March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing public understanding of prevention, early detection, and digestive health. For gastroenterologist Dr. Veronica Jarido, the mission goes beyond routine screenings and clinical care. Her work centers on helping patients better understand their bodies while cutting through the growing wave of misinformation that often circulates online.
Dr. Jarido is particularly passionate about health equity and improving access to care in rural communities where specialized medical services can be limited. She believes education plays a powerful role in empowering patients to make informed health decisions. One of the ways she accomplishes this is by explaining complex medical concepts in clear, accessible language rather than relying on dense medical terminology that can leave patients feeling confused or overwhelmed.
As conversations about gut health continue to trend across social media, Dr. Jarido encourages patients to focus on evidence based information rather than viral wellness claims.
“There’s a lot of conversation about the gut microbiome right now,” she explains. “The microbiome plays a very real and important role in overall health. I often describe it as a garden. The foods you eat, your lifestyle habits, and even medications can influence what grows in that garden. A balanced diet that includes natural, fiber rich foods helps support a healthier microbiome.”
Another topic frequently making headlines involves GLP-1 medications used for weight loss. While these medications are widely discussed in the media, Dr. Jarido says the medical community is still learning more about their broader health effects.
“GLP-1 medications are a large and evolving topic in medicine,” she says. “Beyond weight loss, they can have positive effects on metabolic health. For example, they may help improve fatty liver disease and reduce the progression of metabolic dysfunction related steatotic liver disease in some patients.”
Despite the surge in interest around digestive wellness, many online trends promise quick solutions that are not grounded in science. “Gut detox” products and cleanses are among the most common.
“Most so called gut detox trends are not supported by medical evidence,” Dr. Jarido explains. “The digestive system already has natural mechanisms for processing and eliminating waste. Many detox products or cleanses can actually disrupt normal digestive balance rather than improve it.”
Instead of chasing quick fixes, Dr. Jarido encourages patients to focus on sustainable lifestyle habits that support digestive health over time. Often, the most effective changes are also the simplest.
“One of the biggest improvements people can make is shifting toward whole, natural foods and reducing highly processed options,” she says. “Increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet can significantly improve digestion for many people.”
In an era where health advice is often delivered through short videos and viral posts, physicians also face the challenge of addressing misinformation directly. Dr. Jarido believes medical professionals have an important role to play both online and in clinical settings.
“Physicians can participate in responsible health education, including through social media,” she says. “Just as importantly, these conversations should continue during office visits, where patients often bring questions about information they have seen online.”
While caring for patients is deeply rewarding, the demands of the medical field can also be intense. Dr. Jarido says maintaining balance has become an intentional part of her life.
“I am currently reassessing how I approach balance and intentionally centering my personal well being and my family,” she shares. “When physicians prioritize their own health and stability, they are better able to show up fully for their patients.”
Avoiding burnout, she says, requires consistency rather than occasional breaks.
“Self care cannot be occasional. It has to be consistent. Small daily and weekly habits that support mental and physical well being are essential. Vacations and special outings are wonderful, but ongoing self care is what truly helps prevent burnout.”
During Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Jarido hopes conversations about digestive health will inspire more people to prioritize screenings, ask informed questions, and focus on habits that support long term wellness. Through education, compassionate care, and a commitment to clear communication, she continues to help patients navigate their health with confidence and clarity.
Connect with Dr. Jarido on Instagram.
Images Courtesy of Dr. Veronica Jarido
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