For those living with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), there’s some encouraging news today. The NHS is making changes to improve how patients get specialist care, without the long wait for hospital appointments. The Government help for IBS is a new scheme, aiming to connect GPs with specialist advice more quickly. Whilst this is the best news in a long while for those suffering IBS symptoms, the way ahead is not altogether rosy just yet. Many people with IBS will still face a very real hurdle—access to a properly trained FODMAP Dietitian.
Funding for IBS
The Government’s plan is backed by £80 million and aims to help patients receive care closer to home by 2025. Currently almost 400,000 people with gut issues are waiting to be seen by a hospital specialist. It is hoped that this GP incentive scheme will help reduce this waiting list, by using the expert skills of community dietitians. It’s a positive shift, moving away from automatic referrals and towards smarter, community-based care. This funding will be split to include common issues like menopause, ear infections and IBS. If you’re unsure if you have IBS, take my IBS Symptom Quiz.
In theory, this new funding is a positive step forward. But in practice, many IBS sufferers still find themselves lost in a system where the proven effective treatment is not easily accessible. GPs are able to refer to a specialist, but the input of a local FODMAP-trained Dietitian may still be beyond reach. And with limited numbers of IBS Dietitians working within the NHS, it’s often down to patients to seek support themselves. So, this scheme of Government help for IBS, may need to support the training of more specialist dietitians.
The Low FODMAP diet
The low FODMAP diet is a proven approach for managing IBS and is recommended by the NHS. It works by reducing fermentable carbohydrates (FODMAPs) in the diet that can trigger bloating, pain, excess wind and changes in bowel habits. The process involves three clear phases: restriction, reintroduction and personalisation. This approach helps IBS sufferers to identify their unique triggers and build a diet that supports both gut health and overall wellbeing. Research shows IBS symptoms to improve in over 75% of sufferers. When guided by a FODMAP-trained Dietitian, this approach brings significant relief, improves quality of life and offers long-term confidence around food choices.
Access to a FODMAP-trained Dietitian
As an experienced, FODMAP-trained IBS Dietitian, I offer expert advice and support to help you manage your symptoms, reduce flare-ups and regain control of your life. Whether you’re just beginning your journey or feeling stuck after years of frustration, I can guide you. I can provide a clear, structured pathway through the low FODMAP diet—tailored to your body and your lifestyle. See my IBS Symptoms Relief Package for more details.
The NHS is under pressure and reforms like this are long overdue. But if you’re dealing with daily bloating, cramping or unpredictable symptoms, waiting for the system to adapt simply isn’t good enough. You deserve to get back to a normal life now—and expert support can make all the difference.
Change your life in just three sessions
Need help to manage your IBS symptoms? I have a base in Cardiff and Bristol, but work to improve gut health with IBS sufferers across the UK through online sessions. The vast majority of my clients have found that only three sessions are needed before they feel confident to move forward on their own. I will send you booklets, which have an extensive list of all the foods you can eat on the low FODMAP diet. I’m available for advice and support between sessions. Find out more about via my website. I offer a free discovery call for you to decide whether the low FODMAP diet is right for you. So give me a call or fill out the contact form.
Many of my clients say that working with a specialist IBS dietitian has been life-changing, and are finally managing to live more comfortable lives. Read about previous client experiences
To help you decide it this is the right approach for you, see my webpage about IBS treatment.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you are experiencing persistent digestive symptoms, please consult a healthcare professional.
