Is Your Food Fueling Your Anxiety? The Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Nicole Cain

Show Notes: 

Anxiety isn’t always just a mental issue—it can start in your gut. In this eye-opening episode, Jen sits down with Dr. Nicole Cain, a naturopathic doctor and clinical psychologist, to explore how food, trauma, and environmental toxins play a hidden role in anxiety, panic attacks, and brain fog. Dr. Cain breaks down the science behind the gut-brain connection, explains why your symptoms are signals—not problems—and shares simple ways to reclaim your health, naturally.

Key Takeaways:

• Your anxiety isn’t the problem—it’s your body’s way of communicating what needs healing.
• The gut microbiome plays a major role in anxiety, and it’s inherited through generations.
• Every bite you eat changes your gut bacteria, for better or worse.
• Hidden ingredients like dyes, additives, and artificial sweeteners can fuel anxiety.
• Childhood gut health shapes adult brain function—what your kids eat matters.
• Overstimulation from phones and screens can mimic the symptoms of a panic attack
• Practical tip: Sleep with your phone out of the room and use a real alarm clock.
• The 3-Minute Hack: Dr. Cain’s simple method for rewiring anxiety through body awareness.
• Clean eating = clear thinking—use tools like Read the Labels and EWG to spot toxic ingredients.

🔗 Mentioned in the Episode:

• Grab Dr. Nicole Cain’s book
• Take the free anxiety quiz
• Follow Dr. Nicole Cain on Instagram

Disclaimer:

The content provided by Wake Up and Read the Labels and Jen Smiley is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Jen Smiley is not a licensed nutritionist, dietitian, or health professional. All recommendations and insights are based on her personal research and experiences. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or wellness routines. 

Additionally, some of the links shared may be affiliate links, meaning Wake Up and Read the Labels may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. This supports our ability to bring you quality content.

Jen’s Links:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupandreadthelabels

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WakeUpAndReadTheLabels 

The Wake Up Label Letter: https://jensmiley.substack.com/subscribe

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-up-and-read-the-labels/id1618784569

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7v3WcgicHQrjU9iCEcLZLX 

Wake Up and Read the Labels is your guide to eating simple and feeling good. If you want to eat clean and feel your best, you’re in the right place. Join us each week as we talk about real ingredients, ethical brands, and the stories of people just like you who woke up and read the labels.