health at every size (HAES) helps me meet you wherever you are and provide you with simple, realistic goals for you to feel your best. I work with a diverse population and practice inclusivity.
I specialize in gut health and can help reset your GI tract to reduce bloating, heartburn, intolerances, and bathroom troubles while increasing your digestibility, energy and concentration.
Welcome to Mary’s Nutritional Wellness PLLC! As a registered dietitian, I am here to provide you with the tools, resources & knowledge to give you long term success with food, nutrition & your body! Working with me is different than any diet you’ve ever tried. Incorporating health at every size (HAES) helps me meet you wherever you are and provide you with simple, realistic goals for you to feel your best. I work with a diverse population and practice inclusivity.
(315) 847-4699 View (315) 847-4699
Photo of Courtney Lee, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
Courtney Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are digestive issues controlling your life?
I specialize in creating completely tailored anti-inflammatory diets for my clients using the MRT Test and LEAP Diet Protocol. I also enjoy working with individuals overcoming eating disorders and PCOS. My practice is virtual so appointments and access to me are super convenient. I am licensed to see clients in SC, MS, TN, GA, AL, NY.
Are digestive issues controlling your life?
I specialize in creating completely tailored anti-inflammatory diets for my clients using the MRT Test and LEAP Diet Protocol. I also enjoy working with individuals overcoming eating disorders and PCOS. My practice is virtual so appointments and access to me are super convenient. I am licensed to see clients in SC, MS, TN, GA, AL, NY.
(864) 393-6777 View (864) 393-6777
Photo of Alex Nicolette, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Alex Nicolette
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Serves Area
Are you struggling to have a healthy relationship with food? Do you have a medical condition that stops you from enjoying your eating? Or maybe you want to be more intuitive with the way you eat and your food choices? I provide realistic and sustainable approaches to health, medical nutrition therapy, and lifestyle change. In my individualized style, I utilize a combination of intuitive eating approaches, medical nutrition therapy, meal planning, food tracking, and small goal setting to help my clients succeed.
Are you struggling to have a healthy relationship with food? Do you have a medical condition that stops you from enjoying your eating? Or maybe you want to be more intuitive with the way you eat and your food choices? I provide realistic and sustainable approaches to health, medical nutrition therapy, and lifestyle change. In my individualized style, I utilize a combination of intuitive eating approaches, medical nutrition therapy, meal planning, food tracking, and small goal setting to help my clients succeed.
(315) 870-1079 View (315) 870-1079
Photo of Jennifer Bannigan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
Jennifer Bannigan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Slingerlands, NY 12159
Have you been experiencing unexplained food sensitivities, told you have IBS without guidance on what that means? Has your practitioner suggested you should start a gluten free diet to reduce inflammation? Maybe you feel starting a vegetarian or vegan diet is the best to start feeling better? Trained on the use of a low FODMAP diet for IBS by Monash University and a Certified Leap Therapist, I can help you find answers and the best way to maintain a healthy diet. Your don't have to struggle alone!
Have you been experiencing unexplained food sensitivities, told you have IBS without guidance on what that means? Has your practitioner suggested you should start a gluten free diet to reduce inflammation? Maybe you feel starting a vegetarian or vegan diet is the best to start feeling better? Trained on the use of a low FODMAP diet for IBS by Monash University and a Certified Leap Therapist, I can help you find answers and the best way to maintain a healthy diet. Your don't have to struggle alone!
(518) 331-1929 View (518) 331-1929
Photo of Dr. Kim Ross, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
Dr. Kim Ross
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, LDN
Serves Area
If you are 1) Missing out on fully enjoying your life because of your health or symptoms 2) Confused by all the "nutrition noise" circulating on social media  3) Looking for natural solutions for your health concerns 4) Ready to say goodbye to PMS or menopausal symptoms 5) Looking to manage anxiety, depression, or sleep naturally 6) Seeking expert care from a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and/or Certified Nutrition Specialist... I invite you to connect with me. : )
If you are 1) Missing out on fully enjoying your life because of your health or symptoms 2) Confused by all the "nutrition noise" circulating on social media  3) Looking for natural solutions for your health concerns 4) Ready to say goodbye to PMS or menopausal symptoms 5) Looking to manage anxiety, depression, or sleep naturally 6) Seeking expert care from a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist and/or Certified Nutrition Specialist... I invite you to connect with me. : )
(941) 770-3683 View (941) 770-3683
Photo of Kate Natoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Kate Natoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Delmar, NY 12054
I'm Kate Natoli, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal health, and pediatric nutrition. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in providing tailored solutions for individuals and families looking to foster a healthy relationship with food. Together, we'll explore your unique needs and challenges, adopting a weight-inclusive approach to cultivate sustainable habits that promote wellness without restriction.
I'm Kate Natoli, a registered dietitian specializing in eating disorders, autoimmune disorders, gastrointestinal health, and pediatric nutrition. With over a decade of expertise, I specialize in providing tailored solutions for individuals and families looking to foster a healthy relationship with food. Together, we'll explore your unique needs and challenges, adopting a weight-inclusive approach to cultivate sustainable habits that promote wellness without restriction.
(518) 660-8719 View (518) 660-8719
Photo of Jennie H Dore - Integrative Dietitian Nutritionist, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Integrative Dietitian Nutritionist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
Have you been on and off restrictive diets for decades of your life? Are you frustrated with your weight and confused where to start? Do you frequently skip meals and then over eat at night? Are you confused with all of the nutrition information and don't know where to start? I will help you build a personalized roadmap for your individual needs that is realistic with where you are at in life. I am all about teaching you how to include the aspects of nutrition you value in a ways that feels best for you.
Have you been on and off restrictive diets for decades of your life? Are you frustrated with your weight and confused where to start? Do you frequently skip meals and then over eat at night? Are you confused with all of the nutrition information and don't know where to start? I will help you build a personalized roadmap for your individual needs that is realistic with where you are at in life. I am all about teaching you how to include the aspects of nutrition you value in a ways that feels best for you.
(518) 412-7683 View (518) 412-7683
Photo of Emily Riddle, Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RD, CDN
Emily Riddle
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome! It can be extremely difficult to find quality nutrition guidelines to inform your own healthcare decisions. Research in nutrition continues to advance each day, and we are continuously learning more about the complex ways food interacts with human health. This can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when public messaging changes so quickly. Rapidly changing health messaging mixed with the strong and ever present diet culture we live in can make finding and applying sound nutrition practices incredibly difficult. When folks do seek out professionals to help, it can be difficult to find inclusive care.
Welcome! It can be extremely difficult to find quality nutrition guidelines to inform your own healthcare decisions. Research in nutrition continues to advance each day, and we are continuously learning more about the complex ways food interacts with human health. This can be overwhelming and confusing, especially when public messaging changes so quickly. Rapidly changing health messaging mixed with the strong and ever present diet culture we live in can make finding and applying sound nutrition practices incredibly difficult. When folks do seek out professionals to help, it can be difficult to find inclusive care.
(607) 208-9868 View (607) 208-9868

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Michael Benjamin Wald, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, Acupunc, PhD, MS, Sports
Michael Benjamin Wald
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DC, Acupunc, PhD, MS, Sports
Chappaqua, NY 10514
They may be dealing with chronic symptoms, low energy, inflammation, digestive problems, weight issues, hormonal shifts, or simply the sense that they’re not functioning at their best.
How I Can Help — Dr. Michael Wald, The Blood Detective (Condensed Version) As The Blood Detective, I help clients uncover the true causes behind their symptoms using a combination of advanced biochemical analysis and holistic healing. My specialty is identifying nutritional, metabolic, hormonal, and lifestyle imbalances that are often missed in conventional
They may be dealing with chronic symptoms, low energy, inflammation, digestive problems, weight issues, hormonal shifts, or simply the sense that they’re not functioning at their best.
How I Can Help — Dr. Michael Wald, The Blood Detective (Condensed Version) As The Blood Detective, I help clients uncover the true causes behind their symptoms using a combination of advanced biochemical analysis and holistic healing. My specialty is identifying nutritional, metabolic, hormonal, and lifestyle imbalances that are often missed in conventional
(914) 873-4416 View (914) 873-4416
Photo of Leslie Anders, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Leslie Anders
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MSc, RDN, CDN
Hartsdale, NY 10530
My practice focuses on helping patients create and sustain new eating and lifestyle behaviors that can effectively improve their medical conditions, support immunity, increase energy and well being. I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions. I provide accurate information regarding the impact of nutrition on a patient's medical condition(s). This is the cornerstone in creating permanent and effective nutrition/lifestyle changes.
My practice focuses on helping patients create and sustain new eating and lifestyle behaviors that can effectively improve their medical conditions, support immunity, increase energy and well being. I specialize in nutrition counseling for adults, adolescents and children regarding weight control, eating disorders, cholesterol abnormalities, auto-immune conditions, hypertension, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, pre/post bariatric surgery counseling, food allergies/ sensitivities, and a number of additional medical conditions. I provide accurate information regarding the impact of nutrition on a patient's medical condition(s). This is the cornerstone in creating permanent and effective nutrition/lifestyle changes.
(914) 269-8948 View (914) 269-8948
Photo of Karen Reznik Dolins, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RDN, CSSD
Karen Reznik Dolins
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RDN, CSSD
White Plains, NY 10604
I have successfully helped hundreds achieve health, weight, and athletic performance goals. I provide individual counseling to help motivate the client and take the steps necessary to achieve permanent change. When appropriate, I help redefine the individual's relationship with food. Many are confused by media representations of rapidly changing recommendations. As a nutrition educator at Columbia University, I stay abreast of the latest research and am adept at explaining advances in the field and integrating them into diet planning. I work with athletic teams ranging from high school to collegiate and professional.
I have successfully helped hundreds achieve health, weight, and athletic performance goals. I provide individual counseling to help motivate the client and take the steps necessary to achieve permanent change. When appropriate, I help redefine the individual's relationship with food. Many are confused by media representations of rapidly changing recommendations. As a nutrition educator at Columbia University, I stay abreast of the latest research and am adept at explaining advances in the field and integrating them into diet planning. I work with athletic teams ranging from high school to collegiate and professional.
(914) 618-5560 View (914) 618-5560
Photo of Angela Rein, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Angela Rein
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN-D
Rye Brook, NY 10573
I specialize in Weight Loss/Management, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Cardiovascular Disease, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Vegan/Vegetarianism/Pescatarian Diets and Gastrointestinal Disorders.
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
I specialize in Weight Loss/Management, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Cardiovascular Disease, Pre-diabetes, Diabetes, Vegan/Vegetarianism/Pescatarian Diets and Gastrointestinal Disorders.
I work with clients to develop customized, sustainable wellness plans that are realistic and easy to follow. In our first session, I take a deep dive into your personal health journey and provide a comprehensive and customized plan that addresses your specific health and lifestyle needs. Follow up sessions help support your goals, provide implemental steps in your journey and help hold you accountable. Clients enjoy knowing that they can email, call or text me anytime between office visits.
(914) 246-5732 View (914) 246-5732
Photo of Iris Improvement Epstein - Nutrition Improvement Center, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Nutrition Improvement Center
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CEDS, CAI
Pomona, NY 10970
Iris Epstein, a registered dietitian and founder of the Nutrition Improvement Center, specializing in eating disorders. With extensive experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate recovery challenges. As a Certified ARISE Interventionist, Iris provides compassionate, family-focused support. At her center, she offers personalized coaching to improve relationships with food and promote sustainable health. Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors. Iris fosters communication and collaboration within families, ensuring holistic care.
