Healing the Digestive Tract: Herbal Antimicrobials, Probiotics, and Dietary Changes for SIBO For over 25 years, I have worked with people struggling with digestive diseases. I’ve lived through my own healing journey and shared what works in my books and on Listen To Your Gut. Today, I want to talk about small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), a condition that is becoming more common, especially in young women. DOWNLOAD CHAPTER ONE of LTYG for Free to Get Started! In this blog, I’ll share insights from my recent podcast with Natasha Trenev, founder of Natren probiotics and a true pioneer in gut health. Natasha has over 60 years of experience in this field. Together, we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t when it comes to treatment of SIBO. This isn’t just about bacteria in the small intestine. It’s about the digestive tract as a whole—how it functions, what causes disruption, and how we can bring it back into balance using natural treatments. Watch the full episode of my conversation with Natasha Trenev below. You can watch the video: Or listen to the podcast: Topics Covered in This Episode: What SIBO really is (beyond bacterial overgrowth) Problems with conventional antibiotic treatment Why many probiotics don’t work for SIBO The role of the elemental diet and healing foods Dietary changes that soothe the digestive tract How wild oregano oil and herbal supplements support healing The link between thyroid, motility, and SIBO recurrence Gut-brain connection, stress, and emotional healing tools What SIBO Really Is When most people hear SIBO, they think only of bacterial overgrowth in the small intestine. But SIBO is more complex. It can mimic irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with overlapping symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, and digestive discomfort. It often appears alongside low stomach acid, poor gut motility, and hormonal imbalances like low thyroid. Many patients chase only the “bad bacteria” problem, using antibiotic therapy or restrictive diets, without looking at the bigger picture. In reality, the root cause of SIBO involves motility issues, immune dysfunction, food sensitivities, and stress. This is why so many people relapse after standard treatment.   The Problems With Standard Treatment Doctors often prescribe antibiotic treatment like rifaximin for SIBO. Yes, antibiotics can reduce symptoms. But here’s what I’ve seen: They don’t restore the gut microbiome. They may cause antibiotic resistance. They allow candida yeast and fungal organisms to overgrow. The relief is usually temporary—symptoms return within weeks or months. In fact, Natasha and I both agree: relying on antibiotics alone is like putting a band-aid on a deep wound. It does not address dietary changes, lifestyle changes, or the need to replenish good bacteria. Why Probiotics Matter In the treatment of SIBO, one of the most powerful steps is to restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. But not all probiotics are created equal. I’ve tested products around the world. From Germany to Japan, I looked for alternatives. But only Natren probiotics consistently meet the strict criteria needed to survive stomach acid, reach the small intestine, and stay alive through the expiration date. Without potent probiotics, you risk wasting time and money. When you’re healing, every step matters. Diet as a Healing Tool Healing the digestive tract requires food that is easy to digest. Many SIBO patients turn to the low-FODMAP diet, or even the specific carbohydrate diet. While these can help reduce digestive symptoms, they are not long-term solutions. From my own experience, and hundreds of thousands of my readers, I recommend: Cooked vegetables: zucchini, squash, carrots, peeled cucumber. Cooked fruits: apples, pears, peaches, papaya. Simple carbohydrates: organic white rice or Japanese Haiga rice. Bone broth: rich in gelatin; healing for the gut lining. Healthy fats: butter, ghee, olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, or pasture-raised l

Dysfunctional Families Have an Impact on Childhood The family environment plays a critical role in a child’s emotional and physical health. When a child develops a chronic illness, such as Crohn’s disease, the roots often go deeper than physical symptoms. In a recent interview, Jini Patel Thompson, founder of Listen to Your Gut, shared her insights on how family dynamics affect childhood disease. She explained how emotional support, open communication, and secure attachment within the family unit can significantly influence healing and well-being. Show Notes from the episode: 1. Jini’s Journey to Healing: Jini shares her diagnosis with Crohn’s disease over 20 years ago and her decision to pursue a holistic healing path after conventional treatments proved ineffective. Her commitment to exploring mind, body, and spirit has kept her drug and surgery-free. 2. The Power of Listening to Your Gut: Jini discusses the importance of trusting one’s body and inner wisdom as a pathway to healing. Her online community, “Listen to Your Gut,” serves as a support network for individuals seeking natural healing methods. 3. Holistic Healing Practices: The episode delves into various holistic practices, including meditation and visualization, and their role in managing gut health. Jini emphasizes the significance of addressing emotional and spiritual aspects of health. 4. Empowerment through Knowledge: Jini highlights the importance of educating oneself about natural remedies and building a personal “toolbox” for health. She shares resources available on her website, which offer free access to effective treatment protocols. 5. Parental Guidance and Support: The conversation touches on how parents can support their children with chronic illnesses by being mindful of language and fostering a positive environment. Jini advises parents to work on their own well-being to positively influence their children’s health journeys. Emotional Causes and Soul Agreements Jini discussed the idea that chronic illnesses may sometimes be linked to emotional needs and unresolved patterns within the family. She suggested that soul agreements or karmic contracts could be in place, where a child chooses to experience illness as a way to bring transformation within the family unit. For example, a child might develop a chronic condition to divert attention from parental conflict, acting as a catalyst for change. This can create a temporary supportive environment, allowing parents to focus on caregiving rather than their differences. Over time, the child’s illness may lead to deeper conversations, improved emotional support, and a chance for family healing. These deeper emotional and spiritual patterns can be challenging to identify. However, looking into past experiences, unresolved trauma, and family history may offer clues. Some families find clarity through meditation, journaling, or working with energetic practitioners who specialize in past life regression or soul retrieval. The Influence of Parents’ Emotional States Parents play a crucial role in a child’s healing. A parent’s nervous system can directly influence the child’s. When a parent is calm and centered, it creates a sense of safety for the child. In contrast, a wired, anxious parent may unknowingly heighten the child’s emotional distress. Jini emphasized the importance of self-work for parents. By regulating their own emotional states, they provide a healthier emotional landscape for the child to recover. Children often adapt their behavior to balance the emotional energy of the family. For example, a young child may become more grounded if the parent is overly anxious, acting as a stabilizing force. While this may help the family function, it can have negative consequences on the child’s emotional well-being if it persists over time. Authoritative parenting that combines high expectations with emotional support tends to be more effect

Are Stool Tests Worth It? Gut Health Facts You Should Know As someone who has been helping people with digestive health for decades, I’ve seen trends come and go. One that has persisted is stool testing — also called fecal testing or gut microbiome testing. Many functional medicine practitioners, naturopaths, and even conventional doctors recommend it. The idea sounds appealing: send in a small stool sample and get a detailed report on your gut flora. Supposedly, it reveals the root cause of your digestive issues and guides you to the right treatment. But after decades of helping people heal themselves from Crohn’s, colitis, IBS and SIBO, I can tell you that stool testing is often not worth the hype or the cost. In this article, I’ll explain why, drawing on my own experience, along with the wisdom of my friend and colleague, Natasha Trenev, founder of Natren Probiotics. If you’d like to hear our full discussion in detail, here’s the complete video of our conversation: OR you can listen to the podcast version: Timestamps: 00:00 – Podcast intro & guest welcome 00:44 – Natasha’s background in digestive health 01:11 – Problems in the supplement industry 01:58 – Intro to stool testing topic 02:48 – Stool test = snapshot in time 03:08 – Overview of digestive tract & gut microbes 03:36 – Why harmful bacteria aren’t always the cause 04:07 – Issues with current stool test methods 04:58 – When stool testing may be valid 05:51 – Same treatment for most gut disorders 06:18 – Broad‑spectrum natural antimicrobials 06:50 – Lifestyle & cultural factors in gut health 07:18 – Microbiome diversity across cultures 08:07 – Antibiotics and gut recovery time 09:00 – Your gut microbiome is unique 09:30 – Hair mineral testing comparison 10:27 – Misleading results & wasted money 11:00 – Bogus probiotic recommendations 11:30 – Dedication to quality probiotics 12:37 – The soil‑based probiotic trend 13:22 – No long‑term safety studies 14:20 – Opportunistic nature of bacteria 15:20 – Risks of aggressive soil bacteria 16:11 – Chemical contamination & health 17:26 – Why Lactobacillus & Bifidobacteria are safe 18:43 – Cultural adaptation to diets 19:47 – The natto example from Japan 20:18 – Traditional food handling 21:09 – Autism rates & gut health 21:53 – Proven gut‑healing protocols 23:01 – Why stool tests miss key microbes 23:40 – Digestive tract function & bacteria 24:51 – Your body rebuilds annually 26:43 – Avoid unsafe probiotics 27:59 – Natren Healthy Trinity formula 28:45 – Why gelatin capsules are best 30:03 – Placing probiotics in correct gut area 31:00 – Importance of bifidobacteria 31:29 – Benefits of Lactobacillus bulgaricus 33:58 – How probiotic strains work together 34:28 – Healing takes time 35:01 – Lifelong probiotic use 36:19 – Processed food damage to gut 37:28 – The potato chip story 38:04 – Fixing supplement industry standards 39:57 – Arsenic in rice research 43:32 – Organic vs regenerative farming 44:05 – Private‑label supplement problems 45:14 – Need for trustworthy health products 45:52 – Daily microbiome care is essential 46:31 – Staying positive & focused 47:53 – Buy from local farmers 48:38 – Nature therapy for gut health 49:57 – Role of social connection 50:53 – Misuse of natural medicines 51:33 – Corporate takeovers of health brands 52:41 – Environmental factors in Crohn’s & colitis 53:13 – Most tests don’t reflect true gut health 54:14 – Return to traditional health wisdom 54:49 – Closing & invitation for questions What Stool Tests Claim to Measure Comprehensive stool tests, sometimes called comprehensive stool analysis claim to measure: Types of bacteria (good gut bacteria and harmful bacteria) Fungi and yeast Parasites Bile acids and fatty acids Inflammation markers Nutrient absorption indicators Pathogens like Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Possible signs of leaky gut and intestinal permeability Some even suggest they can assess the overall health of your microbiome and predi

Are Probiotic Pills Harmful? A Deep Dive With Gut Health Experts Introduction Natasha Trenev, Founder of Natren Probiotics and 750-year lineage yogurt-maker to royalty, and I (natural gut health expert, Jini Patel Thompson), discuss claims and interpretations made in this video with Dr. Sean Spencer, gastroenterologist. Together, we address controversial statements about probiotic supplements being harmful, possibly even fatal, and unpack the misinformation and lack of scientific understanding surrounding probiotics today.  Podcast Show Notes 1. Fermented Foods and Microbial Diversity We looked at the benefits of fermented foods. These foods appeared to support microbial diversity and help lower inflammation. There was discussion around whether the benefits came from the bacteria, their metabolites, or the fiber in the food. 2. Probiotics in Pill Form We questioned the effectiveness of probiotic supplements in pill form. It was suggested that these might not work as well as fermented foods, which naturally help improve the microbiome and reduce inflammation markers. 3. Clinical Trials and Probiotic Efficacy The way clinical trials are designed was brought up. Many trials may not be run by people who understand how live bacteria function. It was noted that we still do not have a clear definition of what a healthy microbiome looks like. 4. Health Implications and Public Awareness Misinformation around probiotics is a big concern. There is still a lack of science-backed information available to the public. We talked about the need for better education on how probiotics work and their limits. 5. Probiotic Manufacturing and Market Practices Manufacturing practices were also discussed. Natasha described her method of freeze-drying probiotics along with their natural metabolites. This approach is rare in the industry but may lead to better results. Main Takeaways Fermented foods were found to support microbial diversity and reduce inflammation, possibly due to the metabolites they contain. Probiotic supplements in pill form were not found to be as effective as naturally fermented foods. Improved clinical trial design was seen as necessary for better understanding of probiotic health impacts. Clear, science-based public education was viewed as essential to correct ongoing misinformation. Advanced manufacturing techniques, like freeze-drying probiotics with their metabolites, were considered important for increasing supplement effectiveness. Conclusion This episode looked closely at how probiotics and fermented foods impact gut health. We challenged a number of common ideas and pointed out gaps in science and industry practices. More awareness and better standards are needed moving forward. What Are Probiotic Supplements? Probiotic supplements contain live microorganisms. These are often called good bacteria or beneficial microbes. These supplements aim to support digestive health and overall human health. Most probiotic products include strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These probiotic strains are meant to help balance gut bacteria. They are also believed to assist in preventing digestive issues and inflammatory bowel disease. Some supplements claim to help with weight loss, irritable bowel syndrome, and regular bowel movements. However, the actual health benefits depend on the quality of the product and the condition of the person using it. The Problem With Most Probiotic Products Lack of Standards The dietary supplement industry does not follow strict regulations. There are no clear standards for probiotic supplementation. Many products include multiple species in one capsule. These species may compete with each other. They may release natural antimicrobials to survive, weakening the entire blend. According to Natasha, even well-known probiotic products often fail to meet scientific quality. Her probiotic labeling standard was read into the U.S. Congressional Record. Still, most companies ignore it. This leads to

