Award for Basic/Translational Science Investigator: Dr. Martinez Dr. Martinez completed her training at the Vall d’Hebron Research Institute in Barcelona, Spain, where she obtained her doctoral degree in Molecular Biology and Biomedicine. After serving four years as a guest scientist at the Institute of Human Genetics at the University of Heidelberg, she returned to the […]
Award for Senior Investigator in Basic Science Dr. Blackshaw is Professor of Enteric Neuroscience at Queen Mary University of London. He has led a number of fundamental studies, examining subjects such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and gastrointestinal sensory mechanisms in tissue. His work has identified new classes of sensory nerves and demonstrated important therapeutic […]
Cate Wyoming 7th Grade Gastroparesis, Chronic Intestinal Pseudo Obstruction, and Short Bowel Syndrome June 8, 2018 “Mom, get in here now,” Leo screamed. I ran up the stairs behind her and saw my sister, Madeline, having a seizure. My mom’s face was struck with fear and worry. My big sister was shaking uncontrollably. I felt […]
Award for Pediatric Investigator — Clinical/Basic/Translational Science Dr. Kovacic is an Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Medical College of Wisconsin and serves as the Director of Pediatric Gastrointestinal Motility and Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome programs within the Pediatric Neurogastroenterology, Motility, and Autonomic Disorders Program at Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin. She is very active in clinical research […]
The International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders (IFFGD) has been a vital advocate for individuals living with gastrointestinal (GI) disorders and has made our presence in Washington D.C. known since 2009 by conducting annual Hill visits where we continue to advocate for research and funding. Working With Stakeholders Working With the National Institutes of Health (NIH) […]
Exercise & GI Symptoms: Can intense exercise lead to GI symptoms? Question I am 43 year-old woman and have been increasing my exercise workout intensity greatly over the past year. At the same time, I started to experience diarrhea and heartburn, and I often have to find a bathroom fast. Could my exercise routine be […]
Each year, IFFGD sets forth its legislative priorities and works with legislators in Washington, D.C. to advance policies that impact the study and treatment of chronic gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. These policies are aimed at expanding and improving GI disease research, patient access to care, and prevention and public awareness of GI disease. 2025 Policy Priorities […]
In addition to the Research Award and Research Grant opportunities offered by IFFGD, a few other organizations also offer research funding opportunities:
Dietary fiber is defined as indigestible carbohydrate. It’s classified into soluble (in water) and insoluble fiber – each with specific properties and possible health benefits. Soluble fiber dissolves in water; it forms a gel when water is added to it. Insoluble fiber absorbs liquid and in the intestine it adds bulk to stool. Both types […]
IFFGD was started by one person struggling with the challenges imposed by a chronic GI disorder. Others, from all walks of life, soon joined. We fight to improve the daily lives of persons affected by chronic digestive troubles. IFFGD works to direct public attention to the gastrointestinal (GI) functional and motility disorders. People with symptoms of these disorders don’t always connect […]
Health observance days, weeks, or months are devoted to promoting and raising awareness about particular health concerns. Raising awareness is critical to advance research and improve care for people affected by FGIMDs. The more we spread the word and talk openly about these conditions, the greater our ability to make connections with people who can benefit […]
About Our Advisory Board IFFGD Advisory Board members are chosen based on their demonstrated interest and dedication to advancing the understanding of functional GI and motility disorders for the benefit of patients and the community at large. These members help support our mission which is to inform, assist, and support people affected by gastrointestinal (GI) […]