Understanding Irritable Bowel Syndrome and How To Manage It Day To Day
March 11, 2026 • Season 4: Episode 7
Speaking of Women's Health Podcast Host Dr. Holly Thacker dives into irritable bowel syndrome with a clear, compassionate guide to understanding symptoms, pinpointing triggers, and building a plan that actually sticks. From the brain–gut connection and hormone-driven flares to the role of the microbiome, you’ll hear how stress, sleep, and daily choices shape everything from cramping and bloat to bathroom urgency.
Dr. Thacker shares how to manage IBS symptoms, including the low FODMAP diet, adding fiber to your diet, drinking plenty of water, and daily exercise. She discusses probiotics and fermented foods, how to support a resilient microbiome, and why managing anxiety with CBT, mindfulness, and yoga can soften the gut’s overreaction to stress.
