The Balanced Gut Solution

A premier 6-month coaching program that helps you go from bloated to balanced so you can break free of pain, eat without fear of food, and gain control of your life again.

We’ve been where you are, and remember what it feels like when…

  • Your body is exhausted—you know you shouldn’t feel this way. The constant bloating and distention make everyday life difficult.

  • You feel uncomfortable in your skin, and it’s affecting how you feel with your partner, when you’re traveling, and even when you’re getting dressed in the morning.

  • You’re tired of thinking about what foods will make you feel sick and saying “no” to a night out to dinner with friends—You’re in a cycle you can’t get out of!

  • You’ve gone to endless doctor’s appointments, follow-ups, and tests that have left you with no real answers. No one is listening and connecting the dots.

  • You feel hopeless, discouraged and stuck… you’ve done everything you can for yourself, but you can’t seem to figure out a solution.

You don’t know what needs to change, and you wanted answers yesterday!

Imagine This…

You know exactly what foods make your body feel good—not worse. You’re on your way to achieving BIG goals… maybe you’ve lost weight, increased your endurance to run that big race, or finally feel comfortable wearing your favorite clothes again.

You’re sleeping better, have more energy, and have eliminated those frustrating GI struggles that cause your body pain. You’ve even tried some delicious new foods! Your fear of eating out and traveling has vanished!

You finally feel in control and have someone walking alongside you who listens, hears your concerns, and advocates on your behalf.

This is what we can do for you - together!

We’re Ava Safir & Meg Whitbeck

WE HELP WOMEN JUST LIKE YOU—NAVIGATING PERIMENOPAUSE OR MENOPAUSE—FINALLY GET TO THE ROOT CAUSE OF YOUR GUT SYMPTOMS SO YOU CAN FEEL CONFIDENT, COMFORTABLE, AND IN CONTROL AGAIN.

Hi, I’m Ava Safir…

I know firsthand how GI issues can affect your day-to-day life.

I struggled for years from symptoms of IBS, SIBO and chronic constipation. I had a very poor self-image and avoided many joys in life because of how I felt.

It wasn’t until I met an amazing doctor that things started to change. She listened, my feelings were validated, and she helped guide me through the process of making small, deliberate changes to finally calm my gut and eat food without fear.

But here’s the kicker… everything flipped upside down when perimenopause hit—everything that used to work to support my gut failed.

Thankfully, I had a trusted expert who walked me through perimenopause and helped me balance my hormones. I didn’t have to navigate this alone.

Today, I’m passionate about giving women the knowledge, tools, and guidance they need to thrive—which is why I returned to school and became a Registered Dietitian.

I’m here to help women like you navigate this confusing phase of life, so you can overcome your pain and experience more joy.

Ava Safir earned a Master’s of Science in Nutrition Education from Columbia University and completed the Didactic Program in Dietetics. Ava is a licensed Registered Dietitian in multiple states.

Hi, I’m Meg Whitbeck…

My gut health struggles started when I was a teenager. I was diagnosed with GERD and IBS by the time I was 15. I discovered I had Candida overgrowth and was severely gluten and lactose intolerant.

I was tired all the time.

Years went by without much help or relief. Finally, while working as a molecular geneticist after college, I found a gastroenterologist who helped me find answers. It was life-changing to have a practitioner truly listen! She helped me to get to the root cause of my GI issues and heal. Being able to enjoy food and travel without worry transformed my life.

However, I began to notice a drastic change in my body in my 40s. The scale crept up, my energy levels fell, my moods were all over the place, and my cycle changed.

I thought I was too young for perimenopause, but my doctor assured me I was well within the normal age range, which is between 43 and 53

Luckily, I had the right tools and practitioners to help me find relief from the constant bloating, chronic constipation, and overwhelming fatigue. Through strategic meal planning, targeted supplementation, and purposeful movement, I was able to regain balance and shed the extra weight.

Between my own experience with GERD, reflux, Candida overgrowth, and IBS—and now navigating perimenopause myself—I understand what it’s like to feel frustrated and in need of answers. I am here, and cannot wait to work with you.

Meg Whitbeck has a Master’s in Food and Nutrition from Framingham State University and has completed their Coordinated Program in Dietetics. She’s been a practicing dietitian since 2009 and is licensed in the state of Connecticut.

This is what we want you to know:

Gut symptoms touch ALL aspects of life. The way a woman feels—both internally and externally—affects how she perceives herself and how she shows up.

Spending time with friends and family, being intimate with your partner, having confidence at work...all these things can be affected by gut issues, and thrown into a tailspin when going through perimenopause and menopause.

Gut health is the foundation of your body. When your gut is out of balance, it affects everything.

We're here to help you overcome your symptoms and gain control back! You DESERVE to experience every joy in life that's waiting for you.

Let's work together to restore your body and mind so you can enjoy life to its fullest-

NOW!

The Balanced Gut Solution

Your GO-TO coaching program that helps you go from bloated to balanced so you can break free of pain, eat without fear of food, and gain control of your life again.

What if we told you that in just 6 months

you could go from...

  • Daily experiencing physical discomfort and embarrassment to looking at yourself in the mirror with confidence—excited that you’ve finally found the answer to what’s been causing your body grief.

  • Overwhelmed and confused from all the self-diagnosing & quick fixes to knowing exactly what to fuel your body with so you can thrive and start living again!

  • Struggling through perimenopause or menopause (judging yourself, hiding behind clothes, and feeling like a failure) to understanding what your body truly needs and finally reaching the goals you’ve been chasing.

This IS possible for you—and it can start TODAY!

Let’s dive into the…

The Balanced Gut Solution

YOUR 1:1 COACHING PROGRAM

Together, we’ll use the FOUNDATION-FIX-FREEDOM Framework…

INTRODUCING THE FOUNDATION-FIX-FREEDOM FRAMEWORK...

STEP 1: FOUNDATION

Calm the gut-stress connection so your body feels steady and less reactive.

STEP 2: FIX

Address the deeper patterns driving your symptoms.

STEP 3: FREEDOM

Rebuild flexibility and confidence so you digestion can keep up with your life.

Foundation

Stabilize Your System So Healing Can Begin

Before addressing dietary changes, supplements, or testing, we take a moment to get your body to a place where it can respond. Too often, women begin treatment before their body is ready, and end up frustrated, reactive, and feeling like nothing works.

In perimenopause and menopause, hormone shifts quietly change how your brain and gut work together. You might notice stress affecting digestion more quickly than it used to, constipation lingering longer than expected, or meals that once felt simple now leaving you unsure of how your body will respond.

Over time, that unpredictability can create tension around food and a growing sense that something has shifted.

The Foundation Phase is about helping your body feel steady again. We support digestion in practical, manageable ways while calming the stress response, so your system isn’t constantly bracing. We also bring more consistency to meals, sleep, and recovery, giving your body the space it needs to reset.

Many women tell us this is the first time their symptoms begin to feel connected rather than random.

This is the phase that allows every other phase to actually work and truly move you forward.

Fix

Identify and Address the Systems Driving Your Symptoms

Once your system feels steadier, we start looking more closely at what’s been driving your symptoms beneath the surface.

In midlife, digestive changes rarely happen in isolation. Hormone shifts can influence how your gut moves, how your body responds to stress, how inflammation shows up, and even how well you sleep. When those pieces stop working smoothly together, symptoms begin to surface-bloating that builds as the day goes on, constipation that feels different than it used to, or weight changes that don’t seem to respond the way they once did.

In the Fix Phase, we take a thoughtful look at how your digestion is actually functioning and how stress patterns or shifting hormones may be amplifying sensitivity, slowing motility, or disrupting blood sugar balance.

We also consider how your daily habits--how you eat, move, sleep, and recover--are either helping your system stabilize or quietly adding to the cycle.

Instead of chasing each flare as it happens, we work on correcting what’s creating the pattern in the first place. As your digestion becomes more coordinated and your stress response steadies, symptoms start to feel less random and more manageable.

And that’s when real flexibility begins to return.

Sleep habits

Stress levels

Current diet

Activity levels

And, your hormones

Additionally, we’re also available to collaborate with your healthcare team and advocate on your behalf. We want you to have the best care possible!

