The Genius Life 528: Why You’re Bloated – A Surgeon Debunks the Internet’s Worst Gut Health Myths | Karan Rajan, MD
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Nov 24, 2025 
Karan Rajan, MD, an NHS surgeon and senior clinical lecturer, tackles gut health myths with evidence-based insights. He discusses the real reasons behind bloating and the nuanced implications of fiber intake, recommending a gradual increase to avoid discomfort. Karan also clarifies misconceptions about carnivore diets and defends the benefits of oats. He highlights the importance of probiotics but warns against misuse. With a focus on diverse diets, he emphasizes the need for balance in nutrition, particularly against the backdrop of misleading online claims.
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Short-Term Gain, Long-Term Fiber Tradeoff
- Ultra‑low fiber carnivore/keto diets can feel good short term but pose long‑term risks.
- Chronic fiber deficiency harms gut, metabolic and immune health over months and years.
Titrate Fiber Slowly For Real Benefits
- Increase fiber gradually to let gut bacteria adapt and avoid excess gas.
- Aim for consistent intake to achieve metabolic benefits like lower LDL and better HbA1c over months.
Bloating Often Means Abrupt Fiber Change
- Rapid jumps in fiber overwhelm fermenting bacteria and increase gas production.
- Types of fiber (e.g., high‑FODMAP inulin) matter more than total grams for bloating.
