Ep 82: A Different Way to Approach Gut Issues

Send us Fan MailMay 5, 2026Love You MoreEp 82:  A Different Way to Approach Gut Issues Episode summary:Jen shares a personal reflection on gut health, running, and her experience navigating IBS-related symptoms like bloating, urgency, food sensitivities, and the strong link between stress and digestion. She discusses identifying triggers, exploring FODMAPs, and noticing how quickly the mind can become focused on trying to “fix” symptoms. The episode looks beyond food alone, highlighting the role of the nervous system, mindfulness, and reducing stress around symptoms, and offers a grounded reminder that healing often involves less control and more curiosity, awareness, and a softer relationship with what feels unresolved. Jen is also offering a four-day, three-night silent retreat this September (September 10-13) at Kindred Forest in the Missouri Ozarks, a space intentionally designed for deep rest, reflection, and nervous system support. Through shared silence, nourishing meals, time in nature, and gentle practices like sound baths and Feldenkrais, the retreat creates an opportunity to step away from constant input and reconnect with what’s already present. Favorite Quotes:“When nutrition and lifestyle changes don’t fully resolve gut symptoms, there’s often a missing piece.”  “The mind and the gut are intricately connected… when we are stressed, we feel that in our gut.”  “I noticed that my attention was going to this a lot… trying to fix this problem.”  “When the mind gets so heavily involved, it really does disrupt the way that the gut contracts and relaxes.”  “There’s a difference between ‘this has to get better’ and curiosity.”  “There is wisdom in recognizing that we might be trying too hard.”Resources Jen's InstagramJen's SubstackMcDaniel Nutrition Therapy InstagramMcDaniel Nutrition Therapy WebsitePast Podcast Episodes2026 Silent Retreat The Gut Health PodcastSupport the show