This week I'm chatting with Dr. Michael Ruscio, functional medicine doctor, gut health expert, and the author of Healthy Gut, Healthy You. In this episode, Dr. Ruscio shares his personal story of how he became interested in gut health and functional medicine. He talks about why it's so important to start with the gut when addressing health concerns, the dangers of strict dietary protocols, and how to mitigate the effects of antibiotics. He also explains all about probiotics - the different types, what to look for, and his favorite brands. We discuss SIBO and its causes, the low FODMAP diet and keto, and what "low carb" means. We also discuss hydrogen sulfide SIBO and sulfur intolerance, histamine intolerance, and how to know if you have SIFO. Dr. Ruscio explains the connection between exercise and gut health, as well as how fertility is linked to gut health. For more from Dr. Ruscio, head to drruscio.com, follow him on Instagram (@drruscio), and listen to his podcast, Dr. Ruscio Radio. For more from Christina, head to her website, christinaricewellness.com, to find her services, blog, programs, and ebooks. If there's a question you'd like answered or a topic you'd like discussed on the podcast, send it in to podcast@christinaricewellness.com! Don’t forget to join the Facebook group, Wellness Realness Podcast Tribe, to meet other podcast listeners! I'm so excited to be partnering with Just Thrive Probiotic & Antioxidantto bring you this podcast episode! Just Thrive Probiotic & Antioxidant is the first 100% spore-forming probiotic that arrives alive in the intestines naturally. It helps to support optimal gut health, digestive health, immune health, anddelivers antioxidants. I've noticed a huge difference in both my digestion and overall health since using it regularly, and I recommend it to all of my clients. The strains in Just Thrive were recently proven in a published study to begin to heal leaky gut in just 30 days! Head to bit.ly/justthrivecrwto learn more about this research-based probiotic and to place an order! Interested in winning a Dastony nut butter?! Leave a rating and review on iTunes or share the podcast on social media, and send in a screenshot to podcast@christinaricewellness.com for a chance to enter! You can also comment on the podcast Instagram photo with your favorite nut butter. Unlimited entries. Giveaway ends June 18, 2018. US entries only. Signups for the Straight Up Paleo retreat are still open! Head to bit.ly/supretreat2018to snag your spot at a reduced price for the month of May! Ready to start your own podcast?! Katie Dalebout from Let It Out Podcast has created Let [a podcast] Out, an online workshop that will teach you everything you need to know to create your own podcast, and you can sign up now for the workshop that starts in June! You'll get access to hours of interviews with top podcasters, comprehensive audio lectures from Katie, homework and online resources, access to a private Facebook group and live coaching calls with Katie, and more. Head to bit.ly/launchpodcrwto learn more and sign up. You can use the code "WELLNESS" to get $100 off enrollment! If you're finally ready to reach your fitness goals, check out the MAPS programs from Mind Pump Media at www.mindpumpmedia.com/christinaricewellness. You can use the code "WELLNESS" for 10% off! I recommend MAPS Anabolicto anyone who goes to the gym and wants something that will increase their strength and fitness levels while also reducing body fat, and I recommend MAPS Anywhereif you're looking for a program that doesn't require a gym and focuses more on bodyweight exercises. Ready to dive into the paleo diet and lifestyle as a woman? Christina's Paleo Women Lifestyle Programis now available as a SELF-STUDY course! If you're looking to finally reach your health and wellness goals and optimize your health as a woman, this is the answer for you. Modules cover the basics of nutrition, the paleo diet, macronutrients, and building balanced meals,