The Gut Health Podcast

Kate Scarlata and Megan Riehl
  • 4.9 (98)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

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 Instagram: @Theguthealthpodcast 

  1. MAY 18

    When Your Gut Gets in the Bedroom: Exploring Sexual Health & Intimacy (with expert guest, Alyse Bedell, PhD, CST)

    Part 3 of the Women's Health Series Bloating, gas, urgency, abdominal pain, and that relentless “what if something happens?” loop can turn sex from a close connection into stress fast.  Digestive symptoms can quietly impact some of the most vulnerable parts of our lives...including intimacy, relationships, and self-esteem. And often, the shame surrounding those experiences feels heavier than the symptoms themselves. If you’ve ever pulled away from connection because your gut felt unpredictable, this conversation is for you. In this episode, we’re opening up an honest and empowering discussion about gut health, confidence, and reclaiming intimacy without fear or embarrassment. We dive into this topic with our expert guest, Dr. Alyse Bedell, GI psychologist and Certified Sex Therapist, covering:  • Why digestive functions feel taboo in sexual relationships  • How IBS and IBD symptoms can impact desire, relaxation, and satisfaction  • Myth-busting the idea that sex must be spontaneous to be pleasurable  • Scripts and “reset” strategies for handling symptoms in the moment  • Redefining intimacy so closeness does not always imply intercourse  • Flexible planning around meals, energy, triggers, and symptom patterns  • Partner support that reassures without becoming patronizing  • The circular sexual response cycle and starting from sexual neutrality  • Rebuilding sexual self-esteem with stigma work and acting with "as if” confidence  This episode has been sponsored by Ardelyx.  References:  Ballou S, McMahon C, Lee HN, et al. Effects of Irritable Bowel Syndrome on Daily Activities Vary Among Subtypes Based on Results From the IBS in America Survey. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2019 Nov;17(12):2471-2478.e3.  Fretz KM, Hunker KE, Tripp DA. The Impact of Inflammatory Bowel Disease on Intimacy: A Multimethod Examination of Patients' Sexual Lives and Associated Healthcare Experiences. Inflamm Bowel Dis. 2024 Mar 1;30(3):382-394. doi: 10.1093/ibd/izad106. PMID: 38206426; PMCID: PMC10906359. Wang J, Varma MG, Creasman JM, et al. Pelvic floor disorders and quality of life in women with self-reported irritable bowel syndrome. Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2010;31(3):424-431. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2036.2009.04180.x Dubinsky MC, Potts Bleakman A, Schreiber S, et al.. Impact of moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease on sexual activity: United States and European patient perspectives from the communicating needs and features of IBD experiences (CONFIDE) survey. Curr Med Res Opin. 2025 Jun;41(6):1017-1030. doi: 10.1080/03007995.2025.2530736. Epub 2025 Jul 17. PMID: 40635574. Come As You Are: Revised and Updated: The Surprising New Science That Will Transform Your Sex Life by Emily Nagoski Ph.D.   Becoming Cliterate: Why Orgasm Equality Matters--And How to Get It by Laurie Mintz The American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists (AASECT) (great resources as well as a place to find a certified sex therapist) Give us a follow us on social media @TheGutHealthPodcast, where we'd love for you to share your thoughts, questions, and experiences.  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.

    43 min

  2. MAY 11

    Perimenopause & Menopause: Hormones, Gut Health & Whole-Body Wellness (with guests Drs. Chrisandra Shufelt and Jami Kinnucan)

    Part 2 of the Women's Health Series Your digestion suddenly feels different, your sleep is falling apart, your mood and patience are all over the place — and you start wondering whether it’s stress, aging, or something bigger. Joined by two extraordinary Mayo Clinic experts, Drs. Chrisandra Shufelt and Jami Kinnucan, we pull back the curtain on perimenopause and menopause, explaining how shifting estrogen and progesterone can ripple through the entire body — from constipation and bloating to metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, and even the gut microbiome. Most importantly, this episode reminds women that these changes are real, common, and worthy of attention.   • Defining perimenopause versus menopause as a life stage and why symptoms vary so much  • Linking estrogen and progesterone changes to motility, constipation, bloating, and visceral sensitivity  • Discussing microbiome shifts, dysbiosis, and how gut health may influence estrogen recycling  • Outlining cardiometabolic changes including central weight gain, lipid changes, blood pressure, and insulin resistance  • Clarifying brain fog, sleep disruption, and increased anxiety and depression risk during perimenopause  • Reviewing SSRIs and SNRIs as options that may also reduce hot flashes  • Covering bone loss timing, hormone therapy limits, and when DEXA scanning makes sense  • Summarizing what is known about IBS symptom severity and what is less clear in IBD  • Debunking hormone panels in perimenopause and pointing to menopause-trained clinicians  • Breaking down soy, supplements, placebo effects, and lifestyle factors like weight loss and exercise snacks  • Detailing vaginal estrogen for dryness, painful sex, and recurrent UTIs, including how to use it correctly  This episode has been sponsored by Ardelyx. References for this episode: The 2022 hormone therapy position statement of The North American Menopause Society The association between metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease diagnosis and vasomotor symptoms in midlife women Impact of Menopause and Clinical Considerations in Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease Understanding the sexual concerns of older women presenting for care to women's health clinics: a cross-sectional study Find a Menopause Practitioner: Menopause.org 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.

