Nikki and Amy discuss how increasing food intake can feel overwhelming for people who struggle with gut issues, especially after a period of underfueling. It describes working with a patient who averaged about 1300 calories per day but likely needed at least 2000 calories based on activity level; they were only able to increase her intake to about 1800. The speaker notes that a 700-calorie increase can feel like a lot, and that the gut may need time to adjust, making progress feel like an uphill battle until consistent intake is maintained and symptoms improve.

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

Vitamin E for IBS: Food Sources, Deficiency Rates, and Gut Barrier Benefits

On the IBS Freedom Podcast, Amy and Nikki discuss vitamin E in their single-nutrient series, opening with jokes and then covering practical food sources such as wheat germ, sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, and various seed oils, while noting wheat avoidance and gluten-free diets can make intake harder.

00:00 Vitamin E Kickoff Joke
01:50 Real Food Sources
02:49 Wheat Germ Mishap
05:45 Seed Oils Debate
07:59 How Common Deficiency Is
10:27 IBS and IBD Evidence
15:21 Limits of Nutrition Research
21:25 What Vitamin E Does
24:04 Deficiency Signs and Fertility
27:13 Nutrient Interactions
28:53 Vitamin E Supplement Risks
31:11 Goldilocks Dosing Principle
36:53 Vitamin D Toxicity Caution
38:59 Who Should Supplement Vitamin E
43:45 Food Sources and Palm Oil
46:05 RDA and PUFA Ratio Debate
51:07 Vitamin E and Gut Microbiome
54:47 Final Summary and Wrap Up

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

Nitric Oxide, Dietary Nitrates, and Gut Health (IBS Freedom Podcast with Cathy Eason)

Nikki and Amy host Cathy Eason, a functional nutritional therapy practitioner with over 20 years of experience, autoimmune specialist, and Chief Science Officer at Berkeley Life, to discuss the role of nitric oxide in gut health and overall physiology.

00:00 Welcome Back + Meet Kathy (Functional Medicine & Berkeley Life)
01:16 A Nitric Oxide Horror Story: The ‘Nitric Balance’ Flush
04:49 Nitric Oxide 101: What It Is, Why It Matters for Blood Flow & Gut Health
12:40 Why NO Runs Low: Enzymes, Nutrient Cofactors, Aging & Oxidative Stress
14:34 The Nitrate-to-NO Pathway: Oral Microbiome, Chewing & Stomach Acid (PPIs)
18:33 Gut Payoffs: Motility, Barrier Repair, SIBO Risk & Why Diversity Beats Restriction
26:00 Beyond Food: Trauma, Vagus Nerve, Nasal Breathing & Nervous System Balance
31:31 Morning nitric oxide boost: grounding, sunlight & nasal breathing
32:04 Mitochondria, energy, and why dietary nitrates matter for fatigue
33:08 Weight balance & the 'unsexy basics' (moderate habits over overtraining)
34:48 Food first: why a multivitamin can’t replace nitrates & polyphenols
38:07 Supplement overload & the psychology of feeling 'broken'
41:38 Smart off-ramps: using supplements strategically (and when to stop)
43:23 Long-game heart health: aging, blood flow, and monitoring BP/pulse
48:17 Bridging restricted diets: parallels with butyrate + nitrate support
50:45 Protect your oral microbiome: mouthwash, smoking, and tongue scraping
55:10 Closing Q&A setup + practical starting steps & Berkeley Life resources

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

In this episode of the IBS Freedom Podcast, Nikki and Amy transition from discussing water-soluble vitamins to exploring the world of fat-soluble vitamins, starting with Vitamin A. They delve into the underappreciated role of Vitamin A in gut health, its synergy with other nutrients, and its widespread deficiency within the population. The hosts also discuss signs of Vitamin A deficiency, its sources in food, and the importance of a balanced intake of fat-soluble vitamins.

Practical tips on enhancing dietary Vitamin A and cautionary notes about supplementation are provided. Additionally, Nikki shares a humorous story about an encounter with a multi-level marketing company pitching a photonic scanner measuring carotenoids. Tune in for an insightful conversation on why Vitamin A deserves more attention in your diet.

00:00 Introduction to Fat-Soluble Vitamins
00:30 The Importance of Vitamin A
01:03 Clinical Observations and Deficiency Risks
04:22 Safety Warnings and Supplementation
05:48 Beta-Carotene vs. Retinol
08:10 Absorption and Bioavailability
10:57 Personal Experiences and Genetic Factors
14:59 Vitamin A Deficiency Symptoms
19:08 Interactions with Other Nutrients
35:08 Vitamin A Deficiency and Iron Intake
35:51 The Importance of Iron for Taller Women
37:20 Vitamin A and Gut Health
38:11 Vitamin A's Role in Immune Function
43:39 Nutritional Status and Microbial Regulation
45:53 Vitamin A Deficiency and GI Infections
51:46 Digestive Function and Vitamin A Absorption
56:40 Sources of Vitamin A in Food
59:10 A Funny Story About Carotenoid Scanners
01:05:49 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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