Gastrointestinal (GI) Nutritionists and Dietitians in Tennessee

Photo of Emily Haddock, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Emily Haddock
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Nashville, TN 37206
I specialize in assisting individuals with chronic digestive issues, such as IBS, by identifying food triggers and other root causes of their symptoms.
Are you struggling with IBS related symptoms: unpredictable digestion, chronic bloating, or uncomfortable abdominal symptoms? Constantly stressed over which foods will make you feel good or which will trigger your symptoms you are left feeling depleted mentally and physically. OR are you someone who has been on and off the diet train, resulting in a poor relationship with food, self-criticism, and feeling controlled by the number on the scale, inconsistent energy levels? You feel like you have tried everything to no avail and you want to know the right foods for you. It can be so frustrating to be in this place.
I specialize in assisting individuals with chronic digestive issues, such as IBS, by identifying food triggers and other root causes of their symptoms.
Are you struggling with IBS related symptoms: unpredictable digestion, chronic bloating, or uncomfortable abdominal symptoms? Constantly stressed over which foods will make you feel good or which will trigger your symptoms you are left feeling depleted mentally and physically. OR are you someone who has been on and off the diet train, resulting in a poor relationship with food, self-criticism, and feeling controlled by the number on the scale, inconsistent energy levels? You feel like you have tried everything to no avail and you want to know the right foods for you. It can be so frustrating to be in this place.
(615) 307-4930 View (615) 307-4930
Photo of Jennifer Masters, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, IFNCP
Jennifer Masters
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CLT, IFNCP
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
Do you suffer from GI related issues such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Crohn's disease, a gluten related disorder, chronic yeast infections, food allergies or food intolerance?
My comprehensive nutritional approach will help target the root cause of your health problem. I offer personalized nutrition evaluations and plans for kids and adults of all ages. My passion is helping clients find integrative nutrition solutions to restore health.
Do you suffer from GI related issues such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), Crohn's disease, a gluten related disorder, chronic yeast infections, food allergies or food intolerance?
My comprehensive nutritional approach will help target the root cause of your health problem. I offer personalized nutrition evaluations and plans for kids and adults of all ages. My passion is helping clients find integrative nutrition solutions to restore health.
(865) 344-1597 View (865) 344-1597
Photo of Kristin Woodbury, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristin Woodbury
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition. Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
Kristin specializes in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Chron's, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition, and Diabetes.
Specialties include working with adults with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, PCOS, Digestive Conditions, IBS, Low FODMAP, Crohn's, Diabetes, and Pre/Post Natal Nutrition. Other areas of expertise include but is not limited to general healthy eating, GERD, and Heart Conditions.
(332) 249-8428 View (332) 249-8428
Photo of Karen Bishop, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Karen Bishop
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Serves Area
Functional Medicine Nutrition for weight loss, diabetes, hormone balance, PCOS, renal and digestive issues, IBS, cancer, food allergy, anxiety, depression, hypertension, heart disease, fibromyalgia, adrenal fatigue, thyroid imbalances, menopause, arthritis, chronic yeast overgrowth, autism, AD(H)D, COPD & more.
Experience expert functional medical nutritional therapy to target the metabolic roots of immune system health, chronic disease, weight loss challenges & rediscover joyful health. Receive customized menus, a step-by-step action plan for your health recreation journey. A 3-month package of 12 weekly sessions is still on special for $350, an incredible value!
Functional Medicine Nutrition for weight loss, diabetes, hormone balance, PCOS, renal and digestive issues, IBS, cancer, food allergy, anxiety, depression, hypertension, heart disease, fibromyalgia, adrenal fatigue, thyroid imbalances, menopause, arthritis, chronic yeast overgrowth, autism, AD(H)D, COPD & more.
Experience expert functional medical nutritional therapy to target the metabolic roots of immune system health, chronic disease, weight loss challenges & rediscover joyful health. Receive customized menus, a step-by-step action plan for your health recreation journey. A 3-month package of 12 weekly sessions is still on special for $350, an incredible value!
