In this episode, Amy and Nikki discuss the impact of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) on gut health, specifically focusing on their relation to the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). They cover what PPIs are, common brands, and why they are prescribed. The conversation highlights the controversy surrounding PPIs, noting that while they can be necessary for certain conditions like gastritis and esophagitis, they are often overprescribed or used inappropriately, leading to various health risks.

They emphasize the importance of gradual tapering off PPIs to avoid rebound reflux and discuss the potential for PPIs to cause dysbiosis in the small intestine. They also mention strategies for mitigating the negative effects of PPIs, such as probiotics and prokinetics, and underline the importance of balancing the benefits and risks of these medications.

00:00 Welcome Back and New Year Greetings
00:19 Introduction to PPIs
02:23 Controversies and Risks of PPIs
03:32 PPIs and IBS Connection
05:29 Proper Use and Tapering Off PPIs
09:49 Prevalence and Impact of PPI Use
11:38 Understanding Stomach Acid and Microbiome
15:37 Microbiology and Real-World Applications
19:09 Understanding Stomach pH and PPIs
19:43 Impact of PPIs on the Microbiome
20:47 Studies Linking PPIs to IBS
25:14 Mitigation Strategies for PPI-Induced IBS
31:18 Realistic Expectations for Managing IBS and Autoimmunity
35:46 Concluding Thoughts and Future Topics

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

SNP Testing and Genetic Insights: A Deep Dive

In this episode of the IBS Freedom Podcast, hosts Nikki and Amy delve into the world of DNA and SNP testing, often used by platforms like 23andMe. They discuss popular genetic markers like M-T-H-F-R and its implications for nutrient absorption and how they have evolved in their clinical practice regarding these tests. They emphasize the often overstated importance of genetic testing results and advocate for focusing on fundamental health aspects such as nutrition, lifestyle, and stress management before diving into SNP-specific interventions. Both hosts share personal anecdotes about genetic predispositions to certain conditions and how they use this information cautiously. They wrap up on a lighter note, sharing their families' Halloween costumes.

00:00 Introduction and Awkward Start
00:15 Diving into DNA and SNP Testing
00:29 The Popularity of MTHFR
01:29 Personal Journey with SNP Testing
02:50 Clinical Observations and Challenges
05:10 Nutritional Fundamentals vs. SNPs
09:07 Personal SNP Experiences
12:12 The Role of Basic Nutrition
20:01 Genetic Testing and Real-Life Implications
22:31 Celiac Disease and Genetic Testing
27:07 Questioning Genetic Predictions
27:59 Concerns About DNA and Insurance
29:55 AI in Healthcare: Trust Issues
32:38 Skepticism Towards Genetic Testing
35:02 Genes and Health: A Balanced Perspective
39:23 Personal Stories and Genetic Insights
49:34 Halloween Fun and Final Thoughts

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In this episode, hosts Nikki & Amy discuss the challenges and experiences of parenthood during the holidays and the New Year. They delve into the difficulties of managing routines with young children and share personal stories from their households. The conversation shifts to setting realistic New Year’s resolutions, particularly focusing on the importance of being compassionate with oneself. They explore how parenthood has increased their empathy towards clients and discuss balancing achievable goals with life's demands.

00:00 Welcome Back! Kicking Off the New Year
00:19 Parenting Challenges and School Routines
02:39 Empathy and Understanding for Parents
05:49 Setting Realistic Goals and Resolutions
07:13 Balancing Ambition with Reality
14:39 Consistency and Enjoyability in Habits
21:49 Adjusting and Adapting to Life's Challenges
27:47 The Importance of Having a Plan B
28:19 Navigating Nutrition Goals on the Go
31:34 Reevaluating Strict Diets and Goals
34:45 Reducing Phone Usage and Reading More
39:49 Balancing Social Media and Mental Health
43:35 Setting Realistic Goals and Safety Signals
49:45 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In this episode, hosts Nikki and Amy announce that they will be taking a break for the month of December to enjoy the holiday season and avoid the stress of creating content during this busy time.

They discuss their holiday plans, including Nikki's trip to Buffalo for a snowy Christmas. The hosts emphasize the importance of practicing self-care and not rushing their episodes, promising to return in mid-January with fresh perspectives and quality content.

They also touch on their thoughts about New Year's resolutions, with Nikki still undecided and Amy focusing on personal goals and projects.

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In this episode, hosts Nikki and Amy discuss strategies for managing and enjoying the holiday season while dealing with IBS. They share personal experiences and offer practical advice on how to shift from a survival mentality to one of enjoyment and connection. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mindset, self-compassion, and finding joy despite digestive challenges. They also touch on techniques to communicate needs to family members and suggest creative ways to participate in holiday traditions without compromising one's health.

00:00 Introduction and Thanksgiving Plans
01:04 Enjoying the Holidays with IBS
04:13 Fixed vs. Growth Mindset
08:37 Facing Food Fears and Embracing Flexibility
13:54 Finding Joy Beyond Food
26:36 Understanding Hyper-Fixation and Anxiety
28:01 Balancing Awareness and Enjoyment
30:03 Navigating Family Dynamics During Holidays
33:16 Communicating Needs and Setting Boundaries
45:44 Self-Compassion and Coping Strategies
50:27 Practical Tips for Holiday Planning
52:08 Conclusion and Additional Resources

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In this episode recorded around Halloween, the hosts discuss the multifaceted benefits of vitamin C for overall health, beyond its well-known role in boosting immunity. They explore its impact on gut health, including its role as an antioxidant, its necessity in collagen synthesis for tissue repair and gut barrier function, and its influence on mitochondrial energy production through carnitine synthesis. The discussion touches on how vitamin C affects the microbiome, potentially increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing harmful ones. They also address the use of vitamin C as a laxative, the prevalence of vitamin C deficiency in various populations, and the implications of vitamin C on laboratory testing. Finally, they hint at future topics in the series, either minerals or fat-soluble vitamins, while encouraging listeners to incorporate vitamin C-rich foods into their diets.

00:44 The Link Between Sugar and Vitamin C
02:17 Vitamin C: Importance and Functions
04:42 Vitamin C and Gut Health
09:36 Vitamin C's Role in Microbial Balance
16:14 Vitamin C and Collagen
23:54 Vitamin C in Traditional Medicine and Modern Research
32:41 The Importance of Vitamin C in Your Diet
33:57 Challenges in Getting Enough Vitamin C
34:54 Vitamin C and Dietary Restrictions
36:28 Vitamin C Deficiency and Its Effects
39:38 Vitamin C as a Laxative
44:03 Vitamin C and Energy Metabolism
49:52 Misconceptions About Diet and Nutrient Deficiency
51:35 Laboratory Testing and Vitamin C
55:16 Conclusion and Next Steps

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Be sure to LIKE it and SUBSCRIBE :)

Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In the grand finale of the single nutrient series on B vitamins, Amy and Nikki dive deep into cobalamin (Vitamin B12). They discuss interesting facts about B12, its distinct status as the only vitamin containing a mineral, and how it's the largest of the B vitamins. The conversation covers various aspects such as its functions in energy metabolism, neurological health, and oxygen delivery. They explore the importance of B12 in mental health, cognition, and anemia prevention. The hosts also address potential causes and risk factors for B12 deficiency, including inadequate intake in vegetarians and vegans, low stomach acid, medical conditions like Crohn's disease and celiac disease, and the impact of certain medications. They shed light on symptoms of deficiency, potential complications with elevated serum B12 without supplementation, and ways to ensure adequate B12 levels through diet and supplements. The episode is packed with practical advice, professional insights, and a touch of humor, making it a comprehensive guide on Vitamin B12.

00:00 Introduction to Vitamin B12
01:09 Importance of Vitamin B12
02:40 Symptoms of B12 Deficiency
03:32 B12 and Energy Metabolism
08:27 Homocysteine and B12
11:20 B12 Absorption Issues
15:56 B12 for Vegans and Vegetarians
23:21 Gastritis and B12 Absorption
31:14 Understanding B12 Deficiency Causes
32:31 SIBO and B12 Deficiency: A Historical Perspective
33:25 Modern SIBO Diagnosis and Misconceptions
35:29 Reframing SIBO as Small Intestinal Microbial Dysbiosis (SIMD)
39:59 Elevated B12 Levels Without Supplementation
45:16 Potential Serious Conditions Linked to High B12
49:12 Summary and Key Takeaways on B12
57:04 Preview of the Next Nutrient: Vitamin C

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Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD

In this episode, hosts Amy and Nikki dive into a controversial discussion about folic acid and folate supplements, challenging common beliefs held within the functional medicine community. They explore the role of folate in human health, debunk myths around the MTHFR gene mutation, and emphasize the potential benefits of folic acid.

They discuss various factors that affect folate absorption, such as zinc and riboflavin dependency, and highlight the importance of balanced nutrition over high-dose supplements. The episode also touches on the interconnections between different nutrients and their impact on overall health, encouraging listeners to adopt a holistic approach to their dietary needs.

00:00 Introduction and Hot Take on Folic Acid
00:50 Understanding MTHFR and Genetic SNPs
02:09 The Overemphasis on MTHFR in Functional Medicine
04:02 Personal Experiences with Genetic Testing
06:25 The Importance of B Vitamins for Everyone
08:12 Folic Acid vs. Folate: Bioavailability and Fortification
09:45 Dietary Sources of Folate and Nutrient Deficiencies
15:40 Microbiome's Role in Folate Production
20:16 Folate's Impact on Gut Health and Cell Division
24:40 The Role of Folate in Neurotransmitter Production
25:06 Folate and Mental Health: Real-Life Experiences
25:38 The Importance of Methylation and Folate
26:35 Debunking Folate Myths with Chris Masterjohn
27:56 The Body's Natural Methyl Donors
31:19 Folate, Choline, and Gut Health
32:05 Folate and Histamine Intolerance
33:41 The SIBO Diagnosis Debate
39:15 Folate Absorption and Nutrient Interactions
43:28 The Risks of High-Dose Folate Supplements
49:14 Conclusion and Next Steps: Vitamin B12

Love this episode?
Be sure to LIKE it and SUBSCRIBE :)

Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD