Advertise on podcast: The Gastroenterologist And His Daughter

We’re often told that stress “affects the gut,” but rarely are we given a clear explanation of how or what to actually do about it. In this episode, Dr. Kelly Watkins joins Sandra to unpack the science and psychology behind the mind–gut connection and why approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) are becoming an essential part of digestive care. This episode covers: How stress and anxiety physically affect gut functionThe science behind the brain–gut communication loopWhy CBT is increasingly used in digestive disordersCommon psychological triggers for bloating, pain and IBS flaresHow gut symptoms and anxiety can reinforce each otherPractical CBT tools for managing gut-related anxietyWhy “it’s in your head” is a misleading and harmful mythThis conversation bridges the gap between gut health and mental health, tackles stigma head-on, and offers practical tools for anyone living with IBS, bloating, chronic pain or stress-related digestive symptoms. About Dr. Kelly Watkins Dr Kelly Watkins, BSc (Hons), MSc, PG Dip, PgD, is a Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist, EMDR Therapist, and HCPC-registered Practitioner Psychologist. With over a decade of experience working with clients across the NHS, HM Prison Service, private healthcare, and community settings, Kelly brings a unique blend of psychological expertise and mind-body understanding to her work. Kelly supports clients worldwide through 1:1 work, online workshops and retreats designed to help individuals rebuild their relationship with food, understand the mind-gut connection, and heal the emotional patterns that contribute to digestive distress. Her integrative approach combines evidence-based psychological therapies with practical, holistic strategies that empower people to transform their wellbeing from the inside out. Alongside her clinical work, Kelly lectures and supervises the next generation of CBT therapists and conducts research into personality disorders, staff training, and therapeutic engagement. She has also built a successful online platform, creating accessible education, digital resources, and mental wellness products for a global audience. Her content and expertise have led to regular media interviews and collaborations focusing on forensic psychology, mental health and whole-body wellbeing. Passionate about demystifying therapy and reducing stigma around mental health, she is committed to supporting people to make meaningful, sustainable changes and live fuller, healthier lives. Connect with Dr. Kelly Watkins: Instagram LinkedIn Website Join “The Live Gut Chat: A Night with The Gastro & His Daughter” on the 26.01.2026 at 5:00pm CET / 8:00pm Gulf Standard Time. You’ve listened to us in your ears, now join us in the room for a live recording of the pod. For more information and registration, click here. 

Sandra and Wagdy are back with another episode, this time joined by Dr Jason Hawrelak all the way from Australia, to unpack the confusing world of probiotics: what they are, when they’re useful, and how to separate real evidence from clever marketing. This episode covers: Probiotics 101: what probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics actually are, why they all matter, and whether everyone really needs a probiotic supplement.Strain-specific science: which probiotic strains have evidence for IBS, antibiotic-associated diarrhoea, mood support, and more plus the biggest myths Jason wants people to stop believing.Women’s health and probiotics: what we know (and don’t yet know)Prebiotics explained: why prebiotics often have a bigger impact on the microbiome than probiotics themselves and much more!This was a practical, myth-busting conversation to help you choose probiotics with confidence and understand when they’re worth it, and when they’re not. About Dr. Jason Hawrelak Dr Jason Hawrelak is a researcher, educator, Western herbalist, and naturopathic physician with 25 years’ clinical experience. He did his PhD examining the capacity of probiotics, prebiotics and herbal medicines to modify the gastrointestinal tract microbiota and teaches worldwide on the topics of microbiota modification, clinical application of probiotics and prebiotics, and gut health. He has published extensively in these areas, including 20 textbook chapters. Dr Hawrelak is on the Medical Nutrition Council of the American Society for Nutrition and is a Fellow of both the American College of Nutrition and the Naturopaths and Herbalists Association of Australia. Dr Hawrelak maintains a busy telehealth clinical practice as lead clinician in the Hawrelak Gut and Microbiome Clinic.  Dr Hawrelak is Chief Research Officer at ProbioticAdvisor.com, which offers a searchable database that enables easy, evidence-based prescribing of probiotic products. He also established, and is Lead Educator at the Microbiome Restoration Center, an online educational centre devoted to training health professionals to become microbiome clinicians, through his key courses – Naturopathic and Functional Medicine Approaches to Gastrointestinal Disorders and Advanced Microbiome Manipulation.  Connect with Dr. Hawrelak: Instagram LinkedIn Website and The Course Disclaimer: This podcast is not meant to diagnose or treat any medical condition. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalised medical advice. The content shared is for educational purposes only.

In this solo mini-episode, Sandra breaks down what food intolerance really is, why most tests are a waste of money, and how proper diagnosis works. This episode covers: Allergy vs intolerance: why mixing them up leads to confusion and why IgG “intolerance tests” are a scam.The main types of intolerances: enzymatic (like lactose), food chemical sensitivities, and FODMAP-related symptoms.How diagnosis really happensWhere to start & who to see Food intolerance isn’t a quick test. It’s a structured process best done with expert guidance to avoid unnecessary restriction, fear of food, and malnutrition. With the right support, you can get clarity without the chaos. If you’re suspecting a food intolerance, connect with a Nutrition A-Z specialist today here.  Connect with your hosts on Instagram Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail 

Sandra and Wagdy are back with another season and in this episode, they break down the awkward but common world of haemorrhoids: what they actually are, why they happen, and when bleeding isn’t “just haemorrhoids.” This episode covers:  What haemorrhoids actually are and why they’re normal structures (not a disease), plus the most common causes and risk factors.Key symptoms vs. red flags , when bleeding is typical, and when it signals something more serious.Management 101: Sandra’s 6 step tool kit including fibre, fluids, toilet habits, OTC options, and when doctors escalate to banding, injections, or surgery.It’s time to drop the embarrassment. Haemorrhoids are common, treatable, and nothing to hide. The more we talk about them, the faster people get the help they need. Disclaimer: This podcast is not meant to be used, nor should it be used, to diagnose or treat any medical condition. For diagnosis or treatment of any medical problem, consult your own physician or healthcare provider. The podcast is for education purposes only and it is advised that you exercise your own judgement before using the information provided. Always consult your healthcare team for medical advice before taking any action. Connect with your hosts on Instagram Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail  For more information visit nutritition-az.com A resource mentioned in this episode is Sandra’s book: The Gut Chronicles: An uncensored journey into the world of digestive health and illness. 

This was another popular episode looking at fertility from within. Stefanie Valakas joined Sandra to uncover the gut-fertility connection better. Stefanie and Sandra covered three main areas looking at the relationship between the gut microbiome and fertility, nutrition for reproductive health as well as the gut-hormone connection. This episode covered: How the gut microbiome impacts reproductive health including specific bacteria in the gut that are particularly beneficial or detrimental to fertilityKey nutrients to focus on if you’re trying to conceive, two of which may not be on your radarHow do conditions such as PCOS or Endometriosis impact digestive health and vice versaStefanie’s supplementation strategy and much more! Stefanie is a wealth of information and her passion for nutrition in this space is really echoed in this episode. About Stefanie Valakas: Stefanie Valakas APD is an expert certified fertility and pregnancy dietitian & nutritionist and founder of The Dietologist and cofounder of arxi . Stefanie and her team of fertility & pregnancy dietitians are dedicated to excellence in nutrition for reproductive health concerns, fertility & pregnancy. Her passion for nutrition in this space has truly grown from her experience helping her clients online from around the world and also through her own personal experiences of navigating a diagnosis of endometriosis.  The Dietologist has been awarded multiple awards for their excellence in nutrition care and Best Pregnancy & Fertility Nutrition Clinic in 2022, Quality in Primary Care Award by Dietitians Australia 2022. Stefanie has also been recognised for her contributions in the fertility nutrition arena as a finalist for the Dietitian of the Year Awards for 2020-21 & 2023, Impact & Innovation Finalist 2022, Allied Health Educator Excellence 2023 by the Allied Health Awards. Stefanie also hosts the popular fertility health podcast, Fertility Friendly Food.  Stefanie truly believes every hopeful parent should have access to scientifically-backed nutrition information to prepare their body prior to conception, support them through fertility treatments, pregnancy and ultimately bringing home a healthy and happy baby. Connect with Stefanie: thedietologist.com.auInstagramTikTok: @the_dietologist

Misinformation around ‘leaky gut’ continues to rage so this episode will never get old! If you’ve struggled with your gut then you would’ve come across the term “leaky gut” or may have even been diagnosed with it at some point. Leaky gut syndrome has gained significant attention in recent years, with claims that it may be the root cause of a wide range of health issues, from digestive problems to autoimmune diseases and even mental health conditions. But what exactly is leaky gut, and is it a valid medical diagnosis? In this episode, Sandra is joined by gastroenterology specialist dietitian, Kirsten Jackson, where they chatted about all things leaky! They discussed why this term has gained attention in alternative and complementary medicine communities, but its recognition and acceptance within the conventional medical community are somewhat divided. What is our intestinal barrier? Are the tests to diagnose leaky gut even valid? If it’s not leaky gut then what? Sandra and Kirsten answered the most frequently asked questions about leaky gut syndrome and how they managed their own clients suspecting it. About Kirsten JacksonKirsten Jackson BSc Hons PGCert is a UK consultant dietitian specialising in gut health and the author of ‘Take Control of your IBS’. Kirsten graduated from The University of Hertfordshire in 2012 before joining the UK national health service where she specialised in gastroenterology. She later went on to complete her post-graduate certificate in Advanced Dietetics at The University of Nottingham. In 2018 Kirsten moved to the UAE as the lead dietitian for Kings College Hospital in Dubai. In this role she was part of the team which developed and opened the first British healthcare facility in the Middle East. Kirsten now runs an online IBS clinic called The Food Treatment Clinic to help those who suffer with the condition. Outside of clinical work, Kirsten is an official media spokesperson for The British Dietetic Association where she has worked on TV and with media outlets such as Cosmopolitan and The Guardian. She is also an expert advisor for the charity, The IBS Network. Connect with Kirsten:www.thefoodtreatmentclinic.comInstagramGet the book: Take Control of Your IBS

This episode was a popular one! Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints in people of all ages and despite being one of the most frequent and bothersome complaints, we still don’t fully understand the exact cause of bloating since it’s not that straight forward! In Sandra’s solo episode, she offered a snapshot into the world of bloat, what is normal and goes through the 2 most common causes of bloating. As a gut-health dietitian, she focuses on the dietary approaches of managing the uncomfortable bloat discussing behaviours and fibre as well as elimination options such as lactose, artificial sweeteners and FODMAPs. She ends with her beat the bloat rundown that you can consider when addressing uncomfortable, chronic bloating and if probiotics and activated charcoal are worth it. Connect with Sandra:Nutrition A-ZInstagramLinkedIn

