In this episode, I am joined by Cole Patoine, MS, RD, and PhD candidate at Florida State University’s Gut Biome Lab, to talk about all things gut health and what is currently emerging in the research.
In this episode, we nerd out on:
Cole’s journey from clinical endocrinology into research
How gut microbiome research is done behind the scenes
What stool testing can tell us about gut health
The difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics
Why beans, lentils, chickpeas, and pulses are so powerful for gut health (and why they might make you bloated at first)
How ultra-processed foods can impact the microbiome
What “leaky gut” actually means from a research perspective
Understanding the gut-brain connection and neuroinflammation
The biggest factors that shape your microbiome over time
This episode is perfect for anyone who wants a research-backed understanding of gut health and the foundational habits that support a healthy microbiome.
You can explore more of Cole’s research here: https://thegutbiomelab.annescollege.fsu.edu/
And if this conversation makes you curious about what might actually be driving your own symptoms, you can learn more about working with me inside Girls Fuel coaching here: https://xnpsiaf8538.typeform.com/Gfcoachingapp
(00:00) Podcast Welcome Guest Intro
(01:50) Cole’s PhD Path and Introduction to Gut Health Research
(3:58) What gut health research looks at
(08:15) Pro Pre Post-biotics Explained
(13:00) Choosing Probiotic Strains
(14:18) Current Probiotic Research
(16:58) Powerhouse Food for your Gut Health
(22:54) Bean Tolerance Ramp Up
(25:52) Processed Foods Dysbiosis
(30:09) Artificial Sweeteners
(31:24) Is ‘Leaky Gut’ Recognized in Research?
(32:43) Breaking Down The Layers of the Gut Lining
(37:07) Intestinal Permeability and Disease Links
(39:16) Testing Markers and Symptoms of Leaky Gut
(43:44) Clinicians vs Influencers
(45:24) Gut-Brain Connection and Neuroinflammation
(50:37) Microbiome Changes Over Life
(51:14) Variables that Biggest Impact on Your Gut Microbiome
(1:00:32) What a PhD Really Takes
(1:05:50) Future Gut Research Questions
(01:09:50) Top Three Gut Health Tips
(1:11:59) Final Wrap and Resources
