What Your GI Doctor does not know…
May 3, 2012
Question:
Amrit asks: How is it possible that Gastroenterologists almost never associate food intake with GI health or are sensitive to these issues? I just went looking for a new Gastro, told him I was on the SCD, and he gave me these probiotics with sugar and other processed ingredients and chemicals.
Answer:
Amrit, what a great question!
Because doctors are not trained in the science of clinical nutrition, natural remedies and herbal supplements. According to recent NY Times article by Dr. Chen, most MD’s have little or no knowledge of nutrition in relation to good health.
Why is that you may ask?
Because doctors training revolves around drugs, surgeries and other medical procedures. Currently only 25% of US Medical schools offer the bare minimum of 25 hours of nutrition education to medical students. And these 25 hours are optional. Students can take it or not. So, most doctors have no clue about good nutrition, natural supplements or dietary modifications. That is why your GI gave you probiotics with sugar and chemicals.
Reference: NY Times article https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/16/health/16chen.html
Please compare that with my training as a Clinical Nutritionist and a Registered Dietitian:
- a minimum of 4-year B.S. degree in clinical nutrition and dietetics
- Advanced 2- year M.S. degree in human nutrition
- 6-months clinical full time internship in food science and human nutrition (up to 1,460 hours total)
- accreditation from a governing body (CDR) requiring additional 75 hours to maintain license and registration
- Advanced certification in First Line Therapy, which requires intensive training for healthcare practitioners on how to reverse chronic illness through lifestyle medicine and appropriate nutritional supplementation.
So, when inquiring about dietary modifications and supplements for various GI disorders look for a nutritionist or a doctor with above qualifications.
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One Response
Hello Galina,
Just wanted to share with you my recovery with you. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease about ten years ago. After 6 months of going in and out of the hospital I had 12 inches of my small and large intestine removed. I was prescribed basically ever type of drug known to treat Crohn’s. My family and I did some research and realized that this is not the only option. I have been following a strict diet (no dairy, meat and organic food) and have been off my medication for two years now and feel better than I have ever done before.
When I eliminated dairy from my diet, I saw an improvement right away. I had regular bowl movements, which was a miracle to me, about a week in. It was hard to give up dairy at first but as soon as I saw the results, I knew the sacrifice was well worth it.
I just wanted to share that with you so you can pass it on to others who may also be looking for a better solution than drugs.
Thanks,
Pat