About Dr. Stephen Feig

Osteopathic Physician

Dr. Stephen A. Feig is an osteopathic physician with more than 36 years of experience providing holistic and integrative medical care. He works with patients dealing with chronic fatigue, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, autoimmune diseases, and immune dysregulation. For over three decades, he has also lectured across the United States on gut health, nutrition, and the intestinal microbiome, helping to shape understanding of digestion's role in long-term wellness.

Educational Background

Dr. Feig began his studies at Rutgers College, majoring in biological sciences and psychology. During this time, he developed an interest in the mind-body connection and systems-level processes, which influenced his future career. After completing his undergraduate education, he earned his medical degree as a physician of osteopathic medicine. His training covered pharmacology, diagnostics, internal medicine, pediatrics, endocrinology, gynecology, and primary care. This broad education prepared him to address health through specialized knowledge and an integrative perspective.

Approach to Medicine

Dr. Stephen Feig combines Western medicine's accuracy with a holistic practice's perspective. He believes effective healing begins by addressing root causes rather than focusing only on symptoms. He also considers the impact of trauma on both body and mind, integrating this awareness into patient care. With experience spanning decades, his clinical style includes functional medicine, nutritional science, and mind-body practices. His focus is on supporting individuals with chronic conditions such as fatigue, irritable bowel syndrome, autoimmune disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

Testing and Assessment

Testing is central to Dr. Stephen Feig's practice, but he applies it thoughtfully. He relies on assessments that provide valuable data for guiding treatment, including advanced stool analysis, hormone metabolite panels, micronutrient assessments, inflammation markers, immune profiles, and toxic burden panels. He avoids treating numbers in isolation and interprets results alongside each patient’s complete clinical picture. This method reveals patterns that conventional protocols often miss, allowing him to design accurate and practical interventions.

Digestive Health

A core focus of Dr. Feig’s work is gastrointestinal health. He sees the gut as central to immune regulation, metabolic stability, neurological function, and detoxification. He evaluates how well the digestive system supports the body using digestive profiling, microbial assessments, and functional stool testing. His strategies aim to restore barrier integrity, regulate immune responses, and create systemic balance.

Hormonal and Metabolic Care

Dr. Feig also emphasizes hormonal and metabolic balance. He evaluates adrenal rhythm, thyroid health, sex hormones, and insulin regulation through laboratory testing and clinical observation. His approach avoids overcorrection, relying on gradual adjustments informed by precise data. As patterns normalize, patients often report improved energy, mental clarity, restful sleep, and emotional stability.

Immune Function

Immune imbalance is another area in which Dr. Feig has extensive experience. He works with individuals with autoimmune conditions, chronic inflammation, persistent infections, or hypersensitivity. His evaluations include immune markers, antigen exposure, and environmental contributors such as mold or toxins. His treatment plans often include nutritional support, lifestyle changes, and botanical therapies designed to lower reactivity and strengthen resilience.

Inflammation and Stress

Dr. Feig pays close attention to the connection between stress and inflammation. He examines cardiovascular inflammatory markers and considers how prolonged stress affects the body’s adaptive capacity. His strategies focus on restoring parasympathetic balance, lowering reactivity, and rebuilding resilience. His ability to distinguish between surface symptoms and core dysregulation allows patients to avoid repetitive or ineffective treatment cycles.

Patient-Centered Philosophy

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Feig’s practice is his commitment to listening. He gives patients the time and space to explain their histories, stress exposures, and lifestyle factors in detail. He also reviews previous medical records to ensure his recommendations are appropriate and fully understood. His consultations are built around dialogue, careful observation, and interpretation. Patients often describe his approach as compassionate, respectful, and transparent, helping them feel confident in their treatment plan.

Continuity of Care

Many patients have been under Dr. Feig’s care for years, benefiting from the continuity and refinement of long-term relationships. Over time, these extended connections allow for a deeper understanding of physiology and steady progress in health outcomes. He maintains professional boundaries, medical ethics, and transparency in decision-making, ensuring that care is always patient-focused and responsible.

Teaching and Lectures

In addition to his practice, Dr. Feig has contributed to education for decades. For over 30 years, he has taught digestive health and nutritional science lectures across the United States. His lectures are valued for their clarity, lighthearted humor, and direct clinical relevance. He avoids speculation and instead highlights established mechanisms that guide effective care. Through this work, he has educated healthcare providers and the public on the importance of integrative approaches to health.

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Understanding the Gut-Brain Connection: How Intestinal Health Impacts Mental Wellness

Published on 09/26/2025

The connection between gut health and mental well-being is a rapidly growing area of research. Once thought to be completely separate systems, recent studies have revealed that the brain and gut are closely linked through a complex communication network called the "gut-brain axis." This means that what happens in the gut can directly influence mental health and cognitive function, and vice versa. Understanding this connection is essential for optimizing both intestinal health and mental wellness. This article examines the communication between the gut and brain, the impact of gut health on mood and cognition, and how maintaining a balanced microbiome can promote improved mental health.

The Gut-Brain Axis: A Direct Line of Communication

The gut-brain axis is the pathway through which the gut and brain communicate with each other. This bi-directional communication occurs via the vagus nerve, hormones, and neurotransmitters. The gut, often referred to as the "second brain," houses the enteric nervous system (ENS), which can function independently of the central nervous system. However, it is still heavily influenced by signals sent from the central nervous system (CNS). This intricate system enables the brain to influence the digestive process, while the gut sends feedback to the brain, affecting mood, stress levels, and cognition.

This communication pathway plays a key role in regulating the body’s physiological and emotional responses. When the gut microbiome is balanced, it supports positive messages to the brain, which can enhance mental health. Conversely, when the microbiome is disrupted—due to factors like stress, poor diet, or illness—it can send signals to the brain that may contribute to conditions like anxiety, depression, or cognitive decline. In this way, maintaining a healthy gut microbiome can have a direct impact on mental well-being.

Gut Microbes and Their Role in Mood Regulation

Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria, many of which play a direct role in mental health. These microbes help regulate the production of neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that communicate between nerve cells in the brain. For example, about 90% of serotonin, the hormone most commonly associated with mood regulation, is produced in the gut. Serotonin is responsible for feelings of happiness and well-being, and the gut microbiome has a profound influence on its production.

An imbalance in gut bacteria—such as a depletion of beneficial bacteria or an overgrowth of harmful bacteria—can affect serotonin production and disrupt mood regulation. Research has shown that individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mood disorders often have an altered gut microbiome. This imbalance may lead to lower levels of serotonin and other neurotransmitters, resulting in adverse effects on mental health. Supporting gut health through diet and lifestyle changes can help balance the gut microbiome and improve serotonin production, fostering better mental wellness.

The Role of Inflammation in Mental Health

Chronic inflammation is another critical factor linking gut health to mental well-being. When the gut microbiome is out of balance, harmful bacteria can trigger an inflammatory response in the intestines. This inflammation can then spread throughout the body, including the brain, where it can disrupt normal brain function and contribute to mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Neuroinflammation—brain inflammation caused by systemic inflammation—has been shown to play a significant role in many mental health conditions, including mood disorders and cognitive decline. Studies have found that individuals with conditions like depression often have elevated levels of inflammatory markers in their bodies. The link between gut inflammation and neuroinflammation underscores the importance of maintaining a healthy gut for mental wellness. Reducing inflammation through diet, probiotics, and stress management can help mitigate neuroinflammation and promote better mental health.

How Diet Affects Gut Health and Mental Wellness

The food you eat has a profound impact on both gut health and mental well-being. A diet high in fiber, healthy fats, fruits, vegetables, and fermented foods can support a healthy gut microbiome. Fiber, for example, feeds beneficial bacteria in the gut and helps produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that reduce inflammation and support brain health.

Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and negatively affecting mental health. Research has shown that individuals who consume a diet high in processed foods are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. By focusing on a nutrient-rich, whole-foods-based diet, you can help restore balance to the gut microbiome, promote neurotransmitter production, and reduce inflammation, ultimately supporting mental wellness.

The Power of Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics and prebiotics are essential for maintaining a balanced gut microbiome, which in turn supports mental health. Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, while prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that feed these beneficial bacteria. Together, they help maintain gut health and enhance communication between the gut and brain.

Probiotics can be found in various fermented foods, including yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. These foods introduce healthy bacteria into the gut, helping to restore balance and improve gut function. Prebiotic-rich foods, such as garlic, onions, bananas, and asparagus, provide the necessary nutrients to nourish beneficial gut bacteria and support their growth. Incorporating both probiotics and prebiotics into your diet can promote a balanced microbiome, reduce gut inflammation, and enhance mental well-being.

Gut-Boosting Foods to Support a Healthy Microbiome

Published on: 09-18-2025 

The health of your gut plays a vital role in your overall well-being. Your gut microbiome, which consists of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms, is essential for proper digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function. When your microbiome is balanced, it supports healthy digestion and protects against harmful bacteria. On the other hand, an imbalanced microbiome can lead to digestive issues, weakened immunity, and even mood disturbances. Fortunately, you can nourish and support your gut microbiome through the foods you eat. By incorporating a variety of gut-boosting foods into your daily diet, you can enhance your microbiome's health and improve your overall health.

The Importance of Fiber for Gut Health

Fiber is one of the most essential nutrients for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Unlike other food components, fiber is not digested by the body but instead serves as food for the beneficial bacteria in your gut. When fiber reaches the colon, it is fermented by gut bacteria, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that nourish the gut lining, promote healthy bowel movements, and support a balanced microbiome.

