Gastrointestinal (GI) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Dutchess County, NY

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 Angela T. Russo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
Angela T. Russo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
Serves Area
I specialize in addressing various symptoms including: nutritional deficiencies and intolerances, inflammation, fatigue, allergies, digestive issues such as gas, bloat, constipation, diabetes and sugar imbalances, high cholesterol and blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, stress, toxicity, detoxification and more.
I developed my own systematic approach to help you navigate and resolve your imbalances and dysfunction. My program takes away any guesswork or waste of time getting you to feel right again. I offer functional medicine testing, kinesiology, personalized nutrition programs, support, education. My philosophy is to treat the whole body for optimal health.
I specialize in addressing various symptoms including: nutritional deficiencies and intolerances, inflammation, fatigue, allergies, digestive issues such as gas, bloat, constipation, diabetes and sugar imbalances, high cholesterol and blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, stress, toxicity, detoxification and more.
I developed my own systematic approach to help you navigate and resolve your imbalances and dysfunction. My program takes away any guesswork or waste of time getting you to feel right again. I offer functional medicine testing, kinesiology, personalized nutrition programs, support, education. My philosophy is to treat the whole body for optimal health.
(914) 618-4764 View (914) 618-4764
Photo of Kate Natoli, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Kate Natoli
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
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 Debra Brown-Grossman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Debra Brown-Grossman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Serves Area
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

