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

Photo of Erica Leon - Erica Leon Nutrition and Associates, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Erica Leon Nutrition and Associates
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
White Plains, NY 10601
If you struggle with an eating disorder, disordered eating, chronic dieting, or other health conditions, you have come to the right place. We believe that difficult relationships with food and body image are barriers to living life fully. We are passionate about helping our clients develop a positive relationship with food and body image through a weight-inclusive, individualized approach. We offer you a safe and non-judgmental space for healing,
If you struggle with an eating disorder, disordered eating, chronic dieting, or other health conditions, you have come to the right place. We believe that difficult relationships with food and body image are barriers to living life fully. We are passionate about helping our clients develop a positive relationship with food and body image through a weight-inclusive, individualized approach. We offer you a safe and non-judgmental space for healing,
(914) 455-0766 View (914) 455-0766
Photo of Lisa D Ellis, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LCSW, CEDS-C
Lisa D Ellis
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LCSW, CEDS-C
White Plains, NY 10605
Food issues and eating disorders are rarely resolved through diet support alone. Using techniques developed over 30+ years of practice, I help clients uncover the underlying triggers that lead to problematic relationships with eating. Understanding the reasons my clients use food to comfort and self-soothe is an important part of developing balanced, intuitive eating strategies that can guide them toward making the sort of choices that help them nourish themselves on all levels. My goal, then, is to help patients establish healthy ways of relating to food while improving their relationships with their own bodies.
Food issues and eating disorders are rarely resolved through diet support alone. Using techniques developed over 30+ years of practice, I help clients uncover the underlying triggers that lead to problematic relationships with eating. Understanding the reasons my clients use food to comfort and self-soothe is an important part of developing balanced, intuitive eating strategies that can guide them toward making the sort of choices that help them nourish themselves on all levels. My goal, then, is to help patients establish healthy ways of relating to food while improving their relationships with their own bodies.
(914) 288-5657 View (914) 288-5657
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 Janet Zarowitz, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Janet Zarowitz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Ossining, NY 10562
A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health.
I take all pieces of your personal puzzle to personalize nutrition to support your health + healing. I also use Nutrigenomics in my practice when patients have 23andme genetic testing. Everyone has their own unique genetic blueprint which affects how biochemical pathways function in their body. I am also a Certified LEAP Therapist for food sensitivities.
A variety of symptoms can be traced to poor gut health.
I take all pieces of your personal puzzle to personalize nutrition to support your health + healing. I also use Nutrigenomics in my practice when patients have 23andme genetic testing. Everyone has their own unique genetic blueprint which affects how biochemical pathways function in their body. I am also a Certified LEAP Therapist for food sensitivities.
(914) 595-2833 View (914) 595-2833
Photo of Angela T. Russo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
Angela T. Russo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, ACN, GAPS
White Plains, NY 10601
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 Sara Ryba Matty, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
Sara Ryba Matty
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
2)Medical Nutrition Therapy for conditions such as; diabetes, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal issues.
My ideal client is an individual that wants to partner with me to set goals and accomplish them together! Whether you want eat healthier, lose weight, tackle a medical issue or a combination of all of them, my job is to put my client at ease and guide them to success. I value the relationships and bonds that are create between me and my clients. Food is a very intimate, cultural, personal issue; and in many ways ends up encompassing almost areas of lives. I thrive off of the trust that my clients and I build together and our ultimate victories, both large and small.
2)Medical Nutrition Therapy for conditions such as; diabetes, autoimmune diseases, gastrointestinal issues.
My ideal client is an individual that wants to partner with me to set goals and accomplish them together! Whether you want eat healthier, lose weight, tackle a medical issue or a combination of all of them, my job is to put my client at ease and guide them to success. I value the relationships and bonds that are create between me and my clients. Food is a very intimate, cultural, personal issue; and in many ways ends up encompassing almost areas of lives. I thrive off of the trust that my clients and I build together and our ultimate victories, both large and small.