Freedom

Restore Confidence and Expand What’s Possible

As your body settles and the deeper causes of your symptoms are addressed, things start to feel different in everyday life. Meals don’t require the same level of planning, and you’re not constantly wondering how you’ll feel later in the afternoon.

In the Freedom Phase, we slowly widen what feels possible. Foods that once made you hesitate can be reintroduced in a thoughtful way, and situations like eating out, traveling, or getting through a busy week don’t carry the same weight. Your body handles normal variation more smoothly because it isn’t operating in a constant state of reactivity.

Freedom doesn’t mean ignoring your body or assuming symptoms will never show up again. It means you understand how your digestion works now. If something feels slightly off, you notice it early and adjust without spiraling into restriction or frustration.

Over time, digestion feels steadier, energy feels more consistent, and your life stops revolving around managing symptoms. You feel more like yourself again — not because everything is perfect, but because your body feels capable and resilient.

Getting Started is Simple!

STEP 1:

Schedule a Time to Chat!

Book a judgement-free call with Ava & Meg to see if this program is the right fit for you. This is your chance to share your story, ask questions, and make sure you feel comfortable moving forward.

STEP 2:

Matched With Your Coach

You’ll be paired with either Ava or Meg based on your specific needs. And here’s the good news: even though you’ll work one-on-one with your dedicated health coach, you’ll benefit from both of their expertise. Ava and Meg consult behind the scenes, so you’re essentially getting two experts for the investment of one.

STEP 3:

Begin Your 6-Month Journey

Begin your personalized journey toward improved gut health and lasting relief. Over the next six months, you’ll have expert guidance, accountability, and the tools to eliminate symptoms, restore balance, and finally feel like yourself again.

Schedule a Time to Chat!

Book a judgement-free call with Ava & Meg to see if this program is the right fit for you. This is your chance to share your story, ask questions, and make sure you feel comfortable moving forward.

Matched With Your Coach

You’ll be paired with either Ava or Meg based on your specific needs. And here’s the good news: even though you’ll work one-on-one with your dedicated health coach, you’ll benefit from both of their expertise. Ava and Meg consult behind the scenes, so you’re essentially getting two experts for the investment of one.

Begin Your 6-Month Journey

Begin your personalized journey toward improved gut health and lasting relief. Over the next six months, you’ll have expert guidance, accountability, and the tools to eliminate symptoms, restore balance, and finally feel like yourself again.

Here’s what’s included in your Balanced Gut Solution coaching package…

(8) 60-minute Private Sessions with Your Health Coach

Our first session together will be your Initial Deep Dive session, where your nutrition coach will ask you questions to assess what’s going on in your life. We’ll chat about many things… food, hydration, sleep, stress, movement, and more!

Following the first session, you’ll have 7 additional 1:1 sessions with your health coach throughout our 6 months together. This is where you’ll focus on making small improvements over time, check in to see what’s working and what’s not, celebrate improvements, continually assess how you’re feeling, and make adjustments so that you feel your best!

Weekly Review of Your Food & Symptom Journal

Every time we meet, you’ll receive personalized feedback as we review together what you’ve been eating and the symptoms you're currently experiencing. Every person is different. Together, we’ll discover which foods help balance your gut and alleviate pain.

Meal Planning & Recipe Support

You won’t be left guessing about what to eat or scrambling to find recipes that actually support your gut, overall health, and healing. Your nutrition coach will guide you and ensure that your body receives all the necessary nutrition to thrive and feel its best.

Unlimited Email & Voice Support with Your Coach Between Sessions

If you have questions that can’t wait until our next 1:1 session, you can reach your coach by email or send a voice message. Your coach will be available Monday through Friday to support you and answer any questions you have.

Private Group Support & Accountability

Feel like you need additional support? The best way to gain extra support and accountability is by joining our private Facebook group. This is your opportunity to connect with a wonderful network of people who are facing similar struggles and are eager to walk this journey with you.

Collaboration with Your Healthcare Team

Sometimes your healing journey requires more than nutrition support. If you require additional care (from a GI doctor, pelvic floor physical therapist, or another specialist), we are available to collaborate directly with your providers to ensure everyone is working together to give you with the best care possible.

You’ll walk away with every tool and every ounce of support you need to stop guessing, start healing, and feel confident in your body again.

