5/26/26

Episode 26: What’s Really Wrecking Your Digestion & Cycle: Gut Health with Dr. Ashley de Luna

Summary

Have you tried elimination diets, cut out countless foods, and done random internet cleanses, only to find yourself still dealing with uncomfortable bloating, irregular periods and gut issues? In this episode, we sit down with licensed naturopathic doctor, yoga instructor, and women's health expert, Dr. Ashley de Luna. Dr. de Luna shares her personal journey navigating severe gut issues from her earlier days as a vegetarian to medical school, and reveals why the secret to her healing wasn't a restrictive vegan diet—it was regulating her nervous system.

We pull back the curtain on how the gut acts as our "second brain" and why true digestive wellness must start with a safe, grounded nervous system. Dr. de Luna breaks down the physiology of the vagus nerve and explains why eating while stressed prevents your body from properly releasing digestive enzymes. You will learn direct, actionable strategies to shift your body out of "fight or flight" and into a "rest and digest" state. We also touch on parasites, mold, leaky gut, and hormones, for a holistic conversation on gut health for women.

Takeaways

The nervous system is the master regulator of gut health: Calming the nervous system is crucial for gut healing as it controls digestion and immune responses. Addressing stress can transform gut health outcomes.
Eating nutrient-dense foods with presence enhances digestion and reduces bloating. Chewing thoroughly and focusing on meals without distractions are essential.
A diverse diet supports beneficial gut bacteria, improving digestion and immune function.
Restoring the gut barrier by addressing inflammation and infections can resolve diverse symptoms.
Tailored diagnostics uncover root causes like parasites or nutrient deficiencies that standard tests miss.
A stress-free lifestyle supports digestion and hormone balance, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation and rest.
Understanding the systemic impacts of interventions like GLP-1 drugs ensures sustainable health.