At GutCode, we specialise in the management of gut issues such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), functional dyspepsia (FD) and chronic functional constipation. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, altered bowel habits, excessive wind and nausea.

Symptoms are often related to a combination of not only visceral hypersensitivity (heightened gut sensitivity) but also disturbed gut motility (gut movement), altered microbiota, impaired digestion, altered mucosal and immune function, and central nervous system processing.

Diet and lifestyle can play a significant role in these conditions both in how these factors influence symptoms but also their impact on the gut microbiome, gut barrier function and the nervous system.

Conditions such as IBS and FD only describe a collection of symptoms. Each individual will have a range of different factors contributing to their symptoms. We believe a highly personalised approach is required to achieve a successful outcome.

GORD refers to reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus that leads to symptoms, esophageal tissue injury or both.

Factors that can contribute towards GORD include a loss of protective factors in the oesophagus, an increase in damaging factors such as increased stomach acid or bile, changes in lower oesophageal muscle tone and function, structural factors, increased intra-abdominal pressure, impaired gastric digestion/emptying and hypersensitivity of the oesophagus.

We work to identify and address the underlying factors and address these with personalised strategies, resulting in improved symptom management and reduced risk of GORD-related complications.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract including Crohn’s disease (which can occur at any point along the gastrointestinal tract) and ulcerative colitis (colon only).

Common symptoms include diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, impaired nutrient absorption, weight loss, skin changes, joint pain and reduced bone density. Symptoms can periodically come and go with periods of ‘remission’ (minimal to no symptoms) and periods of ‘flare-ups’ (escalating symptoms).

First line treatment of IBD often includes medication, however multiple dietary and supplement treatment strategies can be used as primary or adjunctive therapy (in combination with medications) in IBD to support reduced inflammation, gut barrier function and improve the gut microbiome.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is defined as an increase in the number and/or an alteration in the type of bacteria in the small intestine.

Intestinal methanogen overgrowth (IMO) refers to an excessive build up of methanogenic microbes (also called archaea) in the small or large intestine.

Common symptoms include abdominal bloating (very common) and pain, flatulence, an altered bowel habit, nausea and food/nutrient malabsorption. Various health conditions and disease states can cause impairment of a number of protective mechanisms resulting in SIBO and IMO.

SIBO and IMO are challenging to formally diagnose. Hydrogen and methane breath testing can be used in suspected cases however the reliability of these tests needs to be considered. SIBO and IMO may be suspected if there is a positive breath test in conjunction with other clinical information (e.g. the presence of risk factors, known dietary triggers and typical symptom profile).

Antibiotics are often used as first line therapy in addition to dietary modifications, selective supplements and lifestyle strategies. Alternative treatment options are often considered in case of IMO. Relapse is common, highlighting the need to investigate underlying factors that may increase the development of SIBO and IMO.

At GutCode, we don’t prescribe antibiotics or herbal antimicrobials for SIBO treatment, but we work closely with gastroenterologists and naturopaths who can. Our role is to identify SIBO, manage symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes, optimise the lower gut microbiome, investigate underlying causes, and implement strategies to reduce relapse risk. For IMO, we provide both treatment and long-term relapse prevention strategies to support lasting gut health.

Coeliac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye) triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine’s lining. This impairs nutrient absorption, leading to symptoms like diarrhoea, fatigue, bloating, and weight loss.

Coeliac disease affects individuals of all ages and requires lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. We can support those with a diagnosis of Coeliac disease by aiding the switch to suitable alternatives, providing education around interpreting food labels and providing strategies to reduce the risk of cross-contamination, all whilst ensuring an adequate and varied diet.

Food intolerance occurs when there is an impairment to normal digestion and absorption of certain food substances leading to a range of gut and non-gut symptoms.

Unlike food allergies, food intolerances are not driven by the immune system. Common intolerances include lactose and FODMAP intolerance, food protein intolerance (e.g. wheat, dairy), sulfur intolerance, histamine intolerance and food chemical intolerance (including additives and preservatives).

Identifying food intolerances can be a minefield. This is because symptoms can be due to accumulation of a certain food or a number of related foods. Symptoms can also be delayed. Our dietitians are experienced in analysing your symptoms in relation to your diet to quickly identify dietary triggers.

Diverticular disease refers to the formation of small, bulging pouches (diverticula) in the walls of the colon.

While diverticula may not cause symptoms, when they become inflamed, a condition called diverticulitis occurs, leading to pain, fever, and digestive issues. Diverticulitis treatment often involves antibiotics and dietary changes until the episode is resolved. Diverticulitis is generally not a chronic issue and tends to occur episodically.

Diet and lifestyle factors have been shown to influence the risk of future diverticulitis which is why we provide tailored advice to support the underlying colonic health of each individual.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammatory condition of the esophagus characterised by a high number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell). EoE often leads to difficulty swallowing, food impaction (food getting stuck in the oesophagus), chest pain and gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) symptoms.

EoE is commonly triggered by environmental or food allergies. A range of treatment options can be used including pharmacological (PPI medications or corticosteroids) and elimination diets. At least 70% of adults and 75% of children with EoE have at least one dietary trigger. Working collaboratively with your gastroenterologist, we can support those undergoing dietary exclusion as the primary treatment of EoE.

The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes residing in the digestive tract.

These microorganisms play a crucial role in digestion, immune function, and overall health. The gut microbiome helps break down food, produce vitamins, and regulate metabolism. It also interacts with the immune system, influencing inflammation and disease susceptibility. Imbalances in the microbiome can contribute to conditions like gastrointestinal disorders and metabolic diseases.

Our understanding of the gut microbiome is constantly evolving as is the technology available to analyse our gut. Gut microbiome profile tests provide insights in relation to gut diversity and dysbiosis (imbalance), gut inflammation and barrier function, motility and digestion. At GutCode we use the CoBiome MetaXplore GI analysis and our dietitians are CoBiome certified practitioners who have undergone the necessary training to interpret test results and develop targeted treatment plans. We also work in conjunction with gastroenterologists and naturopaths if any results are outside the scope of our practice.

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) involves homogenisation and infusion of stool from a healthy, highly screened individual into the bowel of an unwell recipient to restore gut microbial balance, particularly in cases of recurrent or refractory Clostridioides difficile (C. diff) infection. FMT is also used experimentally in cases of ulcerative colitis, IBS, constipation and even mental health disorders where severe gut dysbiosis (imbalance) is suspected.

Precise dietary interventions, particularly post-transplant, can help promote graft success, encourage microbial diversity, and improve long-term digestive health.