How to Improve Your Gut Health (What Finally Worked for Her) with Journalist Chloe Melas

Bloated, dealing with stomach pain, or running to the bathroom every time you eat, and told it's nothing? In this episode, you'll learn the gut symptoms you shouldn't ignore, how much fiber you really need a day, and three simple changes that can help improve your gut health, plus how to speak up when a doctor brushes you off. On The Tamsen Show, Tamsen Fadal's guest is NBC News correspondent Chloe Melas, co-author with Judy Batalion of The Girl's Guide to Guts. Chloe lived with ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory gut disease, in silence for more than 15 years. She shares what finally helped, from more fiber to less alcohol, and why "you can have a big beautiful life while also dealing with a chronic illness." In this episode, you'll learn: - Which gut symptoms to stop brushing off, including blood in your stool - How much fiber you need a day (about 30 grams), and how to do the math - Three simple changes to improve your gut health: less alcohol, more movement and more fiber - What to eat when your gut flares, and why inflammation matters - When colorectal cancer screening starts (now 45 for adults at average risk) - How to speak up, and when to switch doctors if you feel dismissed - How to talk about "embarrassing" symptoms without shame - How to support a partner or friend living with a chronic illness If you've been quietly living with bloating, pain or gut symptoms, this episode is your permission to speak up. The Girl's Guide to Guts is out Tuesday, November 10. If you liked this episode, then you'll like: The Menopause Gut: How to Beat Bloating and Belly Fat and Alcohol 101: Belly Fat, Bad Sleep and the Real Cost STAY CONNECTED WITH TAMSEN: - Get ⁠Tamsen's newsletter filled with free tools⁠ to living better, feeling stronger, and knowing you’re never alone: - Get Tamsen’s NYT instant bestselling book, How To Menopause - Free Resources from Tamsen - Watch all the episodes on YouTube - Follow Tamsen on Instagram - The Tamsen Show on Instagram - Follow Tamsen on TikTok FOLLOW CHLOE MELAS: - Follow Chloe on Instagram - Chloe’s website - Preorder The Girl’s Guide to Guts by Chloe Melas and Judy Batalion MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: - Co-author Judy Batalion - Dr. William Li, author of Eat to Beat Disease - Eat to Beat Disease by Dr. William Li - American Cancer Society colorectal cancer screening guideline (screening starts at 45) If you want a say on our upcoming guests, fill out ⁠this form Sponsors: Go to https://kachava.com and use code TAMSEN for 15% off your first order. Get 35% off select Lola Blankets products at lolablankets.com by using code TAMSEN at checkout. Experience the world’s #1 blanket with Lola Blankets. Learn more about your ad choices, click here Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical concerns or treatment options. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Tamsen Show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices