Love You More Podcast
As a dietitian who works in behavior change, I've noticed a common theme in my work: the need for people to give themselves permission for true self care. But, sometimes, the world makes us feel like self-care should be ONE more thing we strive for leaving us feeling like we even fail at this! The Love You More podcast is here to support you in your personal journey towards being there for THE most important person in your life: YOU.
Love You More Podcast
Ep 82: A Different Way to Approach Gut Issues
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May 5, 2026
Love You More
Ep 82: A Different Way to Approach Gut Issues
Episode summary:
Jen shares a personal reflection on gut health, running, and her experience navigating IBS-related symptoms like bloating, urgency, food sensitivities, and the strong link between stress and digestion. She discusses identifying triggers, exploring FODMAPs, and noticing how quickly the mind can become focused on trying to “fix” symptoms. The episode looks beyond food alone, highlighting the role of the nervous system, mindfulness, and reducing stress around symptoms, and offers a grounded reminder that healing often involves less control and more curiosity, awareness, and a softer relationship with what feels unresolved.
Jen is also offering a four-day, three-night silent retreat this September (September 10-13) at Kindred Forest in the Missouri Ozarks, a space intentionally designed for deep rest, reflection, and nervous system support. Through shared silence, nourishing meals, time in nature, and gentle practices like sound baths and Feldenkrais, the retreat creates an opportunity to step away from constant input and reconnect with what’s already present.
Favorite Quotes:
“When nutrition and lifestyle changes don’t fully resolve gut symptoms, there’s often a missing piece.”
“The mind and the gut are intricately connected… when we are stressed, we feel that in our gut.”
“I noticed that my attention was going to this a lot… trying to fix this problem.”
“When the mind gets so heavily involved, it really does disrupt the way that the gut contracts and relaxes.”
“There’s a difference between ‘this has to get better’ and curiosity.”
“There is wisdom in recognizing that we might be trying too hard.”
Resources
Jen's Instagram
Jen's Substack
McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Instagram
McDaniel Nutrition Therapy Website
Past Podcast Episodes
2026 Silent Retreat