The Nutrient Dense Podcast

Ep 82: Why Your Iron Levels Won't Budge: The Deeper Root Causes of Low Iron 24.07.2026 53min

If your iron or ferritin levels are chronically low, even though you're taking iron supplements, eating red meat, and doing everything you've been told to do, it's time to dig deeper. In this episode, I'm breaking down why low iron isn't always an iron problem. Your body has to be able to digest, absorb, transport, recycle, store, and actually use the iron you're consuming. I'm walking you through the four major categories I look at when someone has chronically low iron: losing too much iron, not absorbing enough, inflammation restricting access to stored iron, and difficulty transporting or utilizing iron properly. I'm also sharing why ferritin alone doesn't give us the whole picture and which labs can provide a much more comprehensive look at what's actually happening. If you've been supplementing with iron for months without your levels ever budging, this episode will help get you the answers you've been looking for. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Most of the iron your body uses each day comes from internal recycling, not directly from dietary iron. Ferritin is an important marker of iron storage, but ferritin alone cannot tell you the full story of your iron status. There are four major areas to investigate when iron won't improve: loss, absorption, inflammation, and transport/utilization. Low stomach acid, H. pylori, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, restrictive diets, and certain medications can interfere with iron absorption. H. pylori is particularly important because it can alter the stomach environment, impair iron absorption, and contribute to inflammation. Chronic inflammation can increase hepcidin, which restricts the release and absorption of iron and can contribute to functional iron deficiency. Normal or elevated ferritin doesn't necessarily mean iron is readily available for your body to use, particularly when inflammation is present. Copper, vitamin A, B12, and folate are among the nutrients involved in healthy iron transport, red blood cell production, and iron metabolism. Gut dysfunction can create multiple problems simultaneously: poor absorption, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and potentially altered iron utilization. Iron and thyroid health have a bidirectional relationship: iron is important for normal thyroid function, while thyroid dysfunction can contribute to patterns that increase iron-deficiency risk. Instead of endlessly supplementing iron, the goal should be to determine where the breakdown in the chain is occurring. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 79 - 5 Signs Your Gut Issues are Actually H. Pylori Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection Listen to Episode 38 - Diving into Hashimoto's & Hypothyroidism with Board-Certified ENT and Thyroid Specialist Dr. Dana Gibbs CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 81: When You're Doing "Everything Right" But Still Don't Feel Better…Do This. 16.07.2026 1u 9min

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything for your health... eating clean, taking the supplements, listening to all the podcasts, buying the gadgets—and yet you still don't feel better? If so, this episode is for you. Today, I'm stripping away the noise and bringing you back to the foundations that actually move the needle when it comes to healing. After nearly a decade of helping women overcome chronic digestive issues, I've learned that while functional testing, supplements, and personalized protocols absolutely have their place, no one gets to skip the basics. Your body can't heal when it doesn't feel safe, nourished, or supported. In this episode, I walk you through the eight foundational pillars I come back to with every client. These aren't flashy wellness trends—they're the daily habits that create the environment your body needs to repair itself. If you've been feeling overwhelmed by conflicting health advice or like you're constantly searching for the "missing piece," I hope this episode reminds you that healing doesn't always require doing more. Sometimes, it requires doing less—but doing the right things consistently. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Your body will always prioritize survival before healing or optimization. More information doesn't create better health—consistent implementation does. Blood sugar balance is one of the fastest ways to reduce stress on the body and support hormones, digestion, and energy. Hydration and mineral status are foundational for healthy digestion, energy production, and nervous system function. Daily movement supports blood sugar, lymphatic drainage, mitochondrial health, detoxification, and bowel regularity. Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for gut repair, hormone production, immune health, and blood sugar regulation. Morning sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, cortisol, metabolism, thyroid function, and sleep quality. A dysregulated nervous system can impair stomach acid, digestive enzymes, bile flow, gut motility, and nutrient absorption. Joy, play, and meaningful connection aren't luxuries—they're powerful regulators of your physiology. Healing isn't about finding one magical supplement. It's about consistently creating an environment where your body feels safe enough to heal. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount, and check out our "HAN Favorites" List for the supplements mentioned in the episode! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 11 - Top 5 Tips for Balancing Your Blood Sugar Listen to Episode 21 - Is Sunlight An Overlooked Piece of Gut Healing? A Dive Into Circadian Rhythm for Healing Listen to Episode 59 - How to Support Your Nervous System in Times of Chaos Listen to Episode 41 - Before You Invest In Functional Testing, Make Sure You're Doing These Things CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 80: Bile Flow 101: The Overlooked Key to Better Digestion, Bowel Movements & Histamine 09.07.2026 1u 3min

