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The Nutrient Dense Podcast

Hannah Aylward

The go-to podcast for women who want to overcome their chronic digestive issues at the root cause level.

Do you want to get rid of your chronic bloating and digestive issues?

Are you sick of feeling exhausted, bloated, constipated and completely overwhelmed with what to do next with your health?

Do you wish you had more time to really LIVE, without worrying about how your stomach is going to feel or if you'll spend the next hours spiraling about your health?

There's a way to dig deeper and no longer live a life of managing your chronic health symptoms.

Your body is always communicating with you. Your symptoms make sense. You just have to dig deeper than the traditional western approach.

Hey, I'm Hannah Aylward, certified holistic health coach, functional gut health practitioner, and the Founder of HAN.

Wanna learn how I did it?

In this podcast, I will teach you how to:
- Repair your gut & transform your digestion without living on restrictive diets
- How to nourish your gut microbiome & support hormonal balance naturally
- How to dig deeper & take a functional medicine approach to your health
- How to say goodbye to the chronic bloating, constipation, reflux, low energy & IBS symptoms that rule your life

I can't wait to help you feel at home in your body again.

Pop in your headphones and lace up your sneakers. I'm about to show you how to take control of your health again and live the energy-filled, confident life that you deserve.

Let's dive in!

Next Steps:
Connect with me on Instagram: www.instagram.com/hannahaylwardhhc
Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz:
https://go.hannahaylward.com/gut-health-root-cause-quiz
Visit the Website: www.hannahaylward.com
Email Us: support@hannahaylward.com

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  • 21 episodes
  • weekly
  • Avg 53 min
  • English

Episodes 21

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  • S1 · E92
    Friday · 59 min

    Ep 92: Perimenopause, Your Gut & the Hormone Changes No One Prepared You For with Karen Martel

    You're eating well, taking care of yourself, and doing the things that used to make you feel good - but suddenly your sleep, digestion, mood, and weight are changing. What gives? In this episode, I'm joined by certified hormone specialist and Midlife Solutions founder Karen Martel to unpack the changes women can experience during perimenopause and menopause. We discuss progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone, how hormone shifts can overlap with gut and thyroid symptoms, and why your symptoms deserve attention even when your labs fall within the reference range. Karen shares her personal experience navigating midlife hormone changes, her approach to testing, and her perspective on bioidentical hormone therapy. We also explore practical foundations, from eating enough and building muscle to supporting digestion, reducing stress, and finding community, that can help you feel more supported through this chapter. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Early signs of perimenopause beyond hot flashes, including changing periods, disrupted sleep, anxiety, and worsening PMS. Why progesterone often changes earlier in the menopausal transition. How hormone shifts can overlap with digestive symptoms, thyroid concerns, and changes in metabolic health. Why symptoms and personal history matter alongside lab results. Karen's approach to blood work, hormone testing, and looking at the bigger picture. The difference between supporting hormone production in younger years and navigating declining ovarian function. Karen's perspective on bioidentical hormone therapy and discussing your options with a qualified clinician. Why adequate nourishment, strength training, recovery, and community deserve a place in your midlife care plan. Advocating for yourself when you know something has changed. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here. Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Listen to Episode 75: The Epidemic of Low Progesterone Problem: Root Causes, Hidden Signs & How to Naturally Restore Balance Listen to Episode 28: How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection Listen to Episode 70: Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones? CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH KAREN: Instagram | Website | Podcast If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E91
    October 6 · 41 min

    Ep 91: Short Chain Fatty Acids - The Key to Good Gut Health

    Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)—and they're one of the most important pieces of gut health that I don't think we talk about enough. In this episode, I'm breaking down the three primary short-chain fatty acids—butyrate, acetate, and propionate—and explaining how they influence your gut barrier, immune system, inflammation, metabolic health, and even the pH of your colon. We'll also talk about why butyrate is so important for the cells lining your colon, how SCFAs can help create an environment that supports a healthier microbial balance, and what can happen when we're missing important SCFA-producing bacteria. Most importantly, I'm showing you how to actually support SCFA production through food. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Gut bacteria ferment certain fibers to produce short-chain fatty acids: butyrate, acetate, and propionate. Butyrate provides fuel for cells lining the colon and supports a healthy gut barrier. SCFAs help regulate immune activity and inflammatory signaling. SCFA production can lower colon pH, helping shape which microbes thrive in the gut. Fermentable fibers + resistant starches provide the raw materials gut microbes use to make SCFAs. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here. Listen to Episode 3 - Leaky Gut 101: The What, the Why, and How to Fix It Listen to Episode 84 - Why Most SIBO Protocols Fail Listen to Episode 89 - Eating Healthier and Feeling MORE Bloated? Here's Why CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E90
    September 24 · 1 hr 8 min

    Ep 90: What's REALLY Driving Crohn's & Colitis? with Josh Dech

    Rates of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis have risen dramatically over the last several decades, but why? In today's episode, I'm joined by holistic nutritionist and physician consultant Josh Dech for a conversation about inflammatory bowel disease, the gut microbiome, environmental exposures, and the many factors that may influence why someone develops chronic digestive disease. Josh specializes in Crohn's, colitis, and severe IBS and shares both his personal health journey and the framework he uses when working with complex IBD cases. If you have Crohn's, colitis, IBS, or simply want to better understand the environmental factors shaping our gut health, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why Josh believes the dramatic rise in IBD points toward environmental and lifestyle influences, not genetics alone. How antibiotics, ultra-processed foods, birth and feeding history, environmental exposures, and other factors may shape the gut microbiome over time. The concept of "terrain" and why simply adding more probiotics, prebiotics, or fiber may not fix a dysregulated gut. Why mold exposure receives significant attention in Josh's clinical framework and how he believes mycotoxins can affect the microbiome, immune system, gut lining, mitochondria, and detoxification pathways. How early-life factors may influence microbiome development The bidirectional relationship between the gut and brain and why stress and nervous system regulation matter without necessarily being the entire solution. Why Josh believes people with IBD may have more influence over their health trajectory than they have been led to believe. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here. Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine Listen to Episode 87 - What Came First—Your Anxiety or Your Gut Issues? Understanding the Gut–Brain Connection Listen to Episode 63 - Is IBS an Early Warning Sign for Autoimmunity with Dr. Izabella Wentz CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH JOSH: Instagram | Website | Podcast If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E89
    September 17 · 48 min

    Ep 89: Eating Healthier and Feeling MORE bloated? Here's why.

    Have you ever cleaned up your diet only to find yourself more bloated, gassy, constipated, nauseous, or uncomfortable than you were before? You've added in more veggies and gut health foods and instead of feeling amazing, your digestion seems to be getting worse. In this episode, I'm breaking down three of the biggest reasons I see this happen with our clients. We'll talk about why increasing fiber can sometimes make SIBO, constipation, and slow gut motility feel worse; why nutritious foods like avocado, fermented foods, spinach, and leftovers can trigger symptoms when you're dealing with histamine issues; and why increasing healthy fats can reveal underlying problems with bile flow, pancreatic enzymes, or digestive function. Most importantly, I want you to understand that the answer isn't to become afraid of healthy foods or restrict them forever. Your reactions can actually give us clues about where your digestive system is struggling—and once we identify and address those deeper issues, the goal is to help you tolerate more foods with fewer reactions. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: A temporary increase in gas can happen when you rapidly increase fiber—but severe or persistent symptoms warrant a deeper look. Fiber intolerance can point toward bacterial overgrowth and impaired gut motility. Adding more fiber isn't always the answer for constipation and can sometimes worsen symptoms when motility is impaired. Reactions to fermented foods, avocado, leftovers, and other histamine-rich foods may signal histamine overload or impaired clearance. Feeling worse after increasing healthy fats can point toward issues with bile flow, enzymes, or fat digestion. The goal isn't long-term food restriction—it's understanding why your body is reacting in the first place. Your food reactions can provide valuable clues about what may be happening underneath the surface. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Create a Fullscript account and get access to 15% off our recommended practitioner-grade supplements here. Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Listen to Episode 72 - The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle Listen to Episode 83 - Histamine Isn't the Problem — Here's What Actually Is Listen to Episode 12 - Is Histamine Overload Causing Your Unexplained Symptoms? Listen to Episode 59 - How to Support Your Nervous System in Times of Chaos Listen to Episode 80 - Bile Flow 101: The Overlooked Key to Better Digestion, Bowel Movements & Histamine CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E88
    September 4 · 24 min

    Ep 88: Highlights From The Good Gut Formula Masterclass - IBS, Leaky Gut & Food Sensitivities

    In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I'm sharing a section of my Good Gut Formula Masterclass where I break down the deeper root causes of food sensitivities, leaky gut, and IBS. I dive into what increased intestinal permeability actually means, how the gut barrier interacts with your immune system, and why food reactions are a clue to something deeper. We'll also explore factors that may contribute to persistent digestive symptoms, including microbial imbalances, digestive function, and chronic stress, and why feeling better often requires a more comprehensive approach than another supplement or elimination diet. If your labs look "normal," but you're still bloated, uncomfortable, and unsure what to eat, this episode will help you understand what questions to ask next. The replay has expired, but you can still listen to the masterclass on Hannah's secret podcast 🤫. Enrollment is OPEN for Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts, my 16-week gut health program that utilizes functional testing, targeted nutrition, lifestyle strategies, and coaching support to help you get to the bottom of your chronic digestive issues. This is our final round of 2026, and doors close September 10th at 11:59 p.m. Eastern. Learn more about HGSB and join us here: https://go.hannahaylward.com/yes WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Food sensitivities and leaky gut explained Uncovering the roots of IBS Removing foods alone does not repair your gut LINKS: Watch the Good Gut Formula Masterclass replay! Learn more about Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts HERE. Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E87
    August 28 · 34 min

    Ep 87: What Came First—Your Anxiety or Your Gut Issues? Understanding the Gut–Brain Connection

