Gut Feelings - by The Crohn's & Colitis Dietitians

The Crohn's & Colitis Dietitians

Hosts Ashley Hurst and Danielle Leffler of The Crohn's and Colitis Dietitians chat about nutrition research in IBD & sprinkle in our own life experiences in being both IBD patients ourselves. 

  1. 5D AGO

    How Vitamin B12 Deficiency in IBD is Sometimes Missed

    Send us a text Are you familiar with Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms in IBD?  Those with Crohn's & Ulcerative colitis are at higher risk of being deficient in Vitamin B12 - especially those with Crohn's that have inflammation in the ileum.  If you've got Vitamin B12 deficiency you may feel tired or weak which is a classic feature of type of megaloblastic anemia. This is why it's so important to test appropriately and treat B12 deficiencies. In our practice, we like to look at beyond just standard serum B12 labs - which can sometimes not be representative of B12 status. In this video we go over more on this.  Vitamin B12 Deficiency Symptoms: -Tiredness or weakness -Pale skin -Heart palpitations -Loss of appetite -Weight loss -Infertility -Numb or tingly hands and feet, a sign of nerve problems -Problems with balance -Depression -Confusion -Dementia -Poor memory -Soreness of the mouth or tongue Vitamin B12 plays an important role in energy production and mood regulation. Sometimes people with IBD utilize more nutrients when there is inflammation and can also have a decrease in absorption of  beneficial nutrients, like B12. We cover the signs of B12 deficiency and when to test for it.   🎉 Top Rated Flare Guide + Flare  Friendly Meal Plan ⬇️ https://crohns-and-colitis-dietitians.thrivecart.com/flare-guide-insta/ 💜 Schedule a Inquiry call to Work with us ⬇️ https://p.bttr.to/2VpevRX Takeaways- - Fatigue in IBD patients can often be linked to nutrient deficiencies. - B12 absorption is affected by stomach acid and intrinsic factor.  - Vitamin B12 is crucial for energy production and mood regulation. - Symptoms of B12 deficiency include fatigue, neuropathy, and mood changes. - Folate and B12 are interconnected in their roles in the body. - Testing for B12 levels is important for those with IBD - non standard tests can be useful. Chapters- 00:00- Introduction to Vitamin B12 and IBD 02:04- Understanding B12 Deficiency and Symptoms 04:41- The Role of B12 in Energy Production 07:14- Interplay of B Vitamins and Mood 08:22- Folic Acid and B12 Deficiency 09:58- Dietary Considerations for B12 On MMA-  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/methylmalonic-acid-test https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminB12-HealthProfessional/ Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    12 min
  2. JAN 16

    A Big Reason You May be Stuck with IBD Nutrition | Malnutrition in IBD

    Send us a text Up to 70% of those with Crohn's and over half of those with UC experience malnutrition.... and did you know this can impact your response to medication also? Working with an IBD specialized dietitian can help correct malnutrition, reduce your risk of flare and give you tools for symptom relief - so that your body is in a better spot to respond to treatments. In this podcast we highlight common signs of malnutrition and steps individuals can take if they are experiencing malnutrition. Takeaways- - Malnutrition can impact medication effectiveness. - IBD patients can experience malnutrition due to various factors. - Dietitians play a crucial role in managing malnutrition. - Malnutrition is not solely defined by weight loss. - Inflammation increases caloric needs in IBD patients. - Certain medications can affect nutrient absorption. - Common signs of malnutrition include fatigue and feeling cold. - Addressing malnutrition can improve quality of life. - Dietary restrictions can lead to malnutrition over time. Chapters: 00:00- Understanding Malnutrition and Its Importance 05:54- Prevalence of Malnutrition in IBD Patients 08:12- Impact of Malnutrition on Health and Quality of Life 10:15- Steps to Address Malnutrition Get our top e-book here 👇 https://crohns-and-colitis-dietitians.thrivecart.com/flare-guide/ Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    15 min
  3. JAN 9

