Description
In this episode, Dr. Nelson Spinetti, pediatric gastroenterologist, explains what Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is and why it is often confused with "stomach flu," reflux, or anxiety. We walk through the typical pattern of CVS episodes, what happens between attacks, common triggers, and the impact on school, sleep, and family life.

I also review how we approach diagnosis, which tests are usually needed (and which are not), and the main pillars of treatment: avoiding triggers, medications to stop or shorten episodes, and long-term strategies to protect nutrition and quality of life.

This episode is designed for parents, caregivers, pediatricians, and school nurses who see children with repeated vomiting episodes and want a clearer roadmap to help them get the right evaluation and support.

Disclaimer
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The information shared here is general and may not apply to your child's specific situation. Always talk with your child's pediatrician or pediatric gastroenterologist before starting, changing, or stopping any evaluation, medication, or treatment plan.

If your child is having severe or persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, intense abdominal pain, trouble breathing, or any other emergency symptoms, seek immediate medical care or call your local emergency number.

Childhood migraine doesn't always start with head pain. In many kids, it begins in the belly.

The content of this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide, replace, or substitute for personal medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Listening to this episode does not create a doctor–patient relationship with Dr. Nelson Spinetti or the Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic of South Texas.

Do not ignore or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast. Always speak with your child's pediatrician, pediatric gastroenterologist, or pediatric neurologist regarding symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment decisions. If you believe your child is experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

In this episode of Gut Whisperers, Dr. Nelson Spinetti, pediatric gastroenterologist in South Texas, breaks down how migraine really looks in children—not only as pounding headaches, but also as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and motion sensitivity that come in episodes and then completely disappear between attacks.

We'll explore:

• How childhood migraine and abdominal migraine present at different ages

• Why some kids have severe belly pain, nausea, and vomiting with only mild or late-onset headache

• Common triggers: sleep disruption, stress, skipped meals, dehydration, screens, and sensory overload

• Practical tools for families: headache/abdominal pain diaries, school plans, and lifestyle adjustments

• When it's time to consider medications, preventive strategies, or specialist referral

If your child has repeat "stomach flu" episodes, ER visits for vomiting, or mysterious belly pain that ends after a deep sleep, this episode will help you recognize a possible migraine pattern and know what questions to ask your pediatrician.

"The information in today's episode is based on current pediatric migraine research and expert guidelines, including:

• The International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3), which defines diagnostic criteria for migraine in children and adolescents.
• Clinical reviews and practice parameters from the American Headache Society and the American Academy of Neurology, which summarize evidence for acute and preventive treatments—such as NSAIDs, triptans, topiramate, propranolol, amitriptyline, and newer CGRP-targeted therapies—in pediatric populations.
• Studies on pediatric migraine prevalence and disability, including research using the PedMIDAS tool to measure school and functional impact.
• Data on lifestyle and behavioral interventions—sleep regularity, hydration, exercise, cognitive behavioral therapy, and relaxation techniques—as effective components of a comprehensive migraine plan.

As always, this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not replace individualized medical care. Decisions about diagnosis and treatment should be made with your child's healthcare team, based on their specific history and needs."

Can probiotics really help manage food allergies? In this episode of The Gut Whisperers Podcast, Dr. Nelson Spinetti explores how probiotics influence the gut-immune connection and why certain strains — like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Bifidobacterium lactis — may reduce allergic inflammation and promote tolerance.

Through science, clinical insight, and real-life stories like Sofia's, you'll discover how balancing the gut microbiome can support immune health, calm allergic responses, and bring hope to families navigating food allergies.

Whether you're a parent, provider, or simply curious about the future of allergy care, this episode offers practical guidance and a deeper understanding of healing from the inside out.

In this episode of The Gut Whisperers Podcast, Dr. Nelson Spinetti explores Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES) — a rare but serious food allergy that affects the gut rather than the skin or airways. Unlike typical allergies, FPIES reactions appear hours after eating, often leading to intense vomiting and dehydration that can be mistaken for infection.