When you commit to the Balanced Gut Solution, you also get these bonuses worth $200+

BONUS

Access to a 1-year Subscription of the Nerva App

Value $200

We are giving you complimentary access to a full year of the Nerva app! This app will provide you with guided audio sessions and practical exercises that can help you reduce common IBS symptoms like bloating and pain.

BONUS

Access to Professional Grade Supplements at a Discount Rate

Our goal isn’t to have you spend thousands on supplements to see results. However, if we truly believe there’s a supplement that can significantly benefit you, we will make a recommendation and give you the opportunity to purchase it at a 20% discoun

Access to a 1-year Subscription of the Nerva App

Value $200

We are giving you complimentary access to a full year of the Nerva app! This app will provide you with guided audio sessions and practical exercises that can help you reduce common IBS symptoms like bloating and pain.

Access to Professional Grade Supplements at a Discount Rate

Our goal isn’t to have you spend thousands on supplements to see results. However, if we truly believe there’s a supplement that can significantly benefit you, we will make a recommendation and give you the opportunity to purchase it at a 20% discount

But, there’s more…

We’re giving you an extra layer of support!

Functional Lab Testing (Value $400)

Sometimes, specialized lab work is necessary to determine the root cause of your symptoms. Functional testing can identify if you have an overgrowth of microbes in your GI tract, if you’re breaking down food effectively, and if there’s inflammation in your body. If we believe a deeper examination of your body's systems is necessary, we will provide you with a credit of up to $400 for Functional Lab Testing.

Get the insight you need to finally move forward with confidence!

Are you ready to finally take control of your health?

Each day you put this off is another day stuck with frustration, symptoms, and confusion you don’t have to live with.

Your Balanced Gut Solution coaching package includes:

60-minute one-on-one coaching sessions with your coach: Ava or Meg

Value $2,400

Weekly review of your food & symptom journal

Value $150

Meal plan & recipe support

Value $400

Unlimited email & voice support with your coach between sessions

Value Priceless

Private group support & accountability

Value $200

Collaboration with your healthcare team

Value $400

Bonus: access to a 1-year subscription to the Nerva app

Value $200

Bonus: access to professional grade supplements at a discount rate

Value $100+ in potential savings

Functional lab testing

Value up to $400

Total value:

$4,150

Your investment:

$2,997

for your 6-month coaching package

Payment plans are available.

Still Wondering If This Works? See What Our Clients Say…

I FINALLY FEEL LIKE MYSELF AGAIN!

"As I moved into my late 30s and 40s, I began struggling with weight gain and no longer felt like myself. I spent nearly two years going from doctor to doctor, feeling uncomfortable in my own body, wanting to cover up, and feeling embarrassed and out of control.

Working with Ava and Meg changed everything. They reminded me to be patient, keep things simple and realistic, and helped me navigate perimenopause with tools that made sense for my life. Today, I finally understand my body, what works, what doesn't, and where to focus at this stage of life."

Amy E

I FINALLY FEEL IN CONTROL OF MY HEALTH

“Before working with Meg, I was constantly overwhelmed by diet trends and conflicting advice. Nothing seemed to work long-term.

Meg taught me how to reconnect with my body, eat intuitively, and build habits that last. Now, I feel more confident, calm, and in control than ever before. My health feels like something I nurture, not battle."

Laura M

I’VE LET GO OF SHAME AROUND FOOD

“When I began working with Ava, I was carrying years of struggle with food, weight, and multiple health diagnoses. After bariatric surgery and a 175-pound weight loss, I knew my body needed specific support—but I didn’t realize how much my mind and heart needed it, too."

Ava combined medical expertise, science-backed nutrition, and compassion in a way that saw me as a whole person, not just a patient. Today, my digestion and energy are steadier, and I’ve let go of shame around food. My transformation has been about building a new life, one mindful choice at a time."

Andrea B

Still have questions, we’ve got answers!

I feel like I’ve already tried everything for my gut issues, how will this be different?

That’s exactly what many of our clients think before they start. With 25+ years of combined experience, advanced training, and a science-backed framework, we address lifestyle factors that most programs overlook: food, sleep, stress, hormones, etc.

