Podcast appearances and mentions of cynthia thurlow

What if the reason keto isn't working for you has less to do with the diet itself; and more to do with your liver, your fats, and how well your body adapts to stress? In this episode, Ben chats with nurse practitioner, bestselling author, and host of the Everyday Wellness podcast Cynthia Thurlow to break down why keto fails so many women, and what to do about it. They dive into the two biggest culprits behind keto struggles: a backed-up liver that isn't producing healthy bile, and consuming the wrong types of fats that drive inflammation instead of healing. From simple bile-boosting strategies like bitter foods, apple cider vinegar, and ox bile supplementation to swapping processed seed oils for stable fats like butter, ghee, and beef tallow, Ben and Cynthia cover practical steps that can make a ketogenic approach actually work, especially for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. They also explore why chronic cortisol activation could be sabotaging your results, how to use heart rate variability and blood glucose testing to know if fasting is helping or hurting you, and why the concept of "keto flexing", intentionally cycling in and out of ketosis with strategic feast days—may be the missing piece for long-term metabolic flexibility. No rigid protocols. No one-size-fits-all approach. Just smarter strategies that meet your body where it is. To learn more about Cynthia Thurlow and her work: Website: cynthiathurlow.com Instagram: @cynthia_thurlow_ FOLLOW BEN AZADI Website: www.BenAzadi.comInstagram: @TheBenAzadiFacebook: @TheBenAzadiTikTok: @TheBenAzadiLinkedIn: @BenAzadiYouTube: Ben Azadi BEN AZADI'S BOOKS Keto Flex: Get Keto Flex + Bonuses Metabolic Freedom: Get Metabolic Freedom

If your body suddenly seems to be playing by a completely different set of rules in perimenopause or menopause, this episode is for you! For the first time ever on Optimal Metabolism, I am welcoming back a three-peat guest! Cynthia Thurlow, NP, is a two-time TEDx speaker, international speaker, bestselling author, and host of the Everyday Wellness podcast. Her viral TEDx talk on intermittent fasting has surpassed 15 million views, and she has become a leading voice in women's metabolic health, perimenopause, menopause, and intermittent fasting. Cynthia joins me to discuss her latest book, The Menopause Gut: Balance Your Microbiome to Reclaim Your Health in Midlife and Beyond. We're digging into the connection between declining estrogen and the microbiome—and why changes in your gut may affect everything from insulin resistance and stubborn weight gain to inflammation, energy, sleep, brain health, and hormone balance. If you've been eating healthy, exercising, fasting, and doing all the things that used to work—but your body isn't responding the same way anymore—this conversation may help explain why. WHAT WE DISCUSS: Why the gut becomes increasingly important as estrogen declines How the microbiome changes during perimenopause and menopause The connection between gut health, insulin resistance, and blood sugar Why stubborn weight gain in midlife isn't simply about calories or willpower What the microgenderome is and why women should know about it Why digestive problems and food sensitivities can suddenly appear after 40 The estrobolome and the relationship between gut health and estrogen metabolism How chronic stress can influence the gut and the menopause transition Why sleep and circadian rhythm matter for gut and metabolic health The gut-brain connection and why anxiety and brain fog can increase during midlife How gut and hormonal changes may influence immune health and autoimmunity Why extreme dieting and exercise strategies may stop working in midlife Practical ways women can begin supporting their microbiome and metabolism ABOUT CYNTHIA THURLOW, NP Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, two-time TEDx speaker, international speaker, and founder and CEO of the Everyday Wellness Project. With more than 25 years of experience in health and wellness, she specializes in perimenopause, menopause, intermittent fasting, and women's metabolic health. She is the bestselling author of Intermittent Fasting Transformation and The Menopause Gut: Balance Your Microbiome to Reclaim Your Health in Midlife and Beyond. CONNECT WITH CYNTHIA + GET THE BOOK

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with a previous guest, Dr. Mary Claire Haver.  Dr. Haver is a board-certified OBGYN, a certified menopause provider, and the founder of Mary Claire Wellness, a private medical practice focusing on women in midlife. Her best-selling book, the Galveston Diet, and her latest New York Times best-seller, The New Menopause, are fabulous resources for middle-aged women. In today's discussion, we dive into various aspects of perimenopause and the associated challenges. We discuss factors accelerating ovarian aging, the role of contraception, mental health shifts, and the often delayed diagnosis of premature ovarian insufficiency. We examine the differences between hormone replacement therapy and oral contraceptives, discussing the importance of advocacy for women's health and the benefits of vaginal estrogen. We explore the disparity in federal funding for women's health research, the impact of the Women's Health Initiative, body composition changes, the estrabolome, the 30 Plant Challenge, and the advantages of HRT. Dr. Haver also talks about her preferred supplements.  I'm sure you will find this conversation a valuable resource that you will likely revisit several times. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why perimenopause is so fraught with chaos Some of the factors that hasten ovarian aging How perimenopause causes significant changes in neurotransmitters, leading to cognitive changes The differences between HRT and oral contraceptives How estrogen loss during menopause affects vaginal tissue The benefits of vaginal estrogen for symptoms of menopause  How women's health research funding prioritizes reproduction over menopause and perimenopause How HRT can help with fat loss and muscle mass in postmenopausal women The emergence of eating-disordered behaviors in menopausal women Some of the lesser-known symptoms of menopause and ways to overcome them How HRT could impact the longevity and cognitive health of women Bio: Dr Mary Claire Haver Dr. Mary Claire Haver is a board-certified OB-GYN who has devoted her adult life to women's health. When she began experiencing the changes of menopause and midlife weight gain, she created her online program, The Galveston Diet, which currently has over 80,000 students. The Galveston Diet is the first and only nutrition program in the world created by a female OB-GYN, designed for women in menopause. As part of her ongoing research, she became certified in Culinary Medicine in 2019, specializing in medical nutrition. In 2021, Dr. Haver opened Mary Claire Wellness; the clinic grew out of repeated requests from Galveston Diet students and Dr. Haver's social media followers for personal guidance.  Dr. Haver lives with her husband and two daughters in Galveston, Texas. She is the author of The Galveston Diet (Rodale; January 10th, 2023). Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Mary Claire Haver On the⁠ Mary Claire Wellness website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠TikTok⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠ Books Mentioned Dr. Haver's books, ⁠The Galveston Diet⁠ and ⁠The New Menopause ⁠ ⁠The Menopause Brain⁠ and the⁠ XX Brain⁠ by Lisa Mosconi Previous Episode Mentioned ⁠Ep. 308 Dr. Mary Claire Haver: Weight Gain in Middle Age, Perimenopause and Inflammation

Today, I'm honored to connect with Dr. Salome Masghati, founder of Precision Gynecology, which provides the unhurried, root-cause-oriented care often missing in a system where women are rushed through short appointments, focusing on bioidentical hormone therapy, perimenopause, and menopause. Dr. Masghati has extensive surgical training and specializes in longevity medicine. In today's discussion, we explore the ovary as a signaling hub, not just a reproductive timer, and Dr. Masghati shares her views on hormone replacement therapy timing, intrinsic and infradian rhythm, ovarian function, and the differentiators between PCOS and PMOS in midlife women. We also cover oral versus transdermal estradiol therapy, FSH testing as an independent risk factor for bone and heart health, hysterectomies, ferritin and iron deficiency, coronary vasospasm, elevated Lp(a), estradiol and thyroid therapy, peptides, regenerative and esthetic offerings. Dr. Masghati also offers her personal perspective on what influences orgasms. Stay tuned for today's invaluable conversation with Dr. Salome Masghati on optimizing women's health in midlife and beyond. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How a hysterectomy, partial hysterectomy, and other surgical interventions can impact ovarian function Dr. Masghati shares her approach to hormone replacement therapy for women going through premature or early menopause How elevated androgen levels, insulin resistance, and inflammation can affect the response to hormone replacement therapy in women with PCOS/PMOS Why Dr. Masghati generally prefers transdermal rather than oral estradiol How optimizing hormone levels can improve libido when women's hormones change  Women may have low ferritin even when their serum iron looks good. Declining estrogen may contribute to coronary vasospasm in women. What women should know about regenerative therapies using PRP Why the source of peptides matters, and why Dr. Masghati specifically advises against using research peptides Bio:  Dr. Salome Masghati is a board-certified gynecologic surgeon who now focuses on hormonal wellbeing, functional medicine, and disease prevention. She specializes in women's health conditions including perimenopause, PCOS, endometriosis, gut health, and metabolic dysfunction, using a root-cause and physiologic approach to help women restore balance and optimize their health. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Salome Masghati On her website On Instagram Email: team@drmasghati.com 

Welcome to this week's Midlife Minute episode! Statistically, one in three women will die of heart disease. So, today, we're answering some of the many questions I received about lipids and heart health. Although I've done other lipid-focused Midlife Minutes before, this episode is yet another dedicated to Dr. Tom Dayspring, as I've received such a vast number of questions on this particular topic.    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why understanding your ApoB and Lp(a) is an essential part of assessing your cardiovascular risk Why treatments for lipid abnormalities should be individualized to fit each specific abnormality  Essential lifestyle measures for supporting overall cardiovascular health How CAC scoring, CT coronary angiography, and Clearly AI-assisted imaging differ, what each test measures, and their limitations  How cardiovascular disease can sometimes present differently in women  Why are premature atrial contractions and premature ventricular contractions often benign when the heart is structurally normal? How the roles of statins, ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, GLP-1 medications, and emerging RNA therapies differ, and why they should not be considered interchangeable How declining estrogen impacts cardiovascular health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

I'm delighted to bring you a midlife metabolic health masterclass for women today, with experts Dr. Yael Joffe, Dr. Ben Bikman, Dr. Lara Briden, Dr. Felice Gersh, and Dr. Alexandra Sowa. In this masterclass, our panel of experts explores how women's metabolisms change in perimenopause, how our fat cells change with age, and how those changes influence our estrogen, insulin, and body composition. We examine how muscle, estrogen, and satiety mechanisms can improve or worsen metabolic health, the roles of aging, stress, inflammation, and ovarian health, and how body changes become metabolic risks. Join us for today's impactful masterclass with our insightful panel of metabolic health experts. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why the amount of body fat you carry does not necessarily determine your metabolic health How declining estrogen during menopause can change where women store their body fat Why women have to work harder to maintain and build muscle as estrogen declines in perimenopause and menopause How women can continue building muscle at any age Why progesterone is not only a reproductive hormone or something prescribed to protect the uterine lining The changes women may experience as their estradiol and progesterone production declines in midlife What women considering GLP-1 medications for menopausal weight gain should look at, beyond the number on the scale How to support your gut health and manage gastrointestinal symptoms when taking a GLP-1 The factors Dr. Joffe takes into account when evaluating women during their menopausal transition Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Yael Joffe 3X4 Genetics Instagram Facebook Connect with Dr. Ben Bikman On his website Social media: @benbikmanphd Connect with Dr. Lara Briden Website Social media: @Lara Briden Connect with Dr. Felice Gersh On her website: Integrative Medical Group of Irvine Instagram All of Dr. Gersh's books are available on Amazon. Connect with Dr. Alexandra Sowa On her website   Social media: @alexandrasowamd  Purchase a copy of Dr. Sowa's book, The Ozempic Revolution: A Doctor's Proven Plan for Success to Help You Reverse Obesity, End Yo-Yo Dieting, and Protect Yourself from Disease Podcast Episodes:  Ep. 558 Your DNA Isn't Your Destiny – The Most Actionable Way to Use Genetics for Weight Loss with Dr. Yael Joffe  Ep. 316 The Impact of Age, Gender and Lifestyle on Metabolic Health with Dr. Ben Bikman Ep. 372 Metabolism Repair for Women: Strategies and Insights with Dr. Lara Briden Ep. 570 We've Been Wrong About Progesterone! – The Most Powerful Hormone for Heart, Brain & Longevity with Dr. Felice Gersh|Menopause & HRT Ep. 438 - The Rise of GLP-1s: Key to Weight Loss and Metabolic Health with Alexandra Sowa, MD

I'm excited to share another episode in our series of highly vetted companies. Today, I'm delighted to reconnect with Angelo Keely, the Co-founder and CEO of Kion, for our third conversation. I've been using essential aminos. I really leaned into them during my book launch, and I credit them with helping me maintain my muscle mass despite training at a lower volume. In today's conversation, Angelo and I discuss GLP-1s and muscle loss, exploring protein intake, the leucine threshold hypothesis, the association between declining estrogen and blunted muscle protein synthesis, and using essential aminos to build and maintain muscle. We unpack the role of sleep and recovery for muscle health, daily versus as-needed creatine monohydrate and essential amino acid supplementation, what omega-3s are, why they matter, and how to supplement. We also cover midlife women's body composition, weight loss, and muscle building, and Angelo shares his take on the disconnect between body composition changes in midlife women and how companies actively market to midlife women, knowing the challenges we face in that area. Stay tuned for today's insightful and informative discussion with Angelo Keely of Kion. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How caloric restriction leads to fat loss but can also cause the body to break down muscle  How essential aminos can help preserve our muscles as we age The essential amino formula Angelo recommends for midlife women Hormone changes may affect muscle protein synthesis The huge impact poor sleep has on whole-body protein synthesis  Essential aminos vs. whey protein and how they differ Value of essential aminos for maintaining muscle during caloric deficits  How aminos and creatine both need to be taken consistently, but for different physiological reasons What to look for when choosing a quality omega-3 supplement How to make daily supplementation easier to maintain Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Angelo Keely Kion (Use code CYNTHIA for 20% off)

If you're training hard, eating well, and still watching your waist thicken, I want you to hear this: you are not lazy, and your metabolism is not broken. Something else is going on, and once you see it, belly fat stops feeling like a mystery you can't crack. So I called in four people I trust most on this, Ben Azadi, Dr Sarah Berry, Cynthia Thurlow, and Mary Claire Haver. Together we get into why cortisol parks fat right around your middle, how losing estrogen quietly reroutes fat from your hips to your belly, and why the exact same meal spikes your blood sugar far more after menopause than it did before. We go deep on the pieces most women never get told about, the muscle you're losing, the gut and estrobolome shifts, and the insulin exposure that makes this fat feel so stubborn. Then I hand you the fix. My five levers, in the order that actually works, from breaking up long sitting to resistance training, smart HIIT, whole-food carbs, and protecting your sleep and stress. And I tell you honestly where fasted training helps and where it just becomes another way to punish yourself. If you're a busy woman over 40 who's done with "eat less, move more" and wants to know which lever your body needs first, this one's for you. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN - Does cortisol cause belly fat in women over 40? - Why does fat move to your belly during menopause? - Is menopause belly fat caused by a slow metabolism? - What is visceral fat and why is it dangerous? - Can you gain visceral fat even if the scale doesn't move? - Why do post-menopausal women have higher blood sugar spikes? - How does insulin resistance drive stubborn belly fat? - Does the gut microbiome affect body composition in midlife? - How does breaking up sitting improve insulin sensitivity? - Does resistance training help you lose belly fat after 40? - Does HIIT reduce abdominal fat in women? - Does fasted training help burn visceral fat? TIMESTAMPS - 00:00 Why Cortisol Drives Stubborn Belly Fat In Women Over 35 - 03:00 Insulin Resistance, Estrogen Loss And Why Menopause Moves Fat To Your Belly - 09:44 How Muscle Loss And Your Gut Control Midlife Body Composition - 16:11 Why Menopause Belly Fat Is Dangerous And How To Shift Visceral Fat - 17:59 The 5 Levers To Lose Midlife Belly Fat Without A Broken MetabolismVALUABLE RESOURCES Timeline - Support your mitochondrial health: Timeline Mitopure delivers Urolithin A at the clinically studied dose to support cellular renewal and energy production, helping counter the natural decline in mitochondrial function that comes with age.

Today, I'm delighted to connect with Sara Hirsh Bordo, an autoimmune-diagnosed, 15-times award-winning documentary filmmaker, the founder and CEO of Women Rising, and the author of Autoimmunity and the Good Girls. I loved Sara's book, and I love her work! I believe her message will resonate deeply with listeners with concurrent autoimmune conditions, and those who have grown up as people pleasers or have subjugated themselves over the course of their lives. Autoimmune conditions often tend to flare or first present during major hormonal transitions like postpartum, perimenopause, or menopause. So it's important to understand the influence of chronic stress and how it intersects with our immune system function. In our conversation, Sara and I discuss how self-silencing makes us sick, and overgiving keeps us that way. We explore the influence of family and culture on our health and longevity, the effects of autoimmunity, people pleasing, good-girl conditioning, and authenticity versus dissociation. We also discuss Gabor Maté's book, The Myth of Normal, liberation, the fear of disappointment, Sara's research, her concept of the license to be sovereign, the act of receiving, the role of epigenetics and birth order, and Sara's framework of coherence, authenticity, epigenetics, and permission. Stay tuned for a wonderful conversation about autoimmunity, people-pleasing, authenticity, and permitting ourselves to be sovereign. Sarah's book, Autoimmunity and the Good Girls, will likely resonate deeply with many of you. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How self-silencing, self-neglect, and self-betrayal can impact a woman's health The connection between chronic stress, suppressed feelings, good girl conditioning, and autoimmunity What it feels like to reclaim your authenticity and be more aligned with yourself How the fear of disappointing others can make it difficult for some women to claim their power What Sara discovered about adverse girlhood experiences, birth order, and the caretaker role when compiling the research for her book How becoming more sovereign can help women advocate for their own needs Why receiving can be difficult for women who are accustomed to giving How stillness and silence helped Sara identify her needs and wants How girlhood experiences, self-silencing, and self-compromise can become epigenetic inputs, and what women can do to create more supportive environments Why permission is a key part of Sara's framework for reclaiming authenticity Bio: Sara Hirsh Bordo Sara Hirsh Bordo (pronounced Bordeaux) is a 15-time award-winning filmmaker and Founder/CEO of Women Rising®, named "One of the Most Innovative, Interesting, and Purpose-Driven Women-Led Startups to Watch” by Inc. Magazine. Sara is currently directing short documentary films for Toyota and ESPN Women, and most recently, the executive producer of ConnectHer International Film Festival, consulting director for the Gates Foundation PitchFest Program, and the author and researcher behind the first proprietary quantitative survey at the intersection of female empowerment and health, Autoimmunity and the Good GirlsTM. Sara previously held positions in media and entertainment, including Executive Director of Interactive Marketing at Paramount Pictures, VP of Digital Marketing at MGM Studios, and CEO and Co-Founder of NowLive. Autoimmunity and the Good Girls is her first book. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Sara Hirsh Bordo  Website  Instagram Autoimmunity & The Good Girls Book

Today, we have a metabolic health masterclass, featuring Dr. Robert Lustig, Ben Azadi, Dr. Ben Bikman, Mark Sisson, and Dr. Nick Norwitz.  In today's masterclass, we explore why metabolic dysfunction is not simply a calories-in, calories-out issue or a failure of willpower, how insulin and leptin influence appetite and behavior, how early signs of insulin resistance can appear years before a diabetes diagnosis, and the important relationship between muscle, glucose regulation, and insulin sensitivity. We also discuss how movement supports fat burning without sacrificing muscle, why chronic cardio may not produce the results many people expect, and how emerging technology could provide a far more personalized approach to metabolic care. Stay tuned for today's informative discussion, where our panel of experts shares their valuable perspectives on metabolic health. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Leptin resistance and how it can drive the overeating and inactivity commonly associated with obesity How elevated insulin blocks the effects of leptin Why it's essential to pay attention to fasting insulin rather than waiting for blood glucose to rise  Ben Azadi highlights metabolic health markers that can provide information beyond fasting glucose. How our muscles help to regulate glucose and support insulin sensitivity The importance of building and preserving muscle to support insulin sensitivity as we age, and how even a brief period of inactivity can reduce insulin sensitivity Mark Sisson explains why running may not be the most effective fat loss strategy  How walking can increase your fat-burning capacity while also helping to preserve your muscles Dr. Nick Norwitz explains how type 2 diabetes can involve different underlying pathologies, and how CGM data and machine learning can eventually help to identify specific subphenotypes Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Robert Lustig Website  On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter  Connect with Ben Azadi Website On Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok Get a copy of Ben Azadi's latest book, Metabolic Freedom. Connect with Dr. Ben Bikman Website On social media: @benbikmanphd Connect with Mark Sisson   Mark's book, Born To Walk  Peluva Shoes Connect with Nick Norwitz On YouTube, X, and Instagram His Substack Previous Episodes: Ep. 161 Robert Lustig & Cynthia Thurlow Discussing The Nutritional Battlefield & Debunking Chronic Diseases Ep. 465 Metabolic Health 101: Fat Loss, Toxins, and Seed Oils with Dr. Ben Azadi Ep. 316 The Impact of Age, Gender and Lifestyle on Metabolic Health with Dr. Ben Bikman Ep. 422 Walking for Health: The Underrated Exercise You Need with Mark Sisson Ep. 525 We've Been Misled About Metabolic Health – The Shocking Truth About Cholesterol, GLP-1 & Aging with Dr. Nick Norwitz

I'm delighted to connect with Dr. Rachel Goldman today. She is a licensed clinical psychologist based in New York City and a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. She specializes in the mind-body connection using cognitive behavioral therapy, with a focus on stress management, burnout, distorted eating, bariatric surgery support, and health behavior changes. I was honored to meet Dr. Rachel in Miami at an event where we both spoke earlier this year. In our conversation, we discuss how to approach body image in midlife, how our families influence our relationships with food, what toxic positivity is, and how it invalidates our emotions. We also explore the vulnerability of midlife and parenting, the effects of GLP-1 drugs, obesity as a disease, and the impact of mindset. Dr. Rachel also defines burnout and shares the best ways to address it. Stay tuned for today's invaluable conversation on body image, mindset, emotions, and navigating the challenges of midlife. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Rachel shares her approach to helping midlife women struggling with body image and identity  How our thought processes around food can influence our emotions and behaviors Various factors that can influence our relationship with food How women with many rules around food can start changing their thinking How to navigate grief about your younger body and learn to appreciate the body you have now What toxic positivity is and how it invalidates our emotions How personal and professional role changes in midlife can affect a woman's sense of identity Why Dr. Rachel recommends having more than one coping tool in your toolbox  The effects Dr. Rachel has been seeing in patients using GLP-1 medications What burnout is, and how to address it Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Rachel Goldman On social media: @DrRachelNYC   Purchase links for Dr. Rachel's book are available HERE.

Welcome to the latest summer version of the Midlife Minute.  In this episode, we're focusing on the gut. Even though I've written a book about the gut microbiome changes that occur in perimenopause and menopause, I'm often asked whether the gut is truly central to midlife. So today, I provide direct answers to the many questions I received on this topic.   IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How the gut microbiome and estrogen work together, and the importance of supporting both  How the estrobolome helps recycle estrogen, and why its function could decline during menopause How poor sleep, blood sugar instability, histamine issues, and dysbiosis tend to be interconnected The value of practitioner-guided microbiome testing when investigating histamine intolerance, dysbiosis, and weight loss resistance Various factors that could contribute to weight loss resistance How my approach to stool testing has evolved as newer microbiome testing technology has become available Essential lifestyle habits for supporting gut health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

I am honored to connect with Dr. Eric Osansky today. He is a chiropractic physician, clinical nutritionist, and functional medicine provider. He is also an author who loves to write about hyperthyroidism and a lifestyle-focused approach to it. In today's conversation, Dr. Osansky unpacks his own Graves diagnosis in 2008 and highlights the typical symptoms of hyperthyroidism, the unique physiology of thyroid dysfunction, and specific risk factors. We explore traditional treatment pathways, the influence of low-dose naltrexone and other immunomodulatory supplements, and the gut-thyroid axis. We also discuss how most of our immune system is located in the gut, the influence of leaky gut and autoimmune disease, perimenopause as a trigger window for symptoms, and how these often overlap with thyroid health. Stay tuned for an interesting and insightful conversation on thyroid health, Graves' disease, hyperthyroidism, and more. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: What Graves' disease is, and how it differs from other causes of hyperthyroidism The first symptom of Graves' disease that Dr. Osansky experienced, and other common symptoms of Graves' disease Genetics, environmental triggers, and other factors that could contribute to autoimmune thyroid disease Conventional treatment options that are available for Graves' disease, how they work, and why treatment decisions should be individualized Why Dr. Osansky recommends continuing to support immune and gut health after radioactive iodine or thyroid surgery How low-dose naltrexone may help some people with Graves' disease modulate their immune systems Foods, lifestyle measures, and supplements that can support immune regulation alongside appropriate medical care The relationship between the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability ("leaky gut"), and autoimmunity How thyroid symptoms and hormone changes during midlife can overlap, and why laboratory testing is important when symptoms overlap Bio: Eric Osansky Dr. Eric Osansky is a chiropractor, clinical nutritionist, and certified functional medicine practitioner who has been helping people with hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto's since 2009. He is the author of the books "Natural Treatment Solutions for Hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease", "The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet", and "Hashimoto's Triggers", and is the host of the Save My Thyroid podcast. Dr. Osansky was personally diagnosed with Graves' disease in 2008 and was able to restore his health through a natural approach, and since then has helped others reverse their hyperthyroidism through his SAVED Thyroid framework. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Eric Osansky Website Save My Thyroid Project Substack Newsletter Dr. Osansky's books, Natural Treatment Solutions for Hyperthyroidism and Graves' Disease, The Hyperthyroid Healing Diet, and Hashimoto's Triggers, are available on Amazon.

In this episode, we're featuring MitoQ, a company whose research around antioxidant support for mitochondrial function has been of particular interest to me. I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Siobhan Mitchell, the Chief Scientific Officer at MitoQ. Dr. Mitchell completed her PhD at SUNY Albany and a postdoctoral fellowship on brain aging at the University of Washington. She has held roles at multinational food companies, leading research on brain nutrition, metabolism, cardiovascular health, and weight loss. She has published clinical research demonstrating the effects of stress on women's heart health and the importance of nutrients such as polyphenols, omega-3s, probiotics, and amino acids for brain health, authored dozens of clinical studies and more than 80 papers, and given talks on nutritional neuroscience at conferences worldwide. She also holds eight patents for products related to aging, cognition, and mood. In today's conversation, Dr. Mitchell and I discuss mitochondrial physiology, energy, and dysfunction, exploring the impact of MitoQ and supplementation for supporting health. We examine research on menopause, how estrogen influences mitochondria, the roles of oxidative stress, antioxidants, and zombie cells, highlighting how mitochondria impact our cardiovascular health, the value of MitoQ in supporting vascular function in females, the importance of polyphenols and spices, and signs of mitochondrial dysfunction. This is a truly invaluable conversation- one you'll likely want to revisit. Stay tuned for today's informative discussion on supporting our mitochondria and reducing oxidative stress with MitoQ. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How our mitochondrial function changes as we get older, and what those changes might look like How antioxidants protect the mitochondria from free radicals and oxidative stress The early signs of mitochondrial dysfunction  How women who have damaged their mitochondria earlier in life can proactively support their mitochondria Why some oxidative stress may be beneficial and when it could become problematic How mitochondrial dysfunction impacts heart function, blood glucose regulation, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome What Dr. Mitchell recommends for women learning about mitochondrial support for the first time Dr. Mitchell shares the daily practices she uses to support her brain and metabolic health. How long you may need to take MitoQ before noticing improvements, and what those improvements might look like Bio: Dr. Siobhan Mitchell Siobhan Mitchell is the chief scientific officer of MitoQ. She completed her PhD at SUNY Albany and a post-doctoral fellowship on brain aging at the University of Washington. Siobhan has held roles at multinational food companies leading research on brain nutrition, metabolism, cardiovascular health and weight loss. Siobhan has published clinical research showing the effects of stress on women's heart health, and the importance of nutrients such as polyphenols, omega-3 oils, probiotics and amino acids for brain health. She has authored over a dozen clinical studies on best practices for weight management and prevention of chronic diseases during her time as senior director for Noom. Siobhan is passionate about the intersection of nutrition and lifestyle factors, such as exercise, sleep, and mental well-being, to extend health span. Siobhan has given talks on nutritional neuroscience at conferences all over the world. She's authored over 80 papers and holds eight patents for aging, cognition, and mood products. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Siobhan Mitchell MitoQ  The Mitochondrial Collaborative Research Programme (MCRP)  Email Dr. Siobhan Mitchell: s.mitchell@mitocq.com

I'm delighted to connect with Dr. Lanna Cheuck today. She's a board-certified urologic surgeon who transitioned from academic medicine into a distinctive career in medical esthetics. In today's conversation, Dr. Lanna shares her inspiring origin story, and we explore the influence of sexual health and genitourinary syndrome of menopause, common symptoms women experience, and why so few women receive treatment despite how common the condition is. Dr. Lanna explains non-surgical treatment options that improve blood flow, increase orgasms, and improve pelvic floor health, and discusses the influence of senescent cells, the celebrity non-surgical facelift, and how GLP-1 medications influence facial aging. She also shares interesting insights on Korean skincare benefits versus a concierge U.S.-based system, clarifies what biostimulators are and how they stimulate collagen production over time, and explains the influence of PDGF growth factors, cadaver fat transfers, energy devices, and estrogen used on our faces. Stay tuned for a fascinating conversation filled with practical insights into women's health, medical esthetics, and healthy aging.  IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How the continuum of symptoms associated with genitourinary syndrome of menopause is often dismissed as something women simply have to live with The value of vaginal estrogen, and how many women are still denied that treatment due to outdated concerns following the WHI study Non-surgical procedures that can improve blood flow, collagen, elastin, lubrication, sensitivity, orgasms, and pelvic floor health, and why Dr. Lanna considers them regenerative sexual health rather than cosmetic procedures Why it's essential to seek practitioners with extensive training for intimate procedures Dr. Lanna's celebrity non-surgical facelift combines multiple approaches to address every layer of facial aging. How rapid weight loss associated with GLP-1 medications can accelerate facial aging The advantages and limitations of Korean esthetics, and how it differs from a concierge U.S.-based approach What biostimulators are, and how they stimulate collagen production Why Dr. Lanna introduces energy-based devices according to skin quality rather than age alone Dr. Lanna shares her perspective on using topical estriol or estradiol for facial skin Bio: Dr. Lanna Cheuck, DO, FACS, is the CEO, Founder, and Medical Director of LC Medical PLLC with multiple locations and her flagship in the heart of midtown Manhattan. She is a board-certified, Ivy League-trained surgeon and self-taught businesswoman who built her brand into multi-million dollar companies in less than five years. She is the CEO and Founder of FACE Med-Spa Training, where she has over 30K injectors in her community. She is also the CEO and Co-Founder of FACE Med Store, a seven-figure online shop specializing in the distribution of medical supplies, equipment, and skincare. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Lanna Cheuck On her website Instagram

Today's episode is another in our podcast series featuring companies I genuinely feel aligned with. Today, I'm delighted to welcome Lucy Goff, the founder of Lyma, a pioneering wellness brand transforming beauty and health through science-backed innovation. Before launching Lyma, Lucy built a successful career as a journalist and luxury-sector publicist, during which she honed her expertise in brand storytelling and consumer engagement. I've been using the Lyma laser for several months now, and I've noticed significant improvements in my neck, jawline, and even my knees. Today's conversation centers around Lucy's near-death experience and the origins of Lyma. We explore the differences between cold and hot laser technology, the influence of sirtuins and longevity pathways, what constitutes a clinical-grade device, and the FDA approval process. Lucy explains how skin ages differently during perimenopause and menopause, why the Lyma laser is safe for all skin types, and how it requires no protective goggles and is completely pain-free. We also discuss gut health, HRT, and hormones, the influence of IDO2, and the role of probiotic fibers. Lucy highlights how simplifying can enhance your health in midlife, how using GLP-1 drugs can lead to weight loss and reduce skin laxity, and how the Lyma device can help improve skin quality. I know you will enjoy today's enlightening discussion with Lucy Goff as much as I did while recording it. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How Lucy's near-death experience led to the creation of Lyma How cold laser technology differs from heat-based skin treatments Why LED, red light therapy, and laser technology should not be grouped, and how LED and laser differ in their biological effects and gene expression Lucy explains the extensive testing required for FDA clearance How women's skin changes during perimenopause and menopause The role of the gut microbiome during perimenopause and menopause What inspired the development of Lyma's IDO2 formulation  Why Lucy encourages a simpler approach to supporting your health in midlife  How the Lyma laser can help improve skin laxity following rapid weight loss with GLP-1 medications Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Lucy Goff Lyma - Use the code CYNTHIA 10 for a 10% discount on the Lyma device and products on the Lyma website

Most women think menopause is a hormone problem. Today's guest says many symptoms may actually begin in the gut–years before menopause. The science could completely change how you think about hot flashes, weight gain, inflammation, sleep, and even autoimmune disease.  Perimenopause and menopause affect nearly every system in the body, yet many women are told their symptoms are simply the result of changing hormones. But what if the gut microbiome is one of the missing pieces?  In this episode of the Uncover Your Eyes podcast, Dr. Meenal Agarwal sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, women's health expert, nurse practitioner, and bestselling author of The Menopause Gut, to explore the emerging science connecting gut health, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, immunity, and brain health during midlife. Together they explain why digestive changes often appear years before menopause, how the estrobolome influences estrogen metabolism, why food sensitivities suddenly develop, and how your gut may affect everything from sleep to weight loss. In this episode, you'll uncover:

Today, I am delighted to connect with Dr. Elisa Port, a talented breast surgeon with a passion for helping women better understand breast cancer, breast health, and the science behind screening, diagnosis, and treatment. She's the chief of breast surgery for Mount Sinai Health System in New York, a professor of surgery at Mount Sinai's Icahn School of Medicine, and the author of The Breast Advice. In our conversation, we explore breast cancer risk factors, various screening mechanisms and their impact on dense breasts, and the role of diagnosis and pathology, including DCIS. We also discuss menopause symptom management, anti-hormone and targeted treatments, immunotherapy, de-escalation, and why a personalized approach to breast cancer treatment is so important.  Stay tuned for a truly informative conversation with Dr. Port. With her infectious optimism, she has a wonderful way of translating the science and the research in her book, making it accessible and putting the statistics into context so the information feels far less scary than it otherwise might. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How 90% of women diagnosed with breast cancer have no family cancer history How body weight and alcohol can influence breast cancer risk Why Dr. Port recommends annual mammograms beginning at age 40 for most women Dr. Port may disagree with recommendations against breast self-exams Why women with dense breasts may benefit from supplemental ultrasound or MRI in addition to mammography Unvalidated breast screening tests may lead to false positives, unnecessary testing, procedures, anxiety, and expense. What DCIS is, and how it influences treatment decisions Why an individualized approach is essential when using SERMs, SERDs, and aromatase inhibitors How Oncotype testing helps to identify women who may safely avoid chemotherapy Bio: Dr Elisa Port Dr. Elisa Port, MD, is chief of breast surgery at Mount Sinai Health System, which encompasses seven different breast centers. Her team performs over a thousand breast surgical procedures each year. She is also the director of the Dubin Breast Center, a state-of-the-art breast center in Manhattan that opened in April 2011. She personally consults with thousands of patients and performs hundreds of operations each year. Dr. Port is a trusted voice in the media and a sought-after speaker. She has been featured in The New York Times, NPR, CBS, Today, Mornings with Maria, and Pix11. In addition to her media presence, Dr. Port regularly speaks at public events and is invited to present at conferences and panels across the country. She lives in Manhattan with her husband and two dogs. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Elisa Port On her website On her personal Instagram  Breast Advice MD on Instagram The Breast Advice Substack

Welcome to this week's Midlife Minute. This episode is dedicated to the overwhelming number of HRT-related questions I've received from my community in 2026. Hormone replacement therapy has generated more questions than almost any other midlife topic, especially regarding timing, progesterone, testing, and special situations. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Women can still benefit from HRT later in menopause. The importance of working with a knowledgeable prescriber when making hormone replacement therapy decisions How progesterone tolerance can vary from one woman to another Why your blood work should be timed according to when you apply your estradiol patch, and why I prefer to focus on estradiol rather than routinely monitoring progesterone levels How the synthetic hormones used in oral contraceptives differ from the bioidentical hormones used in HRT How your medical history can influence your hormone replacement therapy plan Fear and outdated information may continue to create confusion about hormone replacement therapy. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

Today, I'm delighted to reconnect with Dr. Tabatha Barber, also known as The Gutsy Gynecologist. She is a triple board-certified OB-GYN specializing in perimenopause, menopause, and functional medicine. In today's discussion, we explore why supporting your hormones involves much more than simply replacing them. Dr. Barber explains how our nervous system, internal dialogue, cellular health, stress response, and lifestyle work together to influence our hormones, energy, and overall health during midlife. We also discuss why addressing root causes is essential for lasting improvements, the role of mitochondrial health, and practical ways to better support your nervous system. If you're looking for a more comprehensive approach to navigating perimenopause and menopause, you will not want to miss today's insightful conversation with Dr. Tabatha Barber. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why regulating your nervous system is essential for lasting hormone and health improvements Why the conversations you have with yourself matter more than external circumstances Why Dr. Barber prefers to focus on identifying the root causes of health issues instead of repeatedly treating downstream symptoms How sympathetic dominance and unresolved stress patterns can influence hormone function Other factors, apart from HRT, that are essential for improving women's health during midlife How oxidative stress, lack of sunlight, and disrupted circadian rhythms can contribute to fatigue and reduced cellular energy How hormone changes in midlife often coincide with greater self-awareness, stronger boundaries, and less people-pleasing How faith, prayer, and gratitude can support nervous system regulation Practical ways to support and regulate your nervous system Bio: Tabatha Barber Dr. Tabatha Barber is a triple board-certified physician — and one of the most distinctive voices in faith-based women's health today. Her story begins where most would have stopped. A teenage mother and high school dropout, she rebuilt her life through faith and perseverance — earning her doctorate and certifications before realizing the very system she trained in was missing the whole point. Today, as owner and medical director of Her Higher Health, creator of the Fast to Faith Coaching Academy, 40 Day program, supplement line, and international bestselling book Fast to Faith, Dr. Tabatha brings one message to every stage and microphone: your body is not broken — your approach is. She is known for doing what no one else does: mapping Scripture directly with how the body works — showing women that Romans 12:2 is the original neuroplasticity protocol, that Genesis 2:7 describes the gut-brain connection, and that God designed healing to happen in community. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Tabatha Barber Fast To Faith  On Instagram

How to Tell If You Have a Pelvic Floor Problem Fatigue, hormone balance, perimenopause, menopause, gut health, constipation, stress, and pelvic floor symptoms can all connect in ways many women never realize. Have you ever leaked when you laughed, coughed, sneezed, jumped, or worked out? Or felt pelvic heaviness, pressure, painful sex, constipation, or low back pain that no one can explain? These symptoms are common, but they are not something you have to live with. In this episode, I'm talking about how to recognize pelvic floor dysfunction, why it often shows up or gets worse during perimenopause and menopause, and why kegels are not always the answer. Your pelvic floor needs to be strong, flexible, and able to relax — and if it is too tight, more kegels can actually make things worse. I'll also explain how pregnancy, childbirth, estrogen decline, constipation, chronic stress, shallow breathing, and years of downward pressure can all affect pelvic floor health over time. Key Points From This Episode • The five signs of a pelvic floor problem — leaking, pressure, painful sex, constipation, and unexplained hip or low back pain. • Why perimenopause and menopause can make pelvic floor symptoms show up years after having children. • The surprising reason kegels may make symptoms worse if your pelvic floor is too tight. • How breathing, stress, constipation, and hormone balance all play a role. • Why pelvic floor physical therapy can be one of the most helpful, underused tools for women. The Bigger Takeaway Pelvic floor symptoms are not just an inconvenience. They can affect your bladder, bowels, sex life, exercise, confidence, digestion, and quality of life. If you've been leaking, avoiding workouts, crossing your legs when you sneeze, or wondering why things feel different in perimenopause or menopause, this episode will help you understand what may really be going on — and why there are real solutions. Hit play and listen in, because your pelvic floor may be the missing piece in your hormone balance, gut health, stress, and long-term wellness. WOMEN'S FUNCTIONAL HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION PROGRAM- IS OPEN! OUR NEXT COHORT STARTS ON SEPTEMBER 29TH. If some part of you has been quietly wondering whether this could be your path, come find out. Learn more at: womensfunctionalhealth.org Browse the course catalog: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Schedule a call with me: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Women deserve more, and you can be the one to make real change, starting with your own life. Let's connect on Instagram for daily health tips at @drmegmill. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program. This podcast is for women entering perimenopause and beyond who are struggling with fatigue, brain fog, bloating, weight loss resistance, and unpredictable hormones. If you're dealing with exhaustion, low energy, brain fog, bloating, IBS, constipation, digestive discomfort, histamine issues, migraines, anxiety or hormone imbalances, this show is for you.  You'll learn how to support your metabolism, balance hormones naturally, beat IBS and bloating, and finally break through stubborn weight gain. Discover science-backed strategies to optimize digestion, improve gut health, and manage perimenopause symptoms and other hormonal imbalances—without restrictive diets or endless supplements. Whether it's addressing estrogen dominance, blood sugar balance, or adrenal fatigue, this podcast gives you the tools to take control of your health and feel vibrant again.  If you are enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a review or share it with a friend.  If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too!  Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow, Just Ingredients Podcast, Longevity with Nathalie Niddam, Wellness Mama, The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Ancient Health Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Hormone Solution with Karen Martel, The Dr. Hyman Show, The Thyroid Fixer with Dr. Amie Hornaman, Treated with Dr. Sara, Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin, Better! with Dr. Stephanie, Energized with Dr. Mariza

In this episode, Dr. Eric Osansky welcomes back bestselling author, nurse practitioner, and women's health expert Cynthia Thurlow to discuss her newest book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia explains why gut health should be at the center of every conversation about perimenopause and menopause, sharing both the science behind the gut-hormone connection and her own personal journey that inspired the book. Together, they explore how declining estrogen influences immune function, gut permeability, inflammation, and the risk of autoimmune conditions during midlife. The conversation dives into the important role of the estrobolome, estrogen metabolism, food sensitivities, detoxification, genetics, and the impact of chronic stress on hormonal health. Cynthia also discusses why symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain, digestive issues, sleep disturbances, and joint pain shouldn't simply be accepted as "normal aging." Along the way, she shares practical strategies for improving gut health, increasing fiber intake, supporting the vagus nerve, reducing inflammation, and making personalized decisions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The episode concludes with an empowering message that women don't have to suffer through perimenopause and menopause. By understanding the connection between hormones, the gut microbiome, metabolism, and thyroid health, it's possible to improve symptoms and support long-term wellness. If you want a clearer, more balanced understanding of the menopause-gut connection and how it influences thyroid and overall health, you'll get a lot out of this episode.  Free resources for your thyroid healthGet your FREE Thyroid and Immune Health Restoration Action Points Checklist at SaveMyThyroidChecklist.comHigh-Quality Nutritional Supplements For Hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto' s Have you checked out my new ThyroSave supplement line? These high-quality supplements can benefit those with hyperthyroidism and Hashimoto's, and you can receive special offers, along with 10% off your first order, by signing up for emails and text messages when you visit ThyroSave.com. Do You Want Help Saving Your Thyroid?Get free access to hundreds of articles and blog posts: https://www.naturalendocrinesolutions.com/articles/all-other-articles Watch Dr. Eric's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/NaturalThyroidDoctor/videos Join Dr. Eric's Graves' disease and Hashimoto's group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/saveyourthyroid Take the Thyroid Saving Score Quiz: https://quiz.savemythyroidquiz.com/sf/237dc308 Read all of Dr. Eric's published books: http://savemythyroid.com/thyroidbooks Work with Dr. Eric: https://savemythyroid.com/work-with-dr-eric/ 

Today, I'm honored to reconnect with Dr. Tommy Wood. He is a neuroscientist, a performance coach, and an elite-level professional nerd. He's also currently an associate professor of pediatrics and neuroscience at the University of Washington. He received his bachelor's in biochemistry from the University of Cambridge, a medical degree from the University of Oxford, and a PhD in physiology and neuroscience from the University of Oslo. In our conversation, we discuss his new book, The Stimulated Mind, and he explains how dementia is a confluence of factors that accumulate over decades, important contributors to dementia, and ways we can help prevent it. We explore the concept of headroom, specific risk factors for neurocognitive decline, brain fog in midlife, the 10-year HRT timing window, and the evidence supporting these concepts. Dr. Tommy shares what we can learn from his work with elite-level athletes, along with some of the biggest misconceptions in the brain health space, and his 3s model of stimulation, sleep, and nutrient supply. He also explains why nutritional status matters for neurocognitive function. Stay tuned for today's insightful conversation with Dr. Tommy Wood. I loved his new book, The Stimulated Mind, and it will definitely be part of my must-reads for 2026! IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why dementia is not one single disease but a clinical outcome with multiple causes How sleep, oral health, nutritional status, and chronic inflammation may all influence dementia risk What headroom is, and the factors that help maintain it and protect cognitive function How the disease processes leading to dementia often begin decades before symptoms appear What the research suggests about the best time to start hormone therapy for brain health How Formula One drivers and elite athletes tend to prioritize sleep, nutrition, recovery, and focused work over chasing perfection How frequent notifications and interruptions train the brain to expect distraction, making sustained concentration more difficult How both overeating and chronic under-fueling can impair brain health How lifestyle changes can reduce dementia risk, even in people with APOE4 Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Tommy Wood On his website On Instagram The Stimulated Mind Substack

I'm delighted to reconnect with my dear friend Ben Azadi today, in honor of his newly revised book, Keto Flex. Ben is a leading authority on metabolic health, an international Keystone speaker, and the New York Times best-selling author of Metabolic Freedom. In today's conversation, we discuss why women fail on keto. We examine how women's menstrual cycles and various life stages influence both the ketogenic diet and intermittent fasting, and the importance of coming out of ketosis and incorporating feast days. We explain what the Randall cycle is, why we need to be finely tuned to it, how to support healthy cortisol regulation, particularly the HPA axis, and tools to determine whether we are balanced within the autonomic nervous system, including heart rate variability, sleep, and whether our glucose and ketones are within range. We also explore the effects of anti-nutrients and elimination diets, and Ben shares his approach for women who feel keto hasn't worked for them, explaining why keto should be viewed as a process rather than a diet. This is, as always, a truly invaluable conversation with my dear friend Ben Azadi. Stay tuned, as we will also be offering giveaways to listeners of Ben's new book, Keto Flex. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Various factors that could influence how women respond to a ketogenic diet How women need to adjust keto and fasting according to their menstrual cycle, perimenopause, and postmenopausal years, rather than continuously following the same approach Why Ben encourages women to have intentional feast days instead of remaining in ketosis indefinitely  What a feast day looks like,  and how it differs from a cheat day Why fasting should be adapted to how well your body tolerates stress Factors that can help to determine whether fasting is working for you Why you should adjust your training intensity and focus more on recovery as you get older How a temporary carnivore elimination diet can help identify foods your body doesn't tolerate Why Ben views keto as a metabolic process rather than a diet, and why he prioritizes lifestyle before medication Bio: Ben Azadi Ben Azadi, FDN-P, is a leading authority on metabolic health, an international keynote speaker, and the New York Times bestselling author of Metabolic Freedom. After facing his own health challenges, Ben transformed his life in 2008—losing 80 pounds and stepping into metabolic freedom. That turning point sparked a global mission: to help 1 billion people break free from physical and mental obesity through education, not medication. With 18+ years in the health and wellness space, Ben is now leading a bold 10-year initiative to naturally reverse type 2 diabetes in 1 million people. Through his work, Ben has reached millions worldwide and personally coached thousands to reclaim their health. His audience includes nearly 3M+ on digital platforms, more than 1M YouTube subscribers with over 100M views, and his top-ranked podcast, The Ben Azadi Show, which has surpassed 100 million downloads. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Ben Azadi On his website Pre-order a revised-version copy of Keto Flex and claim your bonuses

I am honored to connect with Dr. Sharon Stills today. She is a graduate of naturopathic medical school with extensive training in European biological medicine, bioidentical hormone replacement, and anti-aging therapies. In our conversation today, we explore terrain-based medicine and strategies to support women in perimenopause and beyond. We talk extensively about gut health, the estroblome, the microbiome, how European biological medicine views these as terrain, disruptive factors, and why they matter for women in midlife. We also examine the influence of the lymphatic system and how castor oil packs support it, bioidentical hormones as a lifelong tool rather than a temporary fix, and why menopause is a sacred second act in women's lives. Dr. Stills is thoughtful, insightful, and grounded, and I know you will enjoy this conversation with her as much as I did recording it. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How European biological medicine emphasizes the extracellular matrix (terrain) rather than focusing only on individual cells or mitochondria How declining hormones during menopause often expose longstanding yet previously hidden aspects of women's health Dr. Stills shares what she did to prepare herself for menopause in the preceding years  Dr. Stills encourages women to create meaningful challenges or experiences to mark their major life transitions How limiting beliefs about aging can influence how you experience midlife and beyond Factors that could influence the health of your terrain How supplements can play an important role, but work best alongside lifestyle habits, mindfulness, and supporting your body's natural healing processes Why Dr. Stills considers the lymphatic system an overlooked contributor to hormone balance, and some practical ways to support healthy lymphatic flow How simple daily habits often have a greater impact on your health than wellness gadgets The value of bioidentical hormones, and why hormone therapy should be individualized rather than one-size-fits-all Bio: Dr. Sharon Stills Dr. Sharon Stills, a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor and graduate of The Sonoran University (2001), has spent over two decades transforming women's health, with a special focus on guiding women through perimenopause and menopause. Creator of the pioneering RED Hot Sexy Meno(pause) Program and host of the annual Mastering Your Meno(pause) Transition summit, she combines her expertise in European Biological Medicine, pro-aging therapies, and Bio-identical Hormone Replacement to help women rediscover vitality with natural methods. A respected voice in her field, Dr. Stills has lectured internationally at the Paracelsus Academy in Switzerland, contributed to Women's Health Network, and served on the boards of the Bio-Regulatory Medicine Institute and UCLA's Archive of Healing. She recently opened the Lasting Wellness Center in Scottsdale, AZ—alongside her son, Dr. Ben Stills—offering advanced diagnostic and therapeutic care for chronic illness and women's health. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Sharon Stills On her website