Join Dr. Spinetti as he explains how to recognize FPIES, the science behind its immune response, and the latest strategies for diagnosis and management. You'll also hear Lucas's story, a real-world case that brings this condition to life for parents and providers alike.

Whether you're a parent navigating food allergies or a clinician seeking clarity, this episode offers practical insights to help children with FPIES live healthy, thriving lives.

In this episode of The Gut Whisperers Podcast, Dr. Nelson Spinetti, pediatric gastroenterologist, unpacks one of the most common yet often misunderstood infant conditions — cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). From the first signs of fussiness or eczema to confirmed diagnosis and safe management, this conversation will help parents, pediatricians, and caregivers recognize what's happening beneath the surface.

You'll learn:
• The difference between IgE and non-IgE–mediated reactions and why timing matters.
• How elimination diets and allergy testing can confirm CMPA safely.
• Practical strategies for managing symptoms, choosing the right formula, and knowing when to seek medical help.

Through the story of baby Emma, you'll see how early recognition and the right plan can restore comfort, connection, and peace at feeding time.

🔹 For resources, guides, and more pediatric GI insights, visit drnelsonspinetti.com.
🔹 Follow Dr. Spinetti on Instagram and Facebook @drnelsonspinetti.

Welcome back to The Gut Whisperers Podcast! Today we're diving into our monthly ADHD Nutrition Spotlight, where we explore how food, lifestyle, and daily choices shape focus, energy, and well-being in ADHD.

In this episode, we tackle a question many families ask: Does caffeine really help with ADHD focus—or does it make things worse?

☕ We'll break down how caffeine interacts with dopamine and adenosine, why it sharpens concentration for some but triggers jitters, anxiety, or restless nights for others.
🏃‍♂️ We'll also explore powerful alternatives like exercise—with expert-backed routines designed to boost stamina, attention, and mood.
📚 Plus, you'll hear Alex's relatable story: a college student who discovers that his morning coffee can feel like both a blessing and a curse.

By the end of this episode, you'll understand:

• How caffeine impacts ADHD brains differently.

• The risks of overdoing it and how to use caffeine safely.

• The best exercises to naturally sharpen focus and reduce impulsivity.

So grab your cup of coffee—or lace up your sneakers—and join us for a practical, science-backed conversation that just might change how you manage ADHD.

👉 Sponsored by:

• Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic of South Texas – expert digestive care for children. Visit drnelsonspinetti.com or call (956) 682-2244.

• Laguna by Andrés Spinetti – a breathtaking coffee table book featuring the Laguna Madre's wildlife, available now at buylagunabook.myshopify.com.

*Living with IBS-D isn't just about the gut—it's about the urgency, the discomfort, and the disruption it causes in daily life. In this episode of Gut Whisperers, Dr. Nelson Spinetti breaks down the most effective treatment options for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea (IBS-D).

You'll learn about:

• Over-the-counter medicines like Loperamide and Bismuth subsalicylate.

• Prescription options such as Rifaximin, Eluxadoline, and Alosetron.

• Complementary strategies including probiotics, diet adjustments, and stress management.

Through real-life storytelling and clear medical insights, we'll uncover what really works, what to use with caution, and how to build a safe, tailored plan for lasting relief. If IBS-D has been running your life, this episode is your step toward regaining control.*

"This episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or another qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any treatment for IBS-D or any other medical condition."

*Meet "Once-a-Week Wendy." She's 19, eats healthy, drinks water, and still struggles with constipation that only lets her go once a week. The bloating, belly pain, and frustration? It's all too real—and Wendy isn't alone.

In this episode of Gut Whisperers, Dr. Nelson Spinetti breaks down the best laxative options for IBS-C (Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Constipation). You'll learn:

• The difference between safe, effective over-the-counter choices like psyllium and PEG.

• Why stimulant laxatives can be risky if overused.

• Prescription options that may help when nothing else works.

• Lifestyle and diet changes that can make a lasting difference.

Whether you're a Wendy, a Ben, or just someone tired of feeling stuck, this episode gives you practical tools to find relief without harming your gut.

⚖️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast."