Success Stories

I’m finally off medications

Sandy W

My Journey to A Pain Free Life

Approximately, one year ago I was experiencing severe chest pains, bloating, nausea, belching, fatigue, brain fog, lack of sleep, and decreased motivation. I have always had GERD and had been treated with PPIs, but they were not working and instead I was experiencing nausea every time I took the PPIs. Additionally, years ago, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia.

I visited my internal medicine (IM) physician, and he referred to cardiology to rule out heart disease and instructed me to report to ER if I continued to experience chest pains. The cardiologist performed an echocardiogram and a stress test, all results were negative for heart disease. I verbalized to the doctors that I was sure it had something to do with my stomach. A physician assistant informed me of nutritionist expert, Julie.

Also, my IM physician referred me to the gastrointestinal clinic (GI) where they started me on new GERD drugs, which did not work, and an endoscopy and colonoscopy procedure was ordered.

The results of the procedure indicated that some gastritis was noted in my stomach, but other than that all was within normal limits. The doctor offered me some antidepressants; he stated these drugs would help in relaxing the intestines and decrease the symptoms of abdominal discomfort. He also diagnosed me with IBS. I declined the antidepressants at that time and stopped taking all PPIs because they were not working for me.

I contacted nutritionist, Julie Bender, and after reviewing my complaints and all medical treatments I had, she ordered a stool and SIBO test because she was sure that the symptoms that I was experiencing was related to SIBO; the test was positive for SIBO, and the stool noted much inflammation, leaky gut, and other abnormal results. I provided the GI physician with a printout of my results. He agreed to order me on the appropriate antibiotics to treat the SIBO and I took the antibiotics together with all other supplements Julie had recommended, along with a diet change.

I noticed a change in my health immediately after changing my eating habits, medication, and supplements. I began to feel motivated, energetic; fibromyalgia symptoms were relieved and all other symptoms of chest pains, bloating, etc. are finally gone. Additionally, my sleep patterns are much better.

Today, a year later, I continue to live a pain free life, I’m full of energy, and I feel like a new person. I do have some bloating now and then, but I ask myself, what did I eat yesterday. Yes, Julie also taught me to listen to my body, change what I eat, especially food that will cause the SIBO to return. Julie has dramatically improved my health and life for the better. Thank you, Julie.

The only negative thing, if any, is that, unfortunately, health insurance companies do not cover visits to a dietitian like Julie or cover advanced labs; I had to pay for this service.

I highly recommend Julie to my family and friends. She is caring, a good listener, understanding, and very knowledgeable. She provided OUTSTANDING service.

Maria

Julie helped me navigate through a SIBO diagnosis that traditional medical professionals seem to know little about.

Nancy KG

I met with Julie and within a week or so she had me moving toward my goals

I sought out Julie for gastrointestinal problems; namely constipation. I saw 3 gastro doctors prior to consulting Julie, and none of them could help me. Their only suggestion was to take MiraLAX for the rest of my life, which sounded like a bad idea to me.

I met with Julie and within a week or so she had me moving toward my goals! It took a good two months for everything to be working 100% again, but it was worth the work and waiting.

I learned so much from Julie! Specifically, I was not eating enough fiber, did not have enough variety in my diet, and eating too much of foods that I always thought were good for me. An example of a food that I always thought was good for me – big raw salads. I learned that cooked vegetables were more friendly to my digestive system.

Julie put me on several supplements along with eating guidelines. She had me on a PreBiotic product for a while but I was able to discontinue that once my gut was restored. My gut was truly restored, which seemed like a miracle to me. The supplements she suggested I continued to stay on, and have no plans to discontinue them.

I cannot recommend Julie highly enough. She is extremely knowledgeable, and so kind! She was really interested in my well being, and I was able to email her and receive answers to my questions between appointments.

I was reluctant in the beginning of our sessions, and really doubted I would have a good outcome. But I can say Julie really helped me a great deal. Not only did she correct my problem, but I also lost weight ( I was not overweight, but always wanted to lose a couple of pounds), and she improved my cholesterol, which was not one of the things we did not even address.

All in all, a great experience, and I highly recommend Julie!

Jean

You need Julie on your team!