If you're dealing with chronic bloating, constipation, recurring SIBO, food sensitivities, hormonal acne, or even histamine issues, there may be one overlooked piece of the puzzle: your bile flow. In this episode, I break down why proper bile flow is one of the most important pieces of healthy digestion. While it's best known for helping you digest fats, healthy bile flow also supports your gut microbiome, bowel movements, detoxification, hormone balance, nutrient absorption, and even histamine clearance. I'll explain why sluggish bile flow can create a domino effect throughout the body, how chronic stress and low stomach acid contribute to poor bile production, the signs of bile issues I look for in practice, and simple ways to begin supporting healthy bile flow naturally. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: What bile is, how it's made, and why it's essential for far more than fat digestion. How sluggish bile flow contributes to bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities. Why poor bile flow increases the risk of recurring SIBO and gut dysbiosis. The surprising relationship between bile flow, histamine intolerance, and estrogen dominance. How chronic stress disrupts CCK signaling and reduces bile release during meals. Why low stomach acid and H. pylori can contribute to sluggish bile flow. Common signs of impaired fat digestion, including nausea after fatty meals, floating stools, and burping after fish oil. Functional lab markers and imaging that can help evaluate bile and gallbladder function. Practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies to naturally support healthy bile flow. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 15 - Bloating, Food Sensitivities, and Fatigue: Is SIBO the Culprit? Listen to Episode 12 - Is Histamine Overload Causing Your Unexplained Symptoms? Listen to Episode 35 - The Gut x Histamine Connection Listen to Episode 68 - The 9 Hidden Causes of Chronic Constipation (& why more fiber hasn't worked) Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 79: 5 Signs Your Gut Issues are Actually H. Pylori 02.07.2026 41min

Today, I'm breaking down one of the most common gut infections we see in practice: H. pylori. H. pylori is one of the most overlooked root causes of chronic digestive issues, yet it can impact everything from stomach acid production and nutrient absorption to your gut microbiome, thyroid, skin, and energy levels. In this episode, I'm sharing the five biggest signs your gut issues may actually be pointing to an H. pylori infection, why this bacteria is so commonly missed, how it contributes to digestive dysfunction, and what testing and treatment options I recommend from a functional perspective. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: H. pylori is a common stomach bacteria that can significantly reduce stomach acid production and impair digestion. Low stomach acid can contribute to bloating, reflux, food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, and bacterial overgrowth further down the digestive tract. Constant burping, upper abdominal bloating, nausea, and feeling overly full after meals are classic signs of H. pylori. Chronic low iron, ferritin, or vitamin B12 despite supplementation may point to impaired nutrient absorption from H. pylori. Many people diagnosed with IBS may actually have an underlying gut infection that hasn't been investigated. H. pylori is associated with gastritis, stomach ulcers, and may contribute to leaky gut and systemic inflammation. Research suggests H. pylori may play a role in Hashimoto's thyroiditis through immune cross-reactivity. H. pylori can coexist with dysbiosis, Candida overgrowth, SIBO, and other gut imbalances, making comprehensive testing important. A functional stool test provides a more complete picture than testing for H. pylori alone. Supporting the gut, immune system, stomach lining, and digestive function before eradication is an important part of a successful healing strategy. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount! Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 20 - How to Overcome IBS - A Functional Approach Listen to Episode 45 - How Gut Imbalances Drive Hormonal Acne CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 78: The Truth About "Unexplained" Infertility with Dr. Marc Sklar 25.06.2026 1u 6min

It can be so devastating and frustrating to hear from your doctor that you have "unexplained infertility"... but what if it isn't actually "unexplained"? In this episode, I sit down with natural fertility specialist Dr. Mark Sklar to discuss why so many couples are given this diagnosis, why conventional fertility testing often misses important root causes, and the functional medicine approach to optimizing fertility before jumping straight to IVF. We dive into the critical role of gut health, inflammation, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, environmental toxins, stress, sleep, and nutrition in reproductive health—and why supporting the whole body can dramatically improve fertility outcomes for both women and men. Whether you're currently trying to conceive, planning for pregnancy in the future, or simply want to better understand your reproductive health, this conversation is full of practical insights and hope for your journey. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why "unexplained infertility" often means more investigation is needed—not that there's no cause. How functional medicine looks beyond conventional fertility testing. The surprising connection between your gut health and fertility outcomes. Why blood sugar, thyroid health, inflammation, and adrenal function are foundational for conception. The overlooked role that male fertility plays in conception. How environmental toxins, mold, pesticides, plastics, and heavy metals may impact fertility. Why endometriosis is often missed—and what new testing options are becoming available. The fertility labs Dr. Sklar recommends beyond standard testing. Supplements that may support fertility, including CoQ10, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 39 - How to Eat for Optimal Fertility with Lily Nichols RDN Listen to Episode 42 - Gut Health x Fertility: What Every Woman Should Know Listen to Episode 48 - Your Period is Your Fifth Vital Sign with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. MARC: Instagram | Linktree | Youtube If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 77: How To Order At a Restaurant When Traveling to Support Your Gut 18.06.2026 49min

Travel can be one of the biggest triggers for digestive symptoms. Between disrupted routines, less sleep, dehydration, eating out more often, time zone changes, alcohol, and increased stress, it's no surprise that so many people experience bloating, constipation, reflux, or stomach discomfort while traveling. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how I approach eating at restaurants while traveling to support my digestion without becoming restrictive or obsessive. You'll learn how I choose meals, what I prioritize on a menu, the supplements I travel with, how I support my nervous system while away from home, and the mindset shifts that have helped me enjoy travel without constantly worrying about my gut. Because the goal isn't perfection — the goal is supporting your body while still enjoying the experience! WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Travel stress, disrupted routines, dehydration, and sleep changes can all impact digestion. Packing your own snacks can help prevent blood sugar crashes and poor food choices while traveling. Constant snacking can disrupt the migrating motor complex (MMC) and contribute to bloating and constipation. Prioritizing protein at every meal is one of the simplest ways to support blood sugar, digestion, and energy levels. Nervous system regulation is just as important as food choices when it comes to digestion. Breathwork, journaling, gut-directed hypnosis, and mindfulness can improve digestive function while traveling. Digestive enzymes, bitters, electrolytes, and herbal teas can provide additional support on the road. Trusting your body and releasing food fear often improves digestion more than chasing perfection. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount! Listen to Episode 72 - The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle Listen to Episode 49 - Gut Health Hacks for Healthy Holiday Travel Listen to Episode 10 - My Go-To Travel Hacks for Gut Health & Better Digestion CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 76: The Subconscious Blocks Keeping You Sick with Faith Ashenden 11.06.2026 1u 4min

In this episode, I sit down with Faith Ashenden, nervous system and subconscious reprogramming expert and founder of That Healing Feeling, to explore one of the most overlooked pieces of the healing journey: the subconscious mind. Faith shares her incredible story of recovering from Graves' disease, IBS, POTS, chronic fatigue, chronic UTIs, and a long list of debilitating symptoms that ultimately left her bedridden and unable to work. After years of pursuing both conventional and functional medicine approaches, she discovered that while many of those tools helped her improve, they didn't fully give her freedom back. That realization led her down the path of studying neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, and subconscious reprogramming. Together, we discuss how chronic illness can become intertwined with identity, why many people unknowingly develop beliefs that keep them stuck, and how the subconscious mind influences everything from stress responses to healing capacity. We also dive into perfectionism, people-pleasing, symptom patterns, trauma responses, nervous system regulation, and how creating safety in the body may be one of the most important components of long-term healing. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything "right" but still aren't seeing the progress you want, this conversation could completely change the way you think about healing. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Chronic illness often becomes part of a person's identity, which can unintentionally make healing more difficult. The subconscious mind acts as the bridge between conscious thoughts and the nervous system. Neuroplasticity demonstrates that the brain and nervous system can change throughout life. Many people improve physically but still don't feel truly free because the fear and symptom monitoring remain. Perfectionism, hyper-independence, overachievement, and people-pleasing are often nervous system adaptations rather than personality traits. Creating safety in the body is a foundational component of recovery. Nervous system regulation can benefit people regardless of diagnosis, whether they are dealing with gut issues, thyroid conditions, MCAS, fatigue, or autoimmune disease. Healing often requires addressing both physical root causes and subconscious patterns simultaneously. Recovery is not about finding the perfect protocol—it's about creating an environment where the body believes healing is possible. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 1 - How Trauma Impacts Gut and Hormone Health Listen to Episode 25 - Is Nervous System Dysregulation Causing Chronic Gut Issues w/ Jessica Maguire CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH FAITH: Instagram | The Full Breakthrough Healing Experience Live Masterclass If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 75: The Epidemic of Low Progesterone Problem: Root Causes, Hidden Signs & How to Naturally Restore Balance 04.06.2026 1u

