Gut Health Defense During the Holidays – Healthcare Professionals Newsletter, December 2021

December 3, 2021
Science Based Brief

Gut Health Defense During the Holidays

Holiday Dinner

The holiday season, while full of fun and good cheer, can also serve up a bellyful of stress for those who struggle with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). In order to support patients with IBS, it’s important to arm them with mindful gut health defense strategies so they can make the most of this joyous time of year. We had the opportunity to speak with gut health dietitian & Orgain Nutrition Advisory Board Member, Colleen Webb, MS, RDN, who shared some expert tips and strategies to help affected individuals calm digestive uproars and savor the holiday season.

What is IBS?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common bowel disorder that manifests as unexplained abdominal pain or discomfort and bowel habit changes in the form of diarrhea, constipation, or alternating patterns of the two.1 Since IBS is typically managed through lifestyle modifications, practitioners can use their experience and expertise to guide affected individuals on how to recognize potential triggers and implement habits that may improve their symptoms.

IBS-Friendly Tips for Better Digestion

A Low FODMAP Diet May Help
The low FODMAP diet provides an effective approach to managing patients with functional gut symptoms and the evidence base is now sufficiently strong to recommend its widespread application.2 FODMAPs are a group of small chain carbohydrates that, for people with IBS, are not properly absorbed in the small intestine. FODMAPs are abundant in the diet and can be found in everyday foods, but since they can be difficult to digest, it may be best to avoid common high FODMAP foods to avoid GI upset. A few high FODMAP foods that may be common during the holidays include things like: artichokes, asparagus, raw beets, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, peas, apples, dried fruit, pears, some beans, soft cheeses, and ingredients like onion, garlic, and sundried tomatoes.3 While many of these high FODMAP foods are diet staples, there are still plenty of healthy, convenient, and delicious low FODMAP foods to enjoy including eggs, meat, grains (e.g. rice, quinoa), vegetables (e.g. eggplant, tomatoes, cucumbers) and fruits (e.g. grapes, oranges, strawberries).

Incorporate Fiber-Rich Foods in Holiday Meals
Adequate dietary fiber intake is associated with better digestive health and reduced risk for many medical conditions such as heart disease, yet most Americans don’t eat enough of this nutrient throughout the year, let alone during the holidays. Gut health dietitian, Colleen Webb, MS, RDN, emphasizes the importance of consuming adequate amounts of dietary fiber daily, which is especially crucial for IBS patients. According to Webb, “Dietary fiber helps keep us full, takes the place of unhealthy foods, manages blood sugars, lowers cholesterol, promotes bowel regularity, helps with weight loss and feeds our gut microbiota. So, it’s especially important to focus on consuming fiber around the holidays when we are more likely to indulge.” Here are some of Webb’s favorite ways to sneak more fiber in during the holidays:

  • Instead of chips and dip, opt for crunchy, fresh vegetables and dip
  • Choose a dip made of plants, such as hummus or guacamole!
  • Add shelled edamame or roasted chickpeas to festive salads
  • Puree red lentils into favorite holiday soups to add fiber and protein without changing the taste
  • Snack on spiced nuts
  • Kick off the day with holiday-themed oatmeal, such as cranberry, pumpkin or gingerbread
  • Top soups and salads with roasted and/or spiced nuts and seeds
  • Follow the 1-2-3 rule: Eat at least one vegetable with breakfast, two at lunch and three at dinner

Daily Movement & Exercise
Exercise positively impacts our mental and physical health—which can, in turn, support digestive health. Research suggests that incorporating low-impact movement has positive long-term effects on patients who suffer with IBS.4,5 In 2018, a systematic review found that low-to-moderate intensity activities such as walking, hiking, and yoga can help relieve symptoms.6 Exercise also helps people manage stress, another feeling that can also be heightened during the holidays. Considering the undeniable and science-support gut-brain connection, including that specifically related to IBS, keeping stress levels under control can in turn help to prevent or ease symptoms of IBS. Something as simple as walking can be a time to turn on a podcast and savor some alone time, or a time to unplug and enjoy conversations with friends and family.

