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:

• Lacy, Brian E. PhD, MD, FACG1; Cangemi, David J. MD1. A Pragmatic Approach to the Evaluation and Treatment of Abdominal Bloating. The American Journal of Gastroenterology 117(5):p 701-705, May 2022. | DOI: 10.14309/ajg.0000000000001665
• Lacy BE, Cangemi D, Vazquez-Roque M. Management of Chronic Abdominal Distension and Bloating. Clin Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2021;19(2):219-231.e1. doi:10.1016/j.cgh.2020.03.056
• Moshiree B, Drossman D, Shaukat A. AGA Clinical Practice Update on Evaluation and Management of Belching, Abdominal Bloating, and Distention: Expert Review. Gastroenterology. 2023;165(3):791-800.e3. doi:10.1053/j.gastro.2023.04.039

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.