Today is World Digestive Day and the perfect opportunity for me to launch a new mini-series in the Gut Doctor Podcast. Advanced Practice Providers are the backbone of gastroenterology, transforming patient care today and tomorrow. Welcome to the APP Playbook, a special mini-series where I sit down with leading APPs to unpack the critical insights, clinical strategies, and their unique perspectives shaping patient care today.

Today's inaugural episode kicks off with a true powerhouse: Monica Nandwani, NP! Our conversation delves into the practical management of acid reflux disease, focusing on the approach to diagnosis, patient history, lifestyle changes, medication therapy, and the role of PCABs. It also covers the criteria for routine upper endoscopy and provides final tips for managing GERD effectively.

This episode is supported by sponsorship funding from Phathom Pharmaceuticals.

This episode of the Gut Doctor Podcast delves into the world of culinary medicine, exploring its definition, impact, and integration into medical practice. It covers the journey of a culinary medicine pioneer, Dr. Nate Wood, who is Director of Culinary Medicine at Yale, and the curriculum for medical trainees, the impact on dietitians, and the expansion of teaching kitchens into healthcare. The discussion also highlights the role of culinary medicine in GI and provides insights on accessing culinary medicine programs for patients and healthcare providers.

May is Celiac Disease Awareness month! In this episode of the Gut Doctor Podcast, Dr. Parikh interviews Christine Randazzo Kirschner, a registered dietician and co-founder of Amenta Nutrition. They discuss the pitfalls of gluten-free substitutes, the importance of fiber in the diet, nutrient deficiencies in celiac disease, identifying ultra-processed gluten-free products, and balancing realism with optimal nutrition.

As we wrap up Esophageal Cancer Awareness month, Dr. Parikh is joined by Dr. Caitlin Houghton, a foregut surgeon. They explore the significance of Barrett's esophagus as a precursor to esophageal cancer and the collaborative approach between gastroenterologists and foregut surgeons in managing the condition.

This episode was brought to you by Castle Biosciences, maker of Tissue Cypher, a test designed to predict the risk of esophageal cancer in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

In the spirit of IBS Awareness month, this episode explores the gut-brain axis, clinical implications, and integrative care for gut-brain dysfunction. Dr. Ali Navidi, a clinical psychologist and CEO of GI Psychology, shares insights on cognitive behavioral therapy and gut-directed hypnotherapy, emphasizing the importance of collaborative care and empowering patients with hope.

The episode is sponsored by Ardelyx.

With April being Esophageal Cancer Awareness month, today's episode delves into the misconceptions and harmful effects of heartburn, the myths surrounding reflux surgery, and the future of heartburn therapy. Dr. Dan Lister, past-president of the American Foregut Society, provides insights on the risks associated with heartburn and the potential of precision medicine in addressing esophageal adenocarcinoma.

This episode was brought to you by Castle Biosciences, maker of TissueCypher, a test designed to predict the risk of esophageal cancer in patients with Barrett's esophagus.

What should I eat to prevent colon cancer? Gastroenterologist Dr. Michael Bass joins the show to answer this and more questions on our diet and risk of CRC. We explore the intersection of nutrition and cancer prevention, focusing on the impact of ultra-processed foods on colon cancer risk.

We have all seen the unfortunate headlines. Why are we seeing a rise of early-onset colorectal cancer and what can we do about it? Dr. Barnell, co-founder and CMO of Geneoscopy, joins the Gut Doctor Podcast to answer these questions and more!