    Have you ever thought, what came first…my anxiety or my gut issues? The answer is probably a little bit of both. In this re-aired episode of The Nutrient Dense Podcast, I'm diving deep into the gut-brain connection and the bidirectional relationship between your nervous system, digestive function, gut microbiome, and mental health. The gut and brain are intricately connected via the gut-brain axis. We'll talk about how stress impacts your gut function, and how your gut health can exacerbate anxiety. The discussion covers the role of neurotransmitters produced in the gut, the influence of histamine on anxiety, and the importance of addressing both gut and mental health conditions for holistic healing. If you've been told your digestive symptoms are "just anxiety," this conversation will help you understand why the answer is often much more nuanced—and why supporting both your gut and nervous system can be such an important part of truly feeling better. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: The gut and brain are intricately connected via the gut-brain axis. Certain gut bacteria can increase stress hormone levels. 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut. Over time, stress can contribute to real physiological gut imbalances—not simply temporary digestive symptoms. Gut health is crucial for reducing anxiety levels. Your gut microbes play a role in neurotransmitters involved in mood, motivation, and relaxation. Long-term improvement often means supporting both the nervous system and the gut, rather than asking which one came first. LINKS: Save your seat for my FREE 3 Phase Good Gut Formula Masterclass! Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 1 - How Trauma Impacts Gut and Hormone Health Listen to Episode 14 - Chronically Stressed & Exhausted? Navigating Burnout & "Adrenal Fatigue" Listen to Episode 30 - Is Your Gut Causing High Cortisol? The Gut x Cortisol Connection Listen to Episode 70 - Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones? CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E86
    August 20 · 38 min

    Ep 86: Client Case Study: from chronic constipation, bloating & acne to clear skin and daily BMs

    What happens when you're eating a healthy diet, exercising, taking supplements, drinking plenty of water, and doing everything you've been told to do for your gut...but you're still chronically constipated, bloated, burping after meals, struggling with reflux, and dealing with acne? In this episode, I'm taking you behind the scenes of a real client case from my HGSB program. She had struggled with digestive issues since her early 20s, had seen multiple doctors, was relying on Linzess for constipation, and had previously taken Accutane for acne—but her digestive issues continued. When we ran testing, we found there was much more happening beneath the surface. I'm walking you through exactly what we found, why we didn't immediately jump into a "kill protocol," how we strategically rebuilt her digestive function, and the order in which we addressed her imbalances. After four months, she reported going from feeling like a 3/10 to a 9/10, with no more bloating after meals, burping, gas, acne, undigested food in her stool, or afternoon energy crashes—and she was having daily bowel movements! If you feel like you're doing everything right but your results aren't matching your effort, this episode will show you why a personalized, root-cause strategy can make all the difference. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Eating a healthy diet doesn't automatically resolve underlying digestive dysfunction. Chronic constipation, bloating, reflux, acne, and nutrient issues can share overlapping root causes. Supporting the body's foundations before eradication was an important part of her protocol. Gut motility, stomach acid, bile flow, enzyme production, and regular bowel movements all needed attention. The goal wasn't simply to kill bacteria, it was to address why the overgrowth developed in the first place. After four months, she reported major improvements in digestion, bowel regularity, energy, and skin. Personalized protocols can help replace years of guessing with a more targeted strategy. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join the waitlist for Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts, starting in September! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 41 - Before You Invest In Functional Testing, Make Sure You're Doing These Things Listen to Episode 17 - Decoding Your Gut: Functional Stool Testing Deep Dive Listen to Episode 33 - Main Root Causes of Chronic Gut & Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E85
    August 13 · 1 hr

    Ep 85: How I Reversed my IBS, Bloating, and Food Sensitivities (6 Key Steps)

    I spent seven years struggling with chronic bloating, IBS symptoms, constipation, food sensitivities, and major food anxiety—even though I felt like I was doing everything right. I ate healthier than almost everyone I knew. I avoided gluten and dairy for nearly a decade. I exercised, bought organic food, used non-toxic products, followed elimination diets, and spent hundreds of dollars on probiotics, digestive enzymes, L-glutamine, and every gut-support supplement I could find. And I still looked six months pregnant with belly bloating after eating an apple. What I eventually realized was that I didn't need to restrict more foods or find the perfect supplement. I needed a completely different strategy. In this episode, I'm walking you through the six key steps I personally focused on to repair my gut. I'm breaking down why chronic digestive issues can be about so much more than the foods you're eating, why digestion needs to be addressed before obsessing over probiotics, how functional testing changed my approach, and why my nervous system ended up being one of the most important pieces of my gut-healing journey. If you feel like you're doing all the things but you're still bloated, constipated, reacting to foods, or afraid to eat outside of your normal routine, this episode is for you. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Chronic digestive issues are often a gut environment problem, not simply a food problem. Focus on nourishment over restriction to support gut health and function. Functional testing can help uncover imbalances and create a more targeted approach. Healthy detox and drainage pathways support your body's ability to eliminate waste. Digestion comes before the microbiome—stomach acid, enzymes, and bile matter. Rebalancing the gut microbiome can improve food tolerance and digestive symptoms. Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation can directly impair digestive function. Lasting gut repair requires addressing the whole ecosystem, not chasing one root cause or supplement. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join the waitlist for Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts, starting in September! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 11 - Top 5 Tips for Balancing Your Blood Sugar Listen to Episode 17 - Decoding Your Gut: Functional Stool Testing Deep Dive Listen to Episode 72 - The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle Listen to Episode 59 - How to Support Your Nervous System in Times of Chaos Listen to Episode 33 - Main Root Causes of Chronic Gut & Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E84
    August 6 · 54 min