I initially reached out to Julie to help design an eating plan that would address persistent bloating, help with weight loss goals ….all while taking into account high cholesterol and histamine sensitivity. Within 3 months, thanks to Julie’s expert guidance and coaching, I started to feel like a different person. The bloating disappeared, I had more energy, I was making headway with all my goals and overall was much happier with my diet.

Coincidentally while we were working together, I developed “IBS” type symptoms following overseas travel – routine labs and tests came back normal so I was so thankful to have Julie as a resource to turn to. I followed her recommendation to test for SIBO and when it came back positive she provided a precise treatment protocol and as a result I have been symptom free for two months.

It’s been such a pleasure to work with Julie this past year. She’s on your side every step of the way, won’t let you go without an agreed “game plan”, never gives up and addresses any and all questions in between sessions via her patient portal – in record speed moreover! Don’t hesitate for a second to work with her, you will not regret it.

Andrea

Bloating, brain fog, and extra weight is gone…and I feel better than I have in years!

Janis Hoffman

Blessed to work with Julie to dramatically improve my health

I was diagnosed with microscopic colitis in December which rapidly resulted in malabsorption of food and loss of 10 pounds in one month. I felt miserable from this gastrointestinal condition and also experienced lack of energy, sleeping most of the day. A gastroenterologist placed me on a very restrictive diet and a two-month course of steroids. This helped some but near the end of this treatment I was still distressed from the colitis. I realized I needed help from a nutritionist since I had difficulty digesting most foods and I didn’t know what I could eat.

Luckily for me, I was referred to Julie and she has helped dramatically improve my health. I was initially very impressed by her education and credentials as well as her own personal struggle with gut health. She began with testing to see where I was deficient in various nutrients and my gut microbiome. She was able to recommend different supplements, guiding me with an appropriate meal plan, and educating me with her extensive knowledge in nutrition. I appreciated her respect for my needs and her teamwork approach. She has given me hope and inspiration that I would get better which has comforted me. After several months of working with Julie, I feel incredibly better and look forward to continue working with her as I heal. Her approach to care is so much more than I ever expected and I am blessed to have been referred to her.

JS

I found hope and results!

I battled GERD, constipation, low energy, weight gain, joint pain, and numerous digestive issues for many years and my doctors’ solutions were to keep prescribing more meds. Ultimately, the medications worsen my symptoms, so I sought outside help and remarkably, I found Julie! Thanks to her knowledge, insights, experience, and coaching, she has positively turned my life around!

She helped me heal my “insides” by introducing me to supplements and dietary changes that have helped heal the damage from years of medications, poor food choices and my environment. I’m still a work in progress but since working with her, I have lost the extra weight, gained more focus and energy, am eating healthier and have dramatically weaned off acid reflux meds. Julie is responsive, positive and 100% invested in her patients. I’m extremely grateful and forever indebted to her!

WAD

Thank You * Thank You * Thank You Julie!!

Kimberly Lovo

I FEEL DECADES YOUNGER

For most of my life, I have struggled with constipation. I’ve used anything that I could to help ease the problem… prescriptions, over the counter products, homeopathic and homemade options. In 2020, I finally was given a diagnosis of IBS, and started taking the mediation, Linzess. This wasn’t making me feel better, so I sought a nutritionist with a high success rate.

When I started working with Julie, my goal was to have a healthy gut with regular bowel movements. Secondly, I was hoping to reduce my BMI. I already had been on a mostly plant based diet and worked out regularly, but I couldn’t seem to budge the weight. Reluctantly, I followed the recommended supplements and specific dietary requirements. I didn’t feel deprived and am glad that there are many foods I loved (even unlimited). I added in massage therapy with visceral manipulation and cranial sacral therapy and did specific exercises daily. This has improved multiple ailments that I’ve struggled with for decades.

It’s taken almost six months, and daily commitment, but I’m amazed that my bowel movements are now regular and I seldom strain. I’m below a weight that I thought I’d never see again. I’m more agile, stronger and have more endurance. I feel decades younger. This was the best self-care and results oriented program I could have hoped for!

