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My Health Crisis: From Stomach Bug to Gut Reset

Updated: May 21



Graphic that says 4 big health breakthroughs
Natalie Tysdal




Feeling Off Lately? Why Your Gut Might Be the Reason


Have you ever felt like something in your body was just off—but you couldn’t quite figure out what it was?


Your energy feels drained, your mood is unpredictable, your digestion is sluggish, and nothing seems to be working the way it used to. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone, and it’s not all in your head. In fact, the root of it might be deep in your gut.


In this week’s episode of The Natalie Tysdal Podcast, I open up about my own personal gut health crisis—a moment that changed everything and reshaped how I approach wellness.


Listen to the full episode:


Watch on YouTube:


Why Gut Health Is So Important—Especially for Women


As a health journalist, I’ve interviewed countless experts on nutrition, hormones, and mental health. But nothing prepared me for how deeply personal gut health would become in my own journey.


Gut health isn’t just about digestion. Your gut is connected to your mood, your immunity, your hormone balance, your energy levels, and even your skin. When things are out of balance, your body sends subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals. Unfortunately, many women are left trying to navigate those signals alone.


In This Episode, You’ll Learn:


  • My personal gut health crash and what it revealed about the connection between stress, food, and my microbiome

  • How the gut-brain connection affects mood swings, brain fog, and anxiety

  • How your hormones and gut health work together—especially during PMS, perimenopause, and menopause

  • The surprising ways your immune system depends on your gut

  • Early signs of gut imbalance like chronic bloating, skin flare-ups, or low energy

  • Nutrition shifts that helped me heal, including bone broth and anti-inflammatory foods

  • Why supplement quality matters—especially with probiotics and collagen

  • Lifestyle changes that support gut healing without adding stress

  • A one-week gut reset challenge to help you start feeling better today




I created a simple, science-backed resource to help you take the first step toward better gut health. You can download my free Gut Reset Plan here:

Whether you're dealing with stubborn symptoms or just want to feel more like yourself again, this plan can help guide you forward.


Why This Matters


As women, we often push through fatigue, discomfort, and mood shifts without realizing how connected it all is. Learning to support your gut isn’t just about what you eat—it’s about listening to your body, setting boundaries, and restoring balance from the inside out.


If you’re navigating mysterious symptoms, unexplained weight changes, or emotional ups and downs, this episode might be your turning point—just like it was for me.


Want weekly health tips and encouragement?

Sign up for my newsletter: Join the Email List


Disclaimer: I’m a health journalist, not a doctor. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized care.


Connect With Natalie




Recent Videos

Detox, Energize, Thrive: The Power of Algea with Catharine Arnston
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Natalie Tysdal

Detox, Energize, Thrive: The Power of Algea with Catharine Arnston

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Detox, Energize, Thrive: The Power of Algea with Catharine Arnston
30:34
Natalie Tysdal

Detox, Energize, Thrive: The Power of Algea with Catharine Arnston

Are you navigating perimenopause, menopause, or just feeling low on energy and nutrients? This episode is your wake-up call—and a powerful introduction to a nutrient-dense superfood you're probably missing: algae. Join health journalist Natalie Tysdal as she interviews Catharine Arnston, CEO and Founder of ENERGYbits, to uncover the science, benefits, and real-life impact of microalgae—especially for women 40+ dealing with hormone shifts, fatigue, and gut issues. If you’ve written off algae as just “pond scum,” get ready to shift your mindset. Catharine breaks down decades of research showing how spirulina and chlorella support detox, hormones, brain fog, and more. 🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ What algae really is—and why it’s the most nutrient-dense food on earth ✅ Spirulina vs. chlorella: what’s the difference and who needs what ✅ How microalgae helps women over 40 fight fatigue, hormonal changes & brain fog ✅ The shocking role of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in aging & menopause ✅ Why your mitochondria (and microbiome) love algae ✅ How modern diets and depleted soil create nutrient gaps—and how algae fills them ✅ What to look for in a high-quality algae supplement ✅ Catharine’s inspiring journey from cancer caregiver to algae advocate 💥 If you’re ready to feel energized, clear-headed, and more balanced in midlife, this episode is for YOU. 🎙️ Listen to the podcast episode page for bonus resources: 👉 https://www.natalietysdal.com/podcast 🔗 RESOURCES & LINKS Get energybits here: https://energybits.com/?rfsn=8715077.c997ae&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8715077.c997ae 📩 Sign up for Natalie’s newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter 📲 Follow Natalie for more health & wellness tips: Instagram: @ntysdal TikTok: @ntysdal Facebook: NatalieTysdal Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com 🎧 Subscribe to the Natalie Tysdal Podcast: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-natalie-tysdal-podcast/id1559811806 📅 New episodes every Monday. Start your week with wellness. 🛑 DISCLAIMER: Natalie Tysdal is a journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. #WomensHealth #MenopauseRelief #AlgaeBenefits #MidlifeWellness #NatalieTysdalPodcast Seeking Health Vitamins and Supplements: https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO Get Natalie's Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Before you go on Camera: https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining Podcast Launch Guide: https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining Connect with Natalie 👉 Connect with Natalie! Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com Email: hello@natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ntysdal/ https://www.youtube.com/c/ntysdal Looka logo maker: https://looka.partnerlinks.io/us80hqy8cs8o Sign Up for Natalie’s Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter
My Health Crisis: From Stomach Bug to Gut Reset
12:03
Natalie Tysdal

