KOL Conversation: Making Sense of Carbohydrate Maldigestion

KOL Conversation: Making Sense of Carbohydrate Maldigestion

At GI ReConnect, Dr. Dakesh Patel and registered dietitian Kate Scarlata dive into the overlooked role of carbohydrate maldigestion, malabsorption, and intolerance in patients experiencing common gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Drawing on their recent publication in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, they break down how deficiencies in enzymes like lactase, sucrase, maltase, and isomaltase can disrupt carbohydrate breakdown and trigger IBS-like symptoms. The discussion explores the distinctions between maldigestion, malabsorption, and intolerance, the influence of gut microbiota, and the importance of considering carbohydrate intolerance as a trigger for IBS. They also highlight emerging diagnostic approaches, the role of diet—including low-FODMAP strategies—and enzyme replacement therapies to improve patient outcomes while maintaining nutritional balance. Whether you’re a gastroenterologist, dietitian, or patient seeking to understand the science behind carbohydrate intolerance, this session offers practical insights into managing digestive health.

KOL Conversation From Peds Connect on IBD

Join leading pediatric IBD experts Dr. Joel Rosh, Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Dr. Sandra Kim, Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Judith Kelson, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Dr. Jeffrey Hyams, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, for an in-depth roundtable on the complexities of diagnosing and managing inflammatory bowel disease in children and teens. With over a century of combined clinical experience, the panel shares insights on second opinions, avoiding misdiagnosis, optimizing biologic therapy, therapeutic drug monitoring, and addressing pitfalls such as underdosing. They also explore the role of diet and nutrition in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, navigating vaccination challenges in VEO-IBD, and integrating psychosocial support for patients and families. This candid conversation offers practical pearls for gastroenterologists, pediatricians, and multidisciplinary teams seeking to improve outcomes and quality of life for pediatric IBD patients. #PediatricIBD #CrohnsDisease #UlcerativeColitis #VEOIBD #IBDTreatment #BiologicTherapy #TherapeuticDrugMonitoring #PediatricGastroenterology #SecondOpinion #CrohnsDiet #UlcerativeColitisDiet #PsychosocialSupport #ChildrensHealth #IBDCare #MedicalRoundtable

KOL Conversation With a Focus on CSID

In this engaging episode recorded at the second annual Peds GI Connect in Hollywood, Florida, Dr. Carlo Di Lorenzo, pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, is joined by Kate Scarlata, MPH, RDN, and Dr. Ankur Chugh from Children’s Wisconsin for a deep dive into sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (SID)—a condition gaining traction in both clinical and public awareness. Together, they explore how SID, previously thought to be rare and limited to congenital forms, is increasingly recognized in both children and adults as a contributor to unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The discussion breaks down diagnostic tools—from disaccharidase enzyme assays to the sucrose challenge—and outlines the nuances of dietary management, enzyme therapy, and the role of registered dietitians in tailoring treatment. The episode also highlights how SID can mimic IBS or DGBI and emphasizes the importance of avoiding overly restrictive diets in children. With real-world insights, practical tips, and a shared decision-making approach, this conversation is essential for clinicians, dietitians, and caregivers interested in the evolving landscape of carbohydrate digestion disorders and personalized GI care.

KOL Conversation With a Focus on Motility

Join Dr. Peter Lu, from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, and Dr. Miguel Saps, a renowned pediatric neurogastroenterologist and motility expert from the University of Miami, as they dive deep into the evaluation and management of pediatric constipation—a condition affecting nearly 10% of children. Filmed live at the second Pediatric GI Connect meeting in Hollywood, Florida, this comprehensive discussion covers evidence-based natural remedies, the role of water, fiber, probiotics, and fruit juices, as well as the latest on pharmacologic therapies including polyethylene glycol (PEG 3350), senna, and bisacodyl. The conversation also addresses common parental concerns around stimulant laxatives and PEG safety, referencing recent data on metabolite levels and long-term outcomes. New and emerging therapies such as linaclotide, prucalopride, and even vibratory capsules and neuromodulation techniques are explored as promising options for refractory constipation. Whether you're a pediatric GI specialist, general pediatrician, or a caregiver seeking clarity, this evidence-rich episode delivers up-to-date insights into the evolving landscape of childhood constipation treatment.

KOL Conversation With a Focus on Nutrition

In this special episode from the second annual Peds GI Connect conference, four leading pediatric gastroenterologists—Dr. Valeria Cohran, Lurie Children's Hospital, Dr. Praveen Goday, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Dr. Chris Duggan, Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, and Dr. Maria Mascarenhas, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia—come together to discuss their journeys into the field of pediatric nutrition and why it remains a vital, dynamic, and underexplored aspect of GI care. From intestinal rehabilitation and clinical nutrition programs to global health, culinary medicine, and parenteral nutrition safety, this roundtable highlights the vast and meaningful career opportunities available in pediatric nutrition. The panel emphasizes the importance of physician involvement in nutrition decisions, collaborative care with dietitians, and the urgent need to improve nutrition education during medical training. With perspectives spanning decades and institutions, they call for a new generation of GI fellows to lead in nutrition research, advocacy, and hospital-based nutrition leadership. Whether you're a trainee, clinician, or medical educator, this is a must-watch conversation about shaping the future of pediatric nutrition.