In this fun, laugh-filled and genuinely eye-opening episode, Michelle Ford sits down with women’s health nutritionist Emma Bardwell to tackle one of the most underrated pillars of midlife wellbeing: fibre - the true unsung hero of women’s health. Between giggles over “poophoria” (yes, it’s a thing!) and some serious myth-busting, Michelle and Emma unpack why getting enough fibre and protein is essential - especially if you’re using GLP-1 weight-loss injections like Ozempic, Wegovy or Mounjaro. As Emma explains, these medications slow digestion, making fibre even more important for gut motility, nutrient absorption and long-term health.
Forget fibre’s dusty, boring reputation - this episode gives it a full glow-up. Through perimenopause and menopause, when hormones fluctuate and the gut becomes increasingly linked to mood, energy and resilience, fibre becomes a midlife powerhouse. Michelle and Emma explore how nourishing your gut supports immunity, mental wellbeing, metabolism and overall vitality, and why our midlife microbiome deserves centre stage. With Emma’s straight-talking, practical approach, you’ll learn simple, everyday ways to boost your fibre intake - no chia-seed obsession required.
By the end, you’ll never look at your plate (or your bowel movements!) the same way again.
🎙️ Key Insights
• Fibre lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and colon cancer
• A high-fibre diet reduces inflammation and supports a stronger immune system
• Good gut health boosts brain health and emotional wellbeing
• Fibre may help remove microplastics from the body
• Protein + fibre is the midlife power combo - stabilising energy, supporting hormone balance and improving satiety
• Talking openly about gut health (and yes, poo!) helps normalise midlife wellbeing
Resources:
📘 Emma Bardwell Website: emmabardwell.com
📸 Instagram: @emma.bardwell
The Fibre Effect is published February 2026
The 30g Plan is available in all good bookshops
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🎧 This episode was produced and edited by Emma Tindall.
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gut health, fibre, fiber, digestive health, bowel movements, midlife wellness, women’s health, nutrition, gut-brain connection, dietary fibre, healthy ageing, Two Women Chatting podcast