Episode 167

Published August 25, 2026

In this episode, registered dietician Erin Kenney joins host Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton to explore the connection between gut health, diet, hormones, and the rising rates of colorectal cancer, particularly in younger adults.

This episode also highlights:

• The critical role of fiber and gut microbiome diversity
• The link between ultra-processed food additives and gut inflammation
• How long-term elimination diets can reduce microbiome diversity and end up being harmful
• Tips for packaged food labels and proper digestion
• A practical colon-health checklist, including eating fermented foods daily and staying physically active

Key Moments

0:49 Episode Introduction

2:47 Introduction to Gut Health and Colon Health Awareness

5:58 The Importance of Early Detection and Conventional Medicine Gaps

8:44 Understanding Symptoms and Quality of Life

11:40 The Role of Diet in Gut Health and Cancer Risk

14:52 The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Health

21:00 Foundational Steps for Improving Gut Health

23:43 The Critical Role of Fiber in Diet

26:56 Whole Foods vs. Fiber Supplements

29:56 Engaging Families in Healthy Eating Habits

31:56 DUTCH Direct

32:23 Engaging Families in Healthy Eating Habits (Cont'd)

36:31 Navigating Food Choices for Children

42:59 Practical Tips for Healthy Eating

50:40 The Interconnection of Hormones and Gut Health

57:48 Recognizing Signs of Colon Health Issues

59:38 Strategies for Optimal Colon Health

About our speaker

Erin Kenney is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer with a Master's degree in Nutrition Science who found her clinical focus the way many practitioners do, through her own experience. After navigating the intersection of under fueling, athletic performance, and digestive disruption firsthand, she built a practice around finding root causes rather than managing symptoms. She's now the founder and CEO of Nutrition Rewired, a Boston-based private practice specializing in complex GI conditions including autoimmune disease, POTS, MCAS, and hormonal imbalances. She's also the author of Rewire Your Gut and Rewire Your Sweet Tooth, the developer of a line of lab-tested gut health supplements, and the host of the Nutrition Rewired podcast. 

Show Notes

Learn more about Erin Kenney and follow her on Instagram @nutritionrewired!

Explore easy at-home collection for patients with DUTCH Direct. 

Become a DUTCH Provider to gain access to peer-reviewed and validated research, comprehensive patient reports, and expert clinical support.

Disclaimer: Special offer of 50% OFF first five kits is invalid 60 days after new provider registration.