    Ep 84: Why Most SIBO Protocols Fail

    Feel like you've tried to get over SIBO multiple times with no luck? The antibiotics, herbals, the diets...but it keeps coming back. In this episode, I'm breaking down one of the biggest misconceptions about SIBO: it's not simply a bacterial overgrowth problem. We'll cover what SIBO actually is, why it develops in the first place, and why so many conventional protocols fail to create lasting results. I'll explain the critical role of gut motility, the migrating motor complex (MMC), stomach acid, bile flow, thyroid function, chronic stress, mold exposure, H. pylori, food poisoning, and even abdominal adhesions in creating an environment where bacterial overgrowth can thrive. We'll also discuss why simply killing bacteria isn't enough, why rebuilding your gut microbiome matters just as much as reducing bacterial overgrowth, and how shifting your focus from "killing bugs" to restoring digestive function can completely change your healing journey. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: SIBO is an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine, where bacteria normally exist in much lower amounts than in the large intestine. SIBO is often a downstream consequence of impaired digestive function—not the primary root cause itself. Antibiotics and herbal antimicrobials may temporarily reduce bacterial overgrowth, but they don't address why the overgrowth developed in the first place. The low FODMAP diet can reduce symptoms but isn't designed to eradicate SIBO or prevent recurrence. Healthy gut motility is one of the most important factors in preventing recurring SIBO. Chronic stress, hypothyroidism, low stomach acid, poor bile flow, food poisoning, mold exposure, H. pylori, adhesions, and diabetes can all contribute to impaired gut motility and recurring SIBO. Low stomach acid and poor bile flow create an environment where bacterial overgrowth is more likely to occur. Rebuilding the gut microbiome after antimicrobial treatment is essential for maintaining long-term microbial balance. SIBO has a high relapse rate because many treatment approaches focus only on reducing bacteria rather than restoring digestive function. Long-term healing comes from creating a resilient digestive system—not simply eliminating bacteria. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join the waitlist for Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts, starting in September! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 72 - The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 80 - Bile Flow 101: The Overlooked Key to Better Digestion, Bowel Movements & Histamine Listen to Episode 79 - 5 Signs Your Gut Issues are Actually H. Pylori Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E83
    July 31 · 37 min

    Ep 83: Histamine Isn't the Problem — Here's What Actually Is

    If you've suddenly become sensitive to foods you used to tolerate—like avocado, spinach, leftovers, fermented foods, bone broth, or even a glass of wine—you may be dealing with histamine intolerance. But what if histamine isn't actually the problem? In this episode, I'm breaking down why histamine intolerance is often a capacity problem, not simply a food problem. Histamine is a normal and necessary molecule in the body. The real question isn't "How do I avoid histamine forever?", it's why has my body lost its ability to process it? I'll explain how your gut microbiome, gut barrier, hormones, liver, mold exposure, chronic stress, and nervous system all influence your ability to break down histamine. We'll also cover why a low histamine diet may provide temporary relief but isn't a long-term solution, how histamine overload differs from Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and the functional approach I use to help clients tolerate foods again by addressing the root causes underneath the surface. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Histamine overload is often a capacity problem, not simply a problem of eating high-histamine foods. Histamine intolerance and MCAS overlap but are not the same condition; MCAS involves broader mast cell dysregulation and additional inflammatory mediators. The "histamine bucket" concept explains why symptoms occur when histamine production exceeds your body's ability to break it down. DAO helps break down histamine in the gut, while HNMT helps metabolize histamine throughout the body, including in the liver and nervous system. Damage to the gut lining can reduce DAO activity, making histamine intolerance more likely. Gut dysbiosis, H. pylori, SIBO, intestinal inflammation, and histamine-producing bacteria can all increase the body's histamine burden. A low histamine diet can reduce symptoms temporarily, but it doesn't address why histamine is accumulating. Mold exposure and mycotoxins can activate mast cells and significantly contribute to histamine overload. Estrogen increases histamine release, while progesterone helps stabilize mast cells and supports histamine breakdown. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol can destabilize mast cells, increase histamine release, and contribute to hormone imbalances that worsen symptoms. Supporting gut health, liver function, hormones, nervous system regulation, and mineral status is essential for long-term improvement—not simply eliminating more foods. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join the waitlist for Healin' Guts + Shakin' Butts, starting in September! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 12 - Is Histamine Overload Causing Your Unexplained Symptoms? Listen to Episode 35 - The Gut x Histamine Connection Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E82
    July 24 · 53 min

    Ep 82: Why Your Iron Levels Won't Budge: The Deeper Root Causes of Low Iron

    If your iron or ferritin levels are chronically low, even though you're taking iron supplements, eating red meat, and doing everything you've been told to do, it's time to dig deeper. In this episode, I'm breaking down why low iron isn't always an iron problem. Your body has to be able to digest, absorb, transport, recycle, store, and actually use the iron you're consuming. I'm walking you through the four major categories I look at when someone has chronically low iron: losing too much iron, not absorbing enough, inflammation restricting access to stored iron, and difficulty transporting or utilizing iron properly. I'm also sharing why ferritin alone doesn't give us the whole picture and which labs can provide a much more comprehensive look at what's actually happening. If you've been supplementing with iron for months without your levels ever budging, this episode will help get you the answers you've been looking for. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Most of the iron your body uses each day comes from internal recycling, not directly from dietary iron. Ferritin is an important marker of iron storage, but ferritin alone cannot tell you the full story of your iron status. There are four major areas to investigate when iron won't improve: loss, absorption, inflammation, and transport/utilization. Low stomach acid, H. pylori, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, restrictive diets, and certain medications can interfere with iron absorption. H. pylori is particularly important because it can alter the stomach environment, impair iron absorption, and contribute to inflammation. Chronic inflammation can increase hepcidin, which restricts the release and absorption of iron and can contribute to functional iron deficiency. Normal or elevated ferritin doesn't necessarily mean iron is readily available for your body to use, particularly when inflammation is present. Copper, vitamin A, B12, and folate are among the nutrients involved in healthy iron transport, red blood cell production, and iron metabolism. Gut dysfunction can create multiple problems simultaneously: poor absorption, inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and potentially altered iron utilization. Iron and thyroid health have a bidirectional relationship: iron is important for normal thyroid function, while thyroid dysfunction can contribute to patterns that increase iron-deficiency risk. Instead of endlessly supplementing iron, the goal should be to determine where the breakdown in the chain is occurring. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 79 - 5 Signs Your Gut Issues are Actually H. Pylori Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection Listen to Episode 38 - Diving into Hashimoto's & Hypothyroidism with Board-Certified ENT and Thyroid Specialist Dr. Dana Gibbs CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E81
    July 16 · 1 hr 9 min

    Ep 81: When You're Doing "Everything Right" But Still Don't Feel Better…Do This.

    Have you ever felt like you're doing everything for your health... eating clean, taking the supplements, listening to all the podcasts, buying the gadgets—and yet you still don't feel better? If so, this episode is for you. Today, I'm stripping away the noise and bringing you back to the foundations that actually move the needle when it comes to healing. After nearly a decade of helping women overcome chronic digestive issues, I've learned that while functional testing, supplements, and personalized protocols absolutely have their place, no one gets to skip the basics. Your body can't heal when it doesn't feel safe, nourished, or supported. In this episode, I walk you through the eight foundational pillars I come back to with every client. These aren't flashy wellness trends—they're the daily habits that create the environment your body needs to repair itself. If you've been feeling overwhelmed by conflicting health advice or like you're constantly searching for the "missing piece," I hope this episode reminds you that healing doesn't always require doing more. Sometimes, it requires doing less—but doing the right things consistently. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Your body will always prioritize survival before healing or optimization. More information doesn't create better health—consistent implementation does. Blood sugar balance is one of the fastest ways to reduce stress on the body and support hormones, digestion, and energy. Hydration and mineral status are foundational for healthy digestion, energy production, and nervous system function. Daily movement supports blood sugar, lymphatic drainage, mitochondrial health, detoxification, and bowel regularity. Sleep is one of the most powerful tools for gut repair, hormone production, immune health, and blood sugar regulation. Morning sunlight helps regulate your circadian rhythm, cortisol, metabolism, thyroid function, and sleep quality. A dysregulated nervous system can impair stomach acid, digestive enzymes, bile flow, gut motility, and nutrient absorption. Joy, play, and meaningful connection aren't luxuries—they're powerful regulators of your physiology. Healing isn't about finding one magical supplement. It's about consistently creating an environment where your body feels safe enough to heal. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount, and check out our "HAN Favorites" List for the supplements mentioned in the episode! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 11 - Top 5 Tips for Balancing Your Blood Sugar Listen to Episode 21 - Is Sunlight An Overlooked Piece of Gut Healing? A Dive Into Circadian Rhythm for Healing Listen to Episode 59 - How to Support Your Nervous System in Times of Chaos Listen to Episode 41 - Before You Invest In Functional Testing, Make Sure You're Doing These Things CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E80
    July 9 · 1 hr 3 min

    Ep 80: Bile Flow 101: The Overlooked Key to Better Digestion, Bowel Movements & Histamine