    How We Manage IBD Symptoms as Dietitians with IBD

    Send us a text Ever wondered what IBD dietitians (that also have IBD too) do to manage their own symptoms? Let us tell you all about it.... We chat about what we eat, how we stay hydrated, and the supplements that actually make a difference for us. We also get into the not-so-fun stuff—nausea, constipation, and fatigue—and share the simple habits that help us feel better on tough days. From soothing teas to post-meal walks, we talk through the small things that add up and make living with IBD a little more manageable. If you’re navigating similar symptoms, hopefully some of our experiences give you ideas, comfort, or just the reminder that you’re not dealing with this alone. Key Takeaways- - A quick walk after meals can help with digestion and reduce bloating. - Peppermint tea is calming and can be great for the gut. - Alginates can ease reflux and make eating more comfortable. - Staying hydrated is extra important. - Ginger and cardamom are surprisingly effective for nausea. - Soluble fiber can support more regular bowel movements. - Fatigue improves with good nutrition and solid sleep. Chapters- 00:00- Managing IBD Symptoms: Personal Strategies 07:22- Navigating Nausea and Digestive Discomfort 09:43- Tackling Fatigue: Nutrition and Lifestyle Solutions 15:47- Final Thoughts and Community Engagement Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    18 min
  4. 12/19/2025

    Ulcerative Colitis and Sleep

    Send us a text Do you have sleep disturbances with IBD? You're not alone, this is very common! This podcast discusses the various factors contributing to sleep issues, including medication effects, dietary habits, and nutritional deficiencies. We know sleep is so important and we provide coping strategies that we hope are helpful for improving sleep quality.  Takeaways: - About 70% of people with IBD have trouble with sleep. - Medications like prednisone can disrupt sleep patterns. - Stress and anxiety from chronic illness can affect sleep. - Dietary choices can significantly impact sleep quality. - Ginger tea can alleviate nausea and bloating at night. - Avoiding caffeine and spicy foods can help reduce bowel stimulation. - Walking after dinner can aid digestion and relaxation. - Blue light exposure can interfere with melatonin production. - Nutrient deficiencies, such as anemia, can lead to restless legs. - Ensuring adequate nutrient intake is crucial for sleep quality. Chapters: 00:00- Understanding IBD and Sleep Challenges 02:35- Dietary Strategies for Better Sleep 05:24- The Importance of Routine and Movement 08:27- Nutritional Deficiencies and Sleep Quality Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    12 min
  5. 12/12/2025

    What we Would Tell Our Newly Diagnosed Selves

    Send us a text In this episode, we discuss what we would tell our newly diagnosed selves about living with IBD. We emphasize the importance of seeking help early, understanding inflammation, and finding trustworthy resources. We also discuss the role of nutrition in managing IBD and the empowerment that comes from being informed and proactive in one's health journey. Takeaways- - Seek help early so that you have a supportive plan. - Understand that inflammation can exist without symptoms. - Regular monitoring of inflammation is crucial. - Low appetite and weight loss need to be assessed by your provider. - Find trustworthy resources and support systems. - Empower yourself with knowledge about your condition. - Nutrition plays a vital role in managing IBD. - You have a role in your treatment plan. You can find our Flare Guide here: 👇 https://crohns-and-colitis-dietitians.thrivecart.com/flare-guide/ Chapters: 00:00- Navigating the Journey of IBD Diagnosis 02:30- The Importance of Seeking Help Early 05:27- Finding Trustworthy Resources and Support 08:13- Understanding Inflammation and Monitoring Health 10:47- The Role of Nutrition in Managing IBD 13:53- Empowerment Through Knowledge and Resources 16:26- Creating Effective Support Materials for Patients Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    21 min
  6. 12/04/2025