(205) 415-4486 View (205) 415-4486
Photo of Amanda Wikan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Amanda Wikan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Serves Area
I specialize in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and complex gut issues that haven't responded to standard approaches.
My clients typically come to me with some combination of bloating, cramping, urgency, constipation, or diarrhea that hasn't resolved despite consistent effort, and confusion or fear around food after years of conflicting advice. Often, they've seen gastroenterologists and multiple providers without getting a clear answer.
I specialize in Irritable Bowel Syndrome and complex gut issues that haven't responded to standard approaches.
My clients typically come to me with some combination of bloating, cramping, urgency, constipation, or diarrhea that hasn't resolved despite consistent effort, and confusion or fear around food after years of conflicting advice. Often, they've seen gastroenterologists and multiple providers without getting a clear answer.
(707) 868-5718 View (707) 868-5718
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 Christi Lee Bowling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD
Christi Lee Bowling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD
Online Only
Hello! My name is Christi Lee and I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in the Nashville, TN area. I do home visits, but also offer tele-consults. I am licensed in ALL 50 States plus DC. I am also a provider on the food intolerance test, ALCAT. I am a true believer in, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"! I take the time to learn about each and every one of my clients and their goals concerning nutrition to truly create a "Personalized Nutrition Prescription". Look forward to working with you!
Hello! My name is Christi Lee and I'm a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist in the Nashville, TN area. I do home visits, but also offer tele-consults. I am licensed in ALL 50 States plus DC. I am also a provider on the food intolerance test, ALCAT. I am a true believer in, "Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food"! I take the time to learn about each and every one of my clients and their goals concerning nutrition to truly create a "Personalized Nutrition Prescription". Look forward to working with you!
(270) 216-5681 View (270) 216-5681
Photo of Emily Murray - Murray Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Murray Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Brentwood, TN 37027
I provide the following in-person and HIPAA-compliant virtual nutrition therapy services for the following concerns: eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating, ARFID, OSFED), chronic dieting, compulsive exercise, orthorexia, gastrointestinal disorders, nutrition-related concerns (PCOS, insulin resistance, etc.) and general health and wellness.
Emily Murray, RD, LDN is extremely passionate about empowering her clients to break free from rigid rules and beliefs around food, helping them find true peace and lasting freedom. Ask yourself: Do your thoughts about food, exercise, and your body feel intrusive and overwhelming? Is your relationship with food negatively impacting your physical, mental, or emotional health? Do you have the desire to change your relationship with food and your body, but have no idea where to start? Good news: It doesn't have to be this way.
I provide the following in-person and HIPAA-compliant virtual nutrition therapy services for the following concerns: eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge-eating, ARFID, OSFED), chronic dieting, compulsive exercise, orthorexia, gastrointestinal disorders, nutrition-related concerns (PCOS, insulin resistance, etc.) and general health and wellness.
Emily Murray, RD, LDN is extremely passionate about empowering her clients to break free from rigid rules and beliefs around food, helping them find true peace and lasting freedom. Ask yourself: Do your thoughts about food, exercise, and your body feel intrusive and overwhelming? Is your relationship with food negatively impacting your physical, mental, or emotional health? Do you have the desire to change your relationship with food and your body, but have no idea where to start? Good news: It doesn't have to be this way.
(615) 551-4732 View (615) 551-4732
Photo of Chelsea Johnson - Chelsea Johnson Nutrition, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Chelsea Johnson Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Many diets have us thinking about what we need to remove from our life. My approach focuses on what you can add to your life. My goal is to provide you a sustainable, personalized roadmap to achieve your health goals. Together, we will target your unique needs by setting practical, achievable goals that empower change toward a healthier you.
Many diets have us thinking about what we need to remove from our life. My approach focuses on what you can add to your life. My goal is to provide you a sustainable, personalized roadmap to achieve your health goals. Together, we will target your unique needs by setting practical, achievable goals that empower change toward a healthier you.