    If you're dealing with chronic bloating, constipation, recurring SIBO, food sensitivities, hormonal acne, or even histamine issues, there may be one overlooked piece of the puzzle: your bile flow. In this episode, I break down why proper bile flow is one of the most important pieces of healthy digestion. While it's best known for helping you digest fats, healthy bile flow also supports your gut microbiome, bowel movements, detoxification, hormone balance, nutrient absorption, and even histamine clearance. I'll explain why sluggish bile flow can create a domino effect throughout the body, how chronic stress and low stomach acid contribute to poor bile production, the signs of bile issues I look for in practice, and simple ways to begin supporting healthy bile flow naturally. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: What bile is, how it's made, and why it's essential for far more than fat digestion. How sluggish bile flow contributes to bloating, constipation, diarrhea, and food sensitivities. Why poor bile flow increases the risk of recurring SIBO and gut dysbiosis. The surprising relationship between bile flow, histamine intolerance, and estrogen dominance. How chronic stress disrupts CCK signaling and reduces bile release during meals. Why low stomach acid and H. pylori can contribute to sluggish bile flow. Common signs of impaired fat digestion, including nausea after fatty meals, floating stools, and burping after fish oil. Functional lab markers and imaging that can help evaluate bile and gallbladder function. Practical nutrition and lifestyle strategies to naturally support healthy bile flow. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 15 - Bloating, Food Sensitivities, and Fatigue: Is SIBO the Culprit? Listen to Episode 12 - Is Histamine Overload Causing Your Unexplained Symptoms? Listen to Episode 35 - The Gut x Histamine Connection Listen to Episode 68 - The 9 Hidden Causes of Chronic Constipation (& why more fiber hasn't worked) Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E79
    July 2 · 41 min

    Ep 79: 5 Signs Your Gut Issues are Actually H. Pylori

    Today, I'm breaking down one of the most common gut infections we see in practice: H. pylori. H. pylori is one of the most overlooked root causes of chronic digestive issues, yet it can impact everything from stomach acid production and nutrient absorption to your gut microbiome, thyroid, skin, and energy levels. In this episode, I'm sharing the five biggest signs your gut issues may actually be pointing to an H. pylori infection, why this bacteria is so commonly missed, how it contributes to digestive dysfunction, and what testing and treatment options I recommend from a functional perspective. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: H. pylori is a common stomach bacteria that can significantly reduce stomach acid production and impair digestion. Low stomach acid can contribute to bloating, reflux, food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, and bacterial overgrowth further down the digestive tract. Constant burping, upper abdominal bloating, nausea, and feeling overly full after meals are classic signs of H. pylori. Chronic low iron, ferritin, or vitamin B12 despite supplementation may point to impaired nutrient absorption from H. pylori. Many people diagnosed with IBS may actually have an underlying gut infection that hasn't been investigated. H. pylori is associated with gastritis, stomach ulcers, and may contribute to leaky gut and systemic inflammation. Research suggests H. pylori may play a role in Hashimoto's thyroiditis through immune cross-reactivity. H. pylori can coexist with dysbiosis, Candida overgrowth, SIBO, and other gut imbalances, making comprehensive testing important. A functional stool test provides a more complete picture than testing for H. pylori alone. Supporting the gut, immune system, stomach lining, and digestive function before eradication is an important part of a successful healing strategy. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Apply for HAN's 1:1 Coaching Program! Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount! Listen to Episode 24 - Low Stomach Acid: A Hidden Cause of Chronic Bloating & Digestive Issues Listen to Episode 20 - How to Overcome IBS - A Functional Approach Listen to Episode 45 - How Gut Imbalances Drive Hormonal Acne CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E78
    June 25 · 1 hr 6 min

    Ep 78: The Truth About "Unexplained" Infertility with Dr. Marc Sklar

    It can be so devastating and frustrating to hear from your doctor that you have "unexplained infertility"... but what if it isn't actually "unexplained"? In this episode, I sit down with natural fertility specialist Dr. Mark Sklar to discuss why so many couples are given this diagnosis, why conventional fertility testing often misses important root causes, and the functional medicine approach to optimizing fertility before jumping straight to IVF. We dive into the critical role of gut health, inflammation, thyroid function, blood sugar regulation, environmental toxins, stress, sleep, and nutrition in reproductive health—and why supporting the whole body can dramatically improve fertility outcomes for both women and men. Whether you're currently trying to conceive, planning for pregnancy in the future, or simply want to better understand your reproductive health, this conversation is full of practical insights and hope for your journey. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Why "unexplained infertility" often means more investigation is needed—not that there's no cause. How functional medicine looks beyond conventional fertility testing. The surprising connection between your gut health and fertility outcomes. Why blood sugar, thyroid health, inflammation, and adrenal function are foundational for conception. The overlooked role that male fertility plays in conception. How environmental toxins, mold, pesticides, plastics, and heavy metals may impact fertility. Why endometriosis is often missed—and what new testing options are becoming available. The fertility labs Dr. Sklar recommends beyond standard testing. Supplements that may support fertility, including CoQ10, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 39 - How to Eat for Optimal Fertility with Lily Nichols RDN Listen to Episode 42 - Gut Health x Fertility: What Every Woman Should Know Listen to Episode 48 - Your Period is Your Fifth Vital Sign with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. MARC: Instagram | Linktree | Youtube If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E77
    June 18 · 49 min