Welcome to the latest Midlife Minute episode. Today, we're talking about elimination diets, iron, and ferritin. I share my personal experience with prolonged antibiotic and antifungal use, clarify what the research actually says about restrictive diets, nutrient deficiencies, fatigue, and brain fog, and highlight why it's essential to understand your iron status during the menopausal transition. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why elimination diets can be helpful in specific situations, but may not be appropriate for the long term How removing major food groups without a replacement strategy can cause unintended nutrient deficiencies Why some women become more reactive to certain foods during the menopausal transition How women's protein requirements increase during perimenopause and menopause How low ferritin is often overlooked in women, even when they are experiencing fatigue and brain fog Why women's iron status fluctuates during the perimenopause to menopause transition How some women experience significant symptoms long before anemia appears in their standard lab work Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Links: 1. The Importance of Nutrition in Menopause and Perimenopause—A Review 2. Weight gain during the menopause transition: Evidence for a mechanism dependent on protein leverage 3. The gut microbiota in menopause: Is there a role for prebiotic and probiotic solutions? 4. Cognitive Performance in Relation to Systemic and Brain Iron at Perimenopause 5. Accelerated Increase in Ferritin Levels During Menopausal Transition as a Marker of Metabolic Health 6. Iron and Menopause: Does Increased Iron Affect the Health of Postmenopausal Women? 7. Iron deficiency in peri-menopausal women: Clinical considerations from an expert consensus 8. Cognitive Function in Peri- and Postmenopausal Women: Implications for Considering Iron Supplementation

What does your gut have to do with your hormones, mood, weight, and menopause symptoms? Potentially more than you realize. In this episode of Confessions of a Male Gynecologist, Dr. Shawn Tassone sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, NP, to explore the complex relationship between gut health, hormonal changes, nutrition, and weight management during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Cynthia shares how a personal health crisis changed the direction of her work and led her to take a deeper look at the gut microbiome. Together, she and Dr. Tassone discuss why digestive symptoms often change during midlife, how chronic stress can disrupt the gut, and why weight-loss resistance is rarely caused by one single issue. They also address some of the most common nutrition mistakes women make, including under-eating protein, relying heavily on processed foods, consuming more carbohydrates than their bodies tolerate well, and overlooking the impact of alcohol on sleep, metabolism, and weight-loss goals. You'll also hear their perspectives on restrictive diets, gut testing, supplements, fermented foods, plant diversity, and the importance of choosing high-quality dietary fats. This conversation is not about following another rigid wellness protocol. It is about understanding how your gut, hormones, nutrition, stress, and lifestyle work together—and making informed choices that support your health during midlife. In this episode, you'll learn: Why gut health can change during perimenopause and menopause How the gut microbiome may influence hormones, mood, and digestion Why chronic stress can affect both digestive and metabolic health The many factors that can contribute to weight-loss resistance Why women need adequate protein to preserve muscle as they age How alcohol can interfere with sleep, metabolism, and weight management Why processed foods can make overeating easier The potential limitations of highly restrictive diets, including carnivore diets How gastrointestinal testing may uncover concerns such as H. pylori Why supplements should be selected based on individual needs The benefits of adding fermented foods to your diet Why Cynthia recommends aiming for 30 different plant varieties each week What to consider when purchasing olive oil How women can feel more empowered, not restricted, by their nutrition choices Gut symptoms, hormonal changes, and weight concerns should not automatically be dismissed as an unavoidable part of aging. By looking at the full picture, women can better understand what their bodies need and make more sustainable decisions for their long-term health. Listen now, share this episode with a woman navigating midlife, and subscribe to Confessions of a Male Gynecologist for honest, evidence-informed conversations about women's health, hormones, menopause, and wellness. About Cynthia Thurlow, NP Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, host of the Everyday Wellness podcast, author and international speaker, with over 15 million views for her second TEDx talk (Intermittent Fasting: Transformational Technique). With over 25 years of experience in health and wellness, Cynthia is a globally recognized expert in perimenopause/menopause and intermittent fasting, and has been featured on ABC, FOX5, KTLA, CW, Medium, Entrepreneur, and The Megyn Kelly Show. Her mission is to help empower women to live their most optimal lives in perimenopause and beyond. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Instagram | @cynthia_thurlow_ Listen to the Everyday Wellness Podcast Purchase The Menopause Gut by Cynthia Thurlow, NP Episode Resources: Work with Dr. Tassone | Tassone Advanced Gynecology Dr. Tassone's Book | The Hormone Balance Bible Dr. Tassone's Integrative Hormonal Archetype Quiz | Learn Your Hormonal Archetype Medical Disclaimer This podcast and website represent the opinions of Dr. Shawn Tassone and his guests. The content here should not be taken as medical advice and is for informational purposes only. Because each person is so unique, please consult your health care professional for any medical questions.

I'm delighted to reconnect with Dr. Philip Ovadia today. He is a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon with over 20 years of experience in the operating room and the founder of Ovadia Heart Health, a telemedicine practice focused on preventing and treating metabolic and cardiovascular disease through dietary and lifestyle intervention. He has co-authored two books, including, most recently, Stay Off My Kitchen Table. Today we discuss key statistics on metabolic health, metabolic health challenges, and lifestyle interventions, including Dr. Ovadia's three I's (insulin resistance, inflammation, and imaging), optimal lab values, vulnerable populations, and why prevention is key, especially for women and heart disease. We discuss the influence of gut and metabolic health, elimination diets, the reintroduction of food, and the positive influence of AI on medicine. We also cover the impact of GLP-1s and so much more. Stay tuned for an insightful conversation with Dr. Phil Ovadia on why improving metabolic health is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent cardiovascular disease. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why clinicians often fail to recognize the five metabolic syndrome criteria as signs of metabolic disease Dr. Ovadia introduces his "three I's”, and explains why they deserve far more attention when evaluating cardiovascular disease risk. How dietary and lifestyle interventions can improve metabolic health, reduce medication use, and help people feel more empowered Why blood work should always be interpreted as part of the bigger picture rather than focusing on a single value How metabolic changes during perimenopause and menopause can increase cardiovascular disease risk, and why prevention is particularly important How gut dysfunction can interfere with nutrient absorption and contribute to ongoing metabolic health challenges The value of using the carnivore diet as an elimination diet Dr. Ovadia explains why he is optimistic about AI in medicine How Dr. Ovadia's perspective on GLP-1 medications has evolved, and how he now uses low-dose GLP-1s alongside dietary and lifestyle interventions for certain patients Some simple measures to help you better understand your current metabolic health Bio: Dr. Philip Ovadia Conducting over 3,000 heart surgeries taught Dr. Philip Ovadia that good health comes from lifestyle and nutrition, not surgery. Sadly, many of his patients considered their heart attacks “inevitable.” Having lost 100lbs to overcome lifelong obesity, Dr Ovadia is on a mission to help people stay off his operating table by teaching them how to never need a heart surgeon through his Telehealth practice, Ovadia Heart Health. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Philip Ovadia On his website On social media: @ifixhearts Pre-order a copy of Stay Off My Kitchen Table

Brain fog, fatigue, and low energy can feel frustrating when you're already eating healthy. But what if your brain isn't asking for another supplement — what if it's asking for a missing color on your plate? In this episode, I'm talking about blue and purple foods and why they may be one of the most overlooked ways to support brain health, hormone balance, metabolism, and long-term memory. These foods contain anthocyanins, powerful plant compounds that help protect the brain from oxidative stress and support cognitive function. And for women in perimenopause and menopause, this matters even more because estrogen naturally helps protect the brain — and as estrogen changes, your brain needs extra support. What You'll Learn • Why brain fog can happen even when you eat healthy. • The color category most people are missing. • How blue and purple foods support memory, inflammation, and brain health. • Why this matters more during perimenopause and menopause. • The simple foods you can start adding this week. If you're dealing with fatigue, brain fog, hormone imbalance, digestive issues, IBS symptoms, weight loss resistance, or low energy, this episode will help you see how one simple daily shift can support your focus, energy, and future brain health. WOMEN'S FUNCTIONAL HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION PROGRAM- IS OPEN! OUR NEXT COHORT IS STARTING SEPTEMBER 29! If some part of you has been quietly wondering whether this could be your path, come find out. Learn more at: womensfunctionalhealth.org Browse the course catalog: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Schedule a call with me: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Women deserve more, and you can be the one to make real change, starting with your own life. Let's connect on Instagram for daily health tips at @drmegmill. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program. This podcast is for women entering perimenopause and beyond who are struggling with fatigue, brain fog, bloating, weight loss resistance, and unpredictable hormones. If you're dealing with exhaustion, low energy, brain fog, bloating, IBS, constipation, digestive discomfort, histamine issues, migraines, anxiety or hormone imbalances, this show is for you.  You'll learn how to support your metabolism, balance hormones naturally, beat IBS and bloating, and finally break through stubborn weight gain. Discover science-backed strategies to optimize digestion, improve gut health, and manage perimenopause symptoms and other hormonal imbalances—without restrictive diets or endless supplements. Whether it's addressing estrogen dominance, blood sugar balance, or adrenal fatigue, this podcast gives you the tools to take control of your health and feel vibrant again.  If you are enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a review or share it with a friend.  If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too!  Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow, Just Ingredients Podcast, Longevity with Nathalie Niddam, Wellness Mama, The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Ancient Health Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Hormone Solution with Karen Martel, The Dr. Hyman Show, The Thyroid Fixer with Dr. Amie Hornaman, Treated with Dr. Sara, Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin, Better! with Dr. Stephanie, Energized with Dr. Mariza Snyder. 

Are we missing the most important piece of the menopause puzzle by focusing only on hormones? In this episode of the IRH Clinician's Corner, Margaret Floyd Barry is joined by Cynthia Thurlow—nurse practitioner, TEDx speaker, and internationally recognized expert on women's metabolic health and menopause. Together, they dive into the groundbreaking concepts behind Cynthia Thurlow's latest book, The Menopause Gut, exploring the complex interplay between hormones, the gut microbiome, and the immune system during perimenopause and beyond. Through personal stories and clinical insights, they unpack why midlife brings such profound shifts in women's health, why common approaches often fail, and what innovative strategies practitioners can use to better support clients through hormonal transitions. Inside this episode, we explore: Why declining estrogen affects far more than hot flashes The hidden connection between the gut, hormones, and immune system How Cynthia's personal health crisis transformed her clinical perspective Practical strategies for supporting women through perimenopause Why stress and trauma deserve a place in every menopause conversation Clinical pearls that can immediately improve client care The Clinician's Corner is brought to you by the Institute of Restorative Health. Want to learn more? Gut cases are some of the most complex you'll see in practice. The symptom picture is rarely straightforward, and knowing where to start makes a real difference in how quickly clients move. Grab the free quick reference guide covering the 5 essential considerations for full digestive healing, including common symptom presentations, correlated lab markers on the GI-MAP stool test, and therapeutic considerations to help you build a clearer clinical picture. It's a practical tool worth keeping close when you're working through a complex GI case. Download it free here! Connect with IRH: Upcoming Event: PCOS has a new official name: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. The science isn't new. Functional practitioners have understood the metabolic and hormonal complexity of these cases for years. The name just finally says so. On August 12th, Margaret Floyd Barry and Sara Fields are hosting a free live session on what this means for your practice. What shifts in how you assess and talk with female clients. What stays the same. Live Q&A at the end. Free. 60 minutes. Register here! Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/instituteofrestorativehealth/ For educational content and updates on current events, join our email list here.    Connect with Cynthia Thurlow: Website: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cynthiathurlowofficial YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cynthiathurlow Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-wellness-midlife-hormones-menopause-and/id1435214303 To buy her new book, The Menopause Gut, visit: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/the-menopause-gut   Timestamps:  00:00 Health crisis and hospitalization 07:25 Understanding the gut's broader impacts 14:58 Understanding long-term effects of contraceptives 17:36 Discussing oral contraceptives and health risks 24:34 Hormonal changes and immune system effects 29:46 Menopause and microbiome changes 36:03 Improving sleep with lifestyle changes 37:45 Discussing microbiome testing benefits 44:07 Balancing hormones and mental health 51:38 Sponsor acknowledgments and health tools 57:29 Discussing responsible product usage 01:01:12 Working with middle-aged women Speaker bio:  Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, two-time TEDx speaker, and internationally recognized expert in perimenopause, menopause, and women's metabolic health. She is the host of the top-rated Everyday Wellness podcast, CEO and founder of the Everyday Wellness Project, and author of The Menopause Gut: Balance Your Microbiome to Reclaim Your Health in Midlife and Beyond. With over 25 years of clinical experience and a TEDx talk surpassing 15 million views, Cynthia is dedicated to translating cutting-edge research on the gut-hormone axis and women's longevity into practical strategies that empower women to thrive in midlife and beyond.   Keywords: functional health practitioners, perimenopause, menopause, women's metabolic health, gut health, gut microbiome, estrobolome, estrogen, progesterone, immune system, hormone replacement therapy, HRT, autoimmune conditions, gut permeability, digestive function, bile acids, beta glucuronidase, inflammation, neurotransmitters, oral contraceptives, chronic disease, microbiome testing, adverse childhood events, trauma, sleep hygiene, stress management, GLP1s, constipation, urinary tract infections, vaginal estrogen Disclaimer: The views expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are those of the individual speakers and interviewees, and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC does not specifically endorse or approve of any of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. The information and opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series are for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any medical concerns, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional. The Institute of Restorative Health, LLC is not liable for any damages or injuries that may result from the use of the information or opinions expressed in the IRH Clinician's Corner series. By viewing or listening to this information, you agree to hold the Institute of Restorative Health, LLC harmless from any and all claims, demands, and causes of action arising out of or in connection with your participation. Thank you for your understanding.  

Today, we have a sponsored episode featuring One Skin, a super high-value company I've worked with over the past two years. I'm joined today by Dr. Carolina Reis Oliveira, one of the CEOs and co-founders of One Skin. Dr. Oliveira holds a PhD in stem cell biology and tissue engineering. She has co-invented five patents and co-authored numerous scientific publications. She and her team are disrupting the outdated anti-aging skincare industry with their cutting-edge research on skin and longevity. In our conversation, Dr. Reis Oliveira shares her journey from receiving her PhD to co-founding One Skin. We explore the impact of cellular senescence and immunosenescence and how estrogen receptors in the skin change during perimenopause and menopause, increasing the rate of senescent cell accumulation. We discuss skin as a longevity organ and the research behind the OS-01 peptide, including how it supports the microbiome and blood flow, its exceptional results for increasing hair thickness, and how to use this peptide in skin, body, or hair care. We also cover the effects of sun and environmental exposures on skin aging, and Dr. Reis Oliveira discusses her current research on the influence of GLP-1s on stem cells and skin health. Stay tuned for a truly interesting and insightful conversation on the science of skin, longevity, and the latest research behind One Skin. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: What led Dr. Reis Oliveira and her team to focus on cellular senescence and skin as a longevity organ? What cellular senescence is, and why it becomes increasingly important during perimenopause and menopause How maintaining a healthy skin barrier and good hydration helps the skin recover from various stressors One Skin's research and product development process How Dr. Reis Oliveira's team measures the epigenetic signature of the skin to determine biological skin age The importance of supporting the barrier function across the entire body, and not just the face How stress, hormonal changes, and aging increase senescent cells within hair follicles, and how to support hair density and thickness Why protecting your skin from UV exposure remains an important part of healthy aging Investigating whether the OS-01 peptide could help support skin quality in people using GLP-1 medications How long does it typically take to see results with One Skin face, body, eye, and hair products Bio: Dr. Carolina Reis Oliveira Dr. Carolina Reis Oliveira is the CEO and co-founder of One Skin. She holds a Ph.D. in stem cell biology and tissue engineering, is a co-inventor of 5 patents, and a co-author of numerous scientific publications. She relocated from Brazil to Silicon Valley in 2016 to found One Skin, a fast-growing longevity company developing products to promote skin age reversal by targeting a central driver of aging, the accumulation of senescent cells. Carolina and her team are disrupting the outdated anti-aging skincare industry with their groundbreaking research around skin and longevity. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Carolina Reis Oliveira One Skin On TikTok Instagram

I am honored to have Dr. Carrie Jones back on the podcast today. She's a naturopathic physician and hormone expert with over 20 years of clinical experience in women's health and endocrinology. In today's conversation, we unpack common social media myths about midlife, the influence of lifestyle choices in perimenopause, the role of cortisol and hormones, and current research on the parasympathetic nervous system. Dr. Jones explains vagal freeze, how our stress response can exacerbate it, and why stress has become so normalized. We also explore the influence of synthetic hormones, thyroid propaganda, immune system function, autoimmunity, lab reference values and ranges, and the timing hypothesis of hormone replacement therapy, and Dr. Jones shares her favorite new supplements. Stay tuned for another insightful conversation with one of my favorite voices in the hormone space. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The importance of being thoughtful about information shared on social media regarding perimenopause and menopause How chronic stress becomes harder to tolerate and can cause an increase in inflammation during perimenopause Some simple strategies to help you feel safe, connected, and supported, and improve your vagal tone How actual stress, anticipated stress, and perceived stress all activate the same stress response How chronic stress affects every system within the body How certain women can tolerate synthetic hormones very well, while others develop various symptoms Why basic blood tests and reference ranges are not always optimal for everyone Factors that could influence thyroid function, and the benefits of a broader thyroid assessment than TSH alone Dr. Jones explains why she prefers to start hormone therapy early in perimenopause if appropriate The new supplements Dr. Jones uses to support mood, stress, and sleep Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Carrie Jones On her website Instagram YouTube Hello Hormones Podcast

I'm excited to welcome Dr. Dave Rabin today. Dr. Rabin is a translational neuroscientist and board-certified psychiatrist who specializes in treatment-resistant PTSD, addiction, vagus nerve activation, and HRV as a biomarker. He is also the author of A Simple Guide to Being Alive, a thoughtful and helpful guide to supporting our health, and one of my favorite books in the last several years. In this episode, we explore the habitat crisis and why we cannot bully our nervous system into safety. Dr. Rabin explains trauma and support, healing from within, the role of anhedonia, and why the absence of pleasure is a physiologic issue rather than a moral one. We also discuss wonder, awe, and play; the importance of touch, intimacy, eye contact, oxytocin, and co-regulation; the role of psychedelics, medication, and psychotherapy in trauma healing, and how kindness toward ourselves and others can help activate the vagus nerve. Stay tuned for an insightful discussion on supporting your nervous system, healing from within, and rethinking what it means to be truly alive. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why Dr. Rabin believes we are facing a habitat crisis rather than simply a mental health crisis What happens when you try to bully your nervous system into safety How the vagus nerve helps shift the body from chronic stress into recovery Being blamed or unsupported after hardship can reinforce a victim mindset. Why medicine, technology, practitioners, and other tools should help activate your own healing rather than become something you depend on Wonder, awe, play, and pleasure may support the body's natural healing response. How human connection, oxytocin, co-regulation, and shared experiences support nervous system regulation and recovery How psychedelic-assisted therapy fits into trauma healing How medication can help stabilize people while healing begins Why being kind to yourself is an essential part of healing Bio: Dr. Davis Rabin Dr. David M. L. Rabin, MD, PhD, is a translational neuroscientist, psychiatrist, entrepreneur & inventor on a mission to cure mental illness. He has been studying the impact of chronic stress in humans for over 20 years, focusing on trauma, addiction, and human performance. Dr. Rabin is a Senior Research Scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition, the Chief Medical Officer and co-founder at Apollo Neuroscience, the Executive Director of The Board of Medicine Nonprofit Medical Board, and the Medical Director of The Apollo Clinic. In addition to hosting The Psychedelic Report and Your Brain Explained podcasts, Dr. Rabin regularly serves as an expert for news outlets such as The New York Times, Vogue, CBS News, The Washington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. In his spare time, he enjoys cooking, dancing, playing volleyball, sailing, and hiking with his wife, Kathryn, and their son, Sammy. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. David Rabin On his website On social media: @DrDaveRabin The Psychedelic Report and Your Brain Explained Podcasts Dr. Rabin's book: A Simple Guide to Being Alive

