Bloating. Constipation. Stomach discomfort. When your digestion feels off, it’s easy to point the finger at the last thing you ate—or decide that a certain food must be the problem.

But what if there’s more to the story?

In this HER+ Expert Roundtable, we’re taking a closer look at the many factors that can influence digestive symptoms in women, from hydration, fiber, stress, meal timing, and adequate nutrition to hormones, gut health, and the body’s natural rhythms.

Our experts unpack why restrictive eating and skipping meals may sometimes make digestive issues worse, how consistency can support the body’s natural digestive processes, and why symptoms aren’t always a sign that you need to eliminate another food from your diet.

We’ll also talk about when digestive symptoms may warrant a deeper conversation with a healthcare provider—and why persistent or significant changes shouldn’t simply be managed by changing what you eat.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What to consider before blaming a food for bloating, constipation, or other digestive symptoms—including hydration, fiber, stress, meal timing, and overall nutrition.

• How under-fueling, skipped meals, and restrictive eating can affect digestion and why your body needs consistent nourishment to support healthy digestive function.

• Why gut health, hormones, lifestyle, and your body’s natural rhythms are all connected—and when digestive symptoms may be a reason to seek professional support.

Because digestive health isn't always as simple as “What did I eat?” Sometimes, the better question is: “What else is my body trying to tell me?”

🎧 Tune in and explore more expert resources inside the HER+ Health Collective community.

Featured HER+ Experts:

• Dr. Elizabeth Sierakowski MD, ABFM, ABOIM, ABAARM, triple board certified in family medicine, integrative medicine, and functional medicine, Essential Health

• Katherine Rose, Integrative Health Practitioner, Personal Trainer - Reclaimable

• Annie Penrose, M.Ed, RD, LDN, Nutrition Therapist - Lutz, Alexander & Associates

• Taruja Borker, Ayurvedic Wellness Advisor, Educator, Yoga Instructor - Good Gut Alchemy

Episode Notes and Resources:

FREE Expert Provider Directory - https://herhealthcollective.com/search-the-directory/?type=fitness

HER Circle (A Mom community by HER Health Collective) - https://www.herhealthcollective.com/membership

Support Mama Needs a Moment! Become a patron through our Mama Needs a Moment Patreon.

HER+ You Tube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@herhealthcollective4278