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By Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist When we think about health, we often focus on diet, exercise, or sleep. But the real powerhouse of your well-being lies within your gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This complex system—from your mouth to your colon—not only digests food, but also nourishes your immune system, regulates inflammation, and even impacts your mood […]

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist You’ve likely heard that a healthy gut is central to overall health—and you’ve probably seen terms like probiotic and prebiotic on everything from yogurt containers to supplement labels. But what do they really mean? And more importantly, what role do they play in supporting your digestion, immunity, and even

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist A little bloating after a big meal? That’s normal. But what if that discomfort becomes a pattern—nagging cramping, dull aches, or unpredictable flares of abdominal pain? These aren’t just inconveniences. They’re messages from your gut—and they’re worth paying attention to. Gut pain is a common complaint, yet it can

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist We often take digestion for granted—until something goes wrong. Whether it’s bloating, fatigue, irregularity, or even brain fog, many common symptoms can trace back to your gut. Your digestive system is home to trillions of microbes that influence not just digestion, but also your immune system and even your

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist It’s easy to brush off occasional bloating, heartburn, or bathroom changes—until those “little things” turn into chronic issues. Your gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a complex, finely tuned system that gives you early signals when something’s not right. Catching these signs early doesn’t just improve comfort—it may help prevent more

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist When it comes to weight loss, most people focus on calories, cardio, and willpower. But there’s another powerful factor at play: your gut health. Research increasingly shows that your digestive system doesn’t just break down food—it influences metabolism, appetite regulation, fat storage, and inflammation. A well-functioning gut can support

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist Ever felt “butterflies” in your stomach before a big meeting? Or noticed that stress leaves your stomach in knots? That’s the gut-brain connection at work—a two-way street linking your digestive system with your mental health. Anxiety and gut health are closely intertwined, and when one is off balance, the

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist For many of us, coffee is a cherished daily ritual. It helps us wake up, feel alert, and even “get things moving.” But for others, coffee can bring on less-welcome effects like bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort. So what’s the truth—does coffee cause bloating? The answer depends on your

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist Whether it’s a glass of wine with dinner or a night out with friends, many people notice the same unpleasant result afterward: bloating. Alcohol is often a silent culprit behind digestive discomfort, but the way it affects your gut is more complex than just carbonation or sugar. Let’s break

Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist It’s not exactly dinner table conversation, but bloating after sex is surprisingly common—and often confusing. That uncomfortable pressure, distention, or gas can leave you wondering whether it’s normal, hormonal, or something more serious. The good news? Most of the time, it’s temporary and linked to changes in digestion, circulation,