Welcome to the monthly eNewsletter of the 
International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD)

Digestive Health Monthly - October 2017
 

Autumn, and especially October, represents an exciting time for children. Kids are back in school - learning new things, engaging in sports and other recreational activities, and making new friends as well as reuniting with old ones. And, the holiday season is fast approaching, kicking off with Halloween at the end of the month.

But, all of the excitement of the season can also introduce extra challenges for a child with a functional gastrointestinal (GI) or motility disorder.  In this month's Digestive Health Monthly newsletter, we look at what parents and family members of a child with a chronic digestive condition can do to help manage symptoms and maximize the potential of the season.  
Talking About GI Disorders
Answers to common questions

Helping a child manage a chronic digestive condition can be confusing and frustrating. Children are not always able to effectively communicate what they are feeling and their needs. 

Get answers to common questions about GI disorders in children and how to handle them. 
The Teal Pumpkin Project
Look for teal pumpkins when trick-or-treating 

Trick-or-treat with a child with a food allergy, intolerance, or other digestive condition can be a challenge. Started in 2014, the Teal Pumpkin Project encourages people to offer non-food alternatives to allow all children to enjoy trick-or-treat. 

Look for teal pumpkins at participating houses and add your house to the list at the Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) website. 
Your Child's Story

For a parent or caregiver of a child with a chronic digestive condition, it may sometimes feel as if you are the only one. But, you are not alone.

Read stories from other parents and caregivers describing their experiences caring for a child with a digestive disorder and share your own. 
2018 IFFGD Research Awards
Application deadline November 17th

The deadline to apply or provide a nomination for the 2018 IFFGD Research Recognition Awards is fast approaching. 

Applications are due on November 17, 2017

Find additional details about the Awards and download the Award Guidelines and Application. Thank you for your support of IFFGD's mission and the digestive health community. 
Bellyaches in Children
How to tell if a bellyache is a medical problem

Every child complains about a bellyache now and then. Bellyaches may represent hunger, fatigue, excitement or worry, or the need to use the bathroom. So, how can a parent or caregiver tell what is wrong, and if it is dangerous?

Learn about bellyaches in children and clues that may help you decide if a bellyache is a medical problem.
Looking Ahead  to 
GERD Awareness Week

GERD Awareness Week 2017 will take place the week before Thanksgiving, November 19-25. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD, is a very common disorder, affecting up to 1 in 5 or more adults in the US. Each year during GERD Awareness Week, IFFGD encourages people who may be experiencing symptoms to talk to their doctor and contact us to receive information on the condition.

Learn how you can raise awareness for GERD. 
IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by functional gastrointestinal and motility disorders.


IFFGD | (414) 964-1799 | [email protected] | www.iffgd.org
STAY CONNECTED WITH IFFGD
                                        Like us on Facebook         Follow us on Twitter