(865) 413-8396 View (865) 413-8396
Photo of Hannah Kirby, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN, CEDS
Hannah Kirby
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal as a dietitian is to help you cultivate a relationship with food, movement, and body image that supports your big dreams-whether that is training to climb mountains, stepping out of a dieting cycle, or feeling more at peace with your body. Much of my experience has been focused on working with adolescents and adults through eating disorder recovery at various levels of care. As an adventure seeker, I am also passionate about offering nutrition counseling to help athletes and weekend warriors crush goals in various activities and sports. I offer virtual nutrition counseling services in Washington, Tennessee, and Connecticut.
My goal as a dietitian is to help you cultivate a relationship with food, movement, and body image that supports your big dreams-whether that is training to climb mountains, stepping out of a dieting cycle, or feeling more at peace with your body. Much of my experience has been focused on working with adolescents and adults through eating disorder recovery at various levels of care. As an adventure seeker, I am also passionate about offering nutrition counseling to help athletes and weekend warriors crush goals in various activities and sports. I offer virtual nutrition counseling services in Washington, Tennessee, and Connecticut.
(865) 737-1541 View (865) 737-1541
Photo of Melissa Giovanni, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS-C
Melissa Giovanni
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS-C
Nashville, TN 37213
Balance Nutrition Counseling is a dietetic practice located in Nashville, TN. The practice was founded by Melissa Giovanni MS, RDN, LDN, CEDRD. Melissa is a certified eating disorders licensed registered dietitian nutritionist who believes everyone deserves a healthy relationship with food. We take a non-diet, health at every size, balanced approach to nutrition and wellness. Our process is based on proven, scientific information, not the trending fads of the week. We understand that what and how you eat can be a very personal and vulnerable experience. Therefore, we tailor our support to each client’s individual needs.
Balance Nutrition Counseling is a dietetic practice located in Nashville, TN. The practice was founded by Melissa Giovanni MS, RDN, LDN, CEDRD. Melissa is a certified eating disorders licensed registered dietitian nutritionist who believes everyone deserves a healthy relationship with food. We take a non-diet, health at every size, balanced approach to nutrition and wellness. Our process is based on proven, scientific information, not the trending fads of the week. We understand that what and how you eat can be a very personal and vulnerable experience. Therefore, we tailor our support to each client’s individual needs.
(615) 965-4132 View (615) 965-4132
Photo of Cari J Riker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDCES
Cari J Riker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CDCES
Brentwood, TN 37027
She offers personalized nutrition counseling for weight loss, digestive health, blood sugar management, and GLP-1 support, with a focus on sustainable, realistic habits.
Cari offers personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling to support sustainable weight loss, digestive health, blood sugar management, GLP-1 medication support, and performance fueling. Services are available one-on-one and virtually, with a focus on practical strategies and long-term habit building.
She offers personalized nutrition counseling for weight loss, digestive health, blood sugar management, and GLP-1 support, with a focus on sustainable, realistic habits.
Cari offers personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling to support sustainable weight loss, digestive health, blood sugar management, GLP-1 medication support, and performance fueling. Services are available one-on-one and virtually, with a focus on practical strategies and long-term habit building.
(615) 258-6166 View (615) 258-6166
Photo of Payton Turner - Knoxville Dietitian Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, MBA
Knoxville Dietitian Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN, MBA
Knoxville, TN 37919
Healthy eating does not have to be complicated. Work with a nutrition professional to teach you what you body needs to reach your goals. ​Each person has their own story (medical history, lifestyle, etc.) and deserves an individualized approach based on their needs. Learn how to nourish your body to reach its full health potential.
Healthy eating does not have to be complicated. Work with a nutrition professional to teach you what you body needs to reach your goals. ​Each person has their own story (medical history, lifestyle, etc.) and deserves an individualized approach based on their needs. Learn how to nourish your body to reach its full health potential.
(865) 217-0538 View (865) 217-0538
Photo of Teran Guyton Moon, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Teran Guyton Moon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN, CEDS
Knoxville, TN 37909
Teran has been a Registered Dietitian and a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist in private practice since 1996. She specializes in a variety of counseling services for adults, adolescents and children including: eating disorders, weight and body image concerns, sports nutrition, general wellness, and nutrition therapy for a variety of nutrition-related diseases. Her desire is to offer compassion as well as experience to help individuals work towards a positive relationship with food and their bodies.