We take a systems approach to healing your body, rather than a symptom-based approach. Symptoms come and go, which is why many protocols only provide temporary relief. Unlike other approaches that rely on endless tests and supplements, we help you uncover the root cause by looking at your nervous, digestive, immune, and endocrine system (your hormones), so you can achieve lasting results.

How do I know I can trust your advice when there’s so much conflicting information online?

Anyone can call themselves a “nutritionist” after a weekend course. But true expertise requires years of training and ongoing education.

Ava earned a Master’s of Science in Nutrition Education from Columbia University and has completed the Didactic Program in Dietetics. She is a licensed dietitian in 4 states, holds multiple certifications, and regularly takes continuing education courses in gut health.

Meg earned a Master’s in Food and Nutrition from Framingham State University and has completed their Coordinated Program in Dietetics. She regularly takes continuing education courses in multiple areas. Meg is a licensed registered dietitian in the state of Connecticut and has been in practice since 2009.

We have also lived this journey personally, which means we combine science, clinical expertise, and lived experience to guide you in a safe and sustainable way.

What makes you different than other coaches or programs?

There are 3 things that set us apart:

Lived Experience: We’ve been navigating perimenopause, menopause, and gut health symptoms ourselves, so we understand what younger practitioners can’t.

Whole-person care: Beyond food, we provide mindset tools that help shift you from stuck without answers to empowered with a roadmap to continue your journey with success.

Down-to-earth, approachable style: Clients say we’re approachable, empathetic, and will relentlessly advocate for you.

When you work with us, you’re not just getting another program. You’re getting true experts who are committed to walking this path with you.

Do I need to budget for additional testing and supplements?

This is one of the biggest differences in how we work. While testing can be useful, it’s not our starting point. Lifestyle factors such as sleep, nutrition, stress, and movement often move the needle far more than costly labs. Instead, we focus on science-backed strategies and lifestyle changes that deliver real results without draining your bank account.

With that said, if we determine that specialized testing may be helpful, you’ll receive a credit of up to $400 for functional lab work. This means you get the benefit of additional insights without the financial burden that usually holds people back. If supplements are needed, you will have access to our 20% discount when ordering through our Fullscript account.

Will insurance cover this?

We’re not in-network with insurance. By choosing to invest outside the system, you’re ensuring you get personalized, attentive support that puts you, not the insurance company, in the driver’s seat of your health. We’ve designed this program to provide you with the highest level of expertise and support, without the red tape and limitations of the insurance system.

I worry I won’t follow through or stay motivated. What makes this program different?

We understand that you may not trust yourself to follow through and see results. We get it. That’s why our program includes accountability check-ins and groups, mindset tools, and step-by-step personalized guidance to help you keep moving forward. You won’t be left on your own. We will be here to walk beside you, help you troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate your progress along the way.

I’m in my 40s/50s. Can you really relate to what I’m going through?

Yes, we are right there with you! We understand what it’s like to juggle work, kids, aging parents, and perimenopause/menopause symptoms while still wanting to feel like yourself again. We understand the season you are in. Younger practitioners may be educated, but we also bring life experience that helps us connect on a deeper level with women navigating this exact stage of life.

Will I get support after the program ends?

Many of our clients choose to continue with us after completing the program. We offer options for ongoing support, allowing you to maintain your progress, stay accountable, and receive guidance as new questions or challenges arise.

Do I get to work with both of you, or just one coach?

You’ll be assigned to one of us (Ava or Meg) based on your needs, but you’re never just getting one coach. We consult with each other regularly and collaborate behind the scenes, so you benefit from the expertise of two coaches for the investment of one.

Will you collaborate with my healthcare team?

Yes, if needed. We’re happy to connect with your doctor or specialist to ensure you get the best care possible. Often, clients just ask us to send notes to their providers before appointments, but we’re happy to call and consult directly if needed. Our goal is for everyone to be on the same page. We believe collaboration leads to better support and better care.

Can I join the program if I’m not in the exact location as you?

Yes! Our program is fully virtual, which means you can join from anywhere. We work with women across the country through secure video calls, online resources, and food and symptom journal feedback. You don’t need to be local to receive the same high level of care, support, and results.

How can I ensure that I will get the most out of the coaching program?

