Hope for IBD

If you've ever felt lost in the face of IBD, I understand. This is a difficult disease that I wish no one had to endure.

What many people haven’t heard is that research now shows there’s more you can do to manage your IBD beyond medications, surgery, or avoiding most foods. 

There are evidence-based nutrition therapies, featuring delicious whole foods, that have been shown to improve IBD and, in some cases, put it into remission. Nutrition therapies can work alone or alongside your existing treatments.

I combine proven nutritional therapies with science-backed lifestyle medicine and put it all together to help you learn to holistically manage your IBD, so you can do more and live a fuller life.

I am so excited to share this message of hope! You’ve shown tremendous strength and courage to manage your IBD so far. I know you have what it takes to continue the journey, and I am here to guide and support you on your way.

Dr Maysa Hikmat Al Zaim

Your Healthy Gut Journey

Free Discovery Call

We’ll connect to discuss your health concerns and goals. This will help me understand how I can best support you and guide you toward the right service, whether it’s a tailored nutrition plan, ongoing support, or specialized advice for managing GI conditions like IBD or IBS.

Initial Assessment

Get a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, labs, and goals.

Choose between 3, or 6- month package featuring:

Personalized Nutrition Plan

Receive a personalized nutrition roadmap based on a thorough assessment of your health and nutritional needs, helping you navigate the right dietary pattern to improve your quality of life and support your long-term well-being.

Lifestyle Guidance

Get guidance on lifestyle factors such as sleep, stress management, physical activity, and mindset, all of which impact your IBD symptoms.

Meal Planning

Enjoy customized meal plans and recipe suggestions that align with your dietary requirements, cultural needs, and personal preferences.

Supplement Guidance

Receive a personalized supplement plan, where I’ll check for any nutritional deficiencies and recommend the right supplements to support better health outcomes plus help updating it as you progress.

Regular Follow-Ups

See me for scheduled follow-up sessions to track progress, make adjustments, address questions, and get encouragement.

Ongoing Support

If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out on WhatsApp. I’m here to help you every step of the way!

Be Fully Supported & Experience

Plus:

Enjoy convenient virtual appointments, access to helpful tools, resources, and a supportive community.

Book a free discovery call to discuss which package is right for you.

Additional Offerings

FOR CLIENTS:

Educational Consultation

FOR PROFESSIONALS:

Consultation & Speaking

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?


IBD refers to a group of inflammatory conditions of the gastrointestinal tract, primarily including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Is IBS the same as IBD?

No, IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is not the same as IBD. IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits, but it does not involve inflammation or damage to the intestines. In contrast, IBD is marked by chronic inflammation and can lead to more serious health complications.

Why might I need a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is often recommended to diagnose IBD and other gastrointestinal disorders. It allows your doctor to examine the lining of your colon and rectum, collect tissue samples (biopsies), and identify any inflammation, ulcers, or other abnormalities.

What causes Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis?

The exact cause of IBD remains unknown. However, researchers suggest that it may be linked to genetic susceptibility, shifts in gut bacteria, environmental factors (such as diet, smoking, stress, etc), and immune system abnormalities.

Which patients are at greater risk for IBD?


While IBD can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the risk, including adolescents and young adults (ages 15-35), immigrants from regions with low IBD prevalence (such as parts of Asia) who show higher incidence after moving to developed countries, individuals with a family history of IBD, and those living in urban areas with Westernized lifestyles.

Does nutrition help with IBD?


Yes, nutrition is crucial for managing IBD by enhancing medication efficacy, preventing flare-ups, improving symptoms, providing pre- and post-surgery nutrition for faster healing, and supporting long-term management with personalized dietary plans that maintain remission and promote gut health.

I want to try the Specific Carbohydrate Diet (SCD). Can you help me?


Yes, I offer various evidence-based therapeutic diets, including SCD, to help manage your IBD alongside your prescribed medication. I will develop a suitable plan for you and communicate with your GI specialist to ensure you receive the best care.

Which diets do you endorse or support?


I support various evidence-based dietary approaches that focus on whole foods and avoid ultra-processed foods, tailored to your health status and cultural needs.

What foods can I/can’t I eat?


Dietary needs can vary widely among individuals with IBD. Generally, a Mediterranean diet—emphasizing whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins (such as fish and poultry), healthy fats (like olive oil), and legumes—is beneficial. However, each patient’s needs are different, so it’s important to understand the nutritional diagnosis to provide you with the best care.

Do you take insurance?


No, I do not accept insurance, but I’m happy to provide you with a receipt so you can contact your insurance company for reimbursement.

Yes, I treat a variety of GI-related disorders such as Celiac disease, gastroparesis, IBS, heartburn, constipation, diverticulitis, liver diseases, short bowel syndrome, SIBO, leaky gut, and other gastrointestinal conditions.

Do you treat pediatric patients?


Yes, I treat both pediatric and adult patients.