1. Nutrition and Bowel Health
Janice Baker, MBA RDN CDE CNSC BC-ADM
Registered Dietitian Certified Diabetes Educator
Certified Nutrition Support Clinician
Board Certified- Advanced Diabetes Management

2. Objectives Objectives:
1. Name 2 reasons why constipation may occur and 2 recommendations to manage constipation
2. Identify 3 nutrition diet goals to support optimal healing, recovery and rehabilitation

3. Constipation- one recommendation may not fit all
Several possible causes; generally 3 types of primary or idiopathic constipation
Functional- pain/ discomfort related to IBS
Slow transit- prolonged time between BMs, abdominal distention, discomfort
Outlet obstruction- stricture, pelvic floor dysfunction, cancer, anal stricture, neurological dx
Some may have combined forms

4. Possible causes Hypothyroid Medications Hydration Mobility
Diet – low fiber
Gastroparesis (diabetes, dysglycemia)
Comorbidities ie Parkinson’s disease

5. Healthy gut from nutrition support = better outcomes, less complications

6. Treatment options
Diet- high fiber (sometimes), regular meals, adequate hydration, routine eating habits
Optimize activity
OTC treatment; consider prescription meds
Primary care/ GI consultation, recommendations based on coexisting dx’s- ie glycemic control, thyroid function, IBS

7. Healing, Recovery and Rehabilitation

12. Nutrition Support Pre and Post Op
Regular meals /snacks adequate nutrients
Avoid restrictive/fad diets
Hydration- 6-8 cups fluid/day
Adequate protein- goal grams/meal
Fruits/vegetables, plant foods, whole grains
Optimize blood sugar control
Oral nutrition supplements may be helpful
Communication to nursing staff weight changes/diet needs

13. Nutrition Strategies
Plan pre/ post op- high protein meals + snacks Hydration + protein+ fiber + regular meals Examples…. Yogurt, fresh, dried, canned, frozen fruit eggs, cheese sticks, canned tuna, salmon whole grains, healthful frozen meals nuts / nut butters, beans, nutrition drinks Refer to Registered Dietitian for screening/assessment, nutrition support issues