Tips for Healthcare Professionals to Utilize in Patient Counseling
Eating with IBS can be challenging all year, but Webb notes that eating during the holidays can be exceptionally tough since many favorite dishes are full of sugar, fat, dairy, and other gut irritants leading to GI symptoms, such as abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, indigestion, and loose stool. Plus, we tend to eat a lot more around the holidays. “Large meals and fatty foods, in particular, can trigger the gastrocolic reflex, leading to an urge to use the bathroom ASAP.” Fortunately, healthcare providers can encourage simple behavioral modifications to help patients limit or avoid these uncomfortable symptoms and meal interruptions. Webb recommends the following: 

  • Eat slower, and chew food well.  If your patients are in a rush and can’t focus on eating mindfully, they might fare better with soft or blended foods, like homemade smoothies, vegetable soups or Orgain Organic Nutritional Shakes.
  • Eat smaller portions.
  • Sit up straight while eating.
  • Wait at least 3 hours after eating before lying down. That’s roughly how long it takes for a healthy stomach to empty a normal-sized meal.
  • Describe how the food tastes. We’re all guilty of eating food without actually tasting it. Save splurges for truly delicious food.

When it comes to probiotics, Webb shared that “some people with IBS report a noticeable improvement in GI symptoms with a probiotic regimen. Probiotic supplements aren’t for everyone, but research and patient experience have shown that certain probiotic strains can help. The Clinical Guide to Probiotic Products is an excellent resource to help healthcare providers and patients select appropriate probiotic supplements.”

Research has also suggested a correlation between sugar intolerance and IBS, so limiting sugar may result in symptom improvement. With this in mind, Webb pointed out that aside from encouraging patients to concentrate on eating behavior (because how they eat is just as important as what they eat!), practitioners can support by showing them how to eat less sugar this holiday season. Since many holiday recipes call for more sugar than necessary, Webb suggests clients reduce the sugar content by 1/2 or 1/3 the recommended amount. Another simple food hack she calls out is using dried fruit or fruit puree in place of sugar; these healthier swaps can be used year-round to decrease refined sugar consumption.

Social gatherings with family and friends can be intimidating and challenging due to dietary restrictions, especially since, in addition to sugar, high-fat foods and alcohol may be potential triggers for IBS patients. Webb shares that a little prep and planning can go a long way. “In these situations, healthcare practitioners can suggest patients eat a snack before they go to the event, prepare one of their safe dishes (enough to serve everyone) to bring with them, avoid or limit alcohol (choose a fun, festive, low sugar mocktail instead), steer clear of greasy foods and rich sauces, let the host know ahead of time they have food intolerances and plan for handling questions regarding why they’re not eating some foods.”

Healthy and Happy Holidays
Experiencing IBS is a challenge, but luckily there are many lifestyle modifications individuals can make to ensure they’re able to enjoy every moment, regardless of the season. As practitioners, it’s important to arm our clients with strategies they can use to navigate all the things that come with the holiday season, hectic schedules, parties, less sleep, and food situations that may be different from their normal routines. Good sleep, movement, keeping a consistent and nutritious food pattern, and being mindful of when to “splurge,” are simple steps that can make a big impact on keeping IBS symptoms under control during the holidays – and year-round. Also, when unable to tolerate solid foods during periods of uncomfortable bowel changes, Orgain products, such as Orgain All-in-One Nutritional Shakes, available in grass-fed dairy and plant-based, offer IBS patients an easy-to-digest, high protein source of clean nutrition that’s easy to grab during the busiest of days.

Grey Line

1 Hamaguchi T, Tayama J, Suzuki M, Nakaya N, Takizawa H, Koizumi K, et al. (2020) The effects of locomotor activity on gastrointestinal symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome among younger people: An observational study. PLoS ONE 15(5): e0234089. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0234089
2 Gibson, P.R. and Shepherd, S.J. (2010), Evidence-based dietary management of functional gastrointestinal symptoms: The FODMAP approach. Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 25: 252-258. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1440-1746.2009.06149.x
3 Kate Scarlata, MPH, RDN. Low FODMAP Diet Checklist. 2020. https://www.katescarlata.com/lowfodmapdietchecklists
4 Johannesson E, Ringstrom G, Abrahamsson H, Sadik R. Intervention to increase physical activity in irritable bowel syndrome shows long-term positive effects. World J Gastroenterol. 2015;21(2):600–8. Epub 2015/01/17. pmid:25593485. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i2.600
5 Johannesson E, Simren M, Strid H, Bajor A, Sadik R. Physical activity improves symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome: a randomized controlled trial. Am J Gastroenterol. 2011;106(5):915–22. Epub 2011/01/06. pmid:21206488. doi: 10.1038/ajg.2010.480
6 Changli Zhou,Enfa Zhao,Yuewei Li,Yong Jia,Feng Li. Exercise therapy of patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Neurogastroenterology & Motility. February 2019 e13461. Epub 2018/9/19. https://doi.org/10.1111/nmo.13461

Professional Education

New Course for Healthcare Professionals on Nutrition for People With Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Ryan Warren, MS, RDN, CDN

Orgain Nutrition Advisory Board Member and gut health expert, Colleen Webb, MS, RDN, and fellow dietitian, Ryan Warren, MS, RDN, CDN, launched The Ultimate Education for Treating IBD Patients to enhance healthcare professionals’ knowledge on a condition that millions of Americans suffer from, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), notably Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Approved by CDR for 10 CPEUs, this comprehensive course will give you the tools and confidence you need to help your IBD patients feel better using food and nutrition.

Use code ORGAIN for a 10% discount – an exclusive offer for the first 10 dietitians! (Expires 12.31.21)

Product Spotlight

Introducing Organic Protein + Oatmilk Plant-Based Protein Powder

Organic Protein Powder + Oatmilk

Organic Protein + Oatmilk is everything you know and love about our original Organic Protein™ Plant Based Protein Powder, only this time it’s elevated with the cozy taste and creaminess of oat milk. This protein-rich powder is packed with four organic protein sources: pea protein, oat powder, brown rice protein, and chia protein. Each protein source is unique and complementary, lending the product a diverse and favorable amino acid profile for a plant-based protein powder. Collectively, this blend offers a high-quality, complete plant protein source, which is ideal for many individuals following a plant-based diet. Since this is a 2-in-1 protein powder (Protein + Oatmilk), the simple addition of water replaces the need to add an alternative milk. Here are a few additional product highlights:

  • 20g Organic Plant Protein
  • Organic Oatmilk Powder
  • 1-2g sugar
  • Smooth & Creamy
  • Available in two delicious flavors: Vanilla Bean and Chocolate
  • Gluten free, Made Without Dairy & Soy Ingredients
  • Certified Organic, Certified Plant-Based, Non-GMO, Vegan and Kosher

Learn More >

Recipes

Breakfast-All-Day Recipes

It’s always important to start the day off with a nutrient-rich breakfast that will fuel your body, but one could argue it’s even more important during the holiday season when there are more indulgences available and less routine at mealtimes. This month we’re sharing two go-to breakfast recipes that are easy and delicious ways for you, and your family, to take on the day.

Smoothie

Keith’s Morning Super Smoothie
Containing a variety of nutritional powerhouse ingredients, this smoothie truly lives up to its “super” title. With the addition of Orgain’s Vanilla Plant Based Protein Powder + Superfoods and Grass-Fed Collagen Peptides, now available in the Orgain Ambassador Sampling Portal, this smoothie provides a complete source of protein and the additional benefits of collagen peptides, which can help to support hair, skin, nails, and joint health. With just 220 calories, no added sugar, and 20g of dairy-free, high-quality protein this tasty smoothie will keep you feeling satiated and full for hours.