Teran has been a Registered Dietitian and a Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist in private practice since 1996. She specializes in a variety of counseling services for adults, adolescents and children including: eating disorders, weight and body image concerns, sports nutrition, general wellness, and nutrition therapy for a variety of nutrition-related diseases. Her desire is to offer compassion as well as experience to help individuals work towards a positive relationship with food and their bodies.
(865) 217-7581 View (865) 217-7581
Photo of Tiffany Pecoraro, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Tiffany Pecoraro
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
I specialize in medical nutrition therapy for eating disorders, (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID) with a focus on supporting those managing chronic health conditions and neurodivergence such as: ADHD, OCD, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Dysautonomia, endometriosis, GI disorders (IBS, gastroparesis, SIBO, etc.), and autoimmune diseases.
If you have an eating disorder and a cooccurring autoimmune disease, MCAS, endometriosis, PCOS, or live with neurodivergence such as ADHD or OCD, you might feel that no one understands how complicated this makes navigating food and your body. I want you to know that I’ve walked that path too. I had an eating disorder throughout most of my teens, and shortly after entering recovery, was diagnosed with a chronic illness. That experience decades ago reshaped how I view healing and recovery, and shapes how I support my clients today.
I specialize in medical nutrition therapy for eating disorders, (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and ARFID) with a focus on supporting those managing chronic health conditions and neurodivergence such as: ADHD, OCD, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Dysautonomia, endometriosis, GI disorders (IBS, gastroparesis, SIBO, etc.), and autoimmune diseases.
If you have an eating disorder and a cooccurring autoimmune disease, MCAS, endometriosis, PCOS, or live with neurodivergence such as ADHD or OCD, you might feel that no one understands how complicated this makes navigating food and your body. I want you to know that I’ve walked that path too. I had an eating disorder throughout most of my teens, and shortly after entering recovery, was diagnosed with a chronic illness. That experience decades ago reshaped how I view healing and recovery, and shapes how I support my clients today.
(615) 701-4984 View (615) 701-4984
Photo of Peggy Pratt - Radiant Nutrition , Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LDN, CEDRD, CLT
Radiant Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, RDN, LDN, CEDRD, CLT
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
We work with individuals and families who seek education and support related to eating disorders, disordered eating, body image and weight concerns, polycystic ovarian syndrome, general nutrition, diabetes, digestive issues, and sports nutrition.
Dr. Peggy Pratt, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and her staff of registered dietitians have a combined 30+ years of experience helping clients recover from eating disorders/disordered eating and other nutrition-related concerns. Peggy also provides nutrition testing for food sensitivities (MRT), nutrient deficiencies, and GI/hormone imbalances.
We work with individuals and families who seek education and support related to eating disorders, disordered eating, body image and weight concerns, polycystic ovarian syndrome, general nutrition, diabetes, digestive issues, and sports nutrition.
Dr. Peggy Pratt, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, and her staff of registered dietitians have a combined 30+ years of experience helping clients recover from eating disorders/disordered eating and other nutrition-related concerns. Peggy also provides nutrition testing for food sensitivities (MRT), nutrient deficiencies, and GI/hormone imbalances.
(865) 312-7882 View (865) 312-7882
Photo of Jill Merkel, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
Jill Merkel
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, Intuitive Eating, and sports nutrition. I’ve worked in a variety of settings including collegiate athletics, professional sports, and private practice. I aim to help you find freedom from food rules and restriction and I help active individuals fuel their bodies without obsession. I believe all bodies are good and everyone deserves respect, care, and acceptance. You are the expert of you. I am here to support you and help you figure out what feels best for you, in your body.
I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in disordered eating, Intuitive Eating, and sports nutrition. I’ve worked in a variety of settings including collegiate athletics, professional sports, and private practice. I aim to help you find freedom from food rules and restriction and I help active individuals fuel their bodies without obsession. I believe all bodies are good and everyone deserves respect, care, and acceptance. You are the expert of you. I am here to support you and help you figure out what feels best for you, in your body.
