The Gastro Girl Podcast

Barrett's Esophagus Treatment Options | How to Reduce Esophageal Cancer Risk 01.07.2026 28min

After a Barrett's esophagus diagnosis, many patients ask: What happens next—and do I need treatment? In this episode, foregut surgeon Dr. Caitlin Houghton of Keck Medicine of USC explains how Barrett's esophagus is treated in the United States and how doctors work to reduce the risk of progression to esophageal cancer. In this episode, you'll learn: • How doctors decide when treatment is needed • The role of reflux control, medications, and lifestyle changes • When endoscopic eradication therapy (EET) may be recommended • When surgery may be considered • Why ongoing surveillance is important for long-term care If you or someone you love has Barrett's esophagus, chronic GERD, or long-term acid reflux, this episode provides practical, evidence-based guidance to help you better understand your options. This episode is part of a 4-part patient education series sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced by Gastro Girl in collaboration with leading U.S. clinicians dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with Barrett's esophagus.

Colonoscopy Prep Explained: Why Bowel Preparation Matters for Colon Cancer Screening 17.06.2026 32min

Preparing for a colonoscopy may not be anyone's favorite part of colorectal cancer screening, but proper colonoscopy prep is one of the most important factors in detecting precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer early. In this episode, Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with leading gastroenterologist Dr. Fola May to answer common questions about bowel preparation for colonoscopy. Why is colonoscopy prep necessary? What happens if the bowel isn't cleaned properly? Have preparation options improved over the years? And what can patients do to make the process easier? As a co-author of the latest U.S. Multi-Society Task Force recommendations on bowel preparation for colonoscopy, Dr. May explains how colonoscopy prep has evolved to become more effective and patient-friendly. She discusses lower-volume bowel prep options, updated dietary recommendations, and practical strategies to help patients achieve a high-quality prep and avoid repeat procedures. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why bowel preparation is essential for an effective colonoscopy ✅ How poor prep can impact polyp and cancer detection ✅ Newer low-volume colonoscopy prep options ✅ Updated diet recommendations before a colonoscopy ✅ Tips for improving your colonoscopy prep experience ✅ How proper prep helps improve colorectal cancer screening outcomes Whether you're preparing for your first colonoscopy or looking for the latest guidance on bowel preparation, this episode provides expert insights to help you feel more confident and informed. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology Patient Care Committee.

IBS-C Treatments Not Working? What to Do Next 10.06.2026 35min

If you've tried medications, diet changes, fiber supplements, or other therapies for IBS-C and still aren't feeling better, you're not alone. Many people with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C) feel frustrated when symptoms persist despite treatment. But when treatments don't work, it may be time to take a closer look at what's really going on. In this episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with Dr. William D. Chey, world-renowned gastroenterologist at the University of Michigan and President of the American College of Gastroenterology, to discuss what patients should do when IBS-C treatments fail. Dr. Chey explains why some patients continue to struggle, what conditions may be overlooked, and how to work with your healthcare provider to develop a more effective plan. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Why IBS-C treatments may not always work as expected ✅ When it's time to rethink your diagnosis ✅ The role of pelvic floor dysfunction and other overlooked conditions ✅ Questions to ask your healthcare provider ✅ How to take the next step toward better symptom control ✅ Why you don't have to settle for ongoing symptoms Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with IBS-C for years, this episode offers practical insights to help you move forward with confidence. Learn more at GastroGirl.com. This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.

Blood Test or Colonoscopy? What Patients Need to Know About New Colorectal Cancer Screening Options 01.06.2026 9min

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recently updated its colorectal cancer screening recommendations, adding new stool-based and blood-based screening options. What's changed in the new American Cancer Society screening recommendations • New stool DNA and stool RNA screening tests • The role of blood-based cancer screening tests • Why colonoscopy remains the gold standard • Why a follow-up colonoscopy is still needed after a positive screening test • Screening recommendations for adults ages 45–75 • The rise in colorectal cancer among younger adults and what patients should know The most important takeaway? Colorectal cancer is highly preventable, and the best screening test is the one that gets completed. This episode is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider.

Barrett's Esophagus Explained | Diagnosis, Testing & Cancer Risk (Part 2) 29.05.2026 33min

What exactly is Barrett's esophagus—and how do doctors determine who may be at higher risk? In Part 2 of this 4-part patient education series, leading gastroenterologist and advanced endoscopist Raman Muthusamy explains how Barrett's esophagus develops from chronic GERD and how it's diagnosed and evaluated in clinical practice in the United States. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔️ What Barrett's esophagus is ✔️ How chronic acid reflux can affect the esophagus ✔️ How Barrett's is diagnosed during endoscopy ✔️ How doctors assess risk for progression to cancer ✔️ Why early detection matters ✔️ How GI specialists guide treatment and follow-up care If you or someone you love experiences long-standing heartburn, reflux, or GERD symptoms, this episode provides trusted, expert-backed information to help you better understand Barrett's esophagus and what comes next. This episode is part of a 4-part patient education series sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading U.S. clinicians dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with Barrett's esophagus.

