Health & Fitness
**The Gut Health Podcast**

The Gut Health Podcast explores the scientific connection between the gut, food, mood, microbes and well-being. Kate Scarlata is a world-renowned GI dietitian and Dr. Megan Riehl is a prominent GI psychologist at the University of Michigan and both are the co-authors of Mind Your Gut: The Science-based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS. Their unique lens with which they approach holistic conversations with leading experts in the field of gastroenterology will appeal to the millions of individuals impacted by gut health.

As leaders in their field, Kate and Megan dynamically plow through the common myths surrounding gut health and share evidence-backed information on navigating medical management, nutrition, behavioral interventions and more for those living with or without a GI condition.

The Gut Health Podcast is where science, expertise, and two enthusiastic advocates for wellness come together to help you live your best life.

**Learn more about Kate and Megan at** **www.katescarlata.com** **and** **www.drriehl.com**

Latest Episodes:

Sleeping Smart for Optimal Health with Neurology Expert Cathy Goldstein, MD Oct 02, 2024

Sleep isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. In this episode, we’re exploring the critical connection between sleep, gut health and overall well-being, backed by cutting-edge research. Join us as we welcome Dr. Cathy Goldstein, a renowned professor of neurology at Michigan Medicine and an expert in sleep disorders. Ever wondered why melatonin supplements might not be the solution to insomnia? Dr. Goldstein is here to debunk that myth and highlight the transformative impact of behavioral and lifestyle changes on sleep quality. We’ll also delve into the fascinating links between mental health, sleep, meal timing, and digestion. Plus, you might be surprised to learn that gastroenterologists often detect sleep disorders first, thanks to the unexpected findings during routine colonoscopies.
Discover the current science for treating obstructive sleep apnea and insomnia, with a deep dive into the effectiveness of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and a specialized therapy called, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). Dr. Goldstein explains the significance of sleep hygiene and the vital role that different sleep stages play in our cognitive function and overall well-being. Learn about the impact of circadian rhythms on gut health and sleep, and how late-night eating can wreak havoc on your quality of sleep.
As we navigate through the fascinating relationship between nutrition and sleep, Dr. Goldstein highlights the potential of personalized dietary plans and surprising research regarding supplements and sleep quality. You'll also get practical advice on the limitations and best uses of wearable sleep tracking devices. No matter your age, this episode offers actionable tips to improve sleep at every stage of life. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode packed with expert advice and valuable information to optimize your sleep and overall health.
Read more:

The Role of Gut Microbiome in Sleep Quality and Health: Dietary Strategies for Microbiota Support

Effects of Diet on Sleep: A Narrative Review

Learn more about Kate and Dr. Riehl:
Website: www.katescarlata.com and www.drriehl.com
Instagram: @katescarlata @drriehl and @theguthealthpodcast
Order Kate and Dr. Riehl's book, Mind Your Gut: The Science-Based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS.
The information included in this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider before starting any new treatment or making changes to existing treatment.

From Plate to Performance: Minimizing Digestive Distress During Exercise with Sports Dietitian Leslie Bonci Sep 03, 2024

Experience runner's trots, belly cramping, and/or heartburn and reflux while exercising? You are not alone! Join us in our latest episode featuring the expert insights of Leslie Bonci, a renowned sports dietitian who has worked with top-tier teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Pittsburgh Steelers. Discover why less is often more when it comes to fueling during exercise. Leslie breaks down the myths surrounding fueling for exercise and provides actionable tips to help you train both your gut and muscles for peak performance.
Fueling for endurance performance shouldn't be a one-size-fits-all approach. In this episode, we delve into the importance of carbohydrates and the benefits of customizable, homemade snacks that cater to sensitive stomachs. Not a fan of the overly sweet gels? Leslie shares delicious recipes for savory energy bites (and more) that can keep you going. We also explore the innovative concept of waterless electrolytes, a game-changer for athletes who struggle with high fluid volumes. You'll also hear valuable insights regarding the role of dietitians in crafting tailored nutrition plans.
Athletic success is about more than just physical prowess—it's about holistic health. Leslie emphasizes the importance of maintaining muscle mass, emotional resilience, and a balanced diet! This episode provides key tips for achieving a well-rounded, mindful approach to exercise, along with essential information about nutritional science and stress management. Join us for an enlightening discussion that celebrates the synergy of the mind, the gut, and the foods you eat for optimum athletic performance.

