On the newest episode of Responding to Life I am joined by Dr. Kumkum Sarkar Patel, a double-board certified gastroenterologist practicing at Providence St. Jude and Providence St. Joseph Heritage Medical Groups in Orange County, CA. Dr. Patel specializes in irritable bowel syndrome, esophageal, and anorectal disorders.

Dr. Patel currently serves as a healthcare consultant and speaker for medical device and pharmaceutical companies. She also serves on the American College of Gastroenterology's Women in GI Committee to promote advancement for women in GI. Additionally, she is a passionate motivational speaker, and has spoken nationally about women's health, work-life balance, post-partum depression, burnout, and gut-health related to mental health.

Outside of medicine, she enjoys spending time with her husband and sons, traveling, and singing a cappella. Dr. Patel‘s Instagram platform can be found on @dr.gut_motility. She uses this as an informational as well as an inspirational platform— to educate others on gastrointestinal diseases while inspiring them on lifestyle choices.

In this episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Patel about:

• The link between gut health and mental health

• How to optimize what you're eating for overall wellness and to boost fertility

• The truth about probiotics

• How to be mindful about what you eat during the holiday season

For more info, visit: www.kumkumpatelmd.com