33. IBS and the Gut-Brain Connection: 3 Nervous System Tools for Relief with Dr. Megan Riehl

Send us Fan MailDo you get sweaty, dizzy, clammy feeling on the toilet?If your scopes came back "normal" but your symptoms are very real, this episode is for you. GI psychologist Dr. Megan Riehl joins Jessie to unpack why IBS is now classified as a Disorder of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBI), what the vasovagal response has to do with your flare-ups, and how your autonomic nervous system may be driving cramping, urgency, and that clammy "oh no" bathroom feeling.You'll learn:What DGBI actually means and why the name change mattersThe science behind the gut-brain axis and vasovagal reactionsWhen to consider working with a GI psychologist3 evidence-based tools you can use today: diaphragmatic breathing, body scanning, and gentle movementDr. Riehl is Director of the GI Behavioral Health Program at the University of Michigan and co-author of Mind Your Gut. Tune in for validating science and practical relief you can start using today.Resources Mentioned:Mind Your Gut book by Dr. Megan Riehl & Kate ScarlataDr. Riehl's diaphragmatic breathing YouTube videoThe Gut Health PodcastEpisode Timestamps:00:54 — Introduction: Why Your "Normal" Scopes Don't Mean It's All in Your Head03:05 — What Is a DGBI? The Shift from "Functional" GI Disorders to Gut-Brain Interaction05:56 — Common Symptoms Driven by the Gut-Brain Connection06:54 — Vasovagal Reactions Explained: The Sweaty, Dizzy Bathroom Feeling08:42 — Your Autonomic Nervous System: Sympathetic vs. Parasympathetic11:49 — When to Work with a GI Psychologist (and How It's Different from General Therapy)15:21 — Tool #1: Diaphragmatic Breathing to Calm Your Gut18:02 — Tool #2: Body Scanning to Release Hidden Tension22:08 — Tool #3: Gentle Movement Without the All-or-Nothing Mindset24:49 — Rapid Fire: Weeknight Dinners, Coffee, and Dr. Riehl's 60-Second Nervous System ResetGet our help:🌟 Join IBS Freedom Program - https://ibsdietitian.com/group-program/👩🏻‍⚕️ Make an appointment https://ibsdietitian.com/1-1-appointments/🖥️ Affordable IBS Self-Paced Course https://ibsdietitian.com/ibs-freedom/🔔 Stay Connected & Get More Support📷 Follow us on Instagram: @ibs.dietitian💬 Join our Facebook Community: IBS Support For WomenFree Resources:🖥️ Free IBS Relief Masterclass: https://ibsdietitian.com/masterclass📋 Free Symptom Tracker – Start tracking your symptoms today: https://poopedia.org/resources🔗 Download your FREE Low FODMAP Starter Guide (grocery list, meal plan, and food swaps): https://ibsdietitian.com/resources/