The best sources of fiber are plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Foods like apples, pears, berries, and leafy greens provide soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which are essential for digestion. Whole grains like quinoa, oats, and brown rice, as well as legumes like beans and lentils, are excellent sources of fiber that also contribute to a healthy microbiome. By adding a variety of fiber-rich foods to your diet, you create an optimal environment for gut bacteria to thrive, supporting healthy digestion and reducing the risk of gut-related issues.

Probiotics: Adding Good Bacteria to Your Gut

Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits, particularly for your digestive system. These beneficial bacteria help maintain a healthy balance in your gut microbiome, preventing the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and supporting the digestion of food. Consuming probiotic-rich foods regularly can introduce these good bacteria into your digestive system, enhancing gut health and promoting a balanced microbiome.

Fermented foods are the best sources of probiotics. Yogurt with live and active cultures is one of the most well-known sources of probiotics. Still, other fermented dairy products like kefir also provide a rich supply of beneficial bacteria. For those who prefer non-dairy options, plant-based fermented foods like coconut yogurt or almond milk kefir are excellent alternatives.

Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut, kimchi, and pickles are also excellent sources of probiotics, as they are rich in lactobacilli, the bacteria that promote gut health. Additionally, miso, tempeh, and natto, which are all fermented soybean products, offer both probiotics and plant-based protein, making them excellent additions to a microbiome-supporting diet. By incorporating a variety of probiotic-rich fermented foods into your daily meals, you can enhance the diversity and health of your gut microbiome.

Prebiotics: Fuel for Your Gut’s Good Bacteria

Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that nourish the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Unlike probiotics, which introduce beneficial bacteria to your microbiome, prebiotics serve as food for these bacteria, promoting their growth and activity. Prebiotics play a key role in maintaining a diverse and balanced gut microbiome, which is essential for optimal digestion and overall health.

Prebiotic foods are typically rich in specific types of fiber, such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), which beneficial bacteria feed on. Garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus are some of the best sources of prebiotics. Bananas, especially when slightly under-ripe, are another great option, as they contain resistant starch that acts as a prebiotic. Whole grains like oats, barley, and rye, along with legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas, are also excellent sources of prebiotic fiber.

Consuming a combination of probiotic and prebiotic foods is ideal for gut health. Prebiotics help probiotics flourish, fostering a symbiotic relationship between the two that supports a healthy and balanced microbiome.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reducing Inflammation in the Gut

Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats that offer numerous benefits, including supporting a balanced microbiome. These fatty acids have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the gut, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Omega-3s also support the growth of beneficial bacteria, helping to maintain microbiome diversity and function.

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. For those following plant-based diets, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds are excellent plant-based sources of omega-3s. Olive oil, particularly extra virgin olive oil, is another healthy fat that supports gut health by providing anti-inflammatory polyphenols. By including these omega-3-rich foods in your diet, you help reduce gut inflammation and promote a healthier, more diverse microbiome.

Polyphenol-Rich Foods: Antioxidants for Gut Health

Polyphenols are plant compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect the gut lining from oxidative damage. These compounds also promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, contributing to a balanced microbiome. Polyphenol-rich foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and even dark chocolate, support gut health by enhancing microbiome diversity and reducing gut inflammation.

Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are particularly rich in polyphenols. Apples, grapes, and citrus fruits also contain polyphenols that support gut health. Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli, along with nuts and seeds, are additional sources of these potent plant compounds. Green tea, which is packed with polyphenols, has been shown to support the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and promote overall gut health. Including a variety of polyphenol-rich foods in your diet will not only enhance your microbiome but also support overall digestion and health.

A Balanced Diet for a Thriving Microbiome

Maintaining a balanced and diverse diet is essential for supporting a healthy gut microbiome. A varied diet ensures that your gut bacteria receive the different nutrients they need to grow and thrive. The more diverse your diet, the more likely your microbiome will remain resilient and adaptable to changes in diet, stress, and illness.

By incorporating fiber-rich fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods, you can nourish your gut microbiome and promote healthy digestion. The combination of prebiotics and probiotics in your meals, along with healthy fats and polyphenol-rich foods, supports the growth and balance of beneficial gut bacteria. A diverse, nutrient-dense diet helps ensure that your microbiome remains healthy and resilient, leading to improved digestion, enhanced immune function, and overall better health.

Supporting your gut health doesn’t require extreme measures or complex diets. By making small but powerful changes to your daily meals—such as incorporating fiber-rich foods, probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3s, and polyphenols—you can nourish your microbiome and improve your digestive health. A balanced diet full of gut-friendly foods helps maintain the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut, contributing to better digestion, stronger immunity, and enhanced well-being.