IBS Freedom Podcast

You can treat your gut without restrictive, awful diets... You can trust us to show you how! Whether you're newly diagnosed with IBS or a veteran, the IBS Freedom Podcast will provide clarity for your healing journey. Each week your IBS experts will cover topics within the world of IBS including small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), leaky gut syndrome, dysbiosis, the low FODMAP diet, candida, and so much more.Meet your hosts!- Dr. Nicole DiNezza, DC, NTP is a functional medicine doctor and nutritional therapy practitioner from Chapel Hill, NC.- Amy Hollenkamp, RD is a registered dietitian from Cincinnati, OH.

All Episodes

IBS Freedom Podcast

Vitamin B9, MTHFR, & Your Gut - IBS Freedom Podcast #215

October 20, 2025 • Dr. Nicole DiNezza, DC, NTP and Amy Hollenkamp, RD • Season 3 • Episode 215

In this episode, hosts Amy and Nikki dive into a controversial discussion about folic acid and folate supplements, challenging common beliefs held within the functional medicine community. They explore the role of folate in human health, debunk myths around the MTHFR gene mutation, and emphasize the potential benefits of folic acid.

They discuss various factors that affect folate absorption, such as zinc and riboflavin dependency, and highlight the importance of balanced nutrition over high-dose supplements. The episode also touches on the interconnections between different nutrients and their impact on overall health, encouraging listeners to adopt a holistic approach to their dietary needs.

00:00 Introduction and Hot Take on Folic Acid
00:50 Understanding MTHFR and Genetic SNPs
02:09 The Overemphasis on MTHFR in Functional Medicine
04:02 Personal Experiences with Genetic Testing
06:25 The Importance of B Vitamins for Everyone
08:12 Folic Acid vs. Folate: Bioavailability and Fortification
09:45 Dietary Sources of Folate and Nutrient Deficiencies
15:40 Microbiome's Role in Folate Production
20:16 Folate's Impact on Gut Health and Cell Division
24:40 The Role of Folate in Neurotransmitter Production
25:06 Folate and Mental Health: Real-Life Experiences
25:38 The Importance of Methylation and Folate
26:35 Debunking Folate Myths with Chris Masterjohn
27:56 The Body's Natural Methyl Donors
31:19 Folate, Choline, and Gut Health
32:05 Folate and Histamine Intolerance
33:41 The SIBO Diagnosis Debate
39:15 Folate Absorption and Nutrient Interactions
43:28 The Risks of High-Dose Folate Supplements
49:14 Conclusion and Next Steps: Vitamin B12

Love this episode?
Be sure to LIKE it and SUBSCRIBE :)

Nikki's Info:
- Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TriangleHolisticGutHealth
- Instagram: @Gut.Microbiome.Queen
- FODMAP Freedom in 90 Days: https://www.fodmapfreedom.com/enroll
- Private Appts: https://infinityholistichealth.com/

Amy's Info:
- Practice: https://sibodiaries.com/
- Instagram: @Amy_Hollenkamp_RD