How the gut microbiota can relate to preventing and treating gut-related symptoms and what is the role that dietitians can play as gut health ambassadors were some of the key subjects discussed in the scientific session on gut health during the 11th conference of EFAD, which was held in Rotterdam (the Netherlands) on September 29. EFAD is a federation of local dietetic associations from across Europe, which aims to promote the dietetic profession and support scientific and professional development for its 30+ member organizations.

The session, called ‘Dietitians as Change Makers to Manage Gut Health’, which was addressed to dietitians specializing in nutrition and gastrointestinal disorders, featured Christina Katsagoni of the European Specialist Dietetic Network (ESDN) on gastroenterology as chair, and Maria Gustafsson and Prof. Kevin Whelan as speakers.

Maria Gustafsson, Registered Dietitian (Sweden and U.S.), gave a critical overview of the importance of having a diverse diet in order to prevent gut microbiota dysbiosis. Meanwhile, Prof. Kevin Whelan, Head of Department of Nutritional Sciences, King’s College London (United Kingdom), summarized the current evidence for the benefits of probiotics, prebiotics and low FODMAP diet in Irritable Bowel Syndrom (IBS).

The official report of this specific session is now available!