What is it?
Bloating, wind, abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits can have many causes. It is advised to start nutrition counselling after a physician has assessed these complaints.
For people diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome, structured methods may be used in which certain food groups are reduced for a time and then reintroduced in a controlled way. This is done with a dietitian so the diet does not become unnecessarily narrow.
Which foods affect symptoms varies by person. The scope of the programme is set after the physician's assessment and your diet history are considered together.
Who is it assessed for?
- People diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome
- People with digestive complaints referred for dietary adjustment
- People with diagnosed intolerance such as lactose intolerance
- People whose diet has narrowed after cutting out many foods on their own
Step by step
- 1
Background
The physician's assessment and test results are reviewed.
- 2
Symptom diary
You may be asked to keep a meal and symptom log for a period.
- 3
Reduction phase
Certain food groups may be reduced for a limited time.
- 4
Reintroduction
Foods are added back in a controlled way and tolerance monitored.
- 5
Personal plan
A long-term plan that is as varied as possible is prepared.
Questions
Can I start without seeing a doctor?
A physician's assessment is advised first to rule out other causes of similar symptoms.
Will I never be able to eat some foods?
The aim is to find suitable amounts, not to narrow your diet. Most foods are reassessed during reintroduction.
Are food intolerance tests needed?
Your physician decides on testing. Some commercial tests have limited interpretation; this can be discussed at the session.
This page is for general information and does not replace a medical examination. Results and the suitable approach vary from person to person.