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 happens
• Where 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.

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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.

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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 fertility
• Key nutrients to focus on if you’re trying to conceive, two of which may not be on your radar
• How do conditions such as PCOS or Endometriosis impact digestive health and vice versa
• Stefanie’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.au
Instagram
TikTok: @the_dietologist