In this enlightening episode of You’re Not Broken, Dr. Kelly Casperson sits down with Dr. Steven Gundry, renowned cardiothoracic surgeon turned gut health advocate. Dr. Gundry shares the personal and professional journey that led him from the operating room to the forefront of nutritional science. He breaks down the concept of leaky gut and how it contributes to autoimmune diseases, emphasizing how dietary changes can radically transform health outcomes. Together, Dr. Gundry and Dr. Casperson dive into the deep connection between gut health and mental health, the underrated power of vitamin D, and the hidden dangers lurking in our food supply and personal care products. They also tackle the pharmaceutical industry's influence on medical training and why it’s time for a paradigm shift in how we understand disease and wellness. If you've ever wondered how your gut impacts everything from anxiety to skin health—or why your mouthwash might be raising your blood pressure—this episode is for you. Top Takeaways: Dr. Gundry left a thriving surgical career after witnessing remarkable patient healing through nutrition. Leaky gut is a real, measurable condition that drives many autoimmune disorders. Genetics are less impactful than lifestyle, behavior, and environmental factors. Whole food diets can reverse chronic illness and improve quality of life. The gut microbiome plays a central role in immunity, skin health, and brain function. Modern agriculture and personal care products can damage the microbiome. Vitamin D is a foundational nutrient for both gut and mental health. Gut health is deeply tied to emotional states like anxiety and depression. Mouthwash can disrupt the oral microbiome and raise blood pressure. Probiotics and prebiotics are helpful—but only when used with care and intention. We must become more aware of what we eat, apply, and ingest daily. Personalized medicine is the next frontier in optimizing gut health. https://www.instagram.com/drstevengundry/ The Gut Brain Paradox - Releases April 15th https://gundrymd.com/ Sedona in October - only three slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025 Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class: My Website Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off Via, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance. Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care. https://www.joinmidi.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices