When Kate Scarlata's health teetered during a precarious pregnancy, it was a wake-up call to the importance of nutrition and digestion for gut health and beyond. However, at the time of that pregnancy, very little science-based nutrition support was offered. In today's episode, Kate, along with Dr. Megan Riehl, will guide you through the complex world of the gut microbiome and its fascinating link to not just our physical health, but also, our mental well-being.  Welcome to The Gut Health Podcast. This episode highlights how and why Gut Health Matters! From the foods that nourish our inner gut microbes to the undeniable brain-gut connection contributing to our emotions, we leave no stone unturned. We're also giving you a peek at the evolution of our own careers in healthcare, revealing how our individual journeys have enhanced our intention and compassion to help those struggling with GI challenges.  With the rise of psychological therapies in the management of GI conditions and the spotlight on diet's role in influencing our inner gut microbes and digestive symptoms, we're here to guide you through the maze of misinformation and provide everyday tips for nurturing your gut ecosystem and digestive well-being. But it's not all heavy-duty science in this episode; we dive into the day-to-day reality of managing stress and prioritizing overall health. Discover why simple acts like diaphragmatic breathing can be a game-changer for your gut and how embracing regular self-care through nutrition and lifestyle changes could help your health journey.  And as we look ahead to our next episode, we hope you join us as we have the opportunity to ask all the burning questions about something that we all do...poop. We'll explore what your poop reveals about your health with Mayo Clinic Jacksonville gastroenterologist,  Dr. Jami Kinnucan.   Join us for the first episode of The Gut Health Podcast as we provide you with practical, real-world strategies to give your gut the love it deserves. Learn more about Kate and Megan: Website: www.katescarlata.com and www.drriehl.com Instagram: @katescarlata @drriehl and @theguthealthpodcast Order Kate and Megan's book, Mind Your Gut: The Science-Based, Whole-body Guide to Living Well with IBS. The information included in this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider before starting any new treatment or making changes to existing treatment.