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

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 Molly Ostrander - Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Molly Ostrander | Women's Gut & Hormone Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Online Only
GI care often becomes trial and error, which makes symptoms hard to interpret without guidance.
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
GI care often becomes trial and error, which makes symptoms hard to interpret without guidance.
Are you a high-functioning woman 35+ whose digestion has gotten annoyingly unpredictable? Bloating shows up out of nowhere. IBS patterns shift. Hormonal changes make your “usual fixes” stop working. You’ve tried elimination diets and supplements that promised clarity and delivered... nothing. You want a structured, evidence-based plan to stabilize digestion, support hormone-related symptoms, and eat without constant second-guessing. I’ve lived with Crohn’s disease for more than three decades. That perspective informs a clinical approach focused on discernment and durable results, not generic advice or trend-driven protocols.
(718) 550-3694 View (718) 550-3694
Photo of Lana Zinger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Lana Zinger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, EdD, RD, CHES
Whitestone, NY 11357
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
Dr. Lana Zinger is a Professor of Nutrition, Public Health and Health Coaching. She is a well known author of many textbooks and peer reviewed research articles as well as a national speaker on health and nutrition. She holds a B.S. in Nutrition from NYU, a M.S in Nutrition and Physiology from Columbia University and a Doctorate in Health and Behavior Studies from Columbia University. She is a Registered Dietitian with many years of clinical experience including obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, eating disorders. She is a Certified LEAP therapist to TEST and treat food intolerances.
(646) 362-7135 View (646) 362-7135
Photo of Maria Dello - Dellonutritionals-MariaDello, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Dellonutritionals-MariaDello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN
Online Only
Maria Dello, Expert in her field & member of NANP owner of Dellonutritionals, located at 75 Plandome Road in Manhasset, NY. Ms. Dello was most recently seen on NBC Channel 4 News and frequently appears on television nutrition segments. She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition. Ms. Dello is dedicated to her passionate goal of teaching, guiding, and educating every individual who walks in her door or visits her website about the benefits of a salubrious lifestyle and diet and has been working in the practice for 20 years now. Maria Dello.
Maria Dello, Expert in her field & member of NANP owner of Dellonutritionals, located at 75 Plandome Road in Manhasset, NY. Ms. Dello was most recently seen on NBC Channel 4 News and frequently appears on television nutrition segments. She also previously co-hosted WOR 710AM Radio's, "The Heart Show," where she lectured about weight loss, diabetes, and family nutrition. Ms. Dello is dedicated to her passionate goal of teaching, guiding, and educating every individual who walks in her door or visits her website about the benefits of a salubrious lifestyle and diet and has been working in the practice for 20 years now. Maria Dello.
(516) 973-2985 View (516) 973-2985
Photo of Jessica Jaeger, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Jessica Jaeger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you ready to find joy in food again? Jessica helps clients struggling with food, exercise, and weight. If food preoccupies your thoughts, she can help. Jessica combines her expertise in disordered eating research with practical, real-life experience to guide her clients toward recovery.
Are you ready to find joy in food again? Jessica helps clients struggling with food, exercise, and weight. If food preoccupies your thoughts, she can help. Jessica combines her expertise in disordered eating research with practical, real-life experience to guide her clients toward recovery.
(516) 703-4921 View (516) 703-4921
Photo of Marina Bedrossian, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLT, FMN
Marina Bedrossian
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CDN, CLT, FMN
Online Only
If you're exhausted from trying every diet, supplement, and protocol without lasting relief - and you're ready to finally understand what your body is trying to tell you - you've found the right place.
If you're exhausted from trying every diet, supplement, and protocol without lasting relief - and you're ready to finally understand what your body is trying to tell you - you've found the right place.
(631) 816-2287 View (631) 816-2287
Photo of Jackie Silver, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Jackie Silver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RD
Online Only
We can focus on areas like meal prep and planning for executive dysfunction or food aversions, managing stress or binge eating, digestive health (constipation, IBS), low appetite, picky eating and diet expansion, ARFID, malnutrition, and mindful eating skills (like listening to hunger/fullness cues and more).
Hi, I’m Jackie! I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities. My passion lies in creating personalized nutrition strategies that align with your strengths and abilities. With a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach, I’ve supported clients of all ages and ability levels reach their health and nutrition goals. I’d love to support you on your journey!
We can focus on areas like meal prep and planning for executive dysfunction or food aversions, managing stress or binge eating, digestive health (constipation, IBS), low appetite, picky eating and diet expansion, ARFID, malnutrition, and mindful eating skills (like listening to hunger/fullness cues and more).
Hi, I’m Jackie! I work one-on-one with clients through my virtual private practice, specializing in neurodivergent children, teens, and adults, including those with autism, ADHD, and intellectual or developmental disabilities. My passion lies in creating personalized nutrition strategies that align with your strengths and abilities. With a weight-inclusive, neuro-affirming approach, I’ve supported clients of all ages and ability levels reach their health and nutrition goals. I’d love to support you on your journey!
(646) 679-2887 View (646) 679-2887
Photo of Dr. Danielle Heard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
Dr. Danielle Heard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LN, CKNS
New York, NY 10018
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
Dr. Heard is a Licensed and Board Certified Doctor of Clinical & Functional Nutrition, and Certified Nutrition Specialist. She coaches women who want to improve their health and wellness. Dr. Heard has many years of experience working with people who have a wide range of health conditions. She primarily works with women ages 18+.
(212) 535-3160 View (212) 535-3160
Photo of Nicole Holness, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
Nicole Holness
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN, IBCLC
New York, NY 10018
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
PCOS l Endometriosis l Fertility l Pregnancy l Postpartum l Women's Health: I’m passionate about helping women reclaim their health. I’ve helped hundreds of women manage their PCOS, fertility, pregnancy, and find relief from endometriosis. With over a decade's experience in top NYC hospitals like NYU Langone and Mount Sinai, I bring a blend of clinical expertise and compassionate care to women’s health. Beyond my clinical knowledge, I have a background in culinary arts—having earned a culinary degree and cooked in Michelin-star restaurants. Food is medicine, yet should be a joy, and I bring these experiences into my practice.
(929) 264-5030 View (929) 264-5030
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 Jacqueline Iannone - The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Miller Place, NY 11764
With backgrounds in both hospital and private practice, our dietitians are experienced in conditions ranging from weight management to diabetes, thyroid, cardiac health, menopause, GI concerns, pediatrics, and more.
Struggling with your health or feeling stuck? Most of our patients pay nothing out of pocket—insurance often covers visits in full with no copay. Maybe you’ve tried countless diets, or maybe your goal isn’t even weight loss—you just want to better manage diabetes, support heart health, ease digestion, or feel more energized. At The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, our team of award winning Registered Dietitian Nutritionists takes a different approach. We don’t do fad diets or one-size-fits-all plans. Instead, we offer evidence-based, personalized care that works with your lifestyle and goals.
With backgrounds in both hospital and private practice, our dietitians are experienced in conditions ranging from weight management to diabetes, thyroid, cardiac health, menopause, GI concerns, pediatrics, and more.
Struggling with your health or feeling stuck? Most of our patients pay nothing out of pocket—insurance often covers visits in full with no copay. Maybe you’ve tried countless diets, or maybe your goal isn’t even weight loss—you just want to better manage diabetes, support heart health, ease digestion, or feel more energized. At The Rite Bite Nutrition Counseling, our team of award winning Registered Dietitian Nutritionists takes a different approach. We don’t do fad diets or one-size-fits-all plans. Instead, we offer evidence-based, personalized care that works with your lifestyle and goals.
(631) 869-4069 View (631) 869-4069
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 Jeanette Giacinto, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Jeanette Giacinto
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms?
Our virtual 1:1 meetings are all about YOU. You'll have access to my online courses all about nutrition, wellness, gut health, and hormone health, a recipe library of over 200 recipes, and detailed food journal review. Unlike most practitioners, you have access to me in between sessions, so you don't have to wait 2 weeks to have your questions answered.
Are you struggling with weight management, hormone balance, or uncomfortable gastrointestinal symptoms?
Our virtual 1:1 meetings are all about YOU. You'll have access to my online courses all about nutrition, wellness, gut health, and hormone health, a recipe library of over 200 recipes, and detailed food journal review. Unlike most practitioners, you have access to me in between sessions, so you don't have to wait 2 weeks to have your questions answered.
(516) 774-1199 View (516) 774-1199
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 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 Rebecca Tolan Cruse, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Rebecca Tolan Cruse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Massapequa, NY 11758
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
Rebecca is a Registered Dietitian with a passion for helping others develop a deeper, realistic understanding of nutrition concepts. Rebecca’s counseling style is compassionate and exploratory. She feels strongly there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition, and finds most success through a collaborative approach. Rebecca practices from a weight-neutral and functional lens, always searching for the root causes of her patient’s symptoms.
(914) 825-6699 View (914) 825-6699
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.