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In this episode of the IBS Nutrition Podcast, I’m joined by Dr. Ali Navidi — a licensed clinical psychologist and co-founder of GI Psychology — to explore how the gut-brain connection drives IBS symptoms, and how targeted psychological treatment can lead to lasting relief.

We dive into what the gut-brain axis really is (without the medical jargon), when to seek support from a GI psychologist, and how tools like gut-directed CBT and clinical hypnosis can break the vicious cycle of symptom-anxiety-symptom. Whether you’ve been told “it’s all in your head” or you’re feeling stuck after trying diet changes alone, this episode will show you that IBS relief is possible with the right care team.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

✔ What the gut-brain axis is and how it fuels IBS symptoms

✔ Why IBS isn’t “just in your head” (and how to break the shame cycle)

✔ When to seek support from a GI psychologist — and why sooner is better

✔ How treatment works: CBT, hypnotherapy, and tailored assessment

✔ The role of food fear, avoidance, and nervous system dysregulation

✔ Dr. Navidi’s top 3 actionable tips to calm your gut and mind right now

Timestamps:

[00:00] Welcome & intro to Dr. Ali Navidi

[01:32] What is the gut-brain connection?

[04:18] Why IBS isn’t "just in your head"

[07:37] Hypervigilance and the anxiety feedback loop

[09:39] When to seek GI psych support

[13:01] How assessments & treatment work

[15:39] Gut-directed CBT vs. clinical hypnosis

[17:53] Avoidance behaviours in IBS

[20:55] Key takeaways for managing IBS

[21:07] Dr. Navidi’s 3 actionable steps for symptom relief

[26:05] Final message to IBS sufferers

[27:36] How to access more support

Resources Mentioned:

🎓 Free IBS Relief Masterclass – Learn our 3-step approach to managing IBS: https://ibsdietitian.com/masterclass

📋 Free Symptom Tracker – Start tracking your symptoms today: https://poopedia.org/resources

Dr Navidi Website: gipsychology.com

GI Psychology Instagram: https://instagram.com/gipsychusa

Dr Navidi Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gipsychology/posts

🔔 Stay Connected & Get More IBS Support:

📷 Follow us on Instagram: @ibs.dietitian

🖥️ Free IBS Relief Masterclass: https://ibsdietitian.com/masterclass

💬 Join our IBS Facebook Community: IBS Support For Women

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