    54 min

  3. MAY 4

    Endometriosis and IBS: Key Differences, Overlaps, and Diagnosis Tips (with guest Rachelle LaCroix Mallik, MA, RDN)

    Part 1 of the Women's Health Series Endometriosis can show up like a gut disorder, and that confusion keeps many people stuck for years without answers. We map the overlap between endometriosis and IBS, explain what symptoms should raise suspicion, and share practical ways to build a care plan that supports both digestion and quality of life.  • Endometriosis prevalence, symptoms and why it is often missed  • IBS-like symptoms explained, including inflammation, adhesions, and visceral hypersensitivity  • Hallmark signs beyond pelvic pain, including heavy periods, pain with sex, and pain with urination  • Why diagnosis can be delayed and how updated guidance supports symptom-based evaluation plus imaging  • Fertility considerations, diminished ovarian reserve risk, and why early treatment can matter  • Low FODMAP as a short-term tool for GI symptoms, not a cure for endometriosis  • Mediterranean-style and anti-inflammatory eating patterns as a less restrictive foundation  • Stress, sleep, and gut-directed hypnotherapy as nervous-system support for pain and gut symptoms  • Gluten-free and dairy-free myths, plus why celiac screening matters before cutting gluten  • Supplement reality check, when to correct deficiencies, and why third-party testing matters  • The “dream team” approach, including medical doctor, dietitian, pelvic floor physical therapy and mental health support  This episode has been sponsored by Ardelyx. References for this episode: 2023 narrative assessment on gluten and endometriosis 2025 meta-analysis on endometriosis and supplements 2023 UK survey dietitian support for endometriosis Exploring the Nutrition‐Related Healthcare Experiences of Individuals With Endometriosis: Qualitative Interviews With Consumers and Dietitians Rachelle’s delicious spaghetti & meatballs recipe  Find Rachelle Mallik on Instagram Consumer Lab You can also follow us on social media at the Gut Health Podcast, where we'd love for you to share your thoughts, questions, and experiences. 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.

    48 min

  4. APR 15

    Can’t Trust Your Gut? IBS-D Strategies for Fewer Flare-Ups and More Freedom (with guest Beth Rosen, MS, RD)

    Part 2 of the IBS-D Series We sit down with GI dietitian Beth Rosen to talk about her lived experience with IBS-D, and how the absence of a clear diagnosis and effective treatment plan early on led to frustration and unnecessary food restriction.  With the right diagnosis and support, she was able to shift toward a clearer path, building a sustainable, flexible approach to eating and symptom management.  We share real-world strategies for identifying triggers, eating enough without panic, and using gut-brain tools so symptoms don’t run the show. • Beth’s IBS-D origin story after C. diff and the missteps that delayed care • Why “everything looks normal” needs context plus a plan • Building an IBS story document to speed up appointments and strengthen self-advocacy • Common IBS-D triggers and why broad food cuts can backfire • Fructans, lactose, gluten, and the value of a targeted approach • Coffee variables to consider including caffeine dose and acidity • Digestive enzymes as practical support when appropriate • Dining out tactics like menu scouting, calling ahead, and simple safe orders • Travel and social scripts that protect privacy and reduce stress • Beth's IBS toolbox picks: adequate + regular meals, targeted fiber, hydration, modified low FODMAP, gut-brain strategies • Diaphragmatic breathing for urgency (Check out Dr. Riehl's video on diaphragmatic breathing, here.) Other resources from our guest, Beth Rosen MS, RDN: Hot off the press: Gut Goals - the book for IBS patients, by Beth Rosen! The EDGI Training Project - the book and resources for practitioners on the intersection of ED and GI  Learn more about Beth: Beth Rosen's website   This episode has been sponsored by Salix Pharmaceuticals.  Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave us a comment. You can also follow us on social media, instagram @theguthealthpodcast, where we’d love for you to share your thoughts, questions, and experiences.  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.

