Tuesday Sep 30, 2025

Gut–Brain Connection, Bloating & “Leaky Gut” Explained (with practical fixes) with Jacqui Meehan

In this episode of The Mindful Journey, host Sana talks with Jacqui Meehan, a functional nutrition practitioner who turned her own ulcerative colitis and hormone struggles into a methodical, gut-first approach to mental and physical well-being. We unpack the gut–brain axis, why stress can tank stomach acid, how dysbiosis and “leaky gut” can fuel inflammation tied to mood, and simple practices that reduce chronic bloating—even if you’re eating “plain” food. Clear, evidence-curious, and practical: you’ll leave with everyday actions (breathing before meals, chewing, fibre variety, whole-food upgrades) plus a realistic view of labs like stool, food-sensitivity, and blood work. 

About the Guest:

Jacqui Meehan is a Level-2 Restorative Health practitioner and functional nutrition coach. After a mid-20s diagnosis of ulcerative colitis, she rebuilt her health and now helps women address “mystery symptoms” through gut-centered healing, stress regulation, and targeted labs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gut–brain is a two-way street: Stress hormones (e.g., cortisol) can shift the microbiome toward more inflammatory species; gut inflammation can, in turn, intensify anxiety/depressed mood.

  • Stomach acid matters: Low acid—often from chronic stress—slows digestion, promotes fermentation, and leads to upper-abdominal bloating.

  • Common bloating drivers: Low stomach acid, SIBO (small-intestinal bacterial overgrowth), food sensitivities from increased intestinal permeability, and poor motility.

  • “Leaky gut,” simply: Mucus barrier + intestinal lining become compromised; larger particles and microbial byproducts slip into circulation, elevating systemic inflammation.

  • Foundations first: Prioritize nutrient-dense whole foods, hydration, sleep, daily movement, and nervous-system regulation before chasing supplements.

  • Microbiome & mood: Microbes create signaling molecules and interact with the vagus nerve; downstream effect = stress resilience when the gut is in balance.

  • Universal, low-risk upgrades: Eat more non-starchy vegetables and fiber diversity; minimize ultra-processed foods; breathe and chew thoroughly before swallowing.

  • Personalization counts: Use functional labs (stool, blood work, food-sensitivity testing) to cut guesswork and tailor interventions.

  • Mindful eating works: A brief pre-meal pause (3 deep breaths + gratitude) signals “rest-and-digest” and can reduce bloat.

Connect with the Guest

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Disclaimer: This video is for educational and informational purposes only. The views expressed are the personal opinions of the guest and do not reflect the views of the host or Healthy Mind By Avik™️. We do not intend to harm, defame, or discredit any person, organization, brand, product, country, or profession mentioned. All third-party media used remain the property of their respective owners and are used under fair use for informational purposes. By watching, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer.

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