Iris Epstein, a registered dietitian and founder of the Nutrition Improvement Center, specializing in eating disorders. With extensive experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate recovery challenges. As a Certified ARISE Interventionist, Iris provides compassionate, family-focused support. At her center, she offers personalized coaching to improve relationships with food and promote sustainable health. Her approach combines evidence-based nutrition strategies with an understanding of emotional and behavioral factors. Iris fosters communication and collaboration within families, ensuring holistic care.
(845) 262-6677 View (845) 262-6677
Photo of Vivian Moran, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, MBA
Vivian Moran
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, MBA
Yonkers, NY 10701
After 30 years of gut issues and many specialists, she wrote to me after a few months of working together: “I want you to know that this Thanksgiving I am grateful for you.
Do you feel like you’re doing everything right, but your weight, energy, digestion, or blood sugar still aren’t where they should be? Many people I work with are frustrated. They’ve tried diets, seen specialists, and tried to be healthy, yet their body doesn’t respond the way it once did. Often the issue isn’t willpower. Your metabolism may simply need the right support. Together we make small, simple changes to the food & lifestyle choices you make daily—guided by science, & tailored to your body. My clients report sustainable weight loss, steadier energy, improved digestion, blood sugar balance, strong bones, & renewed confidence.
After 30 years of gut issues and many specialists, she wrote to me after a few months of working together: “I want you to know that this Thanksgiving I am grateful for you.
Do you feel like you’re doing everything right, but your weight, energy, digestion, or blood sugar still aren’t where they should be? Many people I work with are frustrated. They’ve tried diets, seen specialists, and tried to be healthy, yet their body doesn’t respond the way it once did. Often the issue isn’t willpower. Your metabolism may simply need the right support. Together we make small, simple changes to the food & lifestyle choices you make daily—guided by science, & tailored to your body. My clients report sustainable weight loss, steadier energy, improved digestion, blood sugar balance, strong bones, & renewed confidence.
(914) 506-4781 View (914) 506-4781
Photo of Andie Stone, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Andie Stone
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
White Plains, NY 10603
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
Hello there! My name is Andie and I am a registered dietitian specializing in intuitive eating, eating disorders and disordered eating, pediatric nutrition, and general nutrition and wellness. My personalized approach to nutrition focuses on meeting clients wherever they're currently at and working collaboratively towards goals- whatever those might be! I'm passionate about empowering individuals to understand their bodies' needs and develop habits that allow them to nourish themselves confidently, for life. Progress > perfection!
(914) 534-3971 View (914) 534-3971
Photo of Christine Jones-Howard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Christine Jones-Howard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you.
I treat clients with the following health challenges; IBS, SIBO, IBD, Reflux, Celiac Disease, Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart Disease, Weight Loss, Weight Gain, Weight Management, Fertility, Menopause and Sports Nutrition. I also help vegans and vegetarians create meals with the proper balance of macro and micro nutrients.
Whether you're aiming to safely use GLP-1 medications, manage gut issues, improve cholesterol or blood pressure, support women’s health from fertility through post-menopause, or lose or maintain weight, I build plans designed around you.
I treat clients with the following health challenges; IBS, SIBO, IBD, Reflux, Celiac Disease, Diabetes, Hypertension, Heart Disease, Weight Loss, Weight Gain, Weight Management, Fertility, Menopause and Sports Nutrition. I also help vegans and vegetarians create meals with the proper balance of macro and micro nutrients.
(917) 746-3851 View (917) 746-3851
Photo of Megan Fahey, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Megan Fahey
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFNCP
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Through 1:1 sessions, I create personalized plans designed for each client to reprogram food beliefs, optimize digestive function, strengthen immunity, and balance hormones.
Hello! I’m Megan Fahey, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT 200 a Registered Dietitian, Functional Medicine Nutritionist and Registered Yoga Teacher. My private practice, located between Palm Beach & NY, was founded to help women heal their relationships with food and free patterns of disordered eating. My nutrition sessions artfully blend eastern and western healing modalities. I believe that every person deserves to transform their relationship with food into the fullest expression of self-care. As a frequent traveler, avid reader, and amateur chef, I have an endless curiosity about the intersection between nature and culture.
