IBD is a term used to describe a group of conditions characterised by chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. These conditions are primarily identified as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Both Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation, leading to abdominal pain, altered bowel habits and potentially nutritional deficiencies.
It can be quite challenging for people diagnosed with IBD to maintain a balanced diet while managing their symptoms. It can be especially hard to work out whether and which foods trigger disease flares and to navigate the conflicting information about the conditions. With optimal management of IBD symptoms and a well-planned, diversified diet, individuals can reduce their risk of experiencing a disease flare and minimise the severity of their symptoms.
Evidence is emerging about dietary factors that may contribute to risk of IBD, and about the importance of diet in symptom management. Maintaining healthy weight, good nutrition and food enjoyment can be a very delicate balance for those with IBD. Our dietitians know how to support you to reach your own food and nutrition goals, while restricting your diet as little as possible.
We also help you sort the real evidence from food marketing hype. We know each individual’s journey with inflammatory bowel disease is different, so our priority is to work with you to identify your own dietary triggers, nutrition priorities and food preferences, in order to ensure the advice we give will work for you, your lifestyle and your goals.
Dr Georgina Williams has completed research plus the Nutrition and IBD for Dietitians Gut Smart program.
Dr Kerith Duncanson has conducted research about personalised care for IBD.
Both dietitians are members of Dietitian Crohn’s Colitis Australian Network. DECCAN advocates for the improvement of nutritional care of Australian patients living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Dietitians can play a central role in the management of IBD. An IBD dietitian is a dietitian who specialises in inflammatory bowel disease (and other gastrointestinal disorders). They will have a good understanding of the gastrointestinal tract as well as the features, disease course and treatments of IBD. With this knowledge, a dietitian can help tailor a diet to meet the individual needs of someone with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis.
Our dietetic consulting work with clients complements our research in gastrointestinal nutrition. Our combination of practical experience and research knowledge allows us to cut through the confusing, conflicting and overwhelming dietary advice you have been bombarded with. We focus whatever energy and time you have on your ‘best bets’ – what is most likely to work well for you, now and into the future. Even more importantly, we help you to help yourself – to good food and good nutrition. We can help take the stress and worry out of food and eating by offering a menu of options, and personally tailored, practical advice to help you take control of your health. Welcome to the ‘Help Yourself’ community!