Our team of dietitians is headed by Dr Jaci Barrett, Accredited Practising Dietitian and one of the leading researchers with Monash University, Box Hill Hospital; the founders of the low FODMAP diet. All of our dietitians have significant clinical experience working with people with gastrointestinal disorders. In addition, our association with Monash University research staff ensures that we can provide our clients with the latest evidence-based dietary strategies.
We specialise in treating gastrointestinal conditions including;
- Irritable bowel syndrome
IBS is the most common gastrointestinal condition, affecting 15-20% of the population with symptoms including abdominal pain/discomfort, wind, bloating, distension and altered bowel habits. - Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease results due to an inflammatory response to dietary gluten. Hence, a gluten free diet is the key strategy to managing this condition. - Inflammatory Bowel Disease
The two most common IBD subtypes are Crohn’s disease and Ulcerative Colitis. The severity of disease varies and dietary modification may be required at different stages
We create evidence-based dietary strategies and are experts in;
- Low FODMAP diet
FODMAPs are dietary short-chain carbohydrates. They are poorly absorbed in the small intestine. This results in fermentation of the carbohydrates by intestinal bacteria producing gas which contributes to abdominal pain, bloating and wind. In addition, FODMAPs are osmotically active, which in some people has a laxative effect contributing to diarrhoea. Interestingly, despite this effect, constipation can also be a symptom in a patient experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms with FODMAP ingestion. - Fructose malabsorption
Fructose is a monosaccharide (single sugar) that occurs naturally in foods, as well as being added as a sweetener to commercial products. Some people do not absorb the sugar efficiently and in those with a gastrointestinal disorder, such as IBS or Crohn's disease, fructose can be a trigger for symptoms. Breath testing can be undertaken to diagnose fructose malabsorption. But fructose is only one of the five FODMAP carbohydrates, so a negative breath test only rules out fructose as a potential trigger. - Gluten free diet
Gluten is the known trigger for intestinal damage and associated symptoms in coeliac disease, but can also be a trigger for IBS symptoms. Coeliac disease must be investigated prior to commencement of a gluten free diet.
- I have fructose malabsorption and I have been told the food lists have changed. How do I find out the latest information?
Many of our staff members are directly involved in the fructose malabsorption research so we can provide you with the latest information. For those who have already seen a dietitian, we offer group sessions to provide an update on the latest research advances - My breath tests for fructose and lactose malabsorption were negative. Is there anything that can be offered from a dietary point of view?
Absolutely! Breath tests are useful to assess your ability to absorb fructose and lactose, but there are several other types of dietary... Find out more - Is a dietitian consultation claimable on health insurance or through Medicare?
Yes. Most private health insurance companies reimburse a proportion of the consultation fee under Extras cover, however you... Find out more - How many appointments with the dietitian do I need in order to manage my gastrointestinal condition?
Most people require an initial consultation followed by a review approximately... Find out more - I have been diagnosed with fructose malabsorption and the advice on the internet is so confusing. What can I eat?
The diet for fructose malabsorption is still being researched and for that reason the food lists have changed over the years. Some of our dietitians are involved directly in that research... Find out more - Do I need to have breath tests in order to determine whether fructose is a trigger for my symptoms?
Not necessarily. If you have had breath tests prior to your appointment, then they will be of benefit for the consultation, but...Find out more