    34 min

  5. APR 1

    What’s Really Behind IBS-D? Causes, Triggers, and Treatments (with guest Anthony Lembo, MD)

    Part 1 of the IBS-D Series We map out a clear, practical way to understand IBS-D, from what it is, to how clinicians rule out the conditions that can look like it. With Dr. Anthony Lembo, we move from science to real-world next steps so you can feel more confident about diagnosis, treatment options, and hope for improvement.  • How IBS-D is defined using stool form and pain patterns  • When diarrhea needs more workup using alarm features  • Common IBS-D mimickers including celiac disease, IBD, bile acid malabsorption, microscopic colitis, sucrase isomaltase deficiency and Giardia  • What post-infectious IBS may change in the gut including immune activation, permeability, microbiome, and hypersensitivity  • What the L-glutamine permeability study suggests and what remains unknown  • How to approach it  a stepwise treatment IBS-D plan using lifestyle, loperamide, antispasmodics, neuromodulators, rifaximin, and other prescriptions  • Why brain-gut behavioral therapy helps even without severe anxiety or depression  • How we avoid the trap of endless “root cause” chasing with a confident diagnosis  Rome V will include an update of the Rome Criteria (publication available around May 2026).  This episode has been sponsored by Salix Pharmaceuticals.  Follow us on social media, instagram @theguthealthpodcast, where we’d love for you to share your thoughts, questions, and experiences.  References:  Black CJ, Ford AC. An evidence-based update on the diagnosis and management of irritable bowel syndrome. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol. Published online January 21, 2025. doi:10.1080/17474124.2025.2455586 Marasco G, Cremon C, Barbaro MR, Stanghellini V, Barbara G. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology Lectureship Dubai 2022 : Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Diarrhea. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2024;58(3):221-231. Published 2024 Mar 1. doi:10.1097/MCG Congenital Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency: What, When, and How? Foley A, Halmos EP, Husein DM, et al. Adult sucrase-isomaltase deficiency masquerading as IBS. Gut. 2022;71(6):1237-1238. doi:10.1136/gutjnl-2021-326153 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.

    35 min

  6. MAR 1

    Tests Say Normal, IBS Symptoms Say Otherwise (with guests Laurie Keefer, PhD and Darren Brenner, MD)

    Tired of hearing “it’s just stress”?  IBS experts Drs. Laurie Keefer and Darren Brenner join Kate Scarlata and Dr. Megan Riehl to set the record straight on irritable bowel syndrome. IBS is a real, biologically based disorder involving the gut–brain axis, the microbiome, immune function, and nervous system signaling. Understanding how these systems interact reshapes how we diagnose, personalize treatment, and support long-term symptom relief. If you’ve felt dismissed, confused, or stuck in trial-and-error care, this episode will help you feel validated, informed, and empowered with a clearer, science-backed path forward. Together we break down: The value of a positive diagnosis (not endless testing)The impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on gut sensitivity Using diet to support symptom relief without unnecessary food restrictionHow to comprehensively match treatment to your triggersSupport & Professional Resources If you’ve experienced ACEs or trauma and want support from a GI psychologist or trauma-informed provider, these directories can help:  GI Psychology (virtual services available)Rome Foundation GastroPsych Provider DirectoryTrauma-Informed Mental Health Provider DirectoryPartnering with a clinician trained in gut–brain disorders and trauma-informed care can safely address both physical symptoms and nervous system patterns.  Aggeletopoulou et al. Unraveling the Pathophysiology of Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Mechanisms and Insights. Int J Mol Sci, 2025.Keefer L et al. The Role of Resilience in IBS and Other Chronic GI Conditions. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2021.Chang L et al. Sex, Anxiety, and Resilience in the Association Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and IBS. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol, 2025.Dong et al (UCLA Church Lab). Experiences of discrimination are associated with microbiome and transcriptome alterations in the gut. Front Microbiol, 2024.Scarlata K et al. Utilization of Dietitians in the Management of Irritable Bowel Syndrome by Members of the American College of Gastroenterology. Am J Gastroenterol, 2022. How Kate Does It: Low-FODMAP Diet (AJG)This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.  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.

