Greetings!
December is here, and many of you may be preparing for festive fun, or starting to fill up your 2020 calendar with plans for the new year. The holiday season may be an exciting time for some, but for people living with chronic gastrointestinal disorders it can be a stressful time of the year. When you a
dd social obligations, food, and travel issues, all things associated with the holiday season, it is easy for people living with digestive disorders to become anxious and overwhelmed
This month, let's take a look at a few tips on how we can keep our digestive system happy by finding ways to help you eliminate stress and other GI symptoms, while also taking a sneak peek at what IFFGD has in store for 2020!
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Chronic constipation affects up to 20% of adults and 16% of children living in the United States. While common among all ages, genders, and populations; women, older adults, and non-Caucasian individuals are particularly at risk.
This
December for
Constipation Awareness month, we focus on raising awareness on the many types of constipation in order to address the dilemmas which you, or a loved one may face each day. Increasing public knowledge of this common yet often misunderstood symptom is the first step in helping patients achieve an accurate diagnosis.
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If you or someone you know suffers from constipation, what daily dilemmas and challenges do you face? You can join the conversation and help us raise awareness this December by using #ConstipationDilemma. To learn more about the signs and symptoms of constipation click
here
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Thank You for Your Support
Because Digestive Health Matters
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If you or someone you know is living with a chronic digestive disorder, you are not alone. Millions of people of all ages know the profound effect a disorder like gastroparesis, IBS, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other functional gastrointestinal and motility disorders can have on daily life, social interactions, work or school, and even the loss of potential or opportunity.
As 2019 comes to a close, our staff would like to sincerely thank everyone for your time, donations, and your words of encouragement throughout the year.
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Together we have accomplished so much, and in 2020 we will continue to be a voice for those who are affected by gastrointestinal (GI) disorders.
On behalf of the staff at IFFGD, Thank You!
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IFFGD Announces New Patient Series
Nancy and Bill Norton Patient Education Series (NES)
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We are excited to announce the Nancy and Bill Norton Patient Education Series (NES), launching in 2020. The NES program, named after our founders, Nancy and Bill Norton, is a tribute to the tremendous work they have done for the GI community.
The multi-media educational program is designed for patients with chronic gastrointestinal (GI) illness to equip them with education and resources to help navigate life.
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Each meeting will be at least a half-day and will include a multitude of activities, such as lectures, Q&A panels, patient stories, lifestyle presentations, hands on workshops and networking opportunities. Each program will consist of an in-person event, content streamed live online and recorded videos.
The three programs each year will be hosted at different locations within the U.S. Follow us on
Twitter
,
Facebook
, and/or
Instagram for announcements and
updates!
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Tips for Practicing Self-Care
What is Active Self-Care?
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Practicing active self-care can help you to keep your focus on your own well-being rather than just being caught up with the myriad of tasks that this time of year seems to require.
Active Self-Care Tips:
- Plan ahead
- Practice relaxation exercises
- Practice kind and gentle feeding
- Tell the caring people in your life about your disorder
- Voice your special needs
- Take steps to protect yourself from critical people
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Like any new skill, will take practice and trial and error for the skill to feel comfortable and natural. Click
here
to learn more about how you can practice self-care this holiday season.
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What to look for from IFFGD in 2020
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In 2020, we will be launching an additional eNewsletter to keep those interested informed on all things related to advocacy.
The IFFGD Advocacy Connection eNewsletter will contain updates on relevant legislation, IFFGD visits to Washington D.C., government agency updates, upcoming events and much more.
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IFFGD's Research Award was established to recognize the accomplishments of investigators who are engaged in significant research in the field of functional gastrointestinal (GI) disease.
This month's spotlight is dedicated to a 2019 IFFGD Research Award Recipient, David J. Levinthal, MD, PhD, who is currently an Assistant Professor in the University of Pittsburgh Department of Medicine’s Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition.
Dr. Levinthal is passionate about improving the clinical care for patients with functional GI and motility disorders, particularly those with severe forms of illness that have proven refractory to typical therapies.
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Dr. Levinthal is currently supported by an NIH K08 career development award to obtain training in leading-edge neurophysiological stimulation methods in human subject. He hopes to one day translate his initial neuroanatomic findings into clinical trials of brain-based therapies for patients with refractory functional gastrointestinal disorders.
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Travel poses an even greater challenge for those living with GI disorders. The uncertainty of when and where symptoms may occur can cause fear of not being able to control symptoms when you are away from home.
Here are a few tips on what you should keep in your travel "survival kit"
- Medications
- Your own snacks
- Plastic bag
- Change of clothes
- Deodorizing spray
- Carry on bag needed items if traveling by plane
For more helpful tips on things you should pack click
here
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Eating to Reduce Constipation
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In recognition of December being Constipation Awareness month, our Diet and Digestive Health (#DDHChat) Twitter Chat will host medical nutrition therapist Patsy Catsos, MS, RDN, LD.
Throughout this #DDHChat, Patsy Catsos will share her unique insights on dietary modification to help reduce constipation**.
Did you miss this month's chat? Follow us on social media for more information on where you can find the December #DDHChat recap.
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**Tips provided during the #DDHChat are not meant to replace professional and medical advice. It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet.
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The Federation of Neurogastroenterology & Motility (FNM) 2020 conference offers an exceptional chance for
active researchers and clinical colleagues from Europe, Asia, Australia and the America’s
to present the latest research in neurogastroenterology and facilitate engaging discussions about what's new in the field.
March 24th-28th, 2020 FNM will be held in Adelaide, Australia.
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Clinical trials and research studies help to improve our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of diseases and advance the development of new and better treatment options. By participating in a study, you can help further the advancement of research and learn more about your condition.
Here are 3 studies currently recruiting participants:
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Abdominal Pain Due to Irritable Bowel Syndrome
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Comparison of Surgery and Medicine on the Impact of Diverticulitis
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Effect of Curcumin on Gut Microbiota in IBS
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IFFGD is a nonprofit organization. We rely on donor support to fund research and to provide reliable information and support to those affected by chronic gastrointestinal disorders.
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IFFGD | 414-964-1799 | iffgd@iffgd.org | www.iffgd.org
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