You’re Not Really Bloated!

Jul 22, 2025

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We’ve had it wrong! You’re not really bloated!!

My guest explains what ‘bloated’ is … and isn’t… How your hormones and gut interface happen and why adding protein might NOT be the thing you need to do right now if you’re not really bloated.

My Guest:

Shefaly Ravula, PA-C, IFMCP is the visionary founder of Precision Gut Health, a virtual telehealth practice on a mission to unlock the secrets of gut health, nutrition and longevity. At the heart of her practice lies a powerful fusion of functional medicine, culinary nutrition, and a profound commitment to digestive and metabolic health optimization. Using a deeply individualized approach, she is dedicated to guiding patients towards a future where gut health and longevity are intricately entwined—and where vibrant health is not just a destination but a lifelong journey.

Questions We Answer in This Episode:

[00:06:57] What is the difference between bloating and distention?
[00:20:10] Why stomach acid matters but also why it makes me nervous, as a practitioner?
[00:14:44] What is the purpose of an elimination diet and when is it misused or misunderstood?
[00:28:03] In terms of hormones, how important is gut health?
[00:27:40] Chicken or Egg type of question: Do hormones changing influence gut health or does gut health changing influence hormones?
[00:30:17] In terms of gut health and hormones, how important is protein?

Bloating vs. Distention?

Bloating is a sensation, often tied to hormonal changes, water retention, or constipation.
Distension is visible abdominal swelling, often worsening throughout the day.

What is Gut Health?

Optimal functioning of your entire digestive system, which includes not just your intestines but your stomach acid, enzymes, gallbladder, and liver

Fix Your Gut Health, Maybe You’re Not Really Bloated

Stomach Acid:

Essential to digestion.
Without enough acid, food isn't properly broken down, which can lead to bloating, distension, and other digestive problems.

Hormones:

Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can slow down digestion.
Estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and DHEA affect gut motility, inflammation, and the body’s ability to detoxify through the digestive tract

Protein:

With ongoing gut issues, trying to hit high protein goals can add stress to an already compromised digestive system.
Timing is key — healing the gut first, then optimizing protein intake for metabolic and hormonal benefits.

What is the Elimination Diet?

Helps identify food sensitivities or reduce inflammation.
Designed to be short-term and therapeutic — not permanent.
Elimination diets are often misused. Done wrong, they lead to excessive restriction and fear of reintroduction.

Connect with Shefaly:

Other Episodes You Might Like:

Previous Episode - 5 Reasons You’re Not Losing Weight or Gaining Muscle After 50
Next Episode - 5 Things I Would Do If I Were Tired All the Time
More Like This – Why Am I Bloated? Is Your Protein Causing Midlife Gut Issues?

Resources:

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