    Ep 77: How To Order At a Restaurant When Traveling to Support Your Gut

    Travel can be one of the biggest triggers for digestive symptoms. Between disrupted routines, less sleep, dehydration, eating out more often, time zone changes, alcohol, and increased stress, it's no surprise that so many people experience bloating, constipation, reflux, or stomach discomfort while traveling. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how I approach eating at restaurants while traveling to support my digestion without becoming restrictive or obsessive. You'll learn how I choose meals, what I prioritize on a menu, the supplements I travel with, how I support my nervous system while away from home, and the mindset shifts that have helped me enjoy travel without constantly worrying about my gut. Because the goal isn't perfection — the goal is supporting your body while still enjoying the experience! WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Travel stress, disrupted routines, dehydration, and sleep changes can all impact digestion. Packing your own snacks can help prevent blood sugar crashes and poor food choices while traveling. Constant snacking can disrupt the migrating motor complex (MMC) and contribute to bloating and constipation. Prioritizing protein at every meal is one of the simplest ways to support blood sugar, digestion, and energy levels. Nervous system regulation is just as important as food choices when it comes to digestion. Breathwork, journaling, gut-directed hypnosis, and mindfulness can improve digestive function while traveling. Digestive enzymes, bitters, electrolytes, and herbal teas can provide additional support on the road. Trusting your body and releasing food fear often improves digestion more than chasing perfection. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Join our Fullscript dispensary to gain access to practitioner-grade supplements at a discount! Listen to Episode 72 - The Migrating Motor Complex (MMC) — Your Gut's Natural Cleaning Cycle Listen to Episode 49 - Gut Health Hacks for Healthy Holiday Travel Listen to Episode 10 - My Go-To Travel Hacks for Gut Health & Better Digestion CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E76
    June 11 · 1 hr 4 min

    Ep 76: The Subconscious Blocks Keeping You Sick with Faith Ashenden

    In this episode, I sit down with Faith Ashenden, nervous system and subconscious reprogramming expert and founder of That Healing Feeling, to explore one of the most overlooked pieces of the healing journey: the subconscious mind. Faith shares her incredible story of recovering from Graves' disease, IBS, POTS, chronic fatigue, chronic UTIs, and a long list of debilitating symptoms that ultimately left her bedridden and unable to work. After years of pursuing both conventional and functional medicine approaches, she discovered that while many of those tools helped her improve, they didn't fully give her freedom back. That realization led her down the path of studying neuroplasticity, nervous system regulation, and subconscious reprogramming. Together, we discuss how chronic illness can become intertwined with identity, why many people unknowingly develop beliefs that keep them stuck, and how the subconscious mind influences everything from stress responses to healing capacity. We also dive into perfectionism, people-pleasing, symptom patterns, trauma responses, nervous system regulation, and how creating safety in the body may be one of the most important components of long-term healing. If you've ever felt like you're doing everything "right" but still aren't seeing the progress you want, this conversation could completely change the way you think about healing. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Chronic illness often becomes part of a person's identity, which can unintentionally make healing more difficult. The subconscious mind acts as the bridge between conscious thoughts and the nervous system. Neuroplasticity demonstrates that the brain and nervous system can change throughout life. Many people improve physically but still don't feel truly free because the fear and symptom monitoring remain. Perfectionism, hyper-independence, overachievement, and people-pleasing are often nervous system adaptations rather than personality traits. Creating safety in the body is a foundational component of recovery. Nervous system regulation can benefit people regardless of diagnosis, whether they are dealing with gut issues, thyroid conditions, MCAS, fatigue, or autoimmune disease. Healing often requires addressing both physical root causes and subconscious patterns simultaneously. Recovery is not about finding the perfect protocol—it's about creating an environment where the body believes healing is possible. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 1 - How Trauma Impacts Gut and Hormone Health Listen to Episode 25 - Is Nervous System Dysregulation Causing Chronic Gut Issues w/ Jessica Maguire CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH FAITH: Instagram | The Full Breakthrough Healing Experience Live Masterclass If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E75
    June 4 · 1 hr

    Ep 75: The Epidemic of Low Progesterone Problem: Root Causes, Hidden Signs & How to Naturally Restore Balance