Low progesterone is one of the most common hormone patterns we see in women struggling with chronic digestive issues, burnout, thyroid dysfunction, inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and chronic stress. But here's the truth: low progesterone is rarely the root problem. In this episode, I break down why progesterone is often a downstream symptom rather than the true cause. We'll dive into how stress, under-eating, poor gut health, blood sugar dysregulation, thyroid issues, and nervous system dysfunction can all contribute to low progesterone levels and hormone imbalances. You'll learn the key signs of low progesterone, why ovulation matters, how progesterone and estrogen work together, and practical ways to naturally support healthy hormone production from a root-cause perspective. Whether you're dealing with PMS, painful periods, fertility struggles, anxiety before your cycle, insomnia, spotting, or feeling like a completely different person during your luteal phase, this episode will help you understand what's really going on beneath the surface. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Low progesterone is often a symptom of deeper dysfunction rather than the root cause itself. Progesterone is primarily produced after ovulation, making healthy ovulation essential for healthy progesterone levels. Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation are among the most common drivers of low progesterone. Under-eating, low-calorie diets, inadequate carbohydrates, and nutrient deficiencies can impair ovulation and hormone production. Blood sugar instability increases cortisol production, which can negatively impact progesterone levels. Thyroid health and progesterone are deeply connected, and thyroid dysfunction can impair ovulation. Gut dysfunction and inflammation can contribute to hormone imbalances through poor nutrient absorption and impaired estrogen clearance. Many cases of "estrogen dominance" are actually low progesterone relative to estrogen. Supporting progesterone naturally requires addressing stress, nutrition, blood sugar, thyroid function, and gut health simultaneously. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 11 - Top 5 Tips for Balancing Your Blood Sugar Listen to Episode 70 - Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones? Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 74: Muscle, Metabolism & Longevity with Ashleigh VanHouten 29.05.2026 1u 11min

What if women stopped feeling like they need to be smaller… and instead focused on getting stronger? In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I sit down with health coach, author, and podcast host, Ashleigh VanHouten, for a powerful conversation about muscle, metabolism, longevity, and redefining what fitness means for women. Together, we unpack the harmful messages many women receive about dieting, shrinking themselves, and chasing thinness—and explore why building strength may be one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health. We'll also discuss protein intake, body composition, injury prevention, muscle loss with aging, the power of organ meats, nutrient density, and practical ways to fuel your body for energy, resilience, and longevity. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Training to be strong is often far more empowering than training to be skinny. Muscle mass is critical for longevity, metabolic health, injury prevention, and healthy aging. Many women are under-consuming protein. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, improve satiety, and support hormone health. Confidence often comes from competency—not appearance. Strength training can improve bone density and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and age-related muscle loss. Building muscle requires adequate protein, recovery, and progressive overload—you don't need to spend hours in the gym, and you don't need endless cardio. Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods available and can help support micronutrient status. Recovery is when muscle growth actually occurs, making sleep and recovery just as important as training. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 67 - Why Cutting Out Gluten, Dairy, and Sugar Didn't Heal Your Gut Listen to Episode 39 - How to Eat for Optimal Fertility with Lily Nichols RDN CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH ASHLEIGH: Instagram | Website | Book: It Takes Guts If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 73: Mold, Gut Health & Toxins in Pets w/ Dr. Judy Morgan 22.05.2026 1u 8min