Why IBS-C Treatments Work Differently for Everyone: What Patients Should Know 06.05.2026 31min

Why does one IBS-C treatment work for someone else—but not for you? In this episode of the Gastro Girl podcast, leading gastroenterologist Darren M. Brenner. MD, FACG, of Northwestern Medicine, explains why treating IBS-C (irritable bowel syndrome with constipation) is not one-size-fits-all. Using a real-world patient scenario, Dr. Brenner breaks down what may actually be happening inside the body—from gut motility and visceral sensitivity to the brain-gut connection—and why different therapies target different symptoms and pathways. In this episode, you'll learn: Why some IBS-C treatments don't work—or stop working over time How over-the-counter and prescription therapies differ What newer treatment approaches are designed to do Why bloating, pain, and constipation may require different strategies The role of diet, pelvic floor therapy, and gut-brain interventions How patients can work with their healthcare team to find the right treatment plan If you've ever felt frustrated, stuck, or unsure about your IBS-C treatment journey, this episode offers practical insights to help you better understand your options and feel more empowered in your care. This episode is part of an educational program made possible by support from Ardelyx.

Are You Pooping Wrong? A Gastroenterologist Explains Better Bowel Habits 29.04.2026 37min

What if your bowel habits aren't as healthy as you think? In this episode of Gastro Girl, we're joined by Dr. Trisha Pasricha, author of You've Been Pooping All Wrong: How to Make Your Bowel Movements a Joy. She breaks down what most people get wrong about bowel movements—and shares simple, science-backed strategies to improve comfort, regularity, and overall digestive health. From daily habits to the brain-gut connection, we explore what truly supports healthy digestion—and when it's time to seek medical advice. In this episode, you'll learn: What actually defines a "normal" bowel movement Why frequency alone doesn't tell the full story How lifestyle factors influence digestion Practical tips for more comfortable, consistent bowel movements Red flags you shouldn't ignore Whether you're dealing with constipation, irregularity, or just want to better understand your gut, this episode offers clear, evidence-based insights you can trust.

IBS-C Bloating Explained: Causes, Symptoms & How to Find Relief 15.04.2026 26min

IBS-C bloating can feel constant—but why does it happen, and what actually helps? If you're living with irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C), bloating is often one of the most frustrating symptoms. In this episode of Gastro Girl, leading gastroenterologist Dr. Brian Lacy (Mayo Clinic Jacksonville) explains the real causes of bloating in IBS-C and what patients need to know to find relief. What You'll Learn: Why bloating is so common in IBS-C What's happening in your gut when you feel bloated The role of constipation in driving bloating Common myths about IBS-C and bloating Treatment options that may help relieve symptoms Why a personalized approach is key to managing IBS-C Dr. Lacy also breaks down what different therapies can (and can't) do—and how to work with your healthcare provider to find the right approach. IBS-C bloating is complex—but there are evidence-based ways to manage it. This episode is part of an educational program brought to you with support from Ardelyx.

Trouble Swallowing? These Symptoms Could Mean EoE 08.04.2026 21min

Does it fee like food gets stuck when you swallow? Or like swallowing takes more effort than it should? These symptoms are often dismissed—but they may be signs of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), a condition that frequently goes undiagnosed for years. In this episode of Gastro Girl, Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with Dr. Neil D. Parikh to break down what these symptoms really mean—and when it's time to take action. In this episode: Why food may feel like it's getting stuck The difference between reflux and something more Early warning signs many people overlook When swallowing problems need medical evaluation How EoE is diagnosed and why timing matters If you've ever adjusted how you eat, avoided certain foods, or felt like swallowing just isn't right—this episode will help you connect the dots. Produced by Gastro Girl, a trusted digestive health education platform and official patient education partner of the American College of Gastroenterology. This educational initiative was developed with support from Takeda.

GERD to Barrett's Esophagus: A Patient Story That Could Change Your Care 01.04.2026 31min

Barrett's esophagus can develop silently in people with chronic acid reflux (GERD)—and many don't realize their risk until after diagnosis. In this episode of Gastro Girl, Robin shares her powerful, real-life journey from ongoing reflux symptoms to a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus—and how that moment changed everything. Like many patients, Robin faced confusion, fear, and unanswered questions about what her diagnosis meant and what to do next. After learning more about Barrett's esophagus, including risk factors, monitoring, and emerging tools like TissueCypher, she felt empowered to take a more active role in her care and have informed conversations with her healthcare team. In this episode, you'll learn: What Barrett's esophagus is and how it relates to GERD Common symptoms and warning signs patients often overlook What a diagnosis means for cancer risk and monitoring How patient education can transform fear into action Why self-advocacy matters in digestive health care Robin's story is a reminder that knowledge can change your path—and your outcomes. If you experience chronic heartburn or reflux, this episode offers important insights to help guide your next conversation with your doctor. This educational series is supported by Castle Biosciences. Robin's story reflects her personal experience. Gastro Girl provides evidence-based information to support informed patient-provider conversations and does not offer medical advice.

Colorectal Cancer Screening: When to Start, Colonoscopy vs Other Tests… 25.03.2026 39min

Colonoscopy is one of the most effective tools for preventing colorectal cancer—but it's not the only screening option. So how do you know when to get screened, which test to choose, and what to do next if results come back abnormal? Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet many people delay screening due to confusion or uncertainty. In this Gastro Girl Podcast episode, developed in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) Patient Care Committee, we're joined by leading gastroenterologist Dr. Aasma Shaukat (NYU Langone Health) and member of the U.S. Multi-Society Task Force on Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Shaukat breaks down colorectal cancer screening in a clear, practical way so you can make informed decisions and take the right next steps with confidence. What you'll learn: When to start colorectal cancer screening—and who should start earlier Why colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults How family history affects your screening plan Colonoscopy vs stool-based tests—what's the difference What abnormal or incomplete results actually mean Why follow-up testing is critical to prevention How to advocate for the care you nee Why this matters: Early detection saves lives. Completing colorectal cancer screening—including follow-up after abnormal results—can prevent cancer before it starts. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider about your individual care. Explore more trusted digestive health resources: Visit GastroGirl.com or download the Ask Gastro Girl app for evidence-based digestive health guidance you can trust.

I Couldn't Even Swallow A Pill: Samantha's EoE Story 17.03.2026 38min

For years, Samantha adapted quietly. She chewed longer, sipped water with every bite, avoided certain foods, and assumed the discomfort was just reflux. It wasn't. In this patient voice episode, Samantha shares the moment she realized something more serious was happening — and how that journey led to a diagnosis of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). She opens up about the subtle symptoms many people overlook, the daily adjustments she made without realizing it, and what finally pushed her to seek answers. If swallowing sometimes feels harder than it should, this story may sound familiar. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms or condition. This educational initiative was developed with support from Takeda.

Why Am I Always Bloated? A GI Doctor Explains 10.03.2026 42min

Bloating is one of the most common digestive complaints but also one of the most misunderstood. Many people experience frequent bloating without knowing what's causing it, whether it's normal, or when it may signal something more serious. In this episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin talks with gastroenterologist David J. Cangemi from the Mayo Clinic to unpack the real reasons behind bloating and what your digestive system may be trying to tell you. Together, they discuss: • The difference between occasional bloating and chronic bloating • Common causes including diet, IBS, and gut-brain disorders • How constipation and motility issues contribute to bloating • When bloating may be linked to conditions like IBS, food intolerances, or SIBO • Warning signs that should prompt medical evaluation • Practical, evidence-based strategies to safely reduce bloating If bloating is affecting your daily comfort or quality of life, this episode offers trusted, physician-guided insights to help you better understand your symptoms and know when to seek care. This episode is produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology Patient Care Committee.

Auto-Brewery Syndrome: When Your Gut Produces Alcohol 25.02.2026 30min

Auto-brewery syndrome (ABS), sometimes called gut fermentation syndrome, is one of the most misunderstood conditions in digestive health. Patients can experience real symptoms of alcohol intoxication—even when they haven't consumed alcohol—often leading to years of misdiagnosis, stigma, and confusion. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research published in Nature Microbiology examining how specific gut microbes may produce ethanol inside the body and contribute to auto-brewery syndrome. Host Jacqueline Gaulin, founder of Gastro Girl, is joined by researcher and co-author Barbara Cordell to break down: • What auto-brewery syndrome is and how it affects patients • Why this condition has historically been difficult to diagnose • What new microbiome research reveals about microbial ethanol production • How this science may help validate patient experiences • What clinicians and patients should know moving forward This evidence-based, patient-focused conversation sheds light on a condition that has long been misunderstood—and offers hope for clearer recognition, research, and support.

Barrett's Esophagus in the U.S.: How GERD Increases Cancer Risk 11.02.2026 29min

Chronic heartburn and GERD are often brushed off as everyday issues—but for some patients, long-term reflux can quietly progress to Barrett's esophagus, the only known precursor to esophageal cancer. In Part 1 of this 4-part U.S.-focused patient education series, foregut surgeon Dr. Dan Lister, Founder of the Arkansas Heartburn Treatment Center, explains how reflux disease can evolve over time and why early recognition matters. In this episode, you'll learn: How chronic GERD can progress silently Why Barrett's esophagus matters—even when symptoms improve or disappear Key warning signs patients should never ignore How Barrett's is detected and risk is assessed in the U.S. Treatment approaches that may help reduce cancer risk Whether you've lived with reflux for years or are newly diagnosed, this episode provides clear, evidence-based guidance to help you take reflux seriously—and take action. This episode is part of a 4-part patient education series sponsored by Castle Biosciences and produced in collaboration with leading U.S. clinicians dedicated to improving outcomes for patients with Barrett's esophagus.

