Our studies
Ascend researchers lead groundbreaking studies that highlight the role nutrition can play in the prevention, management and treatment of digestive diseases.
Meditation and Yoga for Irritable Bowel Syndrome (MY-IBS) Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Maitreyi Raman
Description: The Meditation and Yoga for IBS (MY-IBS) Study is an online 8-week yoga program. This program is focused on meditation and breathwork, with some postures. No previous experience is necessary.
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Peace Power Pack Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Puneeta Tandon
Description: The Peace power pack is an online, 12-week stress reduction program designed specifically for people living with IBD. Through this study, we hope to further understand the link between stress and IBD, and empower patients with tools to help them better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.
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Ulcerative Colitis and Sulfur
Lead Researcher: Dr. Maitreyi Raman
Description: This study involves a nutritional intervention for patients who are in an ulcerative colitis flare to test if avoiding certain foods can help improve conditions at a faster rate.
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Crohn’s Disease Therapeutic Dietary Intervention (TDI)
Lead Researcher: Dr. Maitreyi Raman
Description: This is a 12-week therapeutic diet intervention in Crohn’s disease patients who are currently experiencing a flare of their disease.
Provincial Intestinal Failure Clinic Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Leah Gramlich
Description: A provincial study designed to identify the best outcome measurements to track patients with malnutrition so that they can receive consistent and evidence-based treatments.
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Malnutrition Clinic Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Maitreyi Raman/Dr. Leah Gramlich
Description: By utilizing malnutrition clinics for patients with cirrhosis, IBD and intestinal failure in Calgary and Edmonton, this study aims to evaluate the impact of nutrition intervention. Specifically, the study will focus on impacts related to quality of life, infections, hospitalizations and mortality.
Inquire about this study: Dr. Maitreyi Raman/Dr. Leah Gramlich
The “Heal-Me” Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Puneeta Tandon
Description: It is well-known that leading a healthy lifestyle can help control and manage cirrhosis. Oftentimes patients have difficulty accessing resources to help them do so, but digital and online solutions can help address this issue. This study involves the development of a mobile app designed to improve nutrition, physical activity and quality of life in patients with cirrhosis.
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Inpatient Cirrhosis Study
Lead Researcher: Dr. Puneeta Tandon
Description: This study examines the nutrition and physical activity status of cirrhosis inpatients during their hospital stay. Based on these results education sessions and print resources will be offered, along with a new standardized Connect Care orderset for cirrhosis patients, to promote optimal nutrition and mobilization during a hospital stay. After the education and print resources are offered we plan to identify if the education program and standardized order set improves patient nutrition and mobilization during their hospital stay.