GLP-1 medications like Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, and Mounjaro (tirzepatide) have transformed treatment for type 2 diabetes and weight loss — but they can also cause digestive side effects like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and stomach pain that leave many patients confused or worried. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Catherine Hudson from LSU Health New Orleans to separate fact from fiction and provide clear, evidence-based guidance. Dr. Hudson breaks down: – How GLP-1 receptor agonists work – Common digestive side effects—and how to manage them – Why lifestyle changes still matter – What you need to know before surgery or GI procedures when taking these medications Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or healthcare provider, this episode offers practical insights to help you navigate the GLP-1 journey with confidence. This episode is presented in collaboration with the American College of Gastroenterology’s Patient Care Committee.
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. This episode is sponsored by Vibrant Gastro.
Probiotics are everywhere these days, with promises of improved gut health and balanced microbiomes. But how do you know what your gut needs? And are they the right choice for everyone? Returning to the show is Dr. Neil Stollman, a leading gastroenterologist from East Bay GI in Oakland, California, renowned for his work in advancing clinical care and understanding of the gut microbiome. Dr. Stollman’s expertise spans key areas of digestive health, including C. difficile infection and fecal transplant therapies. In this episode, Dr. Stollman helps us cut through the hype around probiotics, taking a closer look at what they do, who might benefit, and whether they live up to their reputation. Tune in to discover the real deal on probiotics and your gut health
In this episode, we’re discussing a new FDA-cleared treatment for chronic idiopathic constipation, the Vibrant Capsule. Chronic idiopathic constipation (CIC) is a long-term condition characterized by infrequent, difficult, or incomplete bowel movements with no identifiable cause. CIC can significantly impact quality of life, and traditional treatments don’t always work. Joining us is Dr. Monia Werlang, a South Carolina-based gastroenterologist, and her patient, Misty, a healthcare professional. Misty has been using the Vibrant Capsule, a drug-free treatment that uses micro-vibrations to help regulate bowel movements. Hear firsthand how this innovative solution works, Misty’s personal experience, and the improvements in her quality of life since starting the treatment. Whether you or a loved one are exploring new options for treating CIC, this episode offers valuable insights into a breakthrough approach.
Dr. Xiao Jing (Iris) Wang, a Gastroenterologist at Mayo Clinic, discusses her children’s book “Boo Can’t Poo.” Inspired by patients who lacked early education on proper bowel movements, Dr. Wang created this lighthearted story to help parents address toddler constipation at home. She also explores the effects of constipation and weak pelvic floor muscles on overall digestive health.
In this episode we focus on Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation (IBS-C) with Gastroenterologist, Dr. Kumkum Patel from California (@dr.gut_motility). Dr. Patel offers her expertise on various IBS-C treatments from the different medications available, to simple diet and lifestyle changes that patients can make to help keep their bowel movements more regular. We also discuss what other, more severe digestive conditions can be causing constipation, which is why it’s important to be open with your healthcare provider regarding your bowel movements.
Open communication between patients and their health care providers is vital for accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment, especially for GI conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or IBS with Constipation (IBS-C), which often present with multiple symptoms and are impacted by lifestyle factors like diet and stress.
Constipation is a common GI symptom—and consumers spend billions each year trying to treat irregular bowel movements. But the cause and treatment of constipation is not the same for everyone. Leading gastroenterologist and motility expert, Dr. Darren M. Brenner, answers the most common questions about constipation, including what are considered “normal” or “regular” bowel movements.
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