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Because Digestive Health Matters

International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders January 2025 eNewsletter

Happy New Year from all of us here at IFFGD! As we begin 2025, we remain committed to supporting those affected by gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and advancing education, research, and advocacy in the field. 


This month, we’re excited to share important updates, resources, and opportunities to get involved in the GI health community. Whether you’re seeking the latest research findings, new support initiatives, or ways to advocate for better GI healthcare, we hope this newsletter provides you with valuable insights and inspiration for the year ahead. 

Beyond Better

Have you seen our latest video series ‘Beyond Better’?


We released 4 new episodes in December covering a variety of topics relating to Constipation including:


  • What is IBS-C?
  • What are the symptoms of IBS-C?
  • What to expect at a health care visit    .
  • Treatments of IBS-C


If you missed the premiere of these videos, visit our YouTube page to view them now.

Gastroparesis Management Tips

Managing gastroparesis requires a combination of dietary adjustments, lifestyle changes, and medical support. To ease symptoms, individuals are often advised to eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day to reduce the burden on the stomach. Soft or pureed foods are easier to digest, and low-fat, low-fiber meals can help prevent discomfort. 


It’s important to stay hydrated and drink fluids between and during meals to help with digestion. It may be helpful to work with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider to tailor a management plan specific to individual needs


To learn more about managing gastroparesis, click the link below.

Gastroparesis Management Tips

Share Your Personal Story

Sharing your story with the GI community can be a powerful way to connect, raise awareness, and inspire others facing similar challenges. By opening up about your personal experience, you help break down the stigma surrounding gastrointestinal disorders and offer hope to those who may feel isolated or misunderstood. 


Your story has the potential to educate others, advocate for better treatment options, and contribute to a collective voice for improved research and health care. Every shared experience strengthens the GI community and fosters a sense of solidarity, reminding us all that no one is alone in their journey.

Share Your Personal Story

5 Minutes in GI

This month’s edition of ‘5 Minutes in GI’ is now live. We sat down with Dr. Prashant Singh to discuss the different phases of the FODMAP diet.


Click the button below to learn more.

5 Minutes in GI

Understanding the Digestive System

Your digestive system begins at the mouth and ends at the anus. This system of organs is responsible for taking the food we eat, breaking it down into forms that the body can use for nutrients, and ridding the body of the leftover waste. 


The digestive system is made up of multiple parts including the stomach, liver, pancreas, and the small and large intestines. Digestion begins in the mouth and is completed in the small intestine. Food that has been eaten has to undergo a series of chemical breakdowns to complete the process


To learn more about your digestive system, click the button below.

Understanding the Digestive System
Clinical trials and research studies help to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of diseases and advance the development of new and better treatment options. By participating in a study, you can help further the advancement of research and learn more about your condition.

Here are 3 studies currently recruiting participants:

IBS & Chronic Constipation

Measurement of GI Symptoms Across Menstrual Cycles in Premenopausal IBS and Chronic Idiopathic Constipation Participants and Healthy Controls

All GI Diseases and Disorders

Evaluation of People With Gastrointestinal Disease

IBS

Changes in Microbiota and Quality of Life in IBS

January Spotlight

Registered Dietitian Jeanne Walsh Smith

Jeanne Walsh Smith is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and owner of JWS Nutrition LLC, a virtual private practice in GI nutrition. Jeanne is very appreciative of the education, resources, and research funding IFFGD provides to both the public and clinicians and often refers clients to the website. During IFFGD's 2024 Wellness Event, Jeanne created two cooking demonstration videos for our patient community. You can find all of these cooking demonstration videos by visiting our YouTube channel.

Throughout her career, she has worked in various settings, such as in hospitals on nutrition support teams, pediatrics, home health, long term care, and as a nutrition speaker. Among the many GI conditions she treats, Jeanne has an especially strong interest in DGBI’s, gluten disorders, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, neurodivergence, and the effects of the gut microbiome on physical and mental health.

Donate
IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
IFFGD | 414-964-1799 | iffgd@iffgd.org | www.iffgd.org
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