LATEST NEWS FROM GI FOR KIDS

Esophageal Manometry

Esophageal Manometry   This is a test performed in our office that is used to evaluate the muscles that help with swallowing. The test takes about 30 minutes and is performed while your child is awake. The test involves passing a tube through the nose and into the esophagus. It is most often used in children…

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Tips for Introducing Solid Food to Infants

  Most infants are ready to start solids around 6 months of age. It is now recommended to wait until 6 months, whereas it was previously common to start purees at 4 months. There are no nutritional or developmental benefits that have been found with feeding solids earlier. In fact earlier introduction may be associated…

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A Look at Medium Chain Triglycerides for Nutrition

Triglycerides, or fats, are often classified by their size as either short-, medium-, or long chain triglycerides. Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are found only in small amounts in food. In our bodies, they are produced in the intestines as a byproduct of carbohydrate and fiber digestion. SCFAs are used to feed the lining of…

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Formula Shortage 2022

Going on three months since the infant formula shortage began, we are aware of the stress and concern this has caused families with young children. In recent days, President Biden invoked Defense Production Act, Nestle Nutrition ordered shipments of formula from other countries, and Abbott Nutrition has come to an agreement to restart production. While…

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Cooking Classes at GI for Kids

We are now offering cooking classes at GI for Kids! These classes are open to the community and all ages. You do not have to be a patient at GIFK to participate. Each class will include an interactive cooking demonstration and nutrition education. Call our office at 865-546-3998 or email mwilson@giforkids.com to sign up!   …

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Pediatric Hepatitis Outbreak: Spring 2022

On April 21st, 2022, the CDC released a health advisory regarding a recent outbreak of acute hepatitis in pediatric patients in Alabama. Hepatitis, a term referring to inflammation of the liver, can occur in otherwise healthy children after developing a viral infection, especially by one of the hepatitis viruses (A, B, C, D, or E).…

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A Look at Carbohydrate Digestion

Carbohydrate Digestion:   Carbohydrates are in many foods that we eat. Ultimately, carbohydrates are broken down to glucose and used for energy that allows our body to function and for you to do all your daily activities. Let’s take a look at the different types of carbohydrates and how we digest and absorb them:  …

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Wellness Wednesday: What is IBD?

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) – Over the past few years, doctors have noticed an increase in the number of pediatric patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or IBD, which is a chronic disorder characterized by autoimmune-related inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract including the colon and intestines, and includes both Crohn’s Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC). The…

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Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a type of “dysautonomia”, a disorder involving a person’s autonomic nervous system. Your autonomic nervous system is responsible for regulating the automatic functions of your body, actions that your body performs without you thinking of it. This includes breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and several other vital functions…

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Wellness Wednesday: How GI for Kids can help you

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — In this ‘Wellness Wednesday,’ we introduce you to Dr. Youhanna Al-Tawil​​​​​​​​, Medical Director and Pediatric Gastroenterologist at GI for Kids. GI for Kids is the only freestanding independent pediatric GI facility in the area, offering an Infusion Center, Ultrasound, X-ray, Food Allergy Testing, Lab, Nutritional Counseling, Clinical Trials and Behavioral Counseling. The facility also…

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Added Sugars

Added Sugars in the Diet What are added sugars? Added sugars are sugars that don’t occur naturally in a food. For example, some sugar is naturally occurring in food like fruits and dairy products. Added sugars include sucrose, dextrose, table sugar, brown sugar, honey, syrups, fruit juice concentrate, and molasses to name the most common.…

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Correlation Between Vaping and GI symptoms

Vaping has been an increasingly popular habit over the last 10-15 years, initially being advertised as a “healthy” alternative to smoking but now seen as something distinct from other tobacco/nicotine containing products. The popularity has especially surged amongst young people, primarily college aged students but also as young as high school and even middle school…

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Wellness Wednesday: Gluten Free Diets for children

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — If your child has a gluten allergy, it can be difficult navigating their diet. In this “Wellness Wednesday,” Madden Wilson, a dietician at a GI for kids walks us through what you need to know about gluten free diets for your kids. She also discussed the many resources offered at GI for kids…

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Lactose Intolerance on Living East Tennessee (WATE)

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Living East Tennessee has launched a new segment called Wellness Wednesday. This week we are catching up with our friends from GI for Kids to discuss lactose intolerance. Pediatric Gastroenterologist, Dr. Chad Thornhill explained what lactose is, what symptoms your child would experience if they are lactose intolerant, and options for treatment.

