Functional gastrointestinal (GI) and motility disorders are the most common GI disorders in the general population. In fact, about 1 in 4 people in the U.S. have some activity limitation of daily function due to these disorders. The conditions account for about 41% of GI problems seen by doctors and therapists.

The term “functional” is generally applied to disorders where the body’s normal activities in terms of the movement of the intestines, the sensitivity of the nerves of the intestines, or the way in which the brain controls some of these functions is impaired. However, there are no structural abnormalities that can be seen by endoscopy, x-ray, or blood tests. Thus it is identified by the characteristics of the symptoms and infrequently, when needed, limited tests. The Rome diagnostic criteria categorize the functional gastrointestinal disorders and define symptom based diagnostic criteria for each category.

Few health conditions require such a collaborative partnership between patient and patient-caregiver as Functional GI.  It requires patient self-monitoring and reporting, knowledge of diet and exercise, awareness of the connections between the mind and body, accessible and understandable information about the latest drug and complementary therapy options, and access to a network of support so the patient knows they are not alone and can survive and thrive despite living with the sometimes life-altering and often daily challenges of living with a FGID.

Gastro Girl is the first patient-centric digital health platform for individuals living with gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and conditions that brings key support elements together in one place to help them comply with treatment plans — and provide them with ongoing support — between doctor visits via three key integrated solutions:

1. Telehealth Coaching & Nutritional Counseling via our state-of-the-art, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform which empowers patients to connect with their care team (Clinicians, Registered Dietitians, and Certified Health Coaches) and schedule 1:1 online sessions that aim to help improve treatment compliance and quality outcomes;

2. Online Support Community where members can become a more educated partner in their own digestive health via access to expert insights and evidence-based health information, and by sharing their experiences and learning from others with similar experiences

3. Digital Health Journal where patients document, track and describe their symptoms, mood, health status sand what they eat in the way that works best for them (e.g., pictures, video or audio recordings, or written journal entries).

Gastro Girl is a company with the specific mission to serve you and other individuals who are living with chronic GI symptoms and disorders by leveraging the power of health technology and evidenced-based health information to empower you to thrive in your daily lives. I hope you will join us on this exciting and revolutionary journey. Feel free to contact me with your thoughts, suggestions and comments. I look forward to hearing from you!