Diarrhea: from C.Diff to IBS-D with Dr. Jessica Allegretti Aug 05, 2024

Not one of us are completely immune to an occasional episode of diarrhea. Whether you can trace it back to something you ate or an uptick in stress, liquid poop is not ideal. Kate and Megan are joined by a giant in the field of gastroenterology, Dr. Jessica Allegretti from Brigham & Women's Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts to do a deep dive discussion into diarrhea.
Together, they discuss the various causes of diarrhea, from common infections and food intolerances to more chronic conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Dr. Allegretti offers valuable insights into the concerns surrounding Clostridium difficile (C. diff) infections and the complexities involved in diagnosing and treating recurrent cases. We also explore cutting-edge research of live biotherapeutic products (LBPs) and their promising role in the innovative area of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) with the guidance of this world-renowned expert.
And, we couldn't discuss diarrhea without acknowledging the potential role of food, stress and the intricate relationship between our gut microbiome and our behaviors. Kate and Megan provide practical tips and tricks to the nutritional and behavioral management of this often times anxiety provoking symptom that leave all listeners feeling empowered with strategies when it comes to the runs.
Whether you've had C.Diff, are managing IBS-D or just curious about this common symptom this episode is a must listen! Tune in for practical insights and valuable strategies to improve your well-being and gut health.
Read more:
Diagnosis and Management of Clostridioides difficile Infection in Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Yale Medicine: C. Diff Infection overview
Approach to the Patient with Diarrhea and Malabsorption

Low FODMAP tools

Diaphragmatic breathing (video by Dr. Megan Riehl)

Everything you need to know about constipation (Guest: Darren Brenner, MD) Jul 01, 2024

Join us on The Gut Health Podcast as we uncover the many facets about constipation with the distinguished gastroenterologist, Dr. Darren Brenner. Think probiotics are the cure for your sluggish digestive system? Think again. Dr. Brenner dispels common myths and reassures us about the safety of stimulant laxatives like Senna and Bisacodyl when used correctly. Together, we'll redefine what it means to be constipated, acknowledging that not everyone needs the "perfectly formed" daily bowel movement to be healthy.
Dive into the often-missed topic of pelvic floor dysfunction and how it contributes to constipation. Dr. Brenner breaks down the complexities of functional defecation disorders and dyssynergic defecation, emphasizing the urgent need for early diagnosis and the role of specialized physical therapy. The conversation doesn't shy away from discussing the significant impact of trauma on pelvic floor health, advocating for open, empathetic communication between patients and providers to create a supportive therapeutic environment.
For those over 45, we highlight red flags in constipation that you shouldn't ignore, from unexplained weight loss to sudden changes in bowel habits. Learn the distinctions between Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) and Intestinal Methanogenic Overgrowth (IMO) and how they can exacerbate your symptoms. Finally, take home practical tips on nutrition, stress management, proper toileting behavior, and the importance of regular exercise. Dr. Brenner even shares his expert strategies to help you maintain great elimination habits, a healthy gut and overall well-being.
Check out some great constipation references/resources below:
The psyllium powder Kate uses is Kate Naturals (not Kate Farms), here is an Amazon link to the product.
Brenner, D et al. Best Practice for the Management of Chronic Idiopathic Constipation and Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation: A Roundtable Discussion and Review. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 117(4S):p S1, April 2022
IBS-C: New & Novel Management: Webinar via Tuesday Night IBS
A multi-disciplinary approach to IBS with constipation.
Axis, A et al Gastroenterology and Endoscopy News, 2024. Emerging Treatments for Chronic Constipation and Defecation Disorders.
Review article: do stimulant laxatives damage the gut? A critical analysis of current knowledge.

Get a Grip on Bloating with Mayo Clinic Gastroenterologist, Brian Lacy, MD, PhD Jun 04, 2024

Bloating can range from mildly annoying to downright painful, can happen for a multitude of reasons and you've likely experienced it! Expert and world-renowned gastroenterologist, Dr. Brian Lacy from Mayo Clinic Jacksonville joins Kate and Dr. Riehl to explore the science behind bloating and abdominal distention. Dr. Lacy breaks down the details of when extraintestinal gas may not be your bloating culprit and how stress and diet can mess with your gut.
Join us as we explore the brain-gut connection and uncover how our mental state can influence digestive symptoms. Discover how stress can turn a sensitive gut into a full-blown uproar of discomfort. By highlighting that these symptoms are not "all in your head," Dr. Lacy helps us navigate the intersection of emotional well-being and physical health. He also emphasizes the importance of diet to manage bloating and why sometimes, eating the healthiest foods can bloat the belly.
Finally, we focus on the often-neglected discussion connecting constipation and bloating. It's time to get acquainted with our pelvic floor muscles and learn why sometimes the best remedy is not another pill but a new understanding of our body's inner workings. Dr. Lacy sheds light on the relief pelvic floor physical therapy can offer and shares actionable tips — from diaphragmatic breathing to abdominal massages — that might just offer the release you've been seeking. So, if you're ready to banish bloating and calm your gut for good, this is an episode not to be missed.
This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx
References to check out:

