GiHF Medcast

What’s new in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) management, and how are emerging therapies, digital health innovations, and personalized medicine shaping the future of GI care? In this episode of the Gut Feelings Podcast, gastroenterology experts Dr. Brennan Spiegel of Cedars-Sinai and Dr. Leila Neshatian of Stanford University discuss the latest advancements in IBS diagnosis, treatment, and patient-centered care. From emerging pharmacological therapies and gut-directed cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to virtual reality-based digital therapeutics, they explore evolving approaches to managing IBS symptoms and improving patient outcomes. The conversation also highlights the growing importance of biomarkers and personalized treatment strategies for IBS subtypes, including IBS with constipation (IBS-C), IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D), and mixed IBS (IBS-M). Additionally, the experts examine the potential role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in gastrointestinal motility, their impact on symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and nausea, and emerging research into their potential applications in IBS-related abdominal pain. They also discuss the importance of assessing quality of life as a measure of treatment success, addressing challenging symptoms such as bloating, and incorporating a holistic, biopsychosocial approach to disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBIs). Finally, discover how artificial intelligence (AI), digital health technologies, and advances in biomarker identification may help transform IBS diagnosis, patient phenotyping, and individualized treatment decisions. Tune in for expert perspectives on the evolving landscape of IBS management and the future of personalized gastroenterology care.

In this episode, Joan Chen, MD, of the University of Michigan, and Ofer Fass, MD, of Northwestern Medicine, review the latest developments in eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management. The discussion explores emerging EoE therapies, including the investigational, locally administered corticosteroid EP-104GI, as well as new research evaluating dupilumab in patients with severe fibrostenotic disease, esophageal narrowing, and treatment-refractory EoE. Drs. Chen and Fass also examine the rising incidence and prevalence of eosinophilic esophagitis, highlighting recent epidemiologic data and the need for greater awareness among referring clinicians. Additional topics include current biopsy recommendations, transnasal endoscopy, the potential role of peripheral blood eosinophil counts as a less invasive diagnostic signal, and the importance of monitoring histologic, endoscopic, and symptomatic disease activity. Looking ahead, the experts discuss personalized EoE care, multidisciplinary collaboration, shared decision-making, and emerging biologic therapies that may provide additional options for patients who do not respond to existing treatments. This educational podcast offers practical insights for healthcare professionals seeking to stay informed about evolving EoE research and the future of eosinophilic esophagitis management.

At GI ReConnect, Dr. Dakesh Patel and registered dietitian Kate Scarlata dive into the overlooked role of carbohydrate maldigestion, malabsorption, and intolerance in patients experiencing common gastrointestinal symptoms such as gas, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Drawing on their recent publication in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, they break down how deficiencies in enzymes like lactase, sucrase, maltase, and isomaltase can disrupt carbohydrate breakdown and trigger IBS-like symptoms. The discussion explores the distinctions between maldigestion, malabsorption, and intolerance, the influence of gut microbiota, and the importance of considering carbohydrate intolerance as a trigger for IBS. They also highlight emerging diagnostic approaches, the role of diet—including low-FODMAP strategies—and enzyme replacement therapies to improve patient outcomes while maintaining nutritional balance. Whether you’re a gastroenterologist, dietitian, or patient seeking to understand the science behind carbohydrate intolerance, this session offers practical insights into managing digestive health.

Join leading pediatric IBD experts Dr. Joel Rosh, Cohen Children’s Medical Center, Dr. Sandra Kim, Cleveland Clinic, Dr. Judith Kelson, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and Dr. Jeffrey Hyams, Connecticut Children’s Medical Center, for an in-depth roundtable on the complexities of diagnosing and managing inflammatory bowel disease in children and teens. With over a century of combined clinical experience, the panel shares insights on second opinions, avoiding misdiagnosis, optimizing biologic therapy, therapeutic drug monitoring, and addressing pitfalls such as underdosing. They also explore the role of diet and nutrition in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, navigating vaccination challenges in VEO-IBD, and integrating psychosocial support for patients and families. This candid conversation offers practical pearls for gastroenterologists, pediatricians, and multidisciplinary teams seeking to improve outcomes and quality of life for pediatric IBD patients.

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Join Dr. Peter Lu, from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, and Dr. Miguel Saps, a renowned pediatric neurogastroenterologist and motility expert from the University of Miami, as they dive deep into the evaluation and management of pediatric constipation—a condition affecting nearly 10% of children. Filmed live at the second Pediatric GI Connect meeting in Hollywood, Florida, this comprehensive discussion covers evidence-based natural remedies, the role of water, fiber, probiotics, and fruit juices, as well as the latest on pharmacologic therapies including polyethylene glycol (PEG 3350), senna, and bisacodyl. The conversation also addresses common parental concerns around stimulant laxatives and PEG safety, referencing recent data on metabolite levels and long-term outcomes. New and emerging therapies such as linaclotide, prucalopride, and even vibratory capsules and neuromodulation techniques are explored as promising options for refractory constipation. Whether you're a pediatric GI specialist, general pediatrician, or a caregiver seeking clarity, this evidence-rich episode delivers up-to-date insights into the evolving landscape of childhood constipation treatment.

In this episode recorded at the second annual Peds GI Connect, pediatric gastroenterologists Dr. Amanda Muir, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Dr. Rajitha Venkatesh, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, and Dr. Umber Langshaw, University of Miami, engage in a thoughtful discussion on eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE)—from updated diagnostic guidelines to innovative, patient-centered approaches. They highlight the 2023 ACG Guidelines, which emphasize the importance of obtaining six esophageal biopsies from multiple levels, even when the mucosa appears normal. Drawing on both clinical expertise and personal experience, the conversation covers variability in symptom presentation, barriers to diagnosis, and the psychological burden of repeated procedures in children. The trio also explores emerging tools like transnasal endoscopy, string testing, and non-sedated biopsy methods, examining how these techniques may reduce procedural stress and improve monitoring over time. With real-life case insights, discussion on treatment monitoring, and the evolving EoE care landscape, this episode is a must-watch for clinicians, caregivers, and researchers seeking a comprehensive update on eosinophilic esophagitis in pediatrics.

In this special episode from the second annual Peds GI Connect conference, four leading pediatric gastroenterologists—Dr. Valeria Cohran, Lurie Children's Hospital, Dr. Praveen Goday, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Dr. Chris Duggan, Boston Children’s Hospital/Harvard Medical School, and Dr. Maria Mascarenhas, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia—come together to discuss their journeys into the field of pediatric nutrition and why it remains a vital, dynamic, and underexplored aspect of GI care. From intestinal rehabilitation and clinical nutrition programs to global health, culinary medicine, and parenteral nutrition safety, this roundtable highlights the vast and meaningful career opportunities available in pediatric nutrition. The panel emphasizes the importance of physician involvement in nutrition decisions, collaborative care with dietitians, and the urgent need to improve nutrition education during medical training. With perspectives spanning decades and institutions, they call for a new generation of GI fellows to lead in nutrition research, advocacy, and hospital-based nutrition leadership. Whether you're a trainee, clinician, or medical educator, this is a must-watch conversation about shaping the future of pediatric nutrition.

In this engaging episode recorded at the second annual Peds GI Connect in Hollywood, Florida, Dr. Carlo Di Lorenzo, pediatric gastroenterologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital, is joined by Kate Scarlata, MPH, RDN, and Dr. Ankur Chugh from Children’s Wisconsin for a deep dive into sucrase-isomaltase deficiency (SID)—a condition gaining traction in both clinical and public awareness. Together, they explore how SID, previously thought to be rare and limited to congenital forms, is increasingly recognized in both children and adults as a contributor to unexplained gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating, gas, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. The discussion breaks down diagnostic tools—from disaccharidase enzyme assays to the sucrose challenge—and outlines the nuances of dietary management, enzyme therapy, and the role of registered dietitians in tailoring treatment. The episode also highlights how SID can mimic IBS or DGBI and emphasizes the importance of avoiding overly restrictive diets in children. With real-world insights, practical tips, and a shared decision-making approach, this conversation is essential for clinicians, dietitians, and caregivers interested in the evolving landscape of carbohydrate digestion disorders and personalized GI care.

Join Dr. Paul Feuerstadt, along with Dr. Darrell Pardi and Dr. Sahil Khanna from the Mayo Clinic, for a timely and in-depth discussion on Clostridioides difficile (C. difficile) infection, recorded live at GI ReConnect in Denver. In this expert roundtable, the panel explores shifting epidemiology trends, the evolution of diagnostic testing algorithms, and best practices for managing both initial and recurrent C. diff cases. They weigh the clinical impact of the discontinuation of bezlotoxumab, discuss updated treatment strategies—including fidaxomicin use and the role of extended-pulsed regimens—and examine the emerging use of FDA-approved microbiome restoration therapies such as REBYOTA® and VOWST®. With practical insights on interpreting discordant toxin assays, managing high-risk or immunocompromised patients, and addressing fulminant cases in critical care, this conversation offers gastroenterologists, infectious disease specialists, and primary care providers essential guidance on navigating an increasingly complex therapeutic landscape. The group also addresses the implications of OpenBiome's closure, the promise of cost-effective options as fidaxomicin nears patent expiration, and the importance of individualized, risk-based care in preventing recurrence and improving outcomes.

Join Dr. Russell Cohen, Professor of Medicine and Clinical Director of the IBD Center at the University of Chicago, and Dr. Parambir Dulai, Director of Precision Medicine at Northwestern University, for an in-depth discussion recorded live at the GI ReConnect Conference in Denver. In this expert-led podcast, the faculty review the evolving therapeutic landscape in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including novel and emerging drug classes such as IL-23 inhibitors, S1P modulators, JAK and TYK2 inhibitors, and anti-TL1A agents. Dr. Dulai outlines current strategies for combination therapy, highlights the challenges of therapeutic durability, and emphasizes the potential for small molecules to transform episodic management. The conversation explores precision medicine, the role of biomarkers, microbiome-targeted approaches, metabolic comorbidities, and cardiovascular risks in IBD. The faculty also touch on extraintestinal manifestations like arthritis and pyoderma gangrenosum, weighing how these impact treatment selection. This session is a must-watch for clinicians interested in optimizing long-term outcomes in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis through early intervention, tailored therapy, and sustained disease control. Presented by GIHF, this episode reflects cutting-edge thinking at the forefront of IBD care.