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Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C)

Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome (MIS-C) Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) is a serious condition that has recently been discovered in children 3-6 weeks following infection by COVID-19. Typically, COVID-19 in children causes mild symptoms like the flu, such as fever, fatigue, cough, and body aches. However, since the pandemic began, there have been reports of…

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Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS) With the increased legalization of marijuana in various states throughout the U.S., we have experienced the most rapid growth of marijuana use since the 1960’s.  Along with the increase in use of this drug, we are also seeing patients with symptoms and complications related to daily marijuana use.  With the first…

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vitamin D

GI for Kids is now offering vitamin D supplements in liquid or capsule form for all ages. Our Vitamin D supplements include Vitamin K to aid with absorption. They are manufactured by a reputable company that does independent studies on all supplements to ensure they are gluten free and free of dyes or other additives.…

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The Mediterranean Diet

The Mediterranean Diet   At GI for Kids, we sometimes encourage our patients to follow a Mediterranean Diet. This diet is high in fruits, vegetables, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats. A Mediterranean Diet can be prescribed for a specific condition, like constipation, or just as a general healthy diet.   A Mediterranean Diet includes many…

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All About Kefir!

What is Kefir? Kefir is a fermented dairy product, similar to yogurt. Thinner than yogurt, kefir is typically consumed as a beverage. The fermentation process used to make kefir elevates the nutritional content.  Kefir is a good source of probiotics, protein, calcium and vitamin B12. The Turkic word, Kefir, means “feeling good”.     Nutrition…

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The Low FODMAP Diet

What is the Low FODMAP Diet? The Low FODMAP diet is an elimination diet often used to manage Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). People with IBS have recurrent abdominal pain associated with a change in the frequency or type of stool. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, bloating, flatulence, constipation and diarrhea. The Low FODMAP diet consists…

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All About Herbs and Spices

This month we are all about herbs and spices! Herbs and spices are a great way to add flavor to you food without getting added fats, sugar or sodium. They are versatile, easy to use, and generally have a long shelf life. Many also have added health benefits. Did you know there is technically a…

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Quarantine Tips for Eating at Home

Is being stuck at home affecting your eating habits? Quarantine can make meal planning difficult! Some of you may feel overwhelmed having to prepare meals at home; while others may find they are eating more due to having stock piles of “Quarantine Snacks” or just out of pure boredom. Meal and Snack Tips at Home…

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All About Chia Seeds

Chia Seeds Chia seeds are the edible seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant native to Central America. They are a small but mighty seed in the realm of nutrition. 1 ounce of Chia Seeds Calories: 137 Carbohydrate: 12.3g (4%) Dietary Fiber: 10.6g Total fat: 8.6g  (13%) Omega-3: 4915mg Protein: 4.4g (9%) Calcium: 18% Phosphorus: 27%…

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New Constipation Clinic at GI For Kids

We are excited to announce our new Constipation Clinic at GI For Kids run by Chelsea Watkins, NP. This clinic will be solely dedicated to evaluating and treating your child’s constipation. Each child will receive a thorough evaluation to determine possible causes and/or contributing factors, an individualized treatment plan, as well as education regarding the…

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All About Beets

Beets Serving size: 1 cup / Calories: 58.5 Total Carbohydrates: 13g / Total Fat: 0.2g / Protein 2.2g Dietary Fiber: 3.8g Beneficial for reducing constipation, promoting bowel movement regularity, and decreasing diverticulitis. Promotes overall better colon health. Vitamin C 11% Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron, formation of collagen, improved wound healing, and…

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New Year, New Way to Set Goals!

New Year, New Way to Set Goals!   Did you set a “New Year’s Resolution” for 2020? Have you already broken it? If so, you are not alone! According to Us News and World Report, 80% of New Year’s Resolutions fail by the second week of February; and only 8% of resolutions are kept through…

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All About Ginger

You have probably seen many gingerbread houses this season, but do you know some of the benefits of ginger along with different ways to cook with it in the kitchen? Ginger is a flowering plant and is used in many forms in the kitchen. It is native to southeastern Asia and was used by the…

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Making Your Own Baby Food

Making You Own Baby Food Starting solids is an exciting time for parents. However, for some, it can be overwhelming. There are many options with trendy approaches such as homemade baby foods and Baby Led Weaning. Prepackaged baby foods can be a great option. But whether it be your preference, need for increased calories, or…

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All About Black Strap Molasses

What is black strap molasses? When sugar cane is boiled down two things are produced: sugar crystals and liquid. After the sugar crystals are extracted, the liquid left is collected as molasses. Different types of molasses: There is a light and dark variety of molasses. The light molasses is produced after an initial boiling and…

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All About Cranberries

Cranberries are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals along with antioxidants. Take a look at their nutritional profile along with some recipes below!     Cranberries may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the antioxidant proanthocyanidin. A UTI occurs due to bacteria lining the bladder and urinary tract. Proanthocyanidin prevents the…

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Are you ready for Halloween?

