Dietitian for Crohns?

[mikenova]

I was curious about how many have been or are currently seeing a dietitian for help in managing Crohns. I was just diagnosed and am still having a really hard time absorbing foods and running to the bathroom, so I asked my Gastroenterologist and he said to see a dietitian. I understand a Dietitian is supposed to be better than a Nutritionist because a nutritionist is no licensed or registered and didn't have to attend college so I prefer to go the dietitian route.

I know certain foods I can't handle like greasy foods or spicy foods and things with a large amount of dairy in them. I also can't tolerate soda or coffee, but I'm not sure if this is normal for Crohns. I am hoping a dietitian can help me get the correct amount of nutrients in my body and keep me from being so weak.

Does anyone have any advice on this subject?

 

[Kev]

I consulted both registered dieticians and a nutrition counselour at the hospital. I was very fortunate in that the nutritionist specialized in IBD. As for hierarchy, that is likely different country to country, possibly state to state. all of the people that I worked with were directly associated with the hospital... the dieticians visited in the patients rooms with the patients, but the nutrition counselors worked out of specific offices, where they ran clinics for people with IBD, diabetes, etc.. Everyone I encountered was extremely qualified, trained, and showed considerable expertise in their field/specialities. My nutritionist was prepared for our sessions, even to the point of showing me grocery items, and teaching me to read labels for nutritional value, what to watch for and avoid, etc. Now, for me, there was no cost/fees for these services (subsidized health care in Canada). Depending on where you reside, your health coverage, that may be a different situation. you may be able to acquire this info online, or via books from various crohn related bookstores, etc.. Weigh your options, but it is something that I consider worth pursuing. Treating your GI tract with respect HAS to prolong its' health, minimize the strain you put on your system overall.