(516) 588-7297 View (516) 588-7297
Photo of Dakota Bennett, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Dakota Bennett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CEDS
Online Only
I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. I primarily work with young adults and adults across a range of presentations, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and chronic dieting. I have experience supporting individuals at various stages of recovery including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. These experiences have reinforced my belief in meeting individuals where they are and honoring autonomy in our work together.
I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist specializing in eating disorders and disordered eating. I primarily work with young adults and adults across a range of presentations, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, and chronic dieting. I have experience supporting individuals at various stages of recovery including residential, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient and outpatient levels of care. These experiences have reinforced my belief in meeting individuals where they are and honoring autonomy in our work together.
(475) 222-1397 View (475) 222-1397
Photo of Jennifer Clemente, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Jennifer Clemente
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, CDN, IFMCP
Online Only
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health.
As a functional medicine provider specializing in gut health, my approach offers a unique alternative by combining cutting-edge stool testing, deeper blood labs, and intestinal permeability testing with heart-centered coaching. Together, we'll find a path forward including the right diet for your unique needs plus targeted nutrients to help you heal.
My philosophy centers on one simple, powerful truth: the gut is the foundation of health.
As a functional medicine provider specializing in gut health, my approach offers a unique alternative by combining cutting-edge stool testing, deeper blood labs, and intestinal permeability testing with heart-centered coaching. Together, we'll find a path forward including the right diet for your unique needs plus targeted nutrients to help you heal.
(646) 679-7940 View (646) 679-7940
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 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 Alexandra Kaplan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CDE, CSP
Alexandra Kaplan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, CDE, CSP
Ardsley, NY 10502
She has also counseled adults with medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal conditions, allergies, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Alex focuses on the central core and most important aspects of nutrition and health. She creates an individualized plan based on your specific nutritional needs, medical and family history, weight history, preferences and lifestyle. Alex specializes in weight management and medical nutrition therapy and holds a specialty in diabetes. Through her extensive experience with the pediatric and adult population, Alex has developed her own specialized style of counseling to help each patient achieve his or her goals. She implements evidence-based research and cutting edge science, and uses techniques that help you make realistic and permanent changes and provides constant support and motivation.
She has also counseled adults with medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, gastrointestinal conditions, allergies, cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Alex focuses on the central core and most important aspects of nutrition and health. She creates an individualized plan based on your specific nutritional needs, medical and family history, weight history, preferences and lifestyle. Alex specializes in weight management and medical nutrition therapy and holds a specialty in diabetes. Through her extensive experience with the pediatric and adult population, Alex has developed her own specialized style of counseling to help each patient achieve his or her goals. She implements evidence-based research and cutting edge science, and uses techniques that help you make realistic and permanent changes and provides constant support and motivation.
(914) 908-2172 View (914) 908-2172
Photo of Ilyse Schapiro, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Ilyse Schapiro
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Harrison, NY 10528
My area of specialization include: Weight Loss/Management, Adolescent/Child Nutrition, Cardiovascular Disease, Disordered Eating, Pre-diabetes, Peri and Post-Menopause, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarianism and Gastrointestinal Disorders.
As a Credentialed Registered Dietitian, I work with clients to develop plans that are gimmick-free and easy to follow. Fad diets don't work and ultimately lead to disappointment. I take a balanced and realistic approach to help you live a healthier life. In our first session, I develop a comprehensive and customized meal plan that addresses your specific health needs, lifestyle and nutrition concerns without deprivation. Follow up sessions support your goals, and in between office visits, I am available via phone, email or text to answer questions and offer encouragement.
My area of specialization include: Weight Loss/Management, Adolescent/Child Nutrition, Cardiovascular Disease, Disordered Eating, Pre-diabetes, Peri and Post-Menopause, Pre/Postnatal Nutrition, Sports Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarianism and Gastrointestinal Disorders.
As a Credentialed Registered Dietitian, I work with clients to develop plans that are gimmick-free and easy to follow. Fad diets don't work and ultimately lead to disappointment. I take a balanced and realistic approach to help you live a healthier life. In our first session, I develop a comprehensive and customized meal plan that addresses your specific health needs, lifestyle and nutrition concerns without deprivation. Follow up sessions support your goals, and in between office visits, I am available via phone, email or text to answer questions and offer encouragement.
(646) 480-6341 View (646) 480-6341
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 Janet Levine, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Janet Levine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
With my help, you can make a lifestyle transition to live longer, be healthy, avoid chronic diseases, and eliminate the need for many medications by enjoying a plant-based diet. Healthy plant based foods can improve health issues related to heart disease (high blood pressure, high cholesterol, stroke, angina), excess weight, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, irritable bowel syndrome) and other chronic diseases.
(914) 326-3060 View (914) 326-3060
Photo of Shari Keats, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Shari Keats
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Tarrytown, NY 10591
As an RDN, my areas of expertise include celiac disease and the gluten-free diet, and other digestive disorders such as IBS and low FODMAP diet.
Through my master’s coursework at Teacher’s College, I trained at the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center. I received a Certificate of Training in Gluten Related Disorders from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and completed the Monash University ‘Low FODMAP Diet for IBS’ online training course for health professionals.
As an RDN, my areas of expertise include celiac disease and the gluten-free diet, and other digestive disorders such as IBS and low FODMAP diet.
Through my master’s coursework at Teacher’s College, I trained at the Celiac Disease Center at Columbia University Medical Center. I received a Certificate of Training in Gluten Related Disorders from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and completed the Monash University ‘Low FODMAP Diet for IBS’ online training course for health professionals.
(914) 342-7359 View (914) 342-7359
Photo of Abigail Rapaport, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Abigail Rapaport
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Online Only
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
I help simplify nutrition so you can eat smarter and optimize your body, mind and health. I am a realist and believe your food plan should fit your lifestyle - whether you’re managing an illness like epilepsy, trying to lose weight, lower your cholesterol, or just want feel and look your best. I get it; we are all constantly bombarded with different diets and workouts that guarantee weight loss or health cures. Most of the time, they lead to feeling overwhelmed, cyclical dieting and feeling deprived. With my help, you can learn how to put an end to your health struggles and start to look and feel your best starting today.
(646) 362-3908 View (646) 362-3908
Photo of Jenna Saidel Lebowich, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
Jenna Saidel Lebowich
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN
White Plains, NY 10605
I've helped clients to understand and overcome the food-related challenges of allergies and intolerances, digestive problems, autoimmune issues, diabetes, eating disorders, cancer, developmental disabilities, and cardiovascular disease, as well as those looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, develop a more positive relationship with food, or to simply fine tune their eating habits.
I have expertise in both the science of nutrition and the creative art of healthy cooking. Working in the kitchen, I connect the foods my clients buy, cook, and eat with their health and wellness goals, introducing them to new products, resources, recipes, and tools to help them eat well.
I've helped clients to understand and overcome the food-related challenges of allergies and intolerances, digestive problems, autoimmune issues, diabetes, eating disorders, cancer, developmental disabilities, and cardiovascular disease, as well as those looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight, develop a more positive relationship with food, or to simply fine tune their eating habits.
I have expertise in both the science of nutrition and the creative art of healthy cooking. Working in the kitchen, I connect the foods my clients buy, cook, and eat with their health and wellness goals, introducing them to new products, resources, recipes, and tools to help them eat well.
(917) 983-1022 View (917) 983-1022
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 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 Jill Gulotta - Jill Gulotta Nutrition, PLLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LP-MHC
Jill Gulotta Nutrition, PLLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDN, LP-MHC
1 Endorsed
White Plains, NY 10607
Jill Gulotta, MS, RDN, CDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist and Therapist with offices in New York City and Tarrytown, NY. Jill holds a holds a Masters of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University.
Jill Gulotta, MS, RDN, CDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist and Therapist with offices in New York City and Tarrytown, NY. Jill holds a holds a Masters of Science in Nutrition and Exercise Physiology from Teachers College, Columbia University and a Masters in Mental Health Counseling from Northwestern University.
(914) 240-2126 View (914) 240-2126
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.