Gastro Girl

 If you’ve been struggling with chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC), you know that traditional laxatives don’t always work consistently—and they’re not always ideal for long-term use. But what if there was a drug-free, FDA-cleared alternative designed to support your body’s natural rhythm? In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Darren Brenner, gastroenterologist and motility expert from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, to explore the Vibrant capsule—a new non-drug treatment that uses gentle vibrations to stimulate natural gut motility. Tune in as we discuss: What makes Vibrant different from traditional constipation treatments  Who may benefit most from this new approach How it works with the body—not against it What this could mean for the future of constipation care As always, speak with your healthcare provider to determine if the Vibrant capsule is right for you.  

Living with IBS-C often means silently dealing with more than just constipation. From missing social events to navigating daily stress and anxiety, the emotional toll can feel overwhelming. In this eye-opening episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, host Jacqueline Gaulin talks with Dr. Sarah Ballou, Director of GI Behavioral Health at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Ballou shares insights from her groundbreaking research on what IBS-C patients are willing to sacrifice for symptom relief—and why the answer often lies in the gut-brain connection. We also explore the power of multidisciplinary care in IBS-C management. For many patients, the best outcomes come from combining medications, nutrition strategies, and gut-brain behavioral therapy—a team-based approach that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. Dr. Ballou explains how GI psychologists work alongside gastroenterologists, dietitians, and other specialists to create personalized care plans that help patients feel heard, supported, and empowered. Whether you’re living with IBS-C or supporting someone who is, this episode offers real hope, expert guidance, and practical strategies for managing symptoms without giving up the things you love. Sponsored by Ardelyx.

In this exciting episode of the Gastro Girl Podcast, Suzanne Kline, the inspiring founder of the GIZ Kids Foundation, joins us to discuss how Gastro Girl Patient Institute (GGPI) and GIZ Kids have teamed up to make digestive health education fun and accessible for kids through new Woof Chat Kids programs that are focused on health, nutrition, and wellness. But that’s not all. This episode also gives the audience  a sneak peek at Oliver Super Beardie’s new role in Woof Chat Kids. Oliver answers real questions from kids and shows just how his playful personality, endless curiosity, and infectious humor will help kids of all ages understand why digestive health is so important—expertly puppeteered and voiced by the esteemed and incredibly talented John Kennedy. Tune in to discover how this exciting collaboration is empowering kids and families to make healthier choices—and catch a glimpse of Oliver Super Beardie in action as he makes gut health learning fun, relatable, and actionable—helping kids build lifelong healthy habits.  

In this powerful episode, we share a deeply personal story about the devastating impact of early-onset colorectal cancer—and the urgent need for better screening. Our guest, Dr. George Beauregard, is an internal medicine physician and healthcare executive whose world changed forever in 2017 when his newly married 29-year-old son was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer—just a month after his wedding. Through his son’s courageous fight and advocacy, Dr. Beauregard found a renewed purpose: raising awareness about the alarming rise in early-onset cases and the need for improved screening and research. He also shares insights from his memoir, Reservations For Nine: A Doctor’s Family Confronts Cancer, blending his personal and professional perspectives. Join us as we discuss his son’s lasting legacy, the emotional and medical lessons from their journey, and the fight for earlier detection. This conversation is a call to action for greater awareness, earlier intervention, and meaningful change.  

Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable cancers—when caught early. Yet, screening rates remain too low, and cases in younger adults are rising at an alarming rate. Disparities in access to screening also put certain communities at higher risk, making awareness and early detection more critical than ever. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Reezwana Chowdhury, a leading gastroenterologist at Johns Hopkins and Chair of the American College of Gastroenterology’s (ACG) Public Relations Committee. She’s also a dedicated advocate for improving awareness in the South Asian community through her work with the South Asian IBD Alliance (SAIA). We cover: Who should get screened and when The rise in early-onset colorectal cancer The connection between IBD and colorectal cancer risk How screening can save your life This episode is presented in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.  

In this episode, we’re diving into the latest ACG Clinical Guideline for the Diagnosis and Management of Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE)—a major update that reflects the most current understanding of this chronic, immune-mediated disease. Joining us to break it all down are two of the experts who co-authored these guidelines: Dr. Amanda B. Muir, Pediatric Gastroenterologist at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Dr. Nirmala Gonsalves, Gastroenterologist at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine What We Cover: What is EoE? Understanding symptoms and diagnosis Key updates in the latest guidelines and what they mean for patients Treatment options for both children and adults Whether you're living with EoE, caring for someone with it, or simply want a deeper understanding of this condition, this episode is for you! This episode is brought to you by Sanofi, and presented in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.

Stress affects the body in ways we don’t always realize—especially the gut. In this deeply personal episode of Gastro Girl Unfiltered, Jacqueline Gaulin shares how stress and trauma played a role in her IBS diagnosis and what she’s learned along the way. From navigating life’s challenges to understanding the gut-brain connection, Jacqueline discusses how emotional stress can manifest as physical symptoms and why acknowledging the mind-body link is essential for healing. Whether you’re struggling with IBS, dealing with stress, or just looking for reassurance that you’re not alone, this episode offers insights, support, and a message of hope. Tune in to hear: How stress and trauma can trigger IBS symptoms The gut-brain connection explained in simple terms Ways to manage stress and support gut health If you’ve ever wondered whether stress could be impacting your gut, this episode is for you!

Finding the right treatment for Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) can feel overwhelming, but understanding how different therapies work can make all the difference. In this episode, we dive deep into two key treatment categories: secretagogues and retainagogues—what they are, how they work, and why they matter for IBS-C patients. Joining us is Dr. Darren Brenner, a leading expert in neurogastroenterology and motility disorders from Northwestern University. He breaks down the science behind these treatments, shares expert insights, and helps us understand when and why providers may recommend them. Don’t miss this expert-led conversation that makes IBS-C treatments clearer than ever! This episode is made possible with support from Ardelyx.  

Ever found yourself mindlessly scrolling through bad news, stress rising with every swipe? You’re not alone! In this episode of Gastro Girl Unfiltered, Jacqueline breaks down the science behind doomscrolling, chronic stress, and gut health. Learn how the constant flood of negativity impacts digestion, gut-brain communication, and overall well-being. Plus, Jacqueline shares her personal experience breaking free from the doomscrolling cycle—and we answer a listener question! Like, subscribe, and share to help us grow our amazing 35,000+ strong Gastro Girl community on YouTube! Download the new Ask Gastro Girl App for expert-backed gut health support: https://gastrogirl.com/ask-gg-app/ Got a burning question? Drop it in the comments—we might feature it in a future episode!

Do you ever feel like nothing you do is ever good enough? Like you’re constantly chasing an impossible standard, carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders? You’re not alone—and perfectionism could be taking a serious toll on more than just your mind. We’re thrilled to welcome back our dear friend, Dr. Tara Cousineau, to explore this very topic and discuss her latest book, The Perfectionist’s Dilemma: Learn the Art of Self-Compassion and Become a Happy Achiever—available wherever books are sold, including  perfectionistsdilemma.com. In this episode, we uncover the surprising ways perfectionism affects gut health through the gut-brain connection. Dr. Tara breaks down the science behind stress, digestion, and overall well-being—plus, she shares simple, practical strategies you can start using today to regulate stress and embrace self-compassion. If you’re ready to break free from perfectionism and give both your gut and your mind the care they deserve, this episode is for you!