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Nutritional Condition
Discover insights into nutritional conditions and how Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston can help. Explore causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and personalized treatments—from diet plans to advanced procedures—designed to restore health, boost energy, and optimize wellness. Schedule an appointment today.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
What Is a Nutritional Condition?
A nutritional condition occurs when your body doesn't get the right balance of nutrients—whether that means too little protein, vitamins, minerals or calories, or too much of them. Left unaddressed, these imbalances can sap your energy, weaken immunity, and undermine overall health.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Eating too many processed or sugary foods
Digestive disorders such as celiac disease or Crohn's disease
Chronic illnesses like kidney or liver disease
Age-related changes or a fast-paced lifestyle
Medications that interfere with nutrient absorption
Signs and Symptoms
Unexplained fatigue or weakness
Weight loss or gain without changing diet
Hair thinning or brittle nails
Frequent infections or slow wound healing
Bloating, constipation, or diarrhea
Muscle cramps, numbness, or tingling
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He asks detailed questions about your pain (onset, location, triggers), reviews your diet and lifestyle, and checks for risk factors like NSAID use or a history of ulcers.
Laboratory Tests
We draw blood to look for anemia, inflammation (CRP/ESR), liver and pancreatic enzymes, and screen for H. pylori infection.
Imaging Studies
Abdominal ultrasound evaluates your gallbladder, liver, and pancreas for stones, masses, or inflammation.
CT scan of the abdomen may be ordered if biliary or pancreatic disease is suspected.
Endoscopy and Breath Tests
An upper endoscopy lets Dr. Nguyen visualize the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum directly. He can take biopsies to diagnose gastritis, ulcers, or celiac disease. A breath test can also confirm H. pylori overgrowth.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
For persistent or unexplained cases, gastric emptying studies assess motility, while pH monitoring rules out acid reflux. Rarely, specialized biopsies or functional testing are used to pinpoint less common causes.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for nutritional conditions.
1. Diet and Lifestyle Changes
Custom meal plans using fresh, whole foods
Guidance on portion sizes and healthy eating habits
Referral to a registered dietitian if additional support is needed
2. Medications and Supplements
Targeted vitamins and minerals to correct deficiencies
Digestive enzyme support to improve nutrient absorption
Prescription therapies for related gastrointestinal issues
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Feeding tube placement for patients with severe malnutrition
Endoscopy to assess and address underlying digestive tract concerns
Breath and imaging studies to monitor treatment progress
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common nutritional conditions in adults?
Iron-deficiency anemia, low vitamin D, protein-energy malnutrition, obesity, and other vitamin or mineral imbalances are among the most frequent diagnoses.
Can poor diet cause these problems?
Yes. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, or lacking in fresh whole foods often lead to both nutrient deficiencies and excesses over time.
What are typical symptoms?
Signs include fatigue or weakness, unexplained weight loss or gain, hair thinning, brittle nails, frequent infections, and digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea.
How do you diagnose a nutritional condition?
Dr. Nguyen reviews your medical history and diet, performs a physical exam, and orders blood tests. He may also use imaging or breath tests to assess digestion and absorption.
What treatment options are available?
Treatments include personalized meal plans, vitamin/mineral supplements, digestive enzyme support, prescription medications for related GI issues, and advanced procedures when necessary.
Are tests and procedures painful?
Most assessments—such as blood draws or breath tests—are quick and only mildly uncomfortable. Endoscopy or tube placement is done under sedation to ensure comfort.
Do you accept insurance and offer payment plans?
Yes. We accept most major insurance plans and provide flexible payment options to meet your financial needs.