How Microplastic Affects Your Body and Gut and What You Can Do In this episode of the Listen To Your Gut podcast, I spoke with probiotic pioneer Natasha Trenev about a deeply concerning topic: microplastic particles in the human body and their effect on our health. We’ve talked about many issues over the years, but this one has shocked us! The presence of microplastics in food, water, and the human bloodstream is not just a trend or headline. It is a crisis that affects the digestive system, the immune system, and every part of the body. You can watch the video of our discussion: Or listen to the podcast: Chapters (Main Topics) Microplastics in the blood, brain, placenta, and breast milk How microplastics enter the human body through food and water Sea salt vs. mined salt: choosing the safer option Dangers of bottled water and plastic packaging Why microwaving food in plastic is harmful The link between microplastics and damage to the gut microbiome How precision probiotics can help protect the digestive system The growing impact of environmental toxins on chronic illness Easy lifestyle changes to reduce microplastic exposure The importance of packaging, filtration, and mindful consumption Microplastics Found in Organs, Blood, and Brain Recent studies have found microplastic particles in almost every part of the human body. These include the brain, liver, kidneys, and even the placenta and breast milk. One study tested 23 men and 47 dogs. Every testicle examined had microplastic particles inside. That level of contamination shocked me. Another recent study reported that 4 out of 45 people had toxic levels of microplastics in their blood. Researchers at Harvard found that if microplastics are in your blood, your risk of heart attack or stroke increases by 450%. These tiny particles can even cross the blood-brain barrier. Natasha added that this is a serious concern. The biological systems of the body are constantly working, every second. Anything the body cannot digest, utilize, or eliminate will irritate or disrupt those processes. Microplastics are foreign to the human body. They are not meant to be there. Where Are These Microplastics Coming From? Natasha reminded me that this problem is not new. She spoke out over 50 years ago against the use of plastic in health food stores. No one listened then. Now, the plastic waste floating in the Pacific Ocean is said to be the size of the state of Texas. That plastic waste breaks down into microplastic particles. These particles are then found in bottled water, plastic packaging, and even our food supply. Microplastics are also entering the food chain through marine life. Fish like catfish and shellfish are filter feeders. They consume what’s at the bottom of the ocean, where microplastics settle. When we eat those animals, we take in those plastic particles too. This affects our digestive system and our immune system in ways we are just beginning to understand. Even salt is affected. Ocean salt, such as sea salt or Celtic sea salt, comes from evaporated seawater. That water may contain nanosized plastic particles. So those particles are left behind in the salt crystals. That’s why I now use only salt that comes from underground, ancient deposits that have not been exposed to microplastic pollution. Plastic Packaging and Bottled Water: Hidden Dangers We also talked about bottled water. Natasha and I both avoid drinking from plastic bottles. Even when water is cold, the chemicals from plastic can leach into the water. And our bodies absorb liquids faster than solids, which increases the risk. I buy water that comes in glass bottles, both for home and on the go. Natasha does the same. Plastic packaging is another major source of exposure. Natasha made the decision years ago to package her Natren probiotics in dark amber glass bottles with tin lids. She refuses to use plastic containers or plastic lids. She explained that tin lids offer the best protection for probiotics an

All the Dirt on Soil-Based Organisms — Why They’re Not Real Probiotics This blog post is based on a podcast episode featuring Jini Patel Thompson, international best-selling author and founder of Listen To Your Gut, and Natasha Trenev, founder of Natren probiotics. In their discussion, they explore the dangers of soil-based organisms (SBOs) and why they should not be considered true probiotics. You can either watch the video: Or listen to the podcast: Chapters (Main Topics) Introduction to soil-based organisms (SBOs) The survival abilities and pleomorphic nature of SBOs Why SBOs are not true probiotics FDA oversight and safety concerns The aggressive nature of SBOs in the human body Comparing traditional probiotics with SBO supplements Cultural context: How Bacillus subtilis is used in Japan (natto) Why quick fixes can be dangerous for long-term health The risks for people with weakened immune systems Misleading marketing around SBO probiotics What real probiotics look like (lactobacillus, bifidobacteria) Jini and Natasha’s call for informed, long-term healing Many people believe that soil-based organisms (SBOs) are probiotics. This belief has spread widely. It is even promoted by many supplement companies. But this idea is not supported by science. Soil-based organisms are not the same as regular probiotics. In fact, they can be harmful to your gut and overall health. In this article, we will explain why SBO probiotics should not be used as a replacement for traditional probiotic supplements. You will learn about the differences between beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria. We will also look at the risks involved with taking soil-based probiotics. What Are Soil-Based Organisms? Soil-based organisms are bacteria found in the soil. They belong to the bacillus genus. One common type is Bacillus subtilis. These bacteria can form spores. This spore coat allows them to survive in harsh environments. They can even survive high temperatures, such as 400° Fahrenheit. Because of this, many companies promote them as probiotic supplements. They claim that SBOs support gut health. But this claim is not backed by long-term human studies. The truth is that soil-based probiotics are different from beneficial bacteria that live in the human gut. How Do Regular Probiotics Work? Traditional probiotics include species like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. These probiotic strains have been used for decades. They help maintain a healthy microbiome in the digestive tract. These beneficial bacteria support the immune system. They also help prevent the growth of bad bacteria in the small intestine and large intestine. These bacteria are supported by clinical trials and human studies. They help with conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and ulcerative colitis. Why SBO Supplements Are Risky SBO supplements introduce foreign bacteria into the digestive system. These bacillus strains have not evolved inside the human gut. They have not developed a beneficial relationship with the human microbiome. Some experts believe these organisms are too aggressive. Natasha Trenev explains that these bacteria are “opportunistic” and their only goal is to multiply. She says, “They are pleomorphic. They can drop their cell wall and turn into other forms. They’re not stable, and they’re not safe.” Soil-based bacteria compete with fungi and molds in the soil. To survive, they must be strong. This strong nature may make them dangerous in the human digestive tract. They can kill both good and bad bacteria. This can lead to long-term side effects. They can also remain dormant in the gut. Their spores lie in wait. If the immune system weakens, these spores can activate. This could lead to health problems years later. Because these side effects are delayed, most people do not link their health issues to SBO supplements. FDA and Safety Concerns The FDA has allowed these products to be sold. But many experts are surprised by this. So

Ozempic Destroys The Gut: What You Can Do Vital Conversation Highlighting the Serious Ill Effects of Ozempic This blog is based on a detailed conversation between Jini Patel Thompson (Founder: Listen to Your Gut) and Natasha Trenev (Founder: Natren Probiotics). They discussed the deep damage caused by GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, including effects on the digestive system, muscle and bone loss, and mental health.  Their insights highlight what people need to know and do if they are using or stopping these drugs. 👉 Topics Covered: GLP-1 receptor agonists and how they work Stomach paralysis and gastroparesis Gut microbiota disruption and chronic side effects Safe recovery protocols for digestive and overall health What Is Ozempic? Ozempic is part of a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. It was developed to help with blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic mimic a natural hormone that helps regulate blood glucose levels and feelings of fullness. These GLP-1 medications slow gastric emptying and lower blood sugar levels. Ozempic and Weight Loss Over time, Ozempic became a popular weight loss drug. For weight loss, a higher dose is used. But this increased dose brings many potential side effects. Recent reports and clinical trials have shown that these GLP-1 agonists can cause serious damage to the digestive system. What Happens to the Stomach? The drug paralyzes stomach muscles. This condition is called stomach paralysis or gastroparesis. When the movement of food is stopped or slowed too much, it can lead to a backup of food in the stomach. This undigested food can rot and cause nausea, bloating, and stomach pain. Gastrointestinal side effects become more common as drug administration continues. Impact on the Digestive Tract The digestive tract is meant to move food smoothly from the stomach to the intestines. Ozempic disrupts this natural process. This leads to problems throughout the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, bowel obstructions and intestinal blockage have been reported. This can cause abdominal pain, constipation, and loss of appetite. Gut Microbiome Damage The gut microbiome includes trillions of gut bacteria. These bacteria help digest food, support immune function, and influence mood. GLP-1 receptor agonists can disrupt this balance. When food remains undigested, it becomes fuel for harmful bacteria. This shift in gut microbiota affects overall gut health and digestive health. Emotional and Mental Effects Gut health is linked to brain health through the gut-brain axis. The gut produces neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals regulate mood and emotions. When the microbiome is damaged, production of these feel-good chemicals drops. This can lead to depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Social media has even coined terms like “Ozempic face” and “Ozempic butt” to describe the visible effects of extreme weight loss caused by these popular drugs. Muscle and Bone Loss GLP-1 drugs can reduce body weight by cutting muscle and bone mass. After stopping the drug, people often regain fat but not muscle or bone. This can increase the risk of falling and lead to long-term health problems. Healthy bone and muscle are essential for metabolic health and overall health. Potential Risks and Side Effects There are many potential risks linked to GLP-1 medications: Gastroparesis (stomach paralysis) Bowel obstructions Intestinal obstruction Inflammation of the pancreas Increased risk of pancreatitis Heart attack Vitamin deficiencies (A, B12, D, E) Suicidal thoughts Abdominal pain Constipation or diarrhea Decreased urination Fatigue and dizziness The Mayo Clinic and University of British Columbia have studied these effects. Drug makers like Novo Nordisk are aware of the issues, but wide use of these drugs continues. Is There a Way to Heal? Yes, healing the digestive system is possible. The first step is to gradually stop taking t