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Photo of Sophia Deahl, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Sophia Deahl
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, IFMCP
Nashville, TN 37206
Are you struggling with chronic symptoms such as low energy, brain fog, hormone imbalances, inflammation, or bloating? Do you have a history of dieting and a challenging relationship with food? Imagine a life where you can break free from these symptoms and dieting once and for all, while becoming the most vibrant version of yourself. I'm Sophia, a registered dietitian with a functional medicine certification. I help my clients reclaim their health and improve their relationship with food through a root-cause approach, coaching, and plan built for their body and goals. My motto is Eat Well. Find Balance. Live Fully.
Are you struggling with chronic symptoms such as low energy, brain fog, hormone imbalances, inflammation, or bloating? Do you have a history of dieting and a challenging relationship with food? Imagine a life where you can break free from these symptoms and dieting once and for all, while becoming the most vibrant version of yourself. I'm Sophia, a registered dietitian with a functional medicine certification. I help my clients reclaim their health and improve their relationship with food through a root-cause approach, coaching, and plan built for their body and goals. My motto is Eat Well. Find Balance. Live Fully.
(615) 488-3767 View (615) 488-3767
Photo of Megan Cashdollar, Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTA
Megan Cashdollar
Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTA
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in complex, chronic health challenges and help clients address issues like autoimmune conditions, severe digestive symptoms, hormone imbalances, thyroid issues, chronic fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, joint pain, stubborn weight that won’t budge, blood sugar dysregulation and diabetes support, PMS, oxalate & histamine issues & food intolerances.
I focus on uncovering and supporting the root causes of what’s going on in the body so real, lasting healing can begin. My clients often come to me feeling frustrated, dismissed, and discouraged after trying everything without success. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is watching clients finally see the needle move with their health.
I specialize in complex, chronic health challenges and help clients address issues like autoimmune conditions, severe digestive symptoms, hormone imbalances, thyroid issues, chronic fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, depression, joint pain, stubborn weight that won’t budge, blood sugar dysregulation and diabetes support, PMS, oxalate & histamine issues & food intolerances.
I focus on uncovering and supporting the root causes of what’s going on in the body so real, lasting healing can begin. My clients often come to me feeling frustrated, dismissed, and discouraged after trying everything without success. One of the most rewarding parts of my work is watching clients finally see the needle move with their health.
(267) 710-8136 View (267) 710-8136
Photo of Danielle Crumble Smith, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
Danielle Crumble Smith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, RDN
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a diverse background but my primary areas are Women's Health (PCOS, insulin resistance, infertility, fibroids, pregnancy/postpartum, relationship w/ food), GLP-1 use, GI (IBS, SIBO, general gas, bloating, constipation/diarrhea), as well as Diabetes management (including pre-diabetes).
I am a well-rounded Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has worked in a variety of capacities over the past 10 years. These include working in private practice, clinical inpatient & outpatient, bariatric, Diabetes management, Eating Disorder recovery, integrative and functional wellness, and sports nutrition. Having lived in TN, CA, NV, Alaska, CO, and now GA, I have worked with individuals in all walks of life. I love spending time with my family, running, and doing anything outdoors, though these days, eating well gives me the energy to keep up with my twin toddlers.
I have a diverse background but my primary areas are Women's Health (PCOS, insulin resistance, infertility, fibroids, pregnancy/postpartum, relationship w/ food), GLP-1 use, GI (IBS, SIBO, general gas, bloating, constipation/diarrhea), as well as Diabetes management (including pre-diabetes).
I am a well-rounded Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who has worked in a variety of capacities over the past 10 years. These include working in private practice, clinical inpatient & outpatient, bariatric, Diabetes management, Eating Disorder recovery, integrative and functional wellness, and sports nutrition. Having lived in TN, CA, NV, Alaska, CO, and now GA, I have worked with individuals in all walks of life. I love spending time with my family, running, and doing anything outdoors, though these days, eating well gives me the energy to keep up with my twin toddlers.
(706) 903-3786 View (706) 903-3786
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.