Although the majority of my clients are working on their relationship with food, I am finding many of them complaining of gastrointestinal distress; either with or without a formal diagnosis. The complaints range from mild acid reflux to full-blown Crohn’s disease and Collitis that require multiple medications. Within my practice, I have found several dietary suggestions to be therapeutic–perhaps they are suggestions we can all incorporate into our daily lifestyle.

1. limit your intake of sugar substitutes–this can include sugar in  your coffee, diet soda, and even gum
2. switch from “dietetic” foods to “regular” foods
3. increase mindfulness around fullness–excessive fullness can contribute to more stress on our gastrointestinal tract
4. be aware of fat and lactose intake

I sometimes suggest my clients keep a “GI” Journal to help monitor their symptoms and potential food triggers. This not only helps improve their relationship with their bodies but also there relationship with food as it related to their eating disorders.