    Low progesterone is one of the most common hormone patterns we see in women struggling with chronic digestive issues, burnout, thyroid dysfunction, inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and chronic stress. But here's the truth: low progesterone is rarely the root problem. In this episode, I break down why progesterone is often a downstream symptom rather than the true cause. We'll dive into how stress, under-eating, poor gut health, blood sugar dysregulation, thyroid issues, and nervous system dysfunction can all contribute to low progesterone levels and hormone imbalances. You'll learn the key signs of low progesterone, why ovulation matters, how progesterone and estrogen work together, and practical ways to naturally support healthy hormone production from a root-cause perspective. Whether you're dealing with PMS, painful periods, fertility struggles, anxiety before your cycle, insomnia, spotting, or feeling like a completely different person during your luteal phase, this episode will help you understand what's really going on beneath the surface. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Low progesterone is often a symptom of deeper dysfunction rather than the root cause itself. Progesterone is primarily produced after ovulation, making healthy ovulation essential for healthy progesterone levels. Chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation are among the most common drivers of low progesterone. Under-eating, low-calorie diets, inadequate carbohydrates, and nutrient deficiencies can impair ovulation and hormone production. Blood sugar instability increases cortisol production, which can negatively impact progesterone levels. Thyroid health and progesterone are deeply connected, and thyroid dysfunction can impair ovulation. Gut dysfunction and inflammation can contribute to hormone imbalances through poor nutrient absorption and impaired estrogen clearance. Many cases of "estrogen dominance" are actually low progesterone relative to estrogen. Supporting progesterone naturally requires addressing stress, nutrition, blood sugar, thyroid function, and gut health simultaneously. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 11 - Top 5 Tips for Balancing Your Blood Sugar Listen to Episode 70 - Are You Addicted to Stress Hormones? Listen to Episode 28 - How Your Gut Is Messing With Your Hormones: The Estrogen & Thyroid Connection CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E74
    May 29 · 1 hr 11 min

    Ep 74: Muscle, Metabolism & Longevity with Ashleigh VanHouten

    What if women stopped feeling like they need to be smaller… and instead focused on getting stronger? In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I sit down with health coach, author, and podcast host, Ashleigh VanHouten, for a powerful conversation about muscle, metabolism, longevity, and redefining what fitness means for women. Together, we unpack the harmful messages many women receive about dieting, shrinking themselves, and chasing thinness—and explore why building strength may be one of the most important investments you can make in your long-term health. We'll also discuss protein intake, body composition, injury prevention, muscle loss with aging, the power of organ meats, nutrient density, and practical ways to fuel your body for energy, resilience, and longevity. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Training to be strong is often far more empowering than training to be skinny. Muscle mass is critical for longevity, metabolic health, injury prevention, and healthy aging. Many women are under-consuming protein. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, improve satiety, and support hormone health. Confidence often comes from competency—not appearance. Strength training can improve bone density and help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and age-related muscle loss. Building muscle requires adequate protein, recovery, and progressive overload—you don't need to spend hours in the gym, and you don't need endless cardio. Organ meats are some of the most nutrient-dense foods available and can help support micronutrient status. Recovery is when muscle growth actually occurs, making sleep and recovery just as important as training. LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 67 - Why Cutting Out Gluten, Dairy, and Sugar Didn't Heal Your Gut Listen to Episode 39 - How to Eat for Optimal Fertility with Lily Nichols RDN CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH ASHLEIGH: Instagram | Website | Book: It Takes Guts If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

  • S1 · E73
    May 22 · 1 hr 8 min

    Ep 73: Mold, Gut Health & Toxins in Pets w/ Dr. Judy Morgan

    In this episode of the Nutrient Dense Podcast, I sit down with integrative veterinarian Dr. Judy Morgan to explore the surprising parallels between human health and pet health. From gut health and microbiome balance to toxin exposure, mold illness, ultra-processed food, nervous system regulation, and chronic inflammation, this conversation dives deep into what it truly means to support our pets at the root-cause level. Dr. Judy shares how conventional veterinary medicine often focuses on symptom suppression, while holistic veterinary medicine looks at the entire picture: diet, environment, toxic load, lifestyle, stress, immune function, and more. You'll learn why ultra-processed pet food may be harming your animals, why gut health matters just as much for animals as it does for humans, natural approaches to supporting your pet's immunity, detoxification, longevity, and overall wellness, and more! WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT IN THIS EPISODE: Holistic veterinary medicine focuses on identifying and addressing root causes, not just suppressing symptoms Many chronic pet conditions (itching, GI issues, allergies, arthritis) are tied to inflammation and toxic burden Ultra-processed kibble can negatively impact gut health, hydration, immune function, and longevity in pets Cats are obligate carnivores and thrive on high-moisture, minimally processed diets Flea and tick medications are neurotoxins and may contribute to toxic load in pets and households Mold exposure and environmental toxins impact pets similarly to humans Gut health and the gut-brain axis exist in animals too — affecting mood, anxiety, behavior, and immune health Fresh foods like eggs, sardines, bone broth, berries, and mushrooms can significantly support pet health Circadian rhythm, movement, enrichment, and sunlight matter for animals too Lab testing such as microbiome testing, vitamin D, mineral analysis, and stool testing can provide valuable insight into pet health LINKS: Book a strategy call with Hannah HERE Take the Gut Health Root Cause Quiz for free! Equip Protein: use the code hannahaylwardhhc for 15% off Listen to Episode 71 - Q&A with Hannah: SIBO, GLP-1s, Low Progesterone, Histamine Issues, and More! Listen to Episode 62 - The Hidden Gut Disruptor: How Mold Exposure Impacts Your Digestion, Gut Microbiome & Histamine CONNECT WITH HANNAH: Instagram | Website CONNECT WITH DR. JUDY: Instagram | Website | Use code NUTRIENT50 for 50% off Dr. Judy authored books found on NaturallyHealthyPets.com If you found this episode valuable, share it with a friend and leave us a rating/review! Thank you for listening ✨

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