Zahra Tromsness: Registered Dietitian for IBS & SIBO
I am so glad you're here!
I’m a registered dietitian, functional nutritionist, a mom, a wife, and I’m lucky to call beautiful British Columbia, Canada, home.
My connection to gut health started early—childhood digestive issues rooted in trauma I didn’t understand at the time. Years later, as a registered dietitian pursuing advanced studies in immunology and microbiology, those symptoms returned under immense stress: relentless bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, exhaustion.
Most clinicians didn’t have answers. They’d done all they could and suggested it was probably stress.
Eventually, I was diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. That explained so much—the constipation, food sensitivities, fatigue, brain fog. But the diagnosis was just the beginning. I still had to figure out how to actually feel better.
Through targeted nutrition, gut healing protocols, nervous system support, and strategic nutraceuticals, I got my Hashimoto’s into remission. More importantly, I learned what actually works—and what’s a complete waste of time and money.
I’ve been a registered dietitian for over 20 years, with the last decade focused on gut and hormone health. I’ve worked across hospitals, oncology, public health, and private practice in different countries, and I deeply respect conventional medicine and the incredible care it provides.
But I also see where it falls short for chronic conditions. Standard protocols focus on symptom management without addressing the root causes: the gut-thyroid-hormone connections, the microbiome imbalances, the nutrient deficiencies that perpetuate the cycle.
That’s where functional nutrition comes in—not as a replacement for conventional care, but as a complement that fills the gaps.
How I Work With You
Your digestive issues didn’t develop in a vacuum, and they won’t be solved by diet alone.
I use a comprehensive approach, “Biopsychosocial Model (BPS) that looks at the whole picture: what’s happening in your gut (microbiome imbalances, inflammation, motility issues), what’s happening in your body (thyroid function, hormones, nutrient deficiencies, medications), what’s happening in your nervous system (stress, trauma, sleep, the gut-brain connection), and what’s happening in your life (work stress, relationships, food access, time constraints).
All of these factors influence each other. Chronic stress affects your gut motility and microbiome. Gut inflammation affects your thyroid and hormone function. Nutrient deficiencies affect your energy and nervous system. Hashimoto’s affects your digestion. Poor sleep worsens everything.
We start with a thorough assessment: your full health history, current symptoms, testing (bloodwork, breath tests, stool analysis when needed), medications, stress levels, sleep patterns, eating habits, and what you’ve already tried.
From there, I create a personalized plan tailored to your unique situation that addresses your specific root causes—not a generic template. This might include targeted nutrition strategies, gut healing protocols, strategic nutraceuticals (only what you actually need), meal timing and nervous system support, and collaboration with your medical providers when necessary.
The goal isn’t just symptom relief. It’s understanding what’s driving your symptoms, healing the underlying dysfunction, and giving you the tools to maintain that progress long-term—without living in fear of food or being dependent on endless supplements.
You’ll get clear explanations of what’s happening and why, realistic timelines (not false promises), practical strategies that fit your actual life, and ongoing support as your body heals and your needs change.
I don’t use generic protocols or blanket recommendations that ignore your individual biology and circumstances. What I believe in is meeting you exactly where you are—with your symptoms, your story, your frustrations, your goals—and creating a plan that’s actually designed for your body, your life, and what you need to heal. You deserve to feel heard and understood, not just given a handout and sent on your way.
If you’re exhausted from being dismissed, frustrated by half-answers, or simply ready for someone who truly understands—I’m here. And I’m ready to help you find your way back to feeling like yourself again.
My Credentials & Expertise
I’m a registered dietitian with the College of Health and Care Professionals of British Columbia, a Monash-trained IBS and FODMAP Dietitian, and a Certified Digestive Care Advisor with specialized training in functional medicine, gut health, and hormonal health.
My training in functional medicine helps me understand how all systems in the body influence each other, and how to create protocols that address the whole picture, not just isolated symptoms.
Along with my private practice, I work as a clinical instructor at the University of British Columbia, where I have the privilege of supporting the next generation of dietitians. I teach them to think critically, look beyond symptoms, and ask better questions—the same approach I bring to my work with clients.
I’m also an active contributor to gut health research with the Canadian Digestive Health Foundation, which keeps me connected to the latest evidence and ensures my practice stays current with emerging science.
Master of Health Sciences (Health Sciences in Nutrition)
Bachelor of Science (Nutrition Sciences - Dietetics)
Accredited Graduate Dietetic Internship Practicum Program
Monash University FODMAP & IBS trained dietitian
Accredited Practising Dietitian (College of Dietitians of British Columbia)
Certified Digestive Care Advisor
Certificate in Functional Medicine
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