My Health Crisis: From Stomach Bug to Gut Reset

Gut Health for Women: Why Fatigue, Bloating, and Mood Swings Might Start in Your Gut Are you feeling fatigued, moody, bloated—or just not quite yourself lately? You’re not alone. And it might be your gut trying to get your attention. In this episode of The Natalie Tysdal Podcast, I open up about a deeply personal health crisis that became a turning point in my wellness journey (don't judge me for crying!). As a health journalist with over 30 years of experience interviewing doctors and wellness experts, I’ve learned that gut health plays a much bigger role in our energy, hormones, immunity, and mood than most of us realize—especially as women.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   • The four essential things every woman needs to know about gut health   • How hidden gut issues can show up as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, hormone imbalance, and more   • Early warning signs your gut is out of balance—and what to do before it becomes a crisis   • My step-by-step strategies for gut healing, including nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle shifts   • One simple thing you can do this week to start resetting your gut health   📺 Watch This Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal   🌱 Free Resources to Support You: Download the FREE Gut Reset Plan: https://www.natalietysdal.com/gutreset Subscribe to my weekly newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Gut-Friendly Supplements I Trust: Seeking Health → https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO Before You Go on Camera (Media Confidence Training): https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining   💡 Related Episodes You Might Enjoy: Hormone Harmony: Dr. Janine Bowring on Natural Solutions to Women's Wellness: https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/episode163 Why Your Weight Loss Drug Needs Doctor Supervision: https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/why-your-weight-loss-drug-needs-doctor-supervision-not-just-an-online-prescription 📬 Connect With Me: Website:https://www.natalietysdal.com Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal (https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal) YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal (https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal) Have a question or topic you’d like me to cover on the podcast? Send me a DM on Instagram or a note through my website.   If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a review. Your support helps more women get the trusted health information they deserve. 🔬 Sources & References for This Episode on Gut Health Serotonin, Inflammation, and Gut Health Grondin J., Khan W.I. (2023). Emerging Roles of Gut Serotonin in Regulation of Immune Response, Microbiota Composition and Intestinal Inflammation. Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. 🔗  Read here (https://scispace.com/papers/emerging-roles-of-gut-serotonin-in-regulation-of-immune-1sjbe2ga?utm_source=chatgpt) Gut-Brain Axis & Mental Health Margoob M., Kouser S., Jan N. (2024). Serotonin: The Link between Gut Microbiome and Brain. IntechOpen. 🔗  Read here (https://scispace.com/papers/serotonin-the-link-between-gut-microbiome-and-brain-5c1hxqbn0y?utm_source=chatgpt) Gut Microbiome & Hormonal Balance (Estrobolome) Pai A.H., Wang Y.W., et al. (2023). Gut Microbiome–Estrobolome Profile in Reproductive-Age Women with Endometriosis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 🔗  Read here (https://scispace.com/papers/gut-microbiome-estrobolome-profile-in-reproductive-age-women-3tma6w0bun?utm_source=chatgpt) Immune System and Gut Inflammation Rizzetto L., Fava F., Tuohy K., Selmi C. (2018). Connecting the Immune System, Systemic Chronic Inflammation and the Gut Microbiome: The Role of Sex. Journal of Autoimmunity. 🔗 Read here (https://scispace.com/papers/connecting-the-immune-system-systemic-chronic-inflammation-k3ambmpail?utm_source=chatgpt) Mental Health & Microbiome Dysbiosis Wilson D., Binford L., Hickson S.V. (2023). The Gut Microbiome and Mental Health. Journal of Holistic Nursing. 🔗  Read here (https://scispace.com/papers/the-gut-microbiome-and-mental-health-w4c6hobb?utm_source=chatgpt) Disclaimer: I am a health journalist, not a doctor. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
My Gut Health Crisis - What Every Woman Needs to Hear
11:16
Natalie Tysdal