The best results come when you show up fully and put the tools into practice. It’s just like going to the gym. You can have the best personal trainer, but if you don’t show up and exercise, then you won’t see change. We are here to support you. We’ll guide you step by step, but your progress will depend on your willingness to track your symptoms, apply the strategies we share, and stay engaged with the process. We’ll be here to support you, troubleshoot challenges, and celebrate your wins along the way.

What certifications and qualifications do Ava and Meg have?

Ava earned a BA from CUNY-Queens College, a JD from The University of Virginia School of Law, a Master’s of Science in Nutrition Education from Columbia University and completed the Didactic Program in Dietetics. Ava has continued growing her knowledge and skills in gut health by regularly completing professional level programs and attending conferences throughout the United States. Previously, Ava trained as a NASM certified personal trainer and Physical Mind Institute Pilates instructor. Ava is a licensed Registered Dietitian in Connecticut, New York, Texas and Florida (telehealth only).

Meg earned a Master’s in Food and Nutrition from Framingham State University and has completed their Coordinated Program in Dietetics. Meg also has additional certifications and training in sports nutrition, gastroenterology nutrition, nutrigenomics, and gut health specific areas. Meg is a licensed registered dietitian in the state of Connecticut.

Beyond our credentials, we both bring personal, lived experience with gut health and the challenges of midlife. We know firsthand what it's like to struggle with bloating, exhaustion, and food sensitivities, and how empowering it is to finally find solutions that work in real life, not just on paper.

FINALLY… REAL ANSWERS & SUPPORT!

“Last May, I went on vacation and came home feeling like I put on 10 pounds and that my stomach was distended. I couldn’t understand why I looked pregnant. Everything felt wrong. I finally went to a gastroenterologist who pushed me onto her nurse practitioner—who wasn’t friendly at all—and found out I had SIBO. There was no guidance from the doctor or the office. They didn’t explain anything.

I’ve never had gut issues in my life, and my body became a hot mess! I was referred to work with Ava, and she has been the only person who has helped and guided me through this. She’s been telling me what to do, how to eat, and what to avoid. She’s been educating me and has been very available. Ava has shown me which foods have been aggravating me and has helped find things to eat that I knew nothing about.

I appreciate Ava and how she’s even suggested different doctors that I can work with. She really knows her stuff and has been very caring and supportive on this journey.”

Robyn F

FROM FEAR OF FOOD TO FUELING A MARATHON!

"I was afraid to fuel my body for long runs because of the GI distress I’d dealt with for years. I tried to solve these GI issues by doing a lot of my own research, but I ended up confusing myself and becoming very overwhelmed. I got stuck in the rut of many unhealthy cycles, thinking I could only eat certain foods, and became very regimented in my eating. Friday night would roll around, and I convinced myself I couldn’t go out.

After I started working with Meg, my GI distress went away! Meg showed me that I wasn’t eating enough to fuel myself. She introduced me to a lot of foods that I didn’t know that I or my family could eat. I actually took a half hour off of my marathon time and felt great the entire time! Today, I have a better outlook and I’m more open-minded about what I eat.

You need to go to Meg! She’s very knowledgeable and compassionate without being judgmental. She knows me so well and is always available whenever I need her."

Michelle D

Your Balanced Gut Solution “right-fit” guarantee

As your personal expert Health Coaches, our goal is to do everything we can to identify the root cause of your current GI struggles and help you alleviate your symptoms, so you can have peace of mind and thrive again.

Because we believe so strongly that The Balanced Gut Solution is the most effective way to heal your body, regain confidence, and thrive through perimenopause and beyond, this personal coaching program is backed by a “right-fit” guarantee.

We know that investing in your health is a big decision, and we want you to feel confident moving forward. After your initial deep dive session, if you feel this coaching program is not the right fit for you, we will refund your investment—minus $300 to cover the time and expertise poured into our initial meeting—no questions asked.

It’s time to try something different…

You’ve exhausted the doctor visits, done your own research, and feel like you’re stuck in a rut.

We understand.

Today, we invite you to try something different—an approach to your health that begins with listening, assessing, and investigating what’s not working, so we can get to the root of what’s causing you pain and start the journey to freedom today.