Celebrating Dietitians Week 2019

This week, Guts UK are supporting the British Association of Dietitians to build the general public’s knowledge and awareness surrounding ‘What Dietitians Do’ and how they can help you. This year’s emphasis aims to grow public awareness and reach out to new audiences.

For those struggling with digestive conditions, mastering a diet that doesn’t worsen your symptoms/condition can take much time and effort (not to mention trial and error). In the UK, we’re entitled to request a referral to a dietitian from our GP or Gastroenterologist, although not many people are aware of this.

In those with digestive conditions, there is much confusion surrounding foods such as fibre. The general consensus requests we should eat more fibre in our diet as a population, but for those with digestive diseases – a tricky relationship can arise. Knowing which foods to eat, avoid or manipulate our intake of can be difficult and online advice can vary.

Why not request to see a dietitian?

Dietitians are experts in nutrition. They apply science and evidence to your personal circumstances to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Considering a range of factors, they’ll work with you towards helping you make the right food choices for you.

The factors they will consider include:

• Symptoms
• Conditions
• Your environment
• Taste & eating habits
• Religion & beliefs
• Ability & activity level
• Current medication
• Age & gender
• Culture
• Food & nutrients
• … and much, much more