Becky StPeirre

Our collaboration has made a significant difference in the quality of my life

I highly recommend Julie. I have worked with her close to 1 year as of April 2021. My goals were to lower my cholesterol significantly, eat more healthfully, regain vitality, and address adrenal and thyroid concerns. She is knowledgeable, has a sense of humor, and really shows up as a true partner on your health journey. Julie has gone above and beyond for me on many occasions and most significantly, she cares.

I can truly say that our collaboration has made a significant difference in the quality of my life. It is still a work in progress, but I have made great progress on the goals listed above with Julie. I am less tired, have lowered my cholesterol, learned how to eat in a way that helps me stay full, have less fatigue and more energy.

Along the way, I have learned a lot and truly believe in the power of supplements. She remains a trusted practitioner on my health support team.

N.V.

I finally see a light for the first time in a very long time.

Deanna

I feel like there is a light at the end of the tunnel

I was at my wits end after a year of suffering with GERD and SIBO when I finally was advised to work with a dietitian. I had gone to several doctors who only had more medications to offer me. Julie’s name was given to me by a nurse who knew many of her patients were seeing Julie and experiencing good results.

Two months ago I was at my lowest point with no expectations of ever feeling well again. The GERD was so bad that I was not able to exercise. I had lost a substantial amount of weight over the past year and did not know the reason and how to reverse it. I didn’t know what diet to follow – SIBO diet or GERD diet, so I kept on going from one to the other.

After my first meeting with Julie a calmness took over my mind and body. I had direction with a very specific diet, supplements and access to a portal that provided instructions and directions after each visit that was easy to follow. Julie always responds very quickly to any concerns that I have.

Now two months later I do feel better. My symptoms of GERD have lessened, and I am working on getting rid of SIBO. The best part is that I have begun to exercise again.

I feel like there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Thank you Julie

Rina Silverstein

My gut is healing

JB

I am back to my old self!

Jentry Yake

Thankful for her guidance to help get rid of SIBO

Mark D.

Julie has been a valuable resource for my gastroenterology patients

I am a recently retired Sarasota gastroenterologist. I met Julie several years ago and quickly recognized that she had the knowledge and empathy to help me manage some of my most challenging patients. We rapidly developed a very beneficial professional relationship and as a result she has been my go-to trusted nutritionist for many patients, with very gratifying results. We often used each other’s expertise to provide patients with treatment options using complementary strategies. She is extremely knowledgeable in all aspects of patient care and provides patients with personalized treatment plans incorporating appropriate testing, food plans and supplements. I wish more of my colleagues would recognize the benefit of this multi-faceted approach and use Julie as the valuable resource she has proven to be for many of my patients.

Dr. Isaac Kalvaria

I’m finally myself after chemo

When I first met with Julie, I was exhausted, was unable to sleep well, experienced dryness all over my body, was dizzy, and had horrible brain fog. I had undergone chemo several years ago and felt it completely “tanked me.” Julie taught me the importance of certain foods and nutrients essential to meet my health needs and we also did a micronutrient test with Spectracell, which greatly helped determine the particular nutrients I was lacking in. Julie helped balance my micronutrient levels as well as my hormones which helped my brain to come alive and function again. Now I feel great and have good energy levels from the time I rise until bedtime. I am no longer dizzy or dry everywhere and I can sleep and drive and function like I used to! Thank you Julie for giving me my life back!

Lisa B.

I Finally Have Answers & Relief!

Julie is a miracle worker! I have been a chronic suffer of digestive issues since I was a teenager. In my 62 years I have seen at least 20 Gastroenterologists, none of which could ever pinpoint my conditions. Everyone always labeled my issues as IBS, with no conclusive testing or treatment other than prescription medications, which over the years have made my condition worse. After my first phone consultation with Julie, I knew she understood my issues. At my initial appointment she was prepared with a wealth of information about what could be the root cause of my digestive distress. She recommended testing, change of diet, elimination of certain medications, and outlined a program that was easy for me to follow, including recipes that are delicious. When the tests results came back conclusive of my disease, I was shocked that my Gastroenterologists had never even thought to test these simple, easy tests. I was treated with an antibiotic (by my Gastroenterologist), added supplements, and made changes to my diet. In the past three months, Julie has changed my life. Digestive issues are not simple and everyone’s are different, but Julie has the knowledge and compassion to help patients who are suffering.

RR

I kicked my sugar cravings in just a few days!

MO

I have my life back

I met Julie in the fall of 2017. I have been diagnosed over the years with IBS-C, GERD, Diverticulitis, Gastroparesis and SIBO. I retired 5 years ago and have met with many gastroenterologists who did nothing to help me other than put me through diagnostic tests and prescribe multiple prescriptions, none of which really changed anything. I was even told that I needed to have my colon removed……I finally I met a wonderful gastroenterologist who helped put me on a better path. He helped me to understand my conditions and how they were all connected and sent me to Julie.

Working with her has been life changing for me; her understanding of these gut problems and her extensive knowledge of natural supplements and diet modifications has enabled me to not only control but to drastically improve and reduce my GI symptoms and conditions. I have been able to stop taking some of the long term drugs I was on which were actually making some of these problems worse, not better. I learned more from her after just our first visit than I ever knew about these kinds of issues. Everyone else seemed content to give me a new pill and send me on my way.

I can now honestly say that I feel as though I have my life back; my gut is functioning better than it has in years; I know how to eat “normal” healthy foods and avoid those that will trigger problems. I can enjoy going out with friends and family; I have more energy and generally feel like a healthier and stronger person. I will always be indebted to Julie for her patience, knowledge and compassion………she is truly amazing!

Madi Portugal

You Have Changed My Life!

Barbara

Thankful to Have a Happy Gut & Be Medication Free! The Journey is Worth it…

I’m very thankful for Julie. For years I dealt with doctors who put me on meds that treated symptoms but actually made my conditions worse, until one gastroenterologist was forward thinking enough to recommend a consult with Julie. She immediately encouraged me to wean off the drugs that were not providing relief (with my MD support). We did some additional testing to figure out what was causing underlying problems, and started me on a natural path to healing with supplements and diet modifications. Within a couple of weeks my constipation was gone and now, after a few months, I’m on the road to recovery. I am no longer afraid of food, as I’ve found new, healthy, and delicious alternatives. I also take no medications at all. Nutrition therapy isn’t a quick fix, but if you want to feel better and get to the root cause of your symptoms, I highly recommend seeing Julie. She truly cares about your health.

Robin R.

I am losing weight, confident, and have a positive outlook.

MH

I Have A Better Life Back after Overcoming Gastroparesis and SIBO

Prior to working with Julie, I was diagnosed with gastroparesis and SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth). I lost 25 pounds off a frame that was already on the thin side and was very sick. I was nauseous, in pain, had no energy, and was virtually homebound.

When I began working with Julie, I finally felt like I had someone on my side who really understood what I was going through. She had an abundance of information and steps to take to get better. Not only did I learn how to make food my friend again, but learned that getting well also required coping with stresses in my life.

Five months later, I am doing well! I have gained 11 pounds and have regained my strength. I am back playing golf and am volunteering several days a week at places that require moderately strenuous activities. I can eat confidently, even in a restaurant. While some days are a struggle, I am continuing to improve day by day. Not only do I have my original life back, I have a better life back!

Louise

I am Finally “Living Again”…With Improved Health

Susan

On the Road to Recovery …Nutrition Therapy is an Essential Part of Healthcare!

My issues began with symptoms of constant diarrhea, fatigue, stomach cramps, feeling full quickly and poor digestion and absorption of my food which lead to significant weight loss. This was soon after discontinuing many years of a PPI (acid reducer) with history of GERD and a fundoplication. While out of town, I received emergency care and was sent home without any diagnosis and a round of antibiotics. Upon returning to Sarasota, my GI doctor unavailable and I continued a downward slide of symptoms and weight loss. Julie was recommended to me and she took me quickly learning of my symptoms. After recording all the info she needed, we began a program of clinical recovery while she obtained access to a GI doctor on my behalf.

I experienced immediate improvement as soon as I followed Julie’s instructions. After much testing, a diagnosis was obtained of pancreatic insufficiency and likely gluten intolerance. As the severity of the symptoms subsided, I knew I had the right team.

Through all of my discussions with Julie, I learned about the importance of a balanced, healthy gut microbiome and understood the consequences of the imbalance. My experience also demonstrated the importance of a healthy diet as prescribed by Julie.

I am now on the road to recovery by following Julie’s recommendations for diet, supplement, and lifestyle interventions. I am aware of my situation and the possible outcomes. As I learned about the gut microbiome, I noticed the benefits of getting and keeping it healthy as I became aware of some symptoms of imbalance that disappeared as I improved.

With Julie’s kind and gentle direction as well as availability to hold my hand and walk me through the steps to recovery, answering all my questions thoroughly, I am now able to act more calmly, enjoy healthy meals, stabilize my weight, and have lost interest in foods such as sugar, most dairy and the unhealthy forms of grains. Julie didn’t just provide instruction and guidance but explanation of future challenges that could occur.

Nutrition therapy is an essential part of healthcare and it does not get any better than working with Julie

Roger Barkin D.D.S.

Empowered and Encouraged to Understand Food Best for My Body

Amber

Weight Loss Begins with Healing the Gut

Ann S.

Freedom from Food Cravings for Good

L.M.

Out in the Community Sharing Her Passion

Ashley – Celiac Support Group Leader (Sarasota)

Compassion and Empathy through Complex Health Issues

Julie Bender is the best nutrition consultant I have ever met. I have a complex set of medical issues-food sensitivities, irritable bowel syndrome, connective tissue disease, and inflamed joints. I do not know how she knew where to begin! But begin she did. Starting with testing and journaling my food intake. She works methodically, like a detective. After a few weeks, she led me to the office of a G.I. doctor with the promise that he was a great diagnostician…and he has played a vital role in my recovery. Julie truly is gifted with amazing intuition, passion for her work, and an authentic empathy and compassion that makes working with her so rewarding. Rewarding in the sense that I have my hope back that through our joint effort, I will finally feel like my old healthy self again. In today’s healthcare system it is easy to become disheartened. But with Julie, you will find a true professional, who is knowledgeable, competent and caring, all in one package! I give her five stars and tons of gratitude!

Diana Brady

Energy from 0 to Almost 10…Medication Free!

When I found out I had gastroparesis, I was overwhelmed and had no idea how or what I was going to eat. I was lucky enough to find Julie. She listened and completely understood my illness and how to help me through this disease. The doctor had given me a prescription for Domperidone, and I was not happy about taking medication and four more pills a day, and knew I did not want to stay on this medication for life!

Julie helped me accomplish the goal of getting off the medication with a new way of eating and supplements to help with my digestion. I am very active and knew I needed the proper food to keep me active. When I met Julie I was a “0” when it came to energy and now I have almost regained my energy and stamina. Julie has helped me find foods that I can tolerate and has helped me realize the right balance of nutrients I need. I know that I would not be where I am today without Julie. She will be my “go to person” for a long time. Thank you so much Julie, you are an angel.

Linda Lee Foster Paul, lindaleefoster.com

Weight Loss with a Personalized Plan

David

Freedom from Gastroparesis, Renewed Energy

I have struggled with severe GERD and gastroparesis for the last 10 years. No drugs helped. I didn’t digest past 3 pm and felt full and bloated. I got progressively more ill- cognitive impairment, fatigue, severe abdominal pain. Eating very poorly and very discouraged, I sought out Julie who was highly recommended. She listened and understood gastric problems; she gave me hope. I did everything she recommended. I feel so much better just 3-4 months later. My gut is really healing; my gastroparesis is healing; I can eat real food! I don’t have pain or fullness, and I have energy! I am not afraid of food and I’m experimenting. I continue to see Julie and make changes. Julie is skilled, knowledgeable, understanding… she seeks answers and provides solutions. Working with Julie is the best investment one could ever make.

Mary Callow

Embracing Change, Leads to Healing and Opportunity

I love to eat and I love cook. I even plan vacations around the dining experience. But for over a decade, I was suffering with progressively worsening health issues. What began as severe digestive tract problems eventually grew to ear infections, fatigue, joint and muscle pain, sinus problems, headaches, hives and rashes. I was going from doctor to doctor to treat individual symptoms, but I was not getting any relief. No one had an answer. I tried to live with it, but soon I was becoming malnourished since food was not being absorbed properly. Finally, about five years ago, it was suggested that I might have food allergies. I completed an immune blood print and found I had over 30 food allergies, intolerances and sensitivities. Although I was relieved to discover their actually was a reason for all my health issues, I absolutely panicked. No more onions, tomatoes, garlic, gluten, yeast, eggs, cow dairy, peanuts, bananas, white potatoes. The list went on and on. What was I going to eat for myself and how could I possible cook for my family and friends?