    The furture of IBD medicine - Dr. Yasmin Mohseni, CAR T-cell Therapy and beyond

    Send us a text We are so excited to have Dr. Yasmin Mohseni back to to talk about the latest advances in the world of immunology! We discuss the recent Nobel Prize awarded for research on regulatory T cells (Tregs) and how they help keep inflammation and autoimmunity in check.  We talk about the complexities of autoimmune diseases, particularly Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), and why Tregs play such a big role in keeping the immune system balanced. Dr. Mohseni walks us through some of the most innovative treatments on the horizon, from cell therapies to CAR T-cell approaches, and even how AI might shape the future of medicine. We wrap things up on a hopeful note, looking ahead at where autoimmune treatments are going and why ongoing research matters more than ever. Dr.  Yasmin Mohseni, PhD is an immunologist with 6+ years of experience in the cell and gene therapy biotech space, specializing in immunotherapy for cancer and immunoregulation. Dr Mohseni earned her PhD in Immunotherapy from King’s College London, where she focused on using engineered regulatory T cells (Tregs) to promote immune tolerance in solid organ transplantation with applications to autoimmunity. She began her industry journey at Quell Therapeutics, advancing Treg-based therapies, and now works at A2 Biotherapeutics in the cancer immunotherapy space, developing therapies for solid tumors.  Find Dr Yas here: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.yas_/ Takeaways- - Tregs are crucial for suppressing inflammation in the immune system. - The Nobel Prize recognition highlights the importance of Tregs in immunology. - Autoimmunity involves a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. - Tregs can be dysfunctional in autoimmune diseases, leading to chronic inflammation. - Cell therapy, including CAR T-cells, shows promise for treating autoimmune diseases. - AI is revolutionizing target discovery in immunology and personalized medicine. - The future of autoimmune treatments is hopeful, with ongoing research and innovation. - Understanding the mechanisms of Tregs can lead to better therapeutic strategies. - The balance of immune responses is critical in managing autoimmune diseases. Chapters- 00:00- Introduction and Personal Updates 03:40- Nobel Prize in Immunology: Tregs and Their Significance 10:34- Understanding Autoimmunity and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) 16:12- The Role of Tregs in Autoimmunity 21:49- Exploring Cell Therapy and CAR T-Cell Approaches 27:26- Future of Autoimmunity Treatments and AI in Medicine 46:36- Conclusion and Future Perspectives Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    51 min
  7. 11/21/2025

    Ultramarathoning and colon cancer risk

    Send us a text We look at the emerging research linking ultramarathoning to a possible increased risk of colorectal cancer, particularly in individuals with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The discussion highlights the importance of hydration, nutrition, and recovery strategies for endurance athletes. Vitamin D and gut health also play an important role in decreasing risks.  Takeaways- - Some research suggests that Ultramarathoning may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. - Hydration and nutrition are critical for endurance athletes. - Vitamin D levels should be regularly assessed, especially in athletes. - The gut microbiome can change with extreme endurance activities. - Recovery is essential for preventing long-term damage in athletes. - Training the gut to tolerate nutrition is important for performance. - Repeated extreme endurance events can lead to gut ischemia (lack of blood flow). - Nutrient deficiencies can exacerbate health risks in athletes with IBD. - A tailored approach to nutrition is necessary for athletes with IBD. - Understanding the mechanisms behind gut health can inform better training practices. Chapters: 00:00- Introduction to Ultrarunning and Colon Cancer Risk 02:37- Exploring the Connection Between Endurance and Colorectal Cancer 05:17- The Role of Hydration and Nutrition in Endurance Sports 08:07- Nutritional Considerations for Athletes with IBD 10:48- The Importance of Vitamin D in Athletic Performance 13:38- Understanding the Mechanisms of Gut Damage in Endurance Athletes 16:23- The Impact of Recovery on Gut Health 19:05- Conclusions and Recommendations for Athletes with IBD Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    26 min
  8. 11/14/2025

    Coming to terms and acceptance with IBD & Medication

    Send us a text In this podcast we answer a question we got around fear of failure associated with taking medications.  We often talk about a multifaceted approach when treating IBD. It is also important to weight the risk of untreated inflammation against the possible risk of taking medication.  Takeaways- - Medication is a valid part of treatment, not a failure. - Diet is often overlooked in discussions about IBD. - IBD is an autoimmune disease that requires comprehensive care. - Fear of medication side effects is common but manageable. - Cultural perceptions of wellness can impact self-acceptance. - A multifaceted approach is essential for effective IBD management. - Nutrition can support and improve outcomes of medical treatment. - Mental health plays a crucial role in managing IBD. - You're not alone; many share similar struggles. Chapters- 00:00- Navigating Medication and Self-Forgiveness 02:22- The Role of Diet in IBD Management 04:56- Understanding the Fear of Medication 07:35- Cultural Influences on Health Perception 10:18- The Multifaceted Approach to IBD Treatment Follow us on instagram @crohns_and_colitis_dietitians Follow us on youtube @thecrohnscolitisdietitians We love helping provide quality content on IBD nutrition and making it more accessible to all through our podcast, instagram and youtube channel. Creating the resources we provide comes at a significant cost to us. We dream of a day where we can provide even more free education, guidance and support to those with IBD like us. We need your support to do this. You can help us by liking episodes, sharing them on your social media, subscribing to you tube and telling others about us (your doctors, friends, family, forums/reddit etc). Can you do this for us? In return, I promise to continually level up what we do here. 💜 Ashley

    16 min
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Hosts Ashley Hurst and Danielle Leffler of The Crohn's and Colitis Dietitians chat about nutrition research in IBD & sprinkle in our own life experiences in being both IBD patients ourselves. 

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