Hair Mineral Analysis Test: Prevention at Its Best Join me for this insightful podcast episode with Jill Norris, RN, as we dive into the results of my own Hair Mineral Analysis Test (HMAT). Jill shares her experience helping thousands of clients over the past 3 years and explains how the minerals stored in our hair tissues provide a clear map of what’s happening in our body, especially with our endocrine system (adrenals and thyroid). You’ll also learn how hair mineral analysis tests can guide detox protocols using atom-sized minerals to safely chelate (remove) heavy metals from the body. What Is a Hair Mineral Analysis Test? A hair mineral analysis test (also called HMAT or mineral hair test) measures the levels of key minerals and toxic metals stored in your hair tissue. It’s different from a blood test because it shows what your body has been storing long term not just what’s circulating in your blood at the moment. This simple, non-invasive test can reveal deeper patterns of deficiency, toxicity, and hormonal imbalance that are easy to miss through standard lab work. Key Moments during our interview: 0:00 Intro – What *is* Hair Mineral Analysis? 0:04 Meet Jill Norris, RN & Her Recovery Story 1:05 Return to Eidon & Learning the Test 1:28 Why Jill Studied Hair Analysis 2:01 Minerals 101: Na/K Pumps & Cell Energy 2:49 Sodium‑Potassium Ratio (2.4 Target) 3:22 First Priority: Balancing Electrolytes 4:04 Hidden Heavy Metals in Hair Samples 5:33 Detox Pathways: Bowel, Hydration, Sauna 5:51 Jini’s Hair Test – Travel‑Stress Context 7:37 Food, Sleep & Immune Stress Links 8:42 Old‑School vs Modern Lab Reference Ranges 11:09 Significant Ratios & Fight‑or‑Flight Flag 12:12 Low Na/Mg = Chronic Adrenal Fatigue 13:46 Salt Cravings & Practical Electrolyte Tips 14:28 High Calcium & Hard‑Water Factors 19:14 “Calcium Shell” & Past Trauma 22:51 Copper, Estrogen & Mental‑Health Tie‑in 24:32 Zn‑Cu Ratio as Inflammation Marker 26:50 Elevated Uranium – Granite/Well‑Water Risk 30:58 Heavy Metals & Thyroid Disruption 33:20 Minerals vs. Vitamins – The Missing Focus 34:52 Soil Depletion, Biodynamics & Food Quality 40:46 Media Stress vs. Personal Control 41:25 Reading Core Ratios (Ca/P, Ca/K, Zn/Cu) 44:06 Ca‑Mg Balance & Blood‑Sugar Swings 46:14 Potassium Repletion & Muscle‑Cramp Fix 52:32 Muscle‑Testing Basics & Practitioner Bias 56:00 Iron Levels & Anemia Nuances 58:55 Zinc‑Selenium for Mineral‑Based Chelation 1:03:10 Hospital Electrolytes & “4‑Lows” Pattern 1:05:53 Oxalates, Soaking Grains & Cooking Greens 1:10:05 Ordering Your Own Hair Test Kit 1:12:07 Wrap‑Up & Final Thoughts Key Insights from the Podcast Minerals & Thyroid Function Potassium sensitizes the cell to T3 hormone Selenium helps with the conversion of T4 (inactive form) to T3 (active form) Certain plants block mineral absorption (oxalates!) and depress thyroid function – soaking grains and cooking greens (like spinach, kale) are the solution. Minerals & Your Hormones Copper and estrogen follow each other in the body. If copper is up, then estrogen is up. Zinc represents testosterone and progesterone. The body stores minerals in tissues. If blood levels drop, the body can pull the needed minerals from tissue. We also discuss how minerals reflect or indicate our emotional state – yes, stress is shown in mineral levels and ratios! How a Hair Mineral Test Helps with Heavy Metal Detox Jill routinely uses mineral hair analysis tests to design safe, effective protocols to detox heavy metals like mercury, lead, and aluminum. The protocol usually starts by balancing your electrolyte minerals, then using targeted support (like zinc and selenium) to draw out the toxic metals. If you’re wondering whether your symptoms could be related to hidden toxicity, a hair analysis for mineral deficiency and metal load could give you the answers you need. Anemia – Tissue vs. Blood Levels of Iron We e

In this webinar hosted by Amrita Nutrition in the UK, Natasha Trenev (founder of Natren probiotics) and I present some insider details and tips on implementing Jini’s Wild Oregano Oil Protocol to eradicate gut infection. We also answer top questions from our readers regarding natural gut healing protocols. Practitioners Bring Their Tough Patient Questions Then we take a lot of questions from doctors, health coaches, naturopaths, dietitians etc. who have specific questions about my protocols, or tough patient cases they’re dealing with. This is definitely a good one, no matter where you are in your healing journey. And if you’re a health coach, or functional medicine practitioner, or naturopathic doctor, then you’ll certainly want to learn from your colleagues’ challenges and the solutions we suggest. Ultimate Gut Health – Top Questions About Gut Healing Protocols If you have any further questions, just leave them in the Comments section below! Amrita Nutrition hosts a webinar with Jini Patel Thompson and Natasha Trenev to discuss effective gut healing protocols for SIBO, IBS, Crohn’s, Colitis, Diverticulitis etc. 9:00 – Natural gut healing protocols 12:22 – Probiotic Retention Enema 18:00 – Difficulty eradicating Candida 20:00 – Voids in the GI tract are not tolerated! 20:49 – Competitive bacteria 22:00 – 3 types of Natren probiotics & why refrigeration is crucial 23:00 – Stop treating symptoms! Work WITH the immune system 25:42 – Data on HT oil matrix 26:29 – What’s unique about powdered probiotics 28:40 – Protocol for IBS 29:56 – Skin is a reflection of the gut 31:00 – Q&A begins 1:00:00 – Natren bacteria communicate with immune cells by photon light emission 1:15:00 – Seed oils! Everyone on social media is saying NO seed oils. Jini and Natasha disagree. 1:19:00 – How to pre-load a dropper to dose the correct number of drops. 1:28:00 – Acne protocol 1:29:00 – Home Remedies section to empower people, plandemic, spike protein kills Bifido bacteria   Other articles you might find helpful: Healing Your Body By Listening To Your Gut: Fresh Leaf Forever Podcast Interviews Jini Natural Remedies for Leaky Gut Syndrome Help for Ongoing Gut Issues Jini’s Probiotic Retention Enema and Wild Oregano Oil Protocol      

Chronic Illness and Health Saboteurs In this LTYG Podcast, I talk with Chiropractor and Functional Nutritionist Dr. Thomas Kutchenbrod about the common ways he sees his clients sabotage their own healing. We understand what are the top health saboteurs that are impacting your healing journey from chronic gut disorders. We discuss the most common patterns and behaviours we’ve observed and how to lean into this crucial piece of healing any autoimmune or chronic illness. Why are many (most?) people with Crohn’s or colitis considered overachievers, Type A personalities and people-pleasers who find it hard to say NO and set boundaries? What is the pathway out of victimhood (why me? poor me! someone else is to blame!) into self-responsibility and self-empowerment? Learn all this and more in this podcast discussion. Book a free discovery call with Dr. Kutchenbrod Crohn’s, Colitis, Diverticulitis, IBS: What are Your Top Health Saboteurs? Find out… You can watch the video, or listen to the podcast. Further Reading: Let Go Of The “I Am Sick” Identity Why Is My Gut Not Healing Faster? Using Emotions To Unlock Your Self-Healing Power The Paradox of Healing Healing the Roots & Layers in Chronic Illness  

For those of you who enjoyed my podcast with functional medicine practitioner, Jenni Berman, you can get more of both of us in this episode where she interviews me! How Healing is a Shift in Perspective We get into a whole variety of topics, like family dynamics around illness, often unknown triggers for food allergy, why I went to Tokyo to begin my healing journey, what my most popular healing protocol is, how to empower yourself, and how illness can create PTSD trauma and which perspective shifts are crucial to be able to heal yourself of any chronic or serious illness. Here’s a quick list of topics discussed: (0:00) Intro (1:55) Jini’s Books (6:05) Jini’s Gut Health Journey (13:28) Social Dynamics Can Impact Health & the Healing Process (16:01) Healed vs. Cured (20:35) A Perspective Shift for Setbacks (24:39) Every Symptom is a Message (28:05) Wild Oregano Oil & Probiotics (38:39) Most Common Mistakes  

Healing your body by listening to your gut In this fascinating interview with Jini Patel Thompson, founder of Listen to Your Gut and author of multiple books, host Vai Kumar uncovers lots of impactful information about Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Crohn’s, Colitis, Diverticulitis, and IBS). A very personal topic to both guest and host, this episode takes listeners through a multi-pronged approach to finding a balance and restoring the body’s equilibrium. Listening to one’s own body, intuition, tapping into our body’s defences and healing capabilities, are all great reminders from this chat. Subscribe to the LTYG Podcast on your favorite platform so you don’t miss an episode! Here are some Chapter highlights and notes from this conversation: Ch 1: Jini’s journey, her non conventional approach – coming from a family of doctors, pharmacists, our guest shares her take on how she approached her healing journey. Ch 2: Specific Carbohydrate Diet – what it offers and what Jini felt was a barrier with it personally. Ch 3: Listen To Your Gut protocol, disease manifestation – how IBD shows up differently in people Ch 4: Initial steps to address Ch 5: Personality types, internal response – how our body triggers imbalances based on how we react to situations Ch 6: Diet, allergy testing Ch 7: Cellular regeneration – how healing happens in our body Ch 8: Herxheimer reaction – rapid release of toxins Ch 9: Methodical approach to healing Ch 10: Wifi, environmental toxins Ch 11: Adrenal systems, need for hormonal balance Ch 12: Fecal transplant, surgical aspects in general Ch 13: Children and IBD Ch 14: Natural therapies Ch 15: Microbiome testing, stool testing, food allergy testing Ch 16:Absorb plus protein supplementation Ch 17: Jini’s books, protocols Chapter Markers 0:00 – Jini’s journey, her non conventional approach 10:00 – Specific Carbohydrate Diet 13:00 – Listen to your gut protocol, disease manifestation 16:11 – Initial steps to address 18:00 – Personality types, internal response 22:00 – Diet, allergy testing 28:00 – Cellular regeneration 33:00 – Herxheimer reaction 37:00 – Methodical approach to healing 53:00 – Wifi, environmental toxins 56:00 – Adrenal systems, hormonal balance 57:30 – Fecal transplant, surgical aspects 1:00:00 – Children and IBD 1:04:00 – Natural therapies 1:08:00 – Microbiome testing, stool testing, food allergy testing 1:11:00 – Absorb plus, protein supplementation 1:15:00 – Jini’s books, protocols, children’s series Follow Fresh Leaf Forever for more podcast episodes that offer actionable insights to overcome real-world issues.

In this podcast, health coach and yoga teacher Cate Stillman interviews me after she discovered my work during a search for help with scar tissue protocols and adhesions. So a lot of the podcast is us discussing my protocols for reducing or dissolving scar tissue, and why surgery is not usually the solution. But we also get into my personal journey, elemental diets, and how symptoms are actually messages from our subconscious, or higher self. To listen to this podcast, scroll down, or access on your favorite podcast platform. In this episode, Cate Stillman interviews Jini Patel Thompson’s healing journey, which began with Crohn’s, and colon issues. They explore the challenges she faced with conventional medicine and the turning point when she discovered the Elemental Diet, leading to profound transformation. Throughout the conversation, Jini emphasizes the significance of intuition, body wisdom, and the metaphysical aspects of healing. The Listen To Your Gut podcast is available on most platforms – SUBSCRIBE HERE

Functional medicine practitioner Jenni Berman joins me for this podcast where we discuss: Leaky gut and gut permeability The gut lining/bacteria penetration Antibody and cytokine reactions leading to autoimmune disease Cortisol’s impact on the gut lining, Food sensitivities vs allergies (IgG vs IgE) Jenni discusses the testing recommendations for individuals with autoimmune disease/IBD from a Functional Medicine standpoint. She tells us the recommended labs tests they look for, food sensitivity vs allergy testing, and blood serum vs skin testing. She also tells us her own health story along with a few interesting client improvements. Lastly, we discuss her long term treatment plan for IBD patients: the reintroduction of food, with a gut healing protocol. And Jenni outlines her preferred long-term supplements vs short-term gut healing supplements. There is SO much good information packed into this hour! Watch the video of our discussion, or if you prefer to listen to this as a podcast, scroll down, or access on your favorite podcast platform. The Listen To Your Gut podcast is available on most platforms – SUBSCRIBE HERE so you don’t miss an episode!

Ready to see RESULTS in your healing journey? Dane Johnson and I have a lively discussion on the deeper healing of Crohn’s, IBS, SIBO, diverticulitis, colitis – or ANY long-term chronic illness! Dane calls me the Top G of IBD, which leads us to a funny little detour into Andrew Tate.* Then we do a real deep-dive into the mental, emotional, and spiritual components of dis-ease, and how to go to the next level in your healing journey. You can either watch the video, or listen to this as an audio below, or on your favorite podcast platform. “When you’re dealing with a chronic illness, you are in the unique position of having the opportunity to transform and alchemize the experience into something much greater, with tremendous benefits to you.” – Jini Patel Thompson Dane himself was very resistant to go into this aspect of healing; he talks about where he came from and what it took for him to finally be willing to walk this path that is absolutely crucial for long-term, complete healing. I hope you enjoy this conversation on the gifts of chronic illness as much as we did! And please feel free to share your story and any milestones in your healing journey below… *p.s. When I say that I see the role Andrew Tate is playing for young men and how it has value, I’m referring to his more recent persona as someone who encourages hard work, discipline, business education, physical fitness, and taking care of the body. I’m certainly not referring to his early macho persona of using and manipulating women.

Join me for a deep dive into food and intuition with professional chef and food/health intuitive, Gail Blair. Gail tells us how she developed her abilities, and how you can work with muscle testing to assist your intuition. And then we get into discussing food allergy testing accuracy and reliability. Have you ever thought about how ancestral patterns (genetics) or past lives might be affecting your health or food allergies? If you have food allergies, intolerances, or any kind of gut disorder, this episode is guaranteed to make you think, and possibly even enlighten you! If you prefer to listen to this as a podcast, scroll down, or access on your favorite podcast platform. Connect with Gail Blair at FoodRevelation.com Subscribe to the LTYG Podcast on your favorite platform! Any questions, thoughts, or feedback, I’d love to hear from you – just leave them below…

Join me in this video as I speak with Dr. Roy & Debbie Steinbock on the challenges and solutions for elemental diet success. Roy & Debbie have been prescribing and supporting thousands of clients through an elemental diet for over 15 years. They have tons of experience dealing with all the challenges people face and supporting them through the process. Check out the elemental diet success program here. My biggest takeaway from this call is learning that Debbie and Roy start people on anti-microbials (like wild oregano, olive leaf) one to two weeks before starting an elemental diet. This way, they can go through the die-off effect (Herxheimer) in stages and not confuse the die-off/detox with the elemental formula, or attribute their symptoms to intolerance of the shakes. Brilliant! If you’ve considered going on an elemental diet for SIBO, food allergies, IBD etc. then this discussion will give you some great guidelines to follow. We start by discussing what’s happening with children’s health; why are they sicker and diagnosed with so many formerly-adult diseases? And why are gut disorders getting harder to treat and taking longer to heal? Debbie and Roy outline what kind of clients benefit from doing an elemental diet, and for how long. They also go over the difficulties people encounter when they go on an exclusively elemental diet; both physical and mental/emotional. And how they support people through this process. I ask them if they have seen the same kind of success when people do a half elemental diet, or combine it with low residue foods? And then the Steinbocks tell us about their own personal experience with using an elemental diet for their own health. Listen as a podcast, or watch the video. Any questions, just post them in the Comments section below. Listen Now AND don’t forget to check out the Steinbock’s elemental diet success program

Have you struggled with thyroid issues? Do you suspect your hormones are out of balance? Do you do too much, have poor boundaries around your time and energy, and run your adrenals like a beat horse? We started this discussion with me asking Dr. Scott Tyler ND to tell us what’s in his personal medicine bag? What does he always have on hand and ready to go? This quickly segued into a meaty discussion on thyroid function and iodine supplementation (if you want to jump ahead to the iodine and thyroid bit, start at 5:00 minutes) – do NOT miss this one! Followed by a discussion of the adrenals and once again how the mind/emotions are integral to healing both thyroid and adrenal issues. If you’ve been struggling with thyroid issues; fatigue, weight gain, loss of memory, feeling cold all the time, hair loss – then you will find this podcast enlightening and liberating. Oh and BIG NEWS: If you’re currently on one of my StrictureHeal protocols (which use iodine) you no longer have to monitor your thyroid! Dr. Tyler will tell you why. Video first and scroll down to the bottom if you prefer to listen as a podcast (here or on your favorite platform). Here is some more support/evidence for Dr. Tyler’s advice: “Dr. Michael B. Schachter says, “The treatment dose when a person is iodine insufficient is generally between 12.5 mg and 50 mg daily. Preliminary research indicates that if a person is iodine insufficient, it takes about three months to become iodine sufficient while ingesting a dosage of 50 mg of iodine daily and a year to achieve that while ingesting a dosage of 12.5 mg of iodine daily. For those who are interested in maintained dosages after disease and deficiencies have been dealt with understand that your thyroid gland alone needs about 6 mg of iodine per day for optimal function; the breasts of a woman will need approximately 5 mg/day (women with larger breasts need more); and other body tissues such as your adrenal glands, thymus, ovaries, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland need about 2 mg/day. Thus for optimal wellness adults should consider approximately10 to 12 mg/day.” And from the prestigious Orthomolecular Medicine association: “Feeling tired, having low energy or depression, gaining weight, memory problems, having dry skin, dry mouth or immune system issues? There is good chance your body needs iodine supplementation. The recommended daily amount of iodine by Dr. G. E. Abraham is 0.1-0.3 ml Lugol containing 12.5-37.5 mg elemental iodine. This is the amount of iodine needed for whole body sufficiency, based on a recently reported iodine/iodide-loading test.” As I mentioned in the call, I use the potassium iodide we sell in the Shoppe and it is 25 mg per drop. I take 1 drop per day. At some point, I will probably drop that to 25 mg every second day. We close out the call with a discussion of the assault on natural healthcare that’s currently happening in Canada, the USA and worldwide. We discuss ways to resist and also to create a parallel reality outside of the illegal and draconian controls being levied on humans at this time. What’s in Dr. Scott’s Medicine Bag? In case of emergency or natural disaster, Dr. Scott has these items packed and ready to go: Life Straw water filter 3% hydrogen peroxide Iodine (potassium iodide, Lugol’s etc) Effective multivitamin Suture material and Steri Strips Duct tape Protein bars Bio Dr. (Allen) Scott Tyler is a second generation Naturopathic physician, following in his father’s footsteps. He graduated from the National University of Natural Medicine in Portland, in 1986, and has practiced in Langley BC since. He developed a keen interest in conditions that relate to metabolic dysfunction, particularly hypothyroidism. He has since co-authored a book, “A Pound of Prevention” in 1995 with his father Dr. Allen N. Tyler, and is presently working on a book of his own about thyroid disease.

We had some GREAT questions come in from a member of my Lazer Tapping program (mind/body/spirit self-healing technique) and I just had to record a video reply! Why Did I Manifest This Disease? The question reads: “What kind of support can be offered specifically around diving into & processing the emotional baggage behind the crohn’s and the gut? What support is available for guidance on getting deeper into the emotions in the gut & the meaning behind having manifested this disease?” If you prefer to listen to this as a podcast, scroll down, or access on your favorite podcast platform. I love the way she has already grokked the distinction of this particular disease. Because anyone familiar with the work of Louise Hay (looking at the metaphysical causes for physical illness/malfunction) already knows that where & what in the body is an important part of the message your higher self is sending you, via your physical body. Map your pathology As I say in the video, grab your journal and go through these questions. It doesn’t matter which health issue you have (why did I manifest this disease?), the exploration process is the same: 1/ What’s bugging you? When you look at your life, what do you wish could be different? – job, living situation, daily life What’s not working for YOU? What does your soul wish was different? 2/ When you look back on your childhood – go back to in utero if you can – feel into what was happening, imagine how you might have felt? Go through every childhood memory, write them down (bullet points are good). Go through your whole life to date. 3/ AFTER you’ve made that list, let it sit there for a few days, then come back and see where the common points are… Was there a recurring emotion? Did the same emotional state keep showing up? What themes do you notice? Any traits, patterns, or beliefs that occurred repeatedly? 4/ Use your favorite technique to connect to your body, feel for what’s there… It feels___________. Breathe. What wants to come forward today? What’s ready to be dealt with today? You can do this as a DAILY Practice. If you need help, check out my Guided Connection: Place Your Consciousness Inside Your Body 5/ Become mindful of your daily life. How do I respond to events throughout my day? When do I become stressed? Notice the FIRST sign of stress – develop your sensitivity to catch it when it first starts. Notice which people, situations, relationships trigger you. It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you respond. Become your own detective; notice what triggers you, and why? 6/ Notice what parts of your body feel painful. Start tapping on just the physical pain. FEEL into the pain and describe it; burning, throbbing, sharp, dull, aching, stabbing, sore etc. Give your pain permission to exist. Follow the pain if it moves around your body; if you become aware of new places that feel painful, tap on each new occurrence. If you haven’t tried Lazer Tapping yet, come do a Free session with me. I encourage you to actually WRITE DOWN your answers to these questions and create a roadmap for your healing journey. Remember, the journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step. Once you have the answers, you can use whichever mind/body/spirit healing modality you prefer: Lazer Tapping, hypnotherapy, craniosacral, somatic experiencing, etc.

The Effects of Probiotics on Inflammation Join me and Natasha Trenev, founder of Natren probiotics, as we answer another question from an LTYG reader. This week’s question reads: “Many people find dairy pro-inflammatory. Should people managing inflammation avoid Natren’s dairy-based probiotics?” Don’t forget to download my FREE eBook, What You Need to Know About Probiotics!  Transcription: Many people find find dairy pro-inflammatory. Should people trying to manage inflammation avoid your dairy-based probiotics? Yeah that’s a loaded question you know dairy is one of the best suited culturing mediums for these bacteria that’s why they’re called lactobacillus meaning they are milk bacteria so that’s their favorite food if you’re not specifically allergic to dairy I would say take the dairy product it’s not going to cause more inflammation unless you’re specifically allergic to it. You’re allergic to the components of milk basically the the protein part the the lactose can be handled because your body can be reminded how to produce the enzyme and the bacteria will produce the enzyme for you but milk has the complete nourishment for these bacteria so that they can do the best job for you. And I’ve fought this for almost 50 years this business about anti-milk and you know the the cultures that were healthy consumed you know dairy products that were fermented with proper bacteria on a daily basis so if you don’t have an allergy to milk I encourage you to take the milk products. Can I ask you a quick question there do the dairy based powders so you have the the loose powder and then you have the capsules this is not Healthy Trinity we’re talking about the other lines, when they’re the ones that are cultured on dairy do the powders contain the dairy proteins. Yes they do but they’ve been fermented. And how about the capsules? When you when you have the powder inside the capsules does that same thing you just have less of the supernatant in the capsule than you do in the powder. Okay so that might be a place to start then to test your tolerance and for me because I have scar tissue in my throat i can’t swallow pills I just take the capsules I open them up and I mix them in room temperature water but that would be a great way to start testing. And also because I did a couple of very intensive teleseminars with a PHD in immunology and a bunch of experts on there where we talked about the whole issue of allergies and intolerance and you know how that is very much a learned way of being in the body. So you know we may be well we’ve been off milk for a long time or we’ve been consuming pasteurized gross milk products so our body said forget milk but we can. There’s a certain amount of re-education there that can take place by kind of like homeopathy introducing very small amounts so for me if I was wanting to do that I would start with maybe taking one capsule of the dairy based and mixing it with five or six capsules of the non-dairy and taking that together that’s a good idea. Yeah that’s a good thing you brought up you know we have the healthy start system which has all the three bacteria that’s found in the Healthy Trinity capsule so what we do is we have the same bacteria with different delivery mechanisms and different food so that those bacteria can interact with your body and we are unique nitrogen is still unique. I can assure you there is nobody that has our system or nobody that produces the bacteria with the supernatant which means the original fermentation and products which are so important to assist the bacteria to take hold on the intestinal wall and those compounds are also important as messengers and you know interacting with the 100 billion neurons in your GI tract which is the second brain and the immune system come on over to listentoyourgut.com and grab my free eb