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO) + the Small Bowel Microbiome with Mark Pimentel MD May 02, 2024

Got excess intestinal gas, bloating and GI distress? Expand your knowledge on the topic of small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) with our guest expert gastroenterologist, Dr. Mark Pimentel. Dr. Pimentel is a true maverick in the field of GI motility and the complexities of the small intestinal microbiome. His team has truly helped pave the way to our understandings of many complex GI conditions, including SIBO and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). He shares insights from novel research happening in the Pimentel Lab, where he serves as the executive director of the esteemed Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, California. We kick off this episode debunking the myth that IBS is a woman's only disorder highlighting the importance of funding research for GI conditions which is essential for ALL.
Ever experience food poisoning? Learn how this may or may not have contributed to your current GI symptoms. We delve into the complexities of diagnosing SIBO with breath testing and examine its evolving credibility. We discuss how current state-of-the-art research is steering us toward more precise, microbiome-friendly treatments.
We conclude with a holistic perspective on managing gut health, with a scientific review of the impact of artificial sweeteners to the up-and-coming tailored approaches needed for conditions like SIBO. We address the critical importance of personalized treatment in the face of medical gatekeeping and underscore the necessity of balance in both diet and lifestyle.

Tune in for an insightful episode that promises to enrich your understanding of the delicate interplay with small intestinal microbes and our digestive system.
And... join our Gut Health Podcast Community! Subscribe and share – your gut will thank you!
This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.
Reference:
Leite G, Morales W, Weitsman S, et al. The duodenal microbiome is altered in small intestinal bacterial overgrowth. PLoS One. 2020;15(7):e0234906. Published 2020 Jul 9. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0234906

Is it IBS? IBS Mimickers Apr 02, 2024

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) impacts more than 45 million Americans and about 1 in 10 globally. So, if you have abdominal pain, diarrhea and/or constipation on a regular basis...you are not alone. We are thrilled to have world-renowned gastroenterologist, Dr. William Chey, on this episode to discuss this diagnosis along with common IBS mimickers. Dr. Chey is the Chief of Gastroenterology at the University of Michigan and a true physician champion for the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to the management of IBS. He discusses how this complex condition, once perceived purely as a psychosomatic disorder, has evolved into a multifaceted syndrome with new and improved treatment methods. Discover the transformative potential of dietary strategies like the low FODMAP diet, the integration of behavioral therapy along with complementary and alternative medicine (like acupuncture) into patient care, as we explore the nuances of treating IBS and its masqueraders.
Dr. Chey sheds light on the enlightening findings from a recent study on disaccharidase deficiencies, particularly the surprising prevalence of sucrase-isomaltase deficiency in IBS patients with diarrhea predominance. Gain insight into the challenges of current testing methods and the role of bile acid malabsorption, which opens the door to a more precise and personalized approach to managing unruly gut symptoms. The conversation steers toward the promise and limitations of breath tests and the significance of a Dream Team approach, blending expertise from various specialists to address the unique needs of each patient.
We also delve into the intricate relationship between small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and bile acid diarrhea, and the innovative work of researchers like Dr. Mark Pimentel. Dr. Chey emphasizes the growing importance of precision medicine in the field of gastroenterology and gut health, highlighting the complexities of diagnosing and treating conditions such as SIBO.
While we share a wealth of knowledge that promises to enlighten both healthcare professionals and individuals navigating the intricacies of IBS and it's common mimickers, you won't want to miss the introduction to a very special guest! Welcome Mabel June Scarlata (hint: she's the Scarlata family's new chocolate lab puppy). Don't forget to subscribe and share – your gut will thank you!
P. S. Find Mind Your Gut: The Science-Based, Whole-Body Guide to Living Well with IBS by Kate Scarlata MPH, RDN and Megan Riehl, PsyD which covers all things IBS along with IBS Mimickers in Chapter 10.
This episode was sponsored by QOL medical and Schar.

The Poop Episode: What's Normal? Mar 08, 2024

Prepare to transform your gut health knowledge as we navigate the sometimes "colorful" details and scientific facts all about bowel movements. That's right, we are talking all about poop with our special guest, renowned Mayo Clinic (in Jacksonville, Florida) gastroenterologist, Dr. Jami Kinnucan. She is an expert in inflammatory bowel disease, among many other extraordinary contributions in the field of gastroenterology and medicine.
With valuable insights from our guest, we cover it all in this episode. From discussing how the hues in your loo can reveal the state of your health to the details of the proper pooping position, we're taking a somewhat embarrassing topic to an informed next level. Dr. Kinnucan breaks down the facts on diet's impact on digestion, the role of stress on your pooping habits, and how to keep your "exit strategy" going strong!
Ever wondered if your poop's performance is up to par? In this episode, we decode the signals of digestive distress and share some humorous anecdotes that promise to change the way you view your daily deed. We tackle everything from cannabis to constipation, ensuring you're equipped with the know-how to interpret your body's messages. Plus, we float the idea (pun intended) of what it means when your stool defies gravity – it's a conversation too buoyant to miss!
Finally, we serve up a fiber-rich feast for thought, dishing out delectable advice for those tricky tummy troubles. Whether you're battling the bloat or seeking solace for your stool, we've got you covered with practical tips for a happier gut. Join our Gut Health Podcast Community as we digest the latest trends, debunk myths, and share a gutful of belly laughs along the way. Don't forget to subscribe and share – your gut will thank you!
This episode was sponsored by QOL medical and Schar.
Episode mentions:
Kate and Dr. Riehl's book
Mind Your Gut: The Science-based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS

Crohn's and Colitis Foundation gut-friendly recipes (These recipes were reviewed by GI dietitians Kelly Issokson and Therezia Alchoufete.
https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/patientandcaregivers/gutfriendlyrecipes

Gut Health Matters Feb 05, 2024

When Kate Scarlata's health teetered during a precarious pregnancy, it was a wake-up call to the importance of nutrition and digestion for gut health and beyond. However, at the time of that pregnancy, very little science-based nutrition support was offered. In today's episode, Kate, along with Dr. Megan Riehl, will guide you through the complex world of the gut microbiome and its fascinating link to not just our physical health, but also, our mental well-being.
Welcome to The Gut Health Podcast. This episode highlights how and why Gut Health Matters!
From the foods that nourish our inner gut microbes to the undeniable brain-gut connection contributing to our emotions, we leave no stone unturned. We're also giving you a peek at the evolution of our own careers in healthcare, revealing how our individual journeys have enhanced our intention and compassion to help those struggling with GI challenges.
With the rise of psychological therapies in the management of GI conditions and the spotlight on diet's role in influencing our inner gut microbes and digestive symptoms, we're here to guide you through the maze of misinformation and provide everyday tips for nurturing your gut ecosystem and digestive well-being.
But it's not all heavy-duty science in this episode; we dive into the day-to-day reality of managing stress and prioritizing overall health. Discover why simple acts like diaphragmatic breathing can be a game-changer for your gut and how embracing regular self-care through nutrition and lifestyle changes could help your health journey.
And as we look ahead to our next episode, we hope you join us as we have the opportunity to ask all the burning questions about something that we all do...poop. We'll explore what your poop reveals about your health with Mayo Clinic Jacksonville gastroenterologist, Dr. Jami Kinnucan.
Join us for the first episode of The Gut Health Podcast as we provide you with practical, real-world strategies to give your gut the love it deserves.
This episode was sponsored by QOL medical and Schar.

Welcome to The Gut Health Podcast Jan 13, 2024

Have you ever wondered how what you eat impacts your energy levels, GI symptoms, mood and the inner microbes that reside in our gut?
The Gut Health Podcast explores the scientific connection between the gut, food, mood, microbes and well-being. Join Kate Scarlata, a world-renowned GI dietitian, and Dr. Megan Riehl, a prominent GI psychologist at the University of Michigan, for holistic conversations with leading experts in the field of gastroenterology.
As leaders in their field, Kate and Megan energetically debunk common myths about gut health while providing evidence-based insights into managing medical care, nutrition, behavioral interventions, and more, whether you have a GI condition or not.
From the foods we eat to the lifestyle choices we make, The Gut Health Podcast will shed light on this important connection between nutrition, behaviors and a healthy gut.
Subscribe today, and get ready to transform the way you approach and enhance your gut health! The Gut Health Podcast launches February 2024.

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