In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I sit down with integrative veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan to explore the surprising parallels between human health and pet health. From gut health and microbiome balance to toxin exposure, mold illness, ultra-processed food, nervous system regulation, and chronic inflammation, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to support our pets at the root-cause level. Dr. Judy shares how conventional veterinary medicine often focuses on symptom suppression, while holistic veterinary medicine looks at the entire picture: diet, environment, toxic load, lifestyle, stress, immune function, and more. You'll learn why ultra-processed pet food may be harming your animals, why gut health matters just as much for animals as it does for humans, natural approaches to supporting your pet's immunity, detoxification, longevity, and overall wellness, and more! WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Holistic veterinary medicine focuses on identifying and addressing root causes, not just suppressing symptoms Many chronic pet conditions (itching, GI issues, allergies, arthritis) are tied to inflammation and toxic burden Ultra-processed kibble can negatively impact gut health, hydration, immune function, and longevity in pets Cats are obligate carnivores and thrive on high-moisture, minimally processed diets Flea and tick medications are neurotoxins and may contribute to toxic load in pets and households Mold exposure and environmental toxins impact pets similarly to humans Gut health and the gut-brain axis exist in animals too — affecting mood, anxiety, behavior, and immune health Fresh foods like eggs, sardines, bone broth, berries, and mushrooms can significantly support pet health Circadian rhythm, movement, enrichment, and sunlight matter for animals too Lab testing such as microbiome testing, vitamin D, mineral analysis, and stool testing can provide valuable insight into pet health LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 71 - Q&A with Hannah: SIBO, GLP-1s, Low Progesterone, Histamine Issues, and More! Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. JUDY: Instagram | Website | Use code NUTRIENT50 for 50% off Dr. Judy authored books found on NaturallyHealthyPets.com If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 72: The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle 14.05.2026 37min

In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, Hannah Aylward breaks down one of the most overlooked systems in gut health: the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC). If you struggle with chronic bloating, constipation, gas, reflux, recurring SIBO, or food sensitivities, this episode explains why your gut's natural "self-cleaning mechanism" may not be functioning properly — and how that can contribute to bacterial overgrowth and digestive dysfunction. Hannah dives into how the MMC works, why meal spacing and circadian rhythm matter, how chronic stress impacts gut motility, and the hidden reasons many people relapse after SIBO treatment. She also shares practical strategies to naturally support your gut motility, reduce bloating, improve bowel movements, and optimize digestion without falling into restrictive diet culture. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: What the Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) actually is and why it acts like your gut's internal "cleaning wave" How impaired MMC function contributes to SIBO, bloating, constipation, reflux, and food sensitivities Why chronic grazing and constant snacking can disrupt gut motility The connection between stress, nervous system dysregulation, and slowed digestion Why recurring SIBO often comes back if underlying motility issues are never addressed The role circadian rhythm plays in digestive health and bacterial balance Why shift workers and nurses often struggle with gut dysfunction How under-eating and poor meal timing negatively impact gut health Hannah's recommendations for meal spacing and overnight fasting Simple strategies to naturally support gut motility The connection between hypothyroidism and constipation Why gut healing requires both deeper interventions AND supporting the body's natural self-cleaning mechanisms LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 15 - Bloating, Food Sensitivities, and Fatigue: Is SIBO the Culprit? Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 71: Q&A with Hannah: SIBO, GLP-1s, Low Progesterone, Histamine Issues, and More! 07.05.2026 47min

In this Q&A-style episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I answer listener-submitted questions on some of the most common (and misunderstood) gut and hormone concerns I see in practice. Hannah dives into what to actually eat while treating SIBO, why food alone won't fix bacterial overgrowth, and the deeper root causes behind chronic bloating, IBS, low stomach acid, histamine flares, and low progesterone. She also shares her perspective on GLP-1 medications and gut health, explains why chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation are often at the root of hormone imbalance and digestive dysfunction, and gives practical strategies to support better sleep, cortisol regulation, gut motility, and detoxification. If you've been feeling reactive to foods, chronically stressed, exhausted, bloated, inflamed, or like your body just isn't functioning the way it should — this episode is packed with foundational education and actionable takeaways. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: SIBO is not just a food issue — it's often rooted in impaired gut motility and digestive dysfunction. Constant snacking and grazing can disrupt the migrating motor complex (MMC), increasing susceptibility to bacterial overgrowth. Ginger, bitter foods, and proper meal spacing can naturally support gut motility. The low FODMAP diet may provide temporary relief, but it does not address root causes. GLP-1 medications may negatively impact gut motility, gastric emptying, bile flow, and digestive function in some individuals. Mold illness can contribute to histamine issues, facial puffiness, inflammation, high cortisol, and gut dysfunction. Lymphatic drainage support is critical during mold detoxification. Chronic stress and HPA axis dysregulation are major contributors to low progesterone and hormone imbalance. Morning sunlight exposure and reducing blue light at night can significantly improve cortisol rhythm and sleep quality. There is no "one supplement" for IBS — the root cause must be identified and addressed individually. Magnesium glycinate is one of the most broadly supportive nutrients for stress, digestion, nervous system health, and constipation support. Low stomach acid often signals deeper dysfunction like infections, mold exposure, or chronic stress. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join us in my gut healing group program, Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts before doors close on 5/7! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 15 - Bloating, Food Sensitivities, and Fatigue: Is SIBO the Culprit? Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine Listen to Episode 20 - How to Overcome IBS - A Functional Approach CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 70: Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones? 04.05.2026 1u 23min