As preparations for season 5 are in full swing, we thought we’d take a trip down memory lane and share the most listened-to episodes, starting with this one! Dr. Sophie Bostock joined Sandra on the pod to uncover the mysteries of sleep and its profound impact on our health. Starting with the essential functions of sleep, Dr. Bostock explained why it’s vital for both physical and mental well-being. They explored how sleep connects to our circadian rhythms, the body’s natural clock, and how disruptions can lead to health issues. Dr. Bostock also delved into the effects of stress and hormonal changes on sleep, particularly for women, and weighed in on the safety of sleep aids like melatonin. Finally, she shared her favourite sleep hacks, common mistakes to avoid, and strategies to get better rest. This episode covered:  Why do we sleep?Circadian rhythms and the impact of sleep disruption on our healthStress and hormonal influences on sleepShould we use melatonin if we’re struggling with sleep?The top 3 mistakes people do that negatively impact their sleepSophie’s sleep hacks for a good night’s sleepSandra and Wagdy tie it all together through the lens of gut healthAbout Dr. Sophie Bostock:Dr Sophie Bostock is a Sleep Evangelist on a mission: to help millions of people to improve their lives by unlocking the science of sleep and performance. With a background in medicine, Sophie became fascinated by the role of sleep and circadian rhythms for protecting health. After working on the award-winning sleep improvement programme, Sleepio, Sophie launched TheSleepScientist.com to provide sleep training and consultancy for clients in business, the media, the military and elite sport. Connect with Sophie:www.thesleepscientist.comInstagramYoutube

In this episode, your hosts sit down with Dr. Hasini Perera, a seasoned GP based in Dubai, to explore gut health through the lens of primary care. From the most common gut complaints in clinic to when it’s time to refer to a specialist, Dr. Hasini shares how GPs approach gut-related concerns and what patients can do to feel heard and supported. We also dive into often-overlooked conditions, the role of nutrition in general practice, and why some popular trends might be doing more harm than good. We shine a spotlight on women’s health and how to prepare for that all-important GP appointment. Today’s episode covers: Why gut issues are often overlooked in general practiceWhen a GP decides it’s time to referThe impact of lifestyle and nutrition on gut healthWhat’s missing in the conversation about women’s health and gut healthMyths and social media trends and more! Whether you’ve felt dismissed in a consult or want a grounded take on gut health, this episode brings clarity and real talk from a trusted frontline expert. Connect with Hasini Instagram: @douknowmedicine LinkedIn: Dr. Hasini Perera  About Dr. Perera Dr. Hasini Perera is a dedicated General Practitioner with over 11 years of clinical experience out of which 5th year working in Dubai. She is currently based at Emirates Specialty Hospital, Dubai Healthcare city, Dubai, where she blends compassionate care with evidence-based medicine.Dr. Hasini holds ECFMG certification, has completed all of the USMLE steps, and completed MRCP (UK) Part 1 and 2, reflecting her commitment to continuous medical excellence. Her special interests lie in internal medicine, endocrinology, musculoskeletal conditions, chronic disease management, and above all patient education and prevention of diseases. With a passion for making healthcare accessible and understandable, she actively creates educational content for global audiences on LinkedIn/ Instagram and through engaging videos. Born with a name that means “laughter,” Dr. Hasini brings joy, empathy, and clarity into her practice. She believes in treating the person, not just the disease, and is known for her relatable explanations, deep listening skills, and holistic care approach. Outside of medicine, she loves drawing, storytelling, and crafting meaningful connections through humor and humanity. Dr. Hasini envisions a world where healthcare isn’t intimidating but empowering and she’s working every day to make that vision a reality. From rural clinics to high-end hospitals, from managing chronic diseases to creating viral awareness videos online, Dr. Hasini’s mission is simple: make healthcare human again. She’s funny, fearless, and deeply compassionate and today, she’s here to talk not just as a doctor, but as someone who understands what it means to fight, fall, and rise with a smile. 