    57 min

  7. FEB 1

    Feed Your Gut: The Fiber Deficit Most of Us Don’t Know We Have (with guest Heather Armstrong, MSc, PhD)

    Fiber isn’t one-size-fits-all and for some people, more isn’t better. In this episode, we explore why most people under-eat fiber, why certain fibers can worsen symptoms, and how to personalize intake in a way your body can actually tolerate. Dr. Heather Armstrong shares emerging insights on fiber function, microbiome capacity, and practical strategies for going low and slow. We also unpack new science explaining why fiber supports gut health in some individuals, while triggering issues in others with reduced fermentative activity.  In this episode, we discuss: • The fiber gap, health risks, and minimum intake targets • How solubility, viscosity, and fermentability guide fiber choice • Matching fiber types to IBS, diarrhea, and constipation • Why whole foods matter more than isolates • Citrus peel pectin and simple kitchen hacks • Why “low and slow” dosing reduces gas and pain • How long microbiome changes and symptom relief actually take • When fiber supplements help (and when they don’t) • Individualized fiber needs in IBD (and implications for IBS, MS, and liver disease) • Why dietitians are essential for precision nutrition This episode is especially relevant if you’ve been told to “just eat more fiber”—and it didn’t go well. Learn more about Dr. Heather Armstrong's novel research: Gut feeling: new test and precision diet could boost health for people with IBD. U of A research team in clinical trials for their innovative AI-powered tool that could reduce inflammation by “rewiring” the gut microbiome. References: Ramezani F, Pourghazi F, Eslami M, et al. Dietary fiber intake and all-cause and cause-specific mortality: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies. Clin Nutr. 2024 Chang SC, Cassidy A, Willett WC, Rimm EB, O'Reilly EJ, Okereke OI. Dietary flavonoid intake and risk of incident depression in midlife and older women. Am J Clin Nutr. 2016  Armstrong HK, Bording-Jorgensen M, Santer DM, et al. Unfermented β-fructan Fibers Fuel Inflammation in Select Inflammatory Bowel Disease Patients. Gastroenterology. 2023 Armstrong H, Mander I, Zhang Z, Armstrong D, Wine E. Not All Fibers Are Born Equal; Variable Response to Dietary Fiber Subtypes in IBD. Front Pediatr. 2021 Gao J, Lee AA, Abtahi S, et al. Low Fermentable Oligosaccharides, Disaccharides, Monosaccharides, and Polyols Diet Improves Colonic Barrier Function and Mast Cell Activation in Patients With Diarrhea-Predominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome: A Mechanistic Trial. Gastroenterology.  This episode is sponsored by Activia. 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.

    56 min

  8. JAN 1

    Miracle or Misused? Benefits, Risks, and Responsible Use of GLP-1s (with guest Supriya Rao, MD)

    Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) can transform metabolic health, but only with smart dosing, adequate dietary protein, regular strength training, and mental health support.  In this episode, we explore how GLP-1 medications work in the brain and gut, why metabolic health is more than BMI or a weight on the scale, and how to use these drugs safely. Our expert guest, gastroenterologist, Dr Supriya Rao shares practical dosing, side effect strategies, and what makes results stick. • Defining metabolic health beyond BMI and weight • How GLP-1s reduce appetite and slow gastric emptying • Healthy weight loss pace and preserving lean muscle • Practical + science-backed dosing and individualized titration • The unknown risks of compounding and microdosing • Managing nausea, reflux, and constipation • Diet shifts: smaller meals, more fiber, adequate protein • Mental health, body image, and stigma in care • Durability of results and maintenance dosing • New indications: MASH (metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis), sleep apnea, cardiovascular protection • Building an educated care team References/Resources: Tzang CC, Wu PH, Luo CA, Chen ZT, Lee YT, Huang ES, Kang YF, Lin WC, Tzang BS, Hsu TC. Metabolic rebound after GLP-1 receptor agonist discontinuation: a systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine. 2025 Nov 28;90:103680.  Ghusn W, Hurtado MD. Glucagon-like Receptor-1 agonists for obesity: Weight loss outcomes, tolerability, side effects, and risks. Obes Pillars. 2024;12:100127. Published 2024 Aug 31.  Moiz A, Filion KB, Tsoukas MA, Yu OHY, Peters TM, Eisenberg MJ. The expanding role of GLP-1 receptor agonists: a narrative review of current evidence and future directions. EClinicalMedicine. 2025 Jul 17;86:103363.  Integrated Gastroenterology Consultants (Dr. Supriya Rao's practice site) Book: The GLP-1 Kitchen: A Cookbook for Living Well on Weight Loss Medications Escobar S-N et al. (contains affiliate marketing link) 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.

    47 min
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About

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 Instagram: @Theguthealthpodcast 

Information

  • Creator
    Kate Scarlata and Megan Riehl
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    35
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 © Kate Scarlata and Megan Riehl
  • Show Website
    The Gut Health Podcast

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