What if low energy, brain fog, or mood swings had less to do with motivation—and more to do with your microbiome?

In this episode of Curious Life of a Childfree Woman, registered dietitian and researcher Dr. Mindy Patterson breaks down what gut health really is, why it matters, and how it quietly affects everything from digestion and blood sugar to inflammation, hormones, and longevity.

She explains the difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and resistant starch—plus why not all fiber is beneficial, and how some “gut health” products may be doing more harm than good. This is a grounded, science-backed conversation about what’s going on beneath the surface and how to work with your gut, not against it.

Whether gut health feels confusing or you’ve already tried every probiotic on the shelf, this episode offers clarity, real guidance, and a better way forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Gut health impacts far more than digestion. It’s connected to mood, energy, immunity, and inflammation across the entire body.

• Prebiotics and probiotics are not the same. Prebiotics feed the good bacteria; probiotics are the bacteria themselves—and both are essential.

• Resistant starch is a powerful prebiotic. It ferments slowly, making it more tolerable for sensitive guts while also supporting blood sugar regulation.

• Short-chain fibers found in many wellness drinks may trigger bloating or discomfort. The type of fiber matters more than the amount.

• Consistent, small changes to your diet can start reshaping your microbiome in just a few days—but lasting results come from long-term habits.

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Host Emily Paulsen is an accomplished entrepreneur and happily childfree woman shining a light on the often overshadowed childfree-by-choice perspective. Whether interviewing innovative experts or positioning leaders to scale through her Brand Studio, Electric Collab, Emily’s power lies in allowing people to feel seen and celebrated for who they are. She’s spent years honing the ability to deeply understand and amplify others in an honest, high-impact way. 

Learn more about Emily on her website: www.curiouslifeofachildfreewoman.com  

And connect with her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curiouslifeofachildfreewoman/ 

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The guest on this episode, Dr. Mindy Patterson, is a registered dietitian, professor, researcher, and founder of Renutrin—a prebiotic fiber supplement designed to reduce inflammation, support blood sugar, and improve gut health without the typical digestive side effects. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Women’s Health, and more, and she has authored over 10 peer-reviewed publications.

Learn more at: www.renutrin.coConnect with her on LinkedIn: Dr. Mindy Patterson