We're digging into the confusing and often frustrating world of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). With gastroenterologist Dr. Luis Vazquez from WakeMed as our expert guest, we explore what IBS really is, how it’s diagnosed, and how to tell it apart from other gut conditions like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. Sarah shares her own journey with IBS since the age of 13.

From the role of fiber and diet to the mysteries of the gut microbiome, this episode covers the latest science on IBS and why why treatment looks different for each person.

00:00 IBS vs. IBD Symptom Differences

04:09 Red Flags for Digestive Health

08:58 Stress and IBS Connection

09:43 IBS: Nervous System Connection

13:45 Food Allergies and IBS Connection

18:01 Minimizing Medications for IBS Treatment

18:59 FODMAPs and Digestive Pain

24:22 "Living with IBS"

Ever wonder how stress truly impacts your mind and body? On this episode of Sarah Has Questions, we dive into cortisol—the so-called stress hormone—with WakeMed family nurse practitioner Crystal Evans. We learn how cortisol regulates your metabolism, sleep, blood pressure, and even that stubborn belly fat. Chronic stress and lack of sleep can throw your hormones way off, but Crystal has some real, actionable ways to manage it.

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast is intended to be educational and nothing said by the host or guests should be taken as medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your health is important, and seeking the advice of your own healthcare provider is always the best course of action.

We humans are ruled by our hormones. As women, hormonal changes can make us feel like completely different people. It's not just hot flashes and lack of libido, it's EVERYTHING.

In this episode Sarah is joined by Dr. Victoria Fashikin Thore from WakeMed to discuss the complex balance of hormones.

They talk about the roles of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and bust some common myths, like whether hormone replacement therapy is really as risky as it once seemed. Plus, they tackle real questions about digestive issues, stress, and why women should never settle for feeling less than their best.

00:00 "Why Hot Flashes Vary"

03:56 "Estrogen's Role in Women's Health"

08:35 "Stress's Impact on Health"

10:30 Estrogen's Role in Vaginal Health

14:46 "HRT Study Misconceptions Explained"

16:15 Breast Cancer Risk and Hormones

19:45 "Thanks and Be Well"

DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast is intended to be educational and nothing said by the host or guests should be taken as medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Your health is important, and seeking the advice of your own healthcare provider is always the best course of action.