WGO Divisions - Nutrition
Given the central role of the gastrointestinal tract in the digestion and absorption of food, the importance of nutrition to the practice of gastroenterology and to the care of patients with digestive disorders requires emphasis.
However, in recent years, the role of nutrition in our training and education has regrettably, declined. This is unfortunate as we learn ever more of the critical role of nutrition in many diseases and recognize the potential role of the gastroenterologist in the management of disordered nutrition. For example, while many in developing countries continue to suffer from the ravages of malnutrition, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is fast rising as one of the most important liver disorders in the developed world.
Furthermore, the gastroenterologist is frequently called to participate in the management of obesity and other eating disorders and is a critical member of the intestinal failure management team.
Simultaneously, considerable research has been ongoing into how food may be modified, or food additives developed, to enhance health and prevent, or treat, disease; the profusion of probiotic preparations bearing health care claims being a clear example.
Nutrition is a central part of gastroenterology. To advance the status of nutrition in our speciality, the WGO plans to include nutrition in all of our programs in education and training. This will be critical to our activities in the future.
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