Glad you found my blog, Wendy! Yikes..

I too had this experience with a twist. After my daughter found the FODMAP program and successfully completed the elimination diet, I wanted to meet with a dietitian to make sure she wasn’t missing any essential food group. After a lot of hoops with the insurance company they agreed. But the dietitian wasn’t very helpful. She said that the FODMAP program wasn’t recognized by their association. Then she handed me some printouts from the Internet, which we already had. It’s one of the reasons I’m so glad to have found this blog.

Ogeal…Yes. We do have a long way to go. BUT the bar is moving. We all need to speak up and be part of the solution.

Agreed, Kim! Another area where dietitians need to prove their worth to the insurance companies. I am sure dietitian save $$ overall for the insurance plan–by helping the patient manage symptoms.

Hi Wendy, Anecdotally the SCD seems to show some success particularly in those with IBD–inflammatory bowel disease, HOWEVER, I would love to see more research done on this dietary approach…there is little evidence (research based) to support its use. I think that it is a bit too restrictive overall. I have had a few clients come to my practice malnourished from trying to follow the SCD. My thought is that any diet that restricts fermentable carbs will likely reduce symptoms in those with altered gut microbes and symptoms of hyper-fermentation as seen in IBS. Some microbes are very efficient at breaking down carbs (some microbes have their own carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes). I don’t think there is one set diet approach for all—and that in time w/ more research we will be able to tailor diets more specifically related to our gut microbes. Any diet that modifies carbs in some degree–will likely reduced gas and bloating—often the most bothersome symptoms for patients. Whether you choose to reduce fermentable carbs via SCD (highly restrictive) or low FODMAP (less restrictive)…you may end up with the same symptom management. I personally prefer to make the diet less restrictive initially and modify more if the patient needs it. And lastly, sometimes the symptoms a patient experience are not related to the diet! And other treatable conditions must be explored.

You are right. We have a long way to go in the U.S.

Thanks for your thoughtful comments, Beth. Yes, a support team would be great too! I agree, we do have a long way to go–so we all need to speak up, advocate for ourselves and others and help create changes in the health care system to make the process a whole lot better for those with IBS!!