Today’s episode dives into the gut-hormone connection during one of the most misunderstood (and under-discussed) phases in a woman’s life: perimenopause. Sanda is  joined by the brilliant dietitian and gut health expert, Nicole Dynan, to explore what’s really going on when your digestion goes off track in your 40s and beyond. Today’s episode covers: What perimenopause actually is and how it differs from menopauseHow hormonal shifts affect gut motility, microbiome balance, and digestionThe most common gut symptoms women report and why they happenWhy fibre is your friend (even if social media says otherwise)How stress and sleep can make or break your gut functionPractical strategies to improve gut health and when to seek professional helpWhether you’re noticing more bloating, bathroom drama, or just feeling out of sync with your body, this conversation is packed with insights and evidence-based tips to help you feel more in control. About Nicole Dynan: Accredited Practising Dietitian, gut health expert, and founder of The Gut Health Dietitian. Before retraining in nutrition, Nicole worked in the corporate world and it was there she saw firsthand how many women around her were struggling with gut issues, stress, low energy, and hormonal changes, especially as they moved into their 40s. After healing her own gut and making sense of the overwhelm through science, she made it her mission to help others do the same. Nicole and her team have now supported over 40,000 women to improve their gut health through evidence-based nutrition and she’s soon to launch the Peri Gut Plan, a 3-week program designed to support the gut-brain-hormone connection during perimenopause. When she’s not helping women feel lighter, more comfortable, and more like themselves again, Nicole is a regular media contributor, a guest lecturer at The University of Sydney, and a passionate runner, yogi, and edible garden enthusiast. Connect with Nicole https://www.guthealthdietitian.com/ Instagram: @the.guthealthdietitian The Peri-Gut Plan

It's our 2-YEAR PODIVERSARY and IBS Awareness Month and what better way to celebrate than diving into one of the most requested and misunderstood topics in gut health.  In this candid (and slightly chaotic) episode, your hosts talk through the latest science, some cringey myths floating around online, and the supplements worth knowing about, plus a few bloopers we decided to keep in. Because real talk is how they roll. Today’s episode covers: Why IBS is still such a hot topic in the gut worldThe latest research, including the ATLANTIS trial on low-dose amitriptylineWhat we now know about the gut-brain connection and mental health in IBSThe truth behind common myths like: “Probiotics are the magic cure” or “Just go carnivore” 🙄Supplements worth your attentionAnd of course… a few laughs, real moments, and a bit of blooper magicThank you for sticking with us for TWO YEARS of gut talk, myth-busting, and bringing science to the people, one bowel movement at a time.Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review if you loved it, and tag us when you're tuning in on IG at @nutritionaz_by_sandramikhail Connect with your hosts on LinkedIn Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail  For more information visit instagram.com/nutritionaz_by_sandramikhail OR nutritition-az.com Chapter 9 of Sandra’s book cover all you need to know about IBS: The Gut Chronicles: An uncensored journey into the world of digestive health and illness. 

Is there a place for yoga when it comes to gut health?  This episode aims to answer that question with Kaitlin Colucci aka The Mission Dietitian. Whether you're new to yoga or looking to deepen your gut-health toolkit, this episode uncovers how the power of movement and breathwork can transform the way your gut feels. Today’s episode covers: What is gut-directed yoga and how it differs from general yoga and its role in digestive health.The gut-brain connection: How yoga influences the gut-brain axis to support digestion.Managing gut issues with yoga including targeted poses and techniques for IBS, bloating, and reflux.What the research says: Evidence-backed benefits of yoga for gut health.Yoga, nutrition & lifestyle: Best practices for integrating yoga with diet and daily habits. Tune in to discover how reconnecting with your body might just be the missing piece in your gut healing journey. About Kaitlin Colucci RD MNutr Kaitlin is one of the leading gut health dietitians in the UK and founder of The Mission Dietitian, combining nearly a decade of experience in dietetics with her passion for yoga teaching. Renowned for her innovative approach, Kaitlin specialises in integrating science-backed nutrition with the healing practices of yoga, meditation, and breathwork to address the complexities of IBS and other gut health disorders through a holistic lens. She is also a British Dietetic Association media spokesperson with her expertise prominently featured on BBC Countryfile, BBC Food Truth or Scare, and Channel 4's Food Unwrapped. More recently, Kaitlin has offered her wealth of experience and expert consultancy for the UK launch of the Belly Balance App. Connect with Kaitlin Instagram @themissiondietitian https://www.kaitlincolucci.com/retreats Episode What’s new with IBS? Episode The Perimenopause Gut with Nicole Dynan Episode Gut Health and GPs: Bridging the Gap