You're not addicted to stress. You're addicted to how it makes you feel. In this episode, I break down one of the most overlooked patterns keeping women stuck in burnout, gut issues, and hormonal chaos: the addiction to stress hormones. If you feel like you: Thrive under pressure Can't relax even when you're exhausted Crash the second life slows down Or feel anxious when things are calm… This isn't a personality trait. It's a conditioned nervous system response. Inside this episode, I walk you through: What's actually happening in your body when you're "running on cortisol" Why your nervous system starts to feel safe in chaos How this pattern directly impacts your gut, hormones, and energy And the exact steps to start rewiring your body out of survival mode Because healing your gut isn't just about food and supplements…It's about teaching your body that it's finally safe to slow down. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: You're not addicted to stress—you're addicted to the chemical state it creates The nervous system will always choose what feels familiar—even if it's harmful Many high-performing women are conditioned to feel safe in chaos Chronic stress rewires your body at a physiological level (HPA axis dysregulation) "Tired but wired" is one of the clearest signs of cortisol imbalance Gut issues are often downstream of chronic stress patterns Burnout is not random—it's the result of long-term stress hormone dependency Healing requires both: Physical support (nutrition, minerals, sleep) Nervous system rewiring You don't need to eliminate stress—you need to build safety in your body Small, consistent regulation practices are what actually create change LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join us in my gut healing group program, Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts before doors close on 5/7! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Listen to Episode 6 - Q&A with Team HAN: SIBO, mold toxicity, histamine overload & more Listen to Episode 37 - Client Case Study: From IBS, Bloating + Food Sensitivities to Pain-free Digestion & Tolerating More Foods Listen to Episode 66 - The Most Overlooked Causes of Chronic Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 69: How She Went From IBS, Bloating, Constipation, and Elevated Thyroid Antibodies to Bloat-Free, Regular BMs and Dropping Thyroid Antibodies 500 Points 24.04.2026 40min

If you've been told "it's just IBS"… but you're still dealing with bloating, constipation, diarrhea, food sensitivities, fatigue, and Hashimoto's symptoms — this episode is for you. In this client case study episode, I'm breaking down exactly how we helped one of our clients go from 10 years of chronic digestive issues to feeling like a completely different person in just four months. She came to us with: → constipation + overflow diarrhea → reacting to almost every food → chronic bloating → low iron + low vitamin D → elevated thyroid antibodies → fatigue, weight gain, and constant frustration By the end of working together: - daily bowel movements - no more bloating - food freedom - significantly more energy - thyroid antibodies dropped by over 500 points This is what happens when you stop treating symptoms… and start addressing the true root cause. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why IBS is often just a label — not a real root cause answer How Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism are deeply connected to gut health Why low stomach acid can lead to bloating, constipation, and nutrient deficiencies The connection between bile flow, liver health, and thyroid function Why food sensitivities are often a digestive function issue — not a food issue How chronic stress and cortisol dysregulation suppress digestion Why random supplements and elimination diets often fail The 4-phase process we use to restore gut health at the root cause level LINKS: Save your seat for my FREE 3 Phase Good Gut Formula Masterclass on 4/29! Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 6 - Q&A with Team HAN: SIBO, mold toxicity, histamine overload & more Listen to Episode 37 - Client Case Study: From IBS, Bloating + Food Sensitivities to Pain-free Digestion & Tolerating More Foods Listen to Episode 66 - The Most Overlooked Causes of Chronic Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 68: The 9 Hidden Causes of Chronic Constipation (& why more fiber hasn't worked) 16.04.2026 47min

