Frequently Asked Questions
What types of patients do you see?
We use nutrition to treat those who have had an IBD diagnosis – Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, microscopic colitis (lymphocytic & collagenous), j-pouch, ileostomy and indeterminate IBD cases. We also see ages 3 and up.
I just got diagnosed and started treatment. Is this the right time for me to take a look at my diet?
Absolutely, yes! Why delay care and support when you need it?
It’s tempting to want to test out one thing at a time, but remember with IBD care – there isn’t usually one singular approach. It’s even better if you can support your medication path with a complementary nutrition approach.
Most people meet with us 1-2 years after diagnosis, once they have had a chance to really understand the value of handing over your nutrition to someone. However, we would love to work with more of those who are newly diagnosed.
The earlier you can start implementing nutrition the better! Implementing nutrition early can help reduce risk AND improve chances of remission.
How is your approach different?
Some dietitians use a one-size-fits-all approach with their patients, but that’s not the way we work. We consider your individual needs and focus on getting YOU results.
Does your team have IBD? I want to meet with someone who really understands what I’m going through.
Yes. Check out our About page! Having IBD ourselves means you don’t have to explain it all – we get it. Having licensure and nutrition training combined with our personal IBD experience allows us to step in and provide top notch guidance.
Do you see patients virtually or online?
As of March 2020, we see patients virtually through video chat or by phone. We had an office space for 5 years and found that most of our patients prefer virtual meetings, because it saves them so much time and is just as personal as face to face!
If you’ve ever visited a provider in person and not been looked in the eye or listened to, you’ll know that feeling seen and listened to is much more important than having an in-person consult.
We always aim to make you feel comfortable, heard and seen in every interaction. Also, rest assured that your privacy is our top priority. We use a HIPPA-compliant online meeting software for video sessions and chat.
My doctor told me that nutrition doesn’t matter with IBD… But I still need help! What should I do?
I get it. This has happened to me too. However, we know now more than ever this just isn’t true.
As more and more clinics get better informed on just how much nutrition can help with IBD care, we hope to see more clinics referring to IBD focused dietitians.
First off, if you are interested in learning why nutrition does matter – we have a handout for this! You can also share it with your doctor. If you are interested in this, email us at support@crohnsandcolitisdietitians.com
As you search for providers, seek those with a specialty or interest in IBD. You can even ask how they stay up to date on research. If they attend conferences like Crohn’s & Colitis Congress (by CCFA) or other IBD focused conferences or trainings – even better!
I would like to be a patient, but I just need a few sessions.
If you are interested in just a few sessions and a place to ask questions and get resources, we recommend our CCRB program! You can add on a few 1:1 sessions and get lifetime access with our care package add-on.
What’s the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian?
Many people use these terms interchangeably, but the titles mean two very different things. We are registered and licensed dietitians.
Having a license means that we can legally prescribe medical nutrition therapy for IBD. This is nutrition prescribed for the treatment of IBD. No other coach, nutritionist or medical professional can do this legally.
Registered Dietitians must have a bachelor’s degree with coursework approved by the Academy of Nutrition and the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics.
All Registered Dietitians must have a minimum of 1,200 hours of supervised experience, and they must pass a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
While there are other certifications for Nutrition, the term “Nutritionist” can be used by anyone… Even those without any formal training in the US.
Do you accept insurance?
As you probably already know, insurance isn’t up to speed with covering some of the latest testing and tools available. For many of you, insurance woes are one of the things that have led you to seek the support of a dietitian.
I am not “in network” for insurance plans, but I do offer reimbursement receipts (Superbills) when you work with me. I’ve had much better success with insurance covering things going this route than through the traditional direct route.
Take the next step.
If you’d like to learn more about how our approach can help you regain control of your digestive health, we suggest starting here…