Did you know that sugar consumption decreases your child’s immune system by 50% for up to five hours? Halloween is a day for fun and festive activities for a lot of people. On Halloween, we are exposed to different people and environments than we usually are during the rest of the year. Because of this,…

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Holistic Medicine at GI For Kids

What is Holistic Medicine? Holistic medicine is an approach to treatment and patient care that has not been used in traditional medicine until recently. Holistic medicine is patient centered and incorporates science-based practices and methodologies from multiple disciplines. Holistic approaches to treating patients focus on therapies like herbal remedies, dietary supplements, diet, yoga, meditation, massage…

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All About Pumpkins

It’s that time of year again! Soon enough kids will be carving pumpkins and setting them on the front porch to glow throughout the night. Although this food is commonly used for decoration, it can also be creatively nutritious in the kitchen! Pumpkin is a nutrient-dense food. At only 49 calories per cup, pumpkin contains…

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All About Mushrooms

This month we are all about mushrooms! Mushrooms are a healthy addition to any diet. Although mushrooms are often categorized as vegetables they are actually a fungus. They do have many health benefits similar to vegetables being low calorie, high in fiber, and full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Unlike most vegetables, mushrooms are a…

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The Hard Truths of Constipation

THE TRUTHS OF CONSTIPATION It may surprise you to learn that constipation is a very common problem for children. In fact, symptoms stemming from constipation account for around 20-25% of GI for Kids office visits each year. Treating constipation can be perplexing for parents since there are several possible causes, and a variety of treatments.  But in all…

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Kids Eat Right Month™

August is Kids Eat Right Month™, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Academy Foundation’s chance to highlight the fight for our children’s healthy future. At GI for Kids we are dedicating to helping your kids learn how to eat right! As the Registered Dietitian for GI for Kids, I wanted to share some…

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All About Flaxseed

This month we are all about flaxseed! Flaxseed comes from the flax plant which is one of the oldest crops; known to have been cultivated in ancient Egypt and China. Full of omega 3 fatty acids, fiber, and lignans (antioxidants), flaxseed has many health benefits. It also contains significant vitamins and minerals. Fiber: The mixture…

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The Many Colors of Poop

  At some point in your life, you’ve looked into the toilet bowl and have been startled by the color of your poop.  Surely something must be wrong! In a panic, you’ve called the doctor, googled your symptoms, or just sat and worried over it.  After a bowel movement or two, the color usually returns…

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Celiac Awareness Month 2019

In honor of May being Celiac Awareness Month, we wanted to give an overview of the disease including the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. 1 in 133 people in the United States have celiac disease and 83% of those people are undiagnosed. Celiac is an autoimmune disease affecting the gastrointestinal tract. Individuals with celiac disease should…

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Blenderized Tube Feeding…Fad or the Future?

Enteral nutrition, commonly called tube feeding, has been used for hundreds of years. Over the centuries, a variety of methods have been used to provide nutrition for those who cannot eat by mouth. In recent decades, pre-packaged formulations of nutrients have been the standard approach. Recently, however, there has been increased interest among parents and…

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Meet Millie The Therapy Dog

Have you met Millie yet? Millie is currently in training to be the GI For Kids Therapy Dog 🙂Millie is a black double doodle (half goldendoodle / half labradoodle) and is as curly as they come! She joined the family at GI for Kids in December of 2018 at 9 weeks of age. Since, she has been in vigorous therapy dog training through Wendy’s Canine Training.

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National Nutrition Month® 2019

National Nutrition Month® 2019 March is National Nutrition Month®! This year, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is celebrating the diverse ways in which people can thrive through the transformative power of food and nutrition. This is fitting for us at GI for Kids because, we see how nutrition impacts our patients’ lives in so…

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Navigating Allergies During the Holidays

The holidays are such a fun time for kids! However, the festivities that come along this time of year can be cause of stress and disappointment for families with food allergies. The prevalence of food allergies among children is rising; the CDC reported a 50% increase from 1997-2011. Despite this, families with food allergies often…

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GI Bleeding in Children

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is among the most common gastrointestinal disorders and can range from microscopic bleeding to massive bleeding leading to hypovolemia and shock. In children, GI bleeding requires prompt assessment, diagnosis, and treatment.

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Knoxville, TN 37922

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1975 Town Center Blvd,
Knoxville, TN 37922

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