Sophie Medlin - Processed Food, Microbiome & Reclaiming Your Gut Health

In this episode Matt speaks with leading UK dietitian, Sophie Medlin, to discuss the reality behind modern gut health trends—cutting through the noise on probiotics, greens powders, and how our diet and lifestyle directly shape the bacteria that run our bodies.They cover the rise in global digestive disorders, breaking the "poo taboo," and how to recognise red flags like foul-smelling gas, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. They dive into the truth about ultra-processed foods, emulsifiers, and why over-hyped wellness shortcuts—like greens powders and protein bars—might be doing more harm than good to our gut lining.Beyond that, they discuss the gut-brain connection, the role of cortisol and stress in triggering bowel issues, and how gut-directed hypnotherapy is now recognised by NICE guidelines for managing IBS. They also explore the impact of alcohol and painkillers on the gastrointestinal tract, the reality of GLP-1 weight-loss medications on gut motility, and the power of simple, foundational habits like increasing fibre intake to add years to your life.Whether you're struggling with persistent digestive issues, curious about the best approach to supplements and fasting, or simply looking for actionable ways to optimise your gut for long-term vitality, this episode provides an insightful guide to taking back control of your health from the inside out.Website: https://www.mattroberts.co.ukFacebook: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/mattrobertsevolutionInstagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mattroberts_lifestyleX: ⁠⁠https://www.twitter.com/mattroattrobertsptTikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@mattrobertsevolutionLinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattrobertsevolutionGuest InfoWebsite: https://www.citydietitians.co.ukInstagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sophiedietitianDisclaimerThe Evolution Lab podcast, hosted by Matt Roberts, is for informational and educational purposes only. While we discuss health, fitness, and longevity strategies, the content shared is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle. Matt Roberts, his guests, and The Evolution Lab team are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this podcast. Listeners assume full responsibility for their own health decisions.