Constipated regardless of how healthy you eat? Staying hydrated, eating fiber, but still struggling to have regular bowel movements? You don't have a laxative deficiency. It's time to dig deeper. Constipation is NOT just a fiber issue. In this training-style episode, I'm walking you through the true root causes of chronic constipation - the ones that most conventional approaches completely miss. We're diving into digestion, gut microbiome imbalances, nervous system regulation, thyroid health, and more so you can finally understand why your body isn't moving the way it should. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: What a healthy bowel movement actually looks like Why fiber, laxatives, and hydration often don't fix the issue The connection between constipation, hormones, acne, and toxin buildup Why you may feel worse adding more fiber The role of digestion, gut bacteria, and motility in regularity Why traveling can trigger constipation (and how to fix it) How multiple root causes often overlap (it's rarely just one thing) LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 25 - Is Nervous System Dysregulation Causing Chronic Gut Issues w/ Jessica Maguire Listen to Episode 7 - Common Gut Imbalances: SIBO, Candida Overgrowth, Dysbiosis, IBS & More CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 67: Why Cutting Out Gluten, Dairy, and Sugar Didn't Heal Your Gut 13.04.2026 54min

If you've cut out gluten, dairy, sugar, and still feel bloated, constipated, or reactive to foods… this episode is going to change how you think about gut healing. In this training-style episode, I'm breaking down why removing foods alone won't fix your gut — and what's actually going on underneath your symptoms. Because the truth is, it's not just about the food. It's about your ability to digest and tolerate that food. We're diving into the real root causes of chronic gut issues so you can stop restricting and start actually healing. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why elimination diets only provide temporary relief (if any) The real reason you're reacting to healthy foods Why food sensitivities are a symptom, not the root cause How restrictive diets can actually lead to more food fear + worse symptoms The difference between removing foods vs. restoring function Why "eating clean" isn't enough to heal your gut The role of digestive capacity in long-term healing The deeper root causes behind bloating, constipation, and IBS LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 2 - The Difference Between Food Sensitivities vs Intolerances vs Allergies Listen to Episode 33 -Main Root Causes of Chronic Gut & Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 66: The Most Overlooked Causes of Chronic Digestive Issues 02.04.2026 43min

In this solo episode, I'm breaking down the most overlooked root causes of chronic gut and digestive issues — the ones that conventional testing often misses. Because here's the truth, it's not just about the food you're eating. It's about your ability to actually digest and process that food. We're diving into the real reasons your symptoms keep coming back, and why focusing only on elimination diets and symptom management is keeping you stuck. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why an IBS diagnosis doesn't actually explain your symptoms The difference between symptom management vs. root cause healing Why food sensitivities are often a result, not the problem How digestion works as a system (north → south) Why removing more foods is NOT the solution The connection between gut health, hormones, skin, energy & thyroid health Why your labs can look "normal" while your gut is not The biggest breakdowns in digestive function that lead to bloating, gas & constipation LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 64 - The Hidden Signs of Gut Imbalance You're Probably Ignoring Listen to Episode 52 - 5 Main Causes of Non-stop Bloating (that aren't food related) CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 65: An Open Conversation on Vaccines, Medical Distrust & Informed Consent with Dr. Joel Warsh 26.03.2026 1u 8min

In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I sit down with board-certified pediatrician and integrative medicine expert Dr. Joel Warsh to have a nuanced, grounded conversation about one of the most polarized topics in health right now: vaccines. We dive into the growing distrust in the medical system and why so many parents are starting to ask deeper questions about their healthcare decisions. This is not a black-and-white conversation. It's about informed consent, better research, and deepening an important conversation in the public health space. These conversations are uncomfortable to have and often polarizing. It's not about being "pro-vaccine" or "anti-vaccine". My hope is that you walk away from listening to this episode feeling grounded and clearer on the science and research that we do have on this topic. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why trust in the medical system is at an all-time low How pandemic messaging accelerated medical distrust The difference between efficacy vs. safety in research Why informed consent is missing from modern healthcare The nuance between pro-vaccine vs. pro-safe vaccines What we actually know (and don't know) about vaccine risks Why vaccine conversations have become so polarized The truth about measles risk vs. fear-based messaging Why better research could actually increase trust in vaccines How functional medicine fills gaps left by conventional care LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 59 - How to Support Your Nervous System in Times of Chaos Listen to Episode 27 - Make Your Life Your Medicine - A TCM Approach to Gut Health with Dr. Alex Heyne CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. JOEL: Instagram | Linktree | Book: Between a Shot and a Hard Place If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 64: The Hidden Signs of Gut Imbalance You're Probably Ignoring 19.03.2026 25min

Your gut is the epicenter of your health… but what if your symptoms don't look like "gut issues" at all? In this episode, I'm breaking down the hidden signs of gut imbalances that most women overlook—the ones that show up as fatigue, anxiety, hormonal issues, skin breakouts, and more. Your body doesn't compartmentalize symptoms the way conventional medicine does. The brain fog, painful periods and constant fatigue may all be pointing back to one place: your gut. This episode will help you understand all of the full body systems that the gut impacts and what that can look like in your body. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Your gut is the foundation of full-body health (hormones, energy, skin, brain, immunity) You can have gut dysfunction without obvious digestive symptoms Fatigue often stems from poor absorption, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction Skin issues are frequently a reflection of gut + detox imbalances The gut-brain axis directly impacts focus, mood, and anxiety Gut bacteria can increase stress hormones and drive anxiety Hormonal symptoms (like estrogen dominance) are often downstream of gut dysfunction 70–80% of your immune system lives in your gut → gut health = immune resilience Autoimmunity is strongly linked to leaky gut + systemic inflammation Symptoms are signals of deeper imbalances, not isolated issues LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 45 - How Gut Imbalances Drive Hormonal Acne Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection Listen to Episode 30 - Is Your Gut Causing High Cortisol? The Gut x Cortisol Connection Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine Listen to Episode 40 - What Came First - My Anxiety, or my Gut Issues? Listen to Episode 42 - Gut Health x Fertility: What Every Woman Should Know CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

Ep 63: Is IBS an Early Warning Sign for Autoimmunity with Dr. Izabella Wentz 12.03.2026 59min

What if your IBS symptoms are actually an early warning sign for deeper health issues? In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, Hannah sits down with integrative pharmacist and New York Times bestselling author Dr. Izabella Wentz to discuss the root causes of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and how digestive dysfunction is often connected to autoimmunity, thyroid disease, infections, nutrient deficiencies, and environmental triggers. Dr. Wentz shares how IBS is frequently treated as a "wastebasket diagnosis" in conventional medicine—leaving millions of people stuck with chronic bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities without ever uncovering the real cause. Together, they break down the many potential drivers behind IBS, including gut infections like H. pylori and parasites, mold exposure, thyroid dysfunction, nutrient deficiencies like thiamine, food additives, stress, and microbiome imbalances. They also explore the powerful connection between gut health and autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto's, and why addressing intestinal permeability (leaky gut) can be a critical step toward long-term healing. If you've been told you "just have IBS" and feel like something deeper is going on, this episode will help you better understand what may actually be happening inside the body. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: IBS is often an umbrella diagnosis, meaning multiple root causes can produce the same symptoms. Common IBS drivers include SIBO, parasites, digestive enzyme deficiencies, bile acid issues, nutrient deficiencies, and food reactions. Intestinal permeability (leaky gut) is present in nearly all autoimmune conditions and can be an early warning sign. Many people experience IBS symptoms years before developing autoimmune disease. Gut infections such as H. pylori and Blastocystis hominis may contribute to thyroid antibodies and Hashimoto's. Mold exposure can disrupt immune function and increase susceptibility to multiple gut infections. Stress and nervous system dysregulation can influence digestion but are rarely the only root cause. Food additives, artificial sweeteners, and ultra-processed foods significantly impact gut health. Nutrient deficiencies — especially thiamine, zinc, selenium, and carnitine — can contribute to digestive dysfunction. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 20 - How to Overcome IBS - A Functional Approach Listen to Episode 7 - Common Gut Imbalances: SIBO, Candida Overgrowth, Dysbiosis, IBS & More CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. IZABELLA: Instagram | Website | Podcast | Upcoming book: IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

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