MASH Explained: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Testing, and What Patients Need to Know 14.01.2026 33min

MASH—metabolic dysfunction–associated steatohepatitis (formerly known as NASH)—is a progressive form of fatty liver disease that often develops silently, without obvious symptoms. Many people don't realize their liver is being damaged until the disease has already advanced. In this episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin is joined by Dr. Pooja Singhal, a board-certified gastroenterologist, hepatologist, obesity medicine specialist, and founder of the Oklahoma Gastro Health and Wellness Center. Dr. Singhal explains: The difference between MASLD and MASH Why MASH is frequently missed or diagnosed late Why testing—not symptoms—is the only reliable way to assess liver health Who is at risk for developing MASH How MASH is diagnosed and what liver testing involves Why fibrosis (liver scarring) matters Current treatment, prevention, and long-term management strategies How early identification can help reduce the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer This episode focuses specifically on MASH, the progressive form of fatty liver disease. MASLD is discussed only to help listeners understand how MASH develops and why timely testing matters. Designed to reduce confusion, raise awareness, and empower patients, this conversation equips listeners with the knowledge they need to have informed discussions with their healthcare providers. Thank you to Madrigal Pharmaceuticals for supporting this episode.

Fecal Incontinence: What's Really Going On—and What Helps 16.12.2025 43min

Fecal incontinence (FI) affects nearly 8% of adults worldwide, yet many people suffer in silence due to embarrassment, confusion, or the belief that nothing can be done. This episode is here to change that. We're joined by Dr. John William Blackett, gastroenterologist and lead author of "Fecal Incontinence in Adults: New Therapies," published in The American Journal of Gastroenterology. Dr. Blackett offers a compassionate, patient-centered overview of FI, including common causes, diagnostic testing, and the full range of treatment options available today—highlighting newer and emerging therapies. If you've experienced unexpected leakage, urgency, staining, or difficulty controlling bowel movements—or if you support someone who has—this conversation provides clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance. Effective treatments exist, and help is available. This episode is produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology Patient Care Committee.

How Fear Impacts IBS-C and Strategies to Take Control 09.12.2025 33min

Living with IBS-C isn't just about managing physical symptoms, it's also about navigating the fear, worry, and emotional toll that often come with the condition. In this powerful episode, host Jacqueline Gaulin is joined by Dr. Sarah Ballou, clinical psychologist and Director of the GI Psychology Service at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, to explore how fear shows up along the IBS-C journey and what you can do to face it with confidence and support. In this episode, you'll learn: The most common fears IBS-C patients experience and how they influence daily life and treatment decisions Why fear can sometimes hold you back from finding relief Practical tools to help you feel more in control, confident, and hopeful How to talk openly with your provider about the fears that affect your care Whether you're newly diagnosed or feeling stuck after years of symptoms, this episode offers real-world guidance, emotional validation, and a reminder that you're not alone on this journey. This episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.

SIBO and IMO: Understanding Gut Overgrowth, Methane, and Archaea 13.11.2025 44min

In this follow-up to one of our most popular episodes, host Jacqueline Gaulin welcomes back Dr. Mark Pimentel, Executive Director of the Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program at Cedars-Sinai, to dive deeper into the science behind SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth) and IMO (Intestinal Methanogen Overgrowth). Dr. Pimentel answers listener questions and explains how these complex conditions relate to IBS-D and IBS-M, why methane and archaea matter for gut health, and how motility and the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) play a crucial role in prevention and treatment. You'll also learn about the latest insights and therapeutic approaches that can help patients find lasting relief. Produced in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology's Patient Care Committee, this evidence-based discussion helps you better understand the "why" behind SIBO and IMO—and what steps you can take toward better gut health.

From Surgery to Show Ring: How Mel Found Confidence Living with a Colostomy 30.10.2025 38min

In this inspiring episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin sits down with Mel, an award-winning dog enthusiast from Valrico, Florida, who has earned more than 40 American Kennel Club titles with her beloved Schnauzers. After life-changing surgery that left her with a permanent colostomy, Mel refused to let fear or stigma hold her back. She shares how she reclaimed her confidence, advocated for her own healthcare, and found strength through her passion for dogs. This episode offers hope and insight for anyone learning to live fully after surgery—and a reminder that resilience, love, and purpose can shine through even the toughest challenges.