Today we continue our gut health series, focusing on the second underlying cause of gut issues: imbalances in our microbiome!!

Our microbiome is the ecosystem of the trillions of bacteria that live in our gut. When the balance of bacteria is off, we can experience a plethora of gut issues like IBS, anxiety, indigestion, weight issues, immune function and so much more. Our gut is at the root of so much that happens within our bodies, which is why when there's imbalances within the gut that go unchecked, we can see it leading to bigger imbalances and dis-ease later on.

Our gut is home to 80% of our immune system, meaning that it has a major effect on our overall health, energy, and vitality. A healthy, balanced gut is crucial for our wellness, which is why today we're learning the most common causes of imbalance within our gut microbiome, how we can notice when it's imbalanced, and what we can do to bring balance to our gut, short and long term.

**Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine. I am a certified Ayurvedic Wellness Coach, not a licensed medical doctor.

In this episode of Zen and Tonic: Wellness Unfiltered, we’re zeroing in on one of the most misunderstood yet widespread root causes of chronic health issues: leaky gut (aka intestinal permeability).

We break down what leaky gut actually is, why it’s become so common, and how it contributes to symptoms like bloating, food sensitivities, fatigue, acne, autoimmunity, and brain fog. You'll learn how the gut lining functions as your body's protective barrier — and what happens when that barrier breaks down.

We also share natural tools to start healing, including gut-loving staples like ghee, bone broth, glutamine, and butyrate, plus the biggest foods and habits that could be harming your gut lining without you even realizing it.

If you’ve been feeling "off" with no clear answers, this episode will help you connect the dots and begin your gut-healing journey with clarity and confidence.

Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine. I am a certified Ayurvedic Wellness Coach, not a licensed medical doctor.

If you're struggling with PMS, mood swings, irregular cycles, or other symptoms of hormonal imbalance, this episode is for you. Today on Zen and Tonic, we’re diving into seed cycling—a gentle, natural method that uses the nutritional power of specific seeds to support hormonal balance throughout the phases of your menstrual cycle.

Learn how flax, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower seeds work to harmonize estrogen and progesterone levels, reduce PMS symptoms, and enhance your energy, mood, and fertility. Whether you're on hormonal birth control or not, seed cycling offers a nourishing, food-based tool to reconnect with your cycle and support your body’s natural rhythm.

We’ll cover:

• How your hormones shift during the follicular and luteal phases
• Why each seed is perfectly matched to a phase of your cycle
• What phytoestrogens are and how they support hormonal regulation
• The exact amounts to eat and when to start
• Simple ways to add these seeds into your daily routine
• Holistic tips to boost results, from liver support to stress relief

This is a practical and empowering guide to syncing with your cycle and restoring hormonal harmony—naturally.

**Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine. I am a certified Ayurvedic Wellness coach, not a licensed medical doctor.