Hello Reader

​From Andrea's Instagram:

This paper is a great reminder that GI symptoms don’t live in neat boxes 📦

Yes - constipation and bloating were statistically associated with fecal loading on X-ray.

And yes - diarrhea wasn’t statistically significant by comparison.

But clinically? 👉 139 of 268 patients with fecal loading reported diarrhea.

That’s not a coincidence! That’s a pattern.

As digestive health RDs, this reinforces why diarrhea shouldn’t automatically rule out constipation physiology. Overflow diarrhea, incomplete evacuation, and rectal stool retention are real — and pretty dang common.

If a client presents with diarrhea PLUS bloating, pain, or a feeling of incomplete emptying, fecal loading deserves consideration — even if they don’t look textbook constipated

This is exactly the nuance I dive into in my comprehensive book on constipation, ‘Backed Up: The Ultimate Guide to Constipation’ — a resource designed not just for patients, but also for clinicians working with constipated (and not-so-textbook) folks. It’s truly a wealth of information on the many ways constipation can show up — and how to approach it with confidence.

​🔗 Learn more here.​

>>>🚨 Reminder! Calling all aspiring dietitian's!⁠ ⁠ Don't miss this chance to apply for our annual dietetics scholarship ⁠of $750 CDN!!⁠ ⁠

⌛️ Applications close Saturday March 1, 2026.⁠ ⁠

Eligibility:⁠ ⁠

🎓️ Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program in nutrition sciences/nutrition & dietetics program in Canada⁠ ⁠

💰️ Students must express financial need to study nutrition and complete their internship⁠ ⁠

🧐 Must provide proof of being accepted into a dietetics internship⁠ ⁠

🤩 Sharing is caring! Please share this post so more students have the opportunity to apply!⁠ ⁠ Click here for the full nomination process and we wish you all GOOD LUCK!⁠​

Friendly reminder it's February! Check with your benefits policy for how much coverage you have for dietitian & psychology services and book your appointments to maximize your plan.

We offer a la carte appointments as well as packages for your counselling. Packages save you money and the a la carte option is less money up front for your care. Whichever you choose, make sure you book your appointments and don't miss out on money that is yours!

​Book your appointments now to maximize your plan!​

Nutrition and Psychology Counselling

Now, more than ever, our patients are struggling with their guts. If you need help with nutrition or psychology, our team is doing virtual AND in person visits! Work with one of our dietitian's or our psychologist at www.ignitenutrition.ca​

Andrea & the Ignite Team