Through 1:1 sessions, I create personalized plans designed for each client to reprogram food beliefs, optimize digestive function, strengthen immunity, and balance hormones.
Hello! I’m Megan Fahey, MS, RD, IFNCP, RYT 200 a Registered Dietitian, Functional Medicine Nutritionist and Registered Yoga Teacher. My private practice, located between Palm Beach & NY, was founded to help women heal their relationships with food and free patterns of disordered eating. My nutrition sessions artfully blend eastern and western healing modalities. I believe that every person deserves to transform their relationship with food into the fullest expression of self-care. As a frequent traveler, avid reader, and amateur chef, I have an endless curiosity about the intersection between nature and culture.
(561) 349-4674 View (561) 349-4674
Photo of Lellieth Keize, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Lellieth Keize
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
New Rochelle, NY 10801
Struggling with diabetes, weight, or digestive issues?
Here’s a polished version under 360 characters: I provide culturally competent, one‑on‑one coaching with personalized nutrition and exercise plans to help clients lower A1C, manage weight, improve digestion, and reduce medication use. I specialize in diabetes, renal, and weight management, and also offer corporate and faith‑based wellness workshops.
Struggling with diabetes, weight, or digestive issues?
Here’s a polished version under 360 characters: I provide culturally competent, one‑on‑one coaching with personalized nutrition and exercise plans to help clients lower A1C, manage weight, improve digestion, and reduce medication use. I specialize in diabetes, renal, and weight management, and also offer corporate and faith‑based wellness workshops.
(475) 258-8349 View (475) 258-8349
Gastrointestinal (GI) Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is gut health?
Gut health refers to the overall functioning and well-being of the gastrointestinal (GI) system. Key to gut health is the gut microbiome, which is the collection of healthy bacteria living in the gut. These bacteria are essential for the digestion and breakdown of food, and their health significantly impacts digestion. Poor gut health can result in symptoms such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and general abdominal discomfort, which may indicate imbalances or issues with the gut microbiome.

Can diet help with GI issues?
Diet plays a major role in gut health, and changes in diet can often reduce or eliminate some of the symptoms associated with gastrointestinal (GI) issues. Often, GI distress is due to food intolerances or sensitivities, such as gluten sensitivity or lactose intolerance. In these cases, eliminating the problematic foods from the diet can resolve the issue. GI problems can also stem from a combination of environmental or genetic factors, such as in the case of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Disruptions in the gut microbiome, such as those caused by taking antibiotics, can also lead to GI issues. In both scenarios, maintaining a balanced diet as much as possible with foods that support a healthy microbiome—such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and probiotic foods—can often significantly reduce symptoms and improve gut health.

What are the best foods for gut health?
Maintaining a balanced microbiome is essential for gut health, and this is best achieved through a varied diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and probiotic foods. Fruits and vegetables provide essential nutrients and fiber, which nourish the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Probiotic foods, which are those that contain live bacteria, are also great for gut health. Consuming probiotic foods and drinks, such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and tempeh, can help support the microbiome by contributing to the diversity of bacteria within the gut.

When should I see a dietitian for GI issues?
Many people can benefit from seeing a dietitian for GI issues. In general, most dietitians are knowledgeable about what foods support gut health and may help clients choose foods that support a healthy GI system, such as fruits and vegetables high in fiber or foods high in probiotics. Dietitians may be especially beneficial to clients with known gastrointestinal concerns, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For clients diagnosed with these or similar conditions, dietitians can help clients identify food triggers and develop a meal plan for the client that minimizes symptoms. Dietitians may also work with clients who are having gastrointestinal distress (such as bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhea, etc.) but are not aware of the cause of their symptoms. In such cases, dietitians may be able to help the client identify the cause of the GI distress and coordinate with other medical professionals to help the client better manage their symptoms.