Get the Recipe >


Pancake

The Best Gluten-Free Fluffy Pancakes with Almond Butter and Caramelized Bananas
Orgain’s new Organic Plant-Based Protein & Waffle Mix is the star of this recipe, which contains 10g of protein and is gluten-free and dairy-free. What really takes these pancakes to the next level is the addition of caramelized bananas and almond butter, the natural sweetness of banana and healthy fat from the almond butter are a fantastic flavor-combo and keep you fueled and energized throughout the morning.

Get The Recipe >


Orgain Podcast

The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast – NEW Episodes!

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With a glowing 5-star rating on Apple Podcasts, and now easily accessible on the Orgain Healthcare app, The Good Clean Nutrition Podcast released its final episode of Season 1: The Connection Between Diet, Sleep & Health with Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge. Tune in to learn the key discoveries on the connection between nutrition and sleep, including the impact of nutrient deficiencies on sleep quality and how sleep deprivation can influence food cravings.

Also, visit healthcare.orgain.com/podcast to listen to more podcast episodes and be sure to subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts so you never miss a new episode!

Healthcare Community

Orgain + The Komplete Business Dietetic Internship

Interns

Over the past year, Orgain had the pleasure of working with six interns, from the Komplete Business Dietetic Internship, pursuing careers as registered dietitians. At various times throughout 2021, Aline, Natalya, Helen, Callie, Salma, and Janet completed four-week rotations, respectively, with Orgain Healthcare. Under the guidance of Keith Hine, MS, RD, Senior Director of Healthcare & Sports, and Acacia Wright, RD, CD, Nutrition Communications and Support Manager, each intern supported on initiatives and programs, including participation in team meetings. Orgain would like to give a huge thank you to Founder & CEO of the Komplete Business Dietetic Internship Beryl Krinsky, MBA, MS, RD, LDN, for creating this unique internship opportunity for dietitians and for giving Orgain the opportunity to play a role in supporting and growing their knowledge and skills on nutrition in business. We’re proud to have worked with these six future RDN superstars and can’t wait to see all of their accomplishments!

Professional Education

Upcoming Live Webinars by
Subject Matter Experts

Register below for upcoming Orgain webinars or view our current library of on-demand webinars at your convenience on our recently revamped webpage: Orgain Professional Education Series.

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Calorie Restriction, Longevity and Muscle Function: Emerging Research and Clinical Considerations

Jacob T. Mey, Ph.D., R.D.

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
January 27, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Reducing Cancer Recurrence with Plant-Based Nutrition

Alison Tierney, MS, RD, CD, CO

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
Febraury 17, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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First 1,000 Days of Life: Relationship Between Early Life Nutrition and Future Health Outcomes

Dr. Nicole Avena, Ph.D.

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
March 3, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Open Wide: Optimizing Oral Health Through Diet

Sara Karlin, DDS & Ellen Karlin MMSc, RDN, LDN, FADA

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
April 21, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Sustainability & Eating – The Connection to Our Environment & Role of Health Practitioners

Mary Purdy, MS, RDN

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
May 19, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Eating Disorder Discovery and Recovery: A Health Professional’s Guide to Collaborative Treatment and Care

Susan Weiner, MS RDN, CDCES, FADCES

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
June 9, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Improved Outcomes in CKD with a Plant Forward Approach

Melanie Betz MS, RD, CSR, CSG

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
July 21, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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The Physiological Connections Between Diet & Sleep and Associated Risks for Developing Chronic Diseases

Marie-Pierre St-Onge, Ph.D, CCSH, FAHA

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
August 18, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Nutrition & Yoga Combination Therapy: Why Together It May Better Treat Common GI Ailments

Beth McCall, MS, RD, LDN, CSSD, RYT

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
September 22, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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Everything Your Clients Need to Know About Intermittent Fasting

Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, CDCES, CPT

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
October 20, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

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Measuring & Improving Metabolic Health to Prevent or Reverse Disease

Dr. Tom Rifai MD FACP

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
November 17, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

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Promoting Gut Barrier Function for Better Health: Addressing Leaky Gut Through Diet

Colleen Webb, MS, RDN

Approved for 1.0 CPEU for RDNs and DTRs
December 8, 2022 at 2 PM EDT

REGISTER HERE
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