Food, Mood & The Gut-Brain Connection with Dr. Melissa Mondala

In this powerful episode of the Fieldnotes Podcast, Dr. Rob Downey sits down with Dr. Melissa Mondala to explore how food, lifestyle, and the gut-brain-immune connection can transform mental health.

From her own journey overcoming IBS and acne to helping her husband manage autoimmune disease, Dr. Mondala reveals how simple, evidence-based changes can spark profound healing.

She shares insights on why nutrition can be as effective as antidepressants, how sleep and exercise influence mood, and the hidden impact of substances and environmental toxins. If you’ve ever wondered how lifestyle choices shape your mind, body, and resilience, this episode offers a hopeful roadmap for lasting vitality.

Key takeaways:

• The gut produces 90% of neurotransmitters, directly linking digestion, immunity, and mood.
• Plant-based eating and stress reduction resolved Dr. Mandala’s IBS and improved her husband’s autoimmune symptoms.
• Nutritional counseling can achieve remission rates for depression equal to or better than SSRIs.
• Short, frequent “exercise snacks” throughout the day boost energy, mood, and clarity.
• Sleep, environmental toxins, and even sensitivity to noise all play major roles in mental health.