My Gut Health Crisis - What Every Woman Needs to Hear

Feeling off lately? It might be your gut. #guthealth #guthealthforlife Low energy, mood swings, bloating, or stubborn symptoms that don’t seem to make sense? In this episode, health journalist Natalie Tysdal shares her personal gut health crisis—and the powerful wellness reset that followed. You’ll hear how her journey revealed the critical role of gut health in women’s hormones, immunity, mood, and energy—and what every woman should know. 💬 If you’ve ever thought, “I just don’t feel like myself anymore,” this episode is for you. 🎙️ In this episode, you’ll learn: -Natalie’ personal gut health wake-up call—and how it changed everything -What the gut-brain connection really means for your mental clarity and mood -How gut health impacts PMS, menopause symptoms, and hormone balance -Why frequent colds or skin issues could be gut-related -The overlooked early warning signs of gut imbalance -The nutrition shifts that made the biggest difference (yes to bone broth!) -What to look for in gut-healing supplements like probiotics and collagen -Easy, practical lifestyle changes that support a healthier gut -A one-week challenge to jumpstart your own gut reset today 💡 Plus: Practical tips for gut-friendly food swaps, slowing down at mealtime, and building simple habits that heal from the inside out. 🔗 Grab the FREE Gut Reset Plan: https://www.natalietysdal.com/gutreset 📩 Sign up for Natalie’s weekly newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter 🎧 Listen to the full episode and more here: → Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com/podcast → Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-natalie-tysdal-podcast/id1559811806 → YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal 🌿 Follow Natalie for more wellness tips and health insights: Instagram: @ntysdal TikTok: @ntysdal Facebook: Natalie Tysdal Website: www.natalietysdal.com 🔬 Sources & References for This Episode on Gut Health Serotonin, Inflammation, and Gut Health Grondin J., Khan W.I. (2023). Emerging Roles of Gut Serotonin in Regulation of Immune Response, Microbiota Composition and Intestinal Inflammation. Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. 🔗 Read here Gut-Brain Axis & Mental Health Margoob M., Kouser S., Jan N. (2024). Serotonin: The Link between Gut Microbiome and Brain. IntechOpen. 🔗 Read here Gut Microbiome & Hormonal Balance (Estrobolome) Pai A.H., Wang Y.W., et al. (2023). Gut Microbiome–Estrobolome Profile in Reproductive-Age Women with Endometriosis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 🔗 Read here Immune System and Gut Inflammation Rizzetto L., Fava F., Tuohy K., Selmi C. (2018). Connecting the Immune System, Systemic Chronic Inflammation and the Gut Microbiome: The Role of Sex. Journal of Autoimmunity. 🔗 Read here Mental Health & Microbiome Dysbiosis Wilson D., Binford L., Hickson S.V. (2023). The Gut Microbiome and Mental Health. Journal of Holistic Nursing. 🔗 Read here ⚠️ Disclaimer: Natalie is a health journalist, not a doctor or therapist. This podcast is for informational purposes only and not intended to replace professional medical advice.
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Natalie Tysdal

Why Your Weight Loss Drug Needs Doctor Supervision, Not Just an Online Prescription

This episode is essential listening for anyone curious about the newest weight loss medications or navigating health and wellness after 40. Natalie sits down with Dr. Megan Garcia-Webb, a primary care physician and board-certified obesity and lifestyle medicine specialist, to demystify the science and practical realities behind popular GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, tirzepatide, and semaglutide. Dr. Garcia-Webb shares her unique perspective, combining medical expertise with life coaching, to help patients overcome barriers, set achievable goals, and change their mindsets around identity and health. If you’re overwhelmed by the hype around GLP-1s, confused about who should take them, or worried about side effects—this episode is for you. In this episode, you’ll learn: How GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy actually work in the body—and what makes them such a breakthrough for weight loss. The most common side effects (nausea, constipation, fatigue), how to recognize serious risks, and why careful ongoing medical supervision is critical. What healthy weight loss looks like when using these drugs—including why it’s dangerous to eat too little, ignore nutrition, or skip physical activity. The importance of finding a knowledgeable, certified provider to manage your medication—and the red flags when seeking care online. How GLP-1s are changing the conversation around hunger cues, eating mindfully, and understanding the role of the brain and hormones in weight management Who should NOT consider these medications—and when insurance will (and won’t) cover them. Why most people need to plan to stay on these medications long-term, and what happens if you stop. Emerging research on GLP-1s’ potential benefits beyond weight loss, including anti-inflammatory and addiction applications. Dr. Garcia-Webb also shares actionable tips for developing a healthier relationship with food, eating with intention (not multitasking!), and customizing your approach to fit your life stage, especially for women navigating menopause and hormonal changes. If you or someone you love is navigating the challenges of weight, hormones, or medication, send them this episode—it’s filled with science-backed wisdom and compassionate, real-world advice. For more resources related to today’s episode, click here for the podcast episode page: https://www.natalietysdal.com/podcast Sign up for my newsletter written to YOU at: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Follow me here: https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal https://www.natalietysdal.com/ — Catch full episodes of The Natalie Tysdal Podcast here on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal/featured 📺 Listen to The Natalie Tysdal Podcast while you're on-the-go! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-natalie-tysdal-podcast/id1559811806 Available wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. New episodes drop every Monday (to start your week). — Subscribe to the channel here: https://www.youtube.com/ntysdal — I am a health journalist. I am not a licensed therapist or doctor, and this podcast is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, or other qualified professional. Seeking Health Vitamins and Supplements: https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO Get Natalie's Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Before you go on Camera: https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining Podcast Launch Guide: https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining Connect with Natalie 👉 Connect with Natalie! Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com Email: hello@natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ntysdal/ https://www.youtube.com/c/ntysdal Looka logo maker: https://looka.partnerlinks.io/us80hqy8cs8o Sign Up for Natalie’s Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter
Why Your Weight Loss Drug Needs Doctor Supervision—Not Just an Online Prescription
23:43
Natalie Tysdal

Why Your Weight Loss Drug Needs Doctor Supervision—Not Just an Online Prescription

In today’s episode of the Natalie Tysdal Podcast, we’re talking about one of the most requested and hottest topics in women’s health: weight loss, hormones, and the latest breakthroughs in obesity medicine. Natalie is joined by Dr. Megan Garcia-Webb—primary care physician, board-certified in obesity and lifestyle medicine, and life coach—to demystify weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and others that are making waves. You’ll discover what makes these new GLP-1 injectable drugs so revolutionary, why they work so well for weight loss (especially for women over 40 dealing with hormonal changes), and the crucial role of mindset and coaching in sustainable results. Dr. Garcia-Webb explains why medical supervision is non-negotiable, how to safely manage side effects, and the red flags to watch out for when considering medication from less familiar sources. You’ll learn: • The science behind GLP-1 medications and how they help with significant weight loss   • Why mindset, goal-setting, and self-compassion are key for lasting change   • The most common side effects and how to avoid serious risks with proper management   • Why you shouldn’t go it alone: the importance of finding a qualified medical professional   • How these medications might be useful in the future for issues beyond weight, like addiction and inflammation   The right way to combine healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, and listening to your body, with medication for best results If you’re considering weight loss meds, want clarity about side effects and insurance coverage, or just need inspiration to start your health journey over 40, this episode will give you the inside scoop you need to make smart, empowered decisions. The FREE Gut Reset Plan: https://www.natalietysdal.com/GutReset Seeking Health Vitamins and Supplements: https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO 👉 Connect with Natalie! Website: https://https://www.natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ntysdal/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ntysdal Sign Up for Natalie’s Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Dr. Megan Garcia-Webb website: (https://weightmedicinemd.com/) Dr. Megan's Youtube (https://www.youtube.com/c/WellnesswithDrMeghan) channel:  
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