#398. The Hidden Psychological Toll of Digestive Disorders | IBS | Gut-Brain & Anxiety & More Dr. Megan Riehl

Is your gut wreaking havoc on your mental health? Up to 45 million Americans suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), struggling with unpredictable diarrhea, constipation, nausea and more. These “disorders of gut-brain interaction” take a serious toll, with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and even PTSD compared to the general public. So how do you break free from the vicious cycle?

Dr. Megan Riehl, a clinical psychologist and gastroenterology specialist, shares insider strategies to get your gut-brain axis back in sync. With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Riehl now runs one of the first GI behavioral health clinics in the country at the University of Michigan.

Tune in to learn:

• The pathophysiology behind IBS and how the “gut-brain feedback loop” operates
• How diet, lifestyle, and environment shape GI distress
• Practical coping tools to tame anxiety about bathroom access
• Emerging links between GI disorders and conditions like PTSD
• Cutting-edge treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy tailored to GI patients

If you or someone you love battles the physical and mental strain of digestive issues, this science-based conversation is a must listen. Dr. Riehl leaves us hopeful - with greater awareness and the right integrative care, those suffering can find real relief.

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Quotable moments:

"About 45 million Americans have IBS. And that's of people with bathroom issues." - Dr. Megan Riehl

"What really is at the heart of these disorders of gut-brain interaction are difficulties between the way the brain and the gut are communicating." - Dr. Megan Riehl

"We actually are seeing higher rates of post-traumatic stress in GI conditions." - Dr. Megan Riehl

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The BluePrint Podcast is for busy professionals and Household CEOs who care deeply about their families, career, and health. Host Dr. Erik Korem distills cutting edge-science, leadership, and life skills into simple tactics optimized for your busy lifestyle and goals.   Dr. Korem interviews scientists, coaches, elite athletes, entrepreneurs, entertainers, and exceptional people to discuss science and practical skills you can implement to become the most healthy, resilient, and impactful version of yourself.

On a mission to equip people to pursue audacious goals, thrive in uncertainty, and live a healthy and fulfilled life, Dr. Erik Korem is a High-Performance pioneer. He introduced sports science and athlete-tracking technologies to collegiate and professional (NFL) football over a decade ago. He has worked with the National Football League, Power-5 NCAA programs, gold-medal Olympians, Nike, and the United States Department of Defense.

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