Could your IBS symptoms actually be something else? In this easy-to-digest episode, your hosts break down what BAM really is, the different types, and the key symptoms to watch out for. Before they get into it, they take a tricky question from a listener about H.pylori.  BAM can be difficult to diagnose as its symptoms generally overlap with IBS. Wagdy breaks down how BAM is diagnosed and some very distinct features that make BAM a condition not to dismiss when consulting patients. Today’s episode covers:  What BAM actually is and its typesCommon symptoms to watch out forIf IBS and BAM can co-exist & how Sandra’s clients have been misdiagnosedHow to get a diagnosis of BAM includingSandra’s main dietary goals for clients she consultsThe type of fibre you should includeIf you’re struggling with chronic diarrhoea, make sure to pay your GP or specialist a visit as the consequences if left untreated can be serious.  Want to ask your hosts a question? Send them through to [email protected], and they’ll get back to you during one of the episodes. Disclaimer: No personalised medical or nutritional advice can be provided, as this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional consultation. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider for your individual needs. Connect with your hosts on LinkedIn Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail  For more information visit instagram.com/nutritionaz_by_sandramikhail OR nutritition-az.com A resource mentioned in this episode is Sandra’s book: The Gut Chronicles: An uncensored journey into the world of digestive health and illness. 

In today’s episode, your hosts are sharing another gut story. This time, it’s all about a possible gut-thyroid connection. Joyce was recently diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to inflammation and reduced thyroid hormone production. In addition, she has been navigating the challenges of Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO), a condition where excessive bacteria in the small intestine cause uncomfortable symptoms like bloating, gas, and digestive distress. Join us as we take a journey with Joyce to hear her story of living with a thyroid condition, how it has impacted her gut health, and the ups and downs of managing SIBO along the way. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of these two conditions, shedding light on how interconnected the gut and thyroid really are. About Joyce Joyce is a Dubai-based Choreographer, Fashion Stylist, and Content Creator with over 20 years of experience in dance and the performing arts. She trained and performed extensively with the renowned Sharmila Dance company, appearing at major events, concerts, and opening ceremonies. Throughout her career, Joyce has collaborated with global brands like Nike, Adidas, Swarovski, Sephora, and Harper’s Bazaar, as well as celebrities such as Shaggy, Nancy Ajram, Sean Paul, and Maya Diab. She has choreographed for music videos, concerts, and photoshoots, blending her expertise in dance and fashion to create dynamic, engaging content. Joyce also teaches weekly dance classes, inspiring aspiring dancers to pursue their passion, and has a strong background in the fashion industry, from PR for high-end brands to co-founding an e-commerce fashion platform and beauty salon. Connect with Joyce: Instagram TikTok

In this mini, solo episode, Sandra tackles a frequently asked question: Are gut health supplements really worth it? With so much buzz around gut health in the wellness world, it’s time to separate fact from fiction and explore whether these products live up to their promises. Disclaimer This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional, dietitian, or gastroenterologist before starting any new supplement to ensure it aligns with your unique needs.  Today’s episode covers:  The boom of gut health supplements and how marketing is shaping perceptionsA deep dive into popular supplements starting with probioticsHow to choose a fibre supplementsGut health aides like peppermint oil capsules and magnesiumWhat to avoid in the supplement aisle including anti-bloat supplements and random probiotic blendsHow to choose the right supplement and questions to ask before purchasing Gut health is personal, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Supplements can be beneficial for specific conditions, but they’re not a cure-all. Understanding your body’s needs and consulting with professionals is key to making informed decisions. Connect with your hosts on LinkedIn Sandra Mikhail Wagdy Mikhail  For more information visit instagram.com/nutritionaz_by_sandramikhail OR nutritition-az.com A resource mentioned in this episode is Sandra’s book: The Gut Chronicles: An uncensored journey into the world of digestive health and illness.