Armed with my list of allergies, I went to see Julie. She calmed my panic, suggested food substitutions, and taught me how to eat a balanced diet even though so many foods were now eliminated from my diet. She taught me about hidden foods and food families. I learned about the dangers of cross-contamination. Most important, she told me, “You can do this.” And she was right!

Now that I know to stay away from foods that are toxic to me, I am so happy to report that I am healthy and happy. I learned how to cook in ways that were safe for me and delicious tasting for family and friends. I recently just published a cookbook, ‘LICIOUS: Floribbean Recipes for Those with Multiple food allergies and those that just love delicious food. I wanted to make it easy for those who have just been diagnosed with multiple food allergies so they would not have to go through all the work I did. I truly could not have done it without Julie! She literally saved my life!!

Cookbooks are available through Amazon.com.; cookbooksforsale.com; or by contacting me directly at Donna Wolfson, donnawolfson@gmail.com or calling 941-924-7675

Donna Wolfson

Hope and New Lease on Life

Susan

Relief and Freedom from Gut Dysfunction

I first went to Julie in December 2016 because of a 2-year-long battle with IBS, diverticulosis, gastritis, GERD, and sorely inflamed intestines. I was bloated and exhausted and depressed. I was at a complete loss of how to help my body. Working with her for these past 8 months has brought about a complete change in my diet, metabolism, energy, knowledge of foods, and eating habits. I am now out of pain, eat wonderful foods, have lost weight, am no longer bloated, and I feel my energy returning. Julie has made ALL the difference in my health. She doesn’t try to push supplements or make money off me. “You are what you eat!”—And Julie knows what is in every type of food, and which ones will help for your particular problems and which you should avoid. I am awed by her knowledge of nutrition and diet. She is the BEST!!

Barbara L.

Have a Success Story of your Own?

I’m finally off medications

My Journey to A Pain Free Life

Julie helped me navigate through a SIBO diagnosis that traditional medical professionals seem to know little about.

I met with Julie and within a week or so she had me moving toward my goals

You need Julie on your team!

Bloating, brain fog, and extra weight is gone…and I feel better than I have in years!

Blessed to work with Julie to dramatically improve my health

I found hope and results!

Thank You * Thank You * Thank You Julie!!

I FEEL DECADES YOUNGER

Our collaboration has made a significant difference in the quality of my life

I finally see a light for the first time in a very long time.

I feel like there is a light at the end of the tunnel

My gut is healing

I am back to my old self!

Thankful for her guidance to help get rid of SIBO

Julie has been a valuable resource for my gastroenterology patients

I’m finally myself after chemo

I Finally Have Answers & Relief!

I kicked my sugar cravings in just a few days!

I have my life back

You Have Changed My Life!

Thankful to Have a Happy Gut & Be Medication Free! The Journey is Worth it…

I am losing weight, confident, and have a positive outlook.

I Have A Better Life Back after Overcoming Gastroparesis and SIBO

I am Finally “Living Again”…With Improved Health

On the Road to Recovery …Nutrition Therapy is an Essential Part of Healthcare!

Empowered and Encouraged to Understand Food Best for My Body

Weight Loss Begins with Healing the Gut

Freedom from Food Cravings for Good

Out in the Community Sharing Her Passion

Compassion and Empathy through Complex Health Issues

Energy from 0 to Almost 10…Medication Free!

Weight Loss with a Personalized Plan

Freedom from Gastroparesis, Renewed Energy

Embracing Change, Leads to Healing and Opportunity

Hope and New Lease on Life

Relief and Freedom from Gut Dysfunction

FREE Gut Assessment

Find out how healthy your gut is — what you find out may surprise you!

Find out how healthy your gut is —
what you find out may surprise you!