If you're a woman at midlife and your body suddenly feels different — even though you're doing “all the right things” — this episode will help you understand why. In this episode, Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner, host of the Everyday Wellness podcast, international speaker, and bestselling author of the Menopause Gut: Balance Your Microbiome to Reclaim Your Health in Midlife and Beyond. With more than 25 years of experience in health and wellness — and over 15 million views on her TEDx talk about intermittent fasting — Cynthia is one of the leading voices helping women understand the powerful connection between hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and the gut microbiome. You'll learn how your gut microbiome impacts your weight, inflammation, metabolism, mood, brain fog, sleep, immune system, and energy — and why so many midlife symptoms are biological signals, not personal failures. Cynthia also shares simple, practical steps you can start using today to support your body during menopause and perimenopause instead of fighting against it. This conversation will help you stop blaming yourself, better understand your body, and advocate for the care and support you deserve. Because once you understand what's happening, you can finally do something about it. And as a special gift for I Dare You listeners, get access to your FREE Atomic Habits Mid-Year Resolution Toolkit to help you reflect, refocus, and build the habits that will help you reach your goals faster and to help you live with more joy and purpose. Go to idareyoupod.com to grab your FREE toolkit. No catch. Connect with Cynthia: Instagram:@cynthia_thurlow_ X/Twitter: @_CynthiaThurlow Youtube: @Cynthiathurlow Podcast: Everyday Wellness Website: www.cynthiathurlow.com

One of the things that hasn't gotten a lot of attention in the menopause space is the gut. It's one of those symptoms that you may have not even thought was related to this stage in life. You may find that you have diarrhea, constipation, and less tolerance with certain foods. Or like my guest Cynthia Thurlow, one bout of food poisoning can turn your gut upside down and have lasting effects for years.Cynthia is a nurse practitioner and metabolic health expert who explains why the gut matters in midlife and also gives us education on what is actually going on. How estrogen and progesterone directly impact your gut bacteria, motility, and inflammation. And while there are many modalities to treating it, some with good intentions moving from pharmaceutical drugs to vitamins isn't really giving the relief that many women are looking for.We get into the gut-brain connection, why fiber might be causing bloating, and how to start with the basics to getting your gut health on a good path.HighlightsThe gut microbiome contains 40 trillion bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. There are actually more cells in your microbiome than in your entire body.Most of the communication on the gut-brain axis goes from gut to brain, not the other way around. What happens in your gut directly affects your brain and mood.Ninety-five percent of patients don't eat enough protein. That's problem number one before worrying about fiber or any other intervention.Sitting down to eat and taking four to five deep breaths before meals shifts you out of sympathetic and into parasympathetic mode. This alone can improve digestion.There's a direct connection between gut microbiome health and vaginal microbiome health. They're not separate systems.Screening for adverse childhood events and trauma changes how you approach treatment because it rewires the autonomic nervous system and affects gut health.If you're experiencing digestive changes during perimenopause or menopause, this episode is for you. Understanding your gut is the first step to feeling better. If you found this helpful, please subscribe so you don't miss future conversations about what real midlife health looks like.Note: We experienced some audio technical difficulties during this recording. We've worked to enhance the sound quality as much as possible. Thank you for your patience and for listening.Get in tough with Cynthia:WebsiteBookInstagramFacebookTwitter/XYoutubePodcastSubstackGet in Touch with Me:WebsiteInstagramYoutubeSubstack

Fatigue can feel confusing when you're getting sleep but still waking up tired, irritable, foggy, or emotionally drained. If you're a high-achieving woman juggling work, family, stress, hormones, gut health, and the mental load of "doing it all," this episode will help you understand why your exhaustion may be about more than sleep. In this conversation, I'm joined by Dr. Nikia Smith, a board-certified anesthesiologist who has experienced burnout twice. We talk about the slow build of burnout, why so many women miss the early signs, and how chronic stress can impact energy, hormone balance, metabolism, digestion, brain fog, and weight loss resistance. In this episode, you'll hear: • Why fatigue that sleep doesn't fix may be a sign of emotional and nervous system overload. • The early "simmering pot" signs of burnout high-achieving women often ignore. • How irritability, decision fatigue, and autopilot living can signal deeper exhaustion. • Why self-care alone is not enough without boundaries, values, and support. • How learning to say no and delegate can help protect your energy and health. This episode is for the woman who looks like she has it all together but feels depleted behind the scenes. If you've been blaming yourself for low energy, brain fog, stress, digestive issues, or hormonal imbalance, this conversation will help you see your fatigue differently — and understand what your body may be trying to tell you. Where to find Dr. Nikia Smith: Website: https://sheisfireforged.com/IG: @nikiasmithmd   WOMEN'S FUNCTIONAL HEALTH COACH CERTIFICATION PROGRAM- IS OPEN! If some part of you has been quietly wondering whether this could be your path, come find out. Learn more at: womensfunctionalhealth.org Browse the course catalog: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Schedule a call with me: https://go.megmill.com/wfhicoursecatalog Women deserve more, and you can be the one to make real change, starting with your own life. Let's connect on Instagram for daily health tips at @drmegmill. This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program. This podcast is for women entering perimenopause and beyond who are struggling with fatigue, brain fog, bloating, weight loss resistance, and unpredictable hormones. If you're dealing with exhaustion, low energy, brain fog, bloating, IBS, constipation, digestive discomfort, histamine issues, migraines, anxiety or hormone imbalances, this show is for you.  You'll learn how to support your metabolism, balance hormones naturally, beat IBS and bloating, and finally break through stubborn weight gain. Discover science-backed strategies to optimize digestion, improve gut health, and manage perimenopause symptoms and other hormonal imbalances—without restrictive diets or endless supplements. Whether it's addressing estrogen dominance, blood sugar balance, or adrenal fatigue, this podcast gives you the tools to take control of your health and feel vibrant again.  If you are enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a review or share it with a friend.  If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too!  Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow, Just Ingredients Podcast, Longevity with Nathalie Niddam, Wellness Mama, The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Ancient Health Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Hormone Solution with Karen Martel, The Dr. Hyman Show, The Thyroid Fixer with Dr. Amie Hornaman, Treated with Dr. Sara, Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin, Better! with Dr. Stephanie, Energized with Dr. Mariza Snyder. 

In this episode, Vanessa sits down with bestselling author, nurse practitioner, and Everyday Wellness host Cynthia Thurlow to discuss why women who enter perimenopause with more muscle and better metabolic health often experience a smoother transition. The PSMF Library is officially live

Most women step into perimenopause the same way Gabriela did — in the dark, without language, without a roadmap, and without anyone telling them what was actually happening in their bodies. The anxiety, the brain fog, the rage, the fatigue, the loss of libido — they could feel it all, but they could not make sense of it. Dr. Mariza Snyder felt the same way. Even after 17 years of clinical experience supporting women through this transition.In this episode of Pleasure in the Pause, Gabriela sits down with Dr. Mariza Snyder for one of the most layered and honest conversations this show has ever had. This is a deeply intergenerational conversation and together they bridge that gap and pass the wisdom forward.Are you ready to awaken your sensuality and feel more empowered in your body? Access the FREE Pleasure Upgrade Bundle at https://www.pleasureinthepause.com/gift.Dr. Mariza Snyder is a powerhouse advocate for midlife women, leveraging 17+ years as a practitioner, author, and speaker to spark a massive movement for women in perimenopause and beyond. With her top-rated Energized with Dr. Mariza podcast, she's a trusted guide, offering science-backed solutions for perimenopause and metabolic health. Her new book, The Perimenopause Revolution, is the ultimate resource for women ready to take charge of their health and embrace perimenopause with resilience and confidence. Check out her website, drmariza.com, for solutions to thrive. In this episode, we discuss: The often-overlooked connection between hormones and the nervous systemHow to distinguish what's hormonal from what may be years of accumulated stress and over-functioningThe role of rage as a messenger rather than something to suppressThe practical tools women can use to move through this transition with greater resilienceYou are not going to be the same woman on the other side of this transition. That is not a warning. That is a promise. Perimenopause is equally as destabilizing as it is transformative — and the more you understand what your body is doing and why, the more you can move through it with clarity, compassion, and a sense of what is actually possible on the other side. If you're seeking to reclaim your pleasure and vitality, join Gabriella at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.pleasureinthepause.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for this enlightening journey into the heart of female pleasure and empowerment.CONNECT WITH DR. MARIZA SNYDER:FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/drmarizasnyder/Insta: https://instagram.com/drmariza/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/drmarizasnyderLINKS MENTIONED: Episode 107 — From Survival Mode to Self-Connection https://www.pleasureinthepause.com/blog/nervous-system-reset-for-midlife-women Episode 106 — The Menopause Gut with Cynthia Thurlow https://www.pleasureinthepause.com/blog/midlife-sobriety-and-returning-to-yourself-with-ashley-kelsch CONNECT WITH GABRIELLA ESPINOSA:InstagramLinkedInWork with Gabriella! Full episodes on YouTube.The information shared on Pleasure in the Pause is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or Pleasure in the Pause.

Bloating. Brain fog. Stubborn weight that won't budge. What if it's not failing hormones—it's your gut asking for help? As estrogen declines, the gut microbiome becomes midlife's new control center, driving everything from immunity and mood to metabolism and menopause weight gain. Nurse practitioner, TEDx speaker, and Everyday Wellness host Cynthia Thurlow joins us to unpack her new bestseller, The Menopause Gut. You'll learn what "leaky gut" really means, how the estrobolome affects hormone balance, the critical gut-bone health axis, and which gut health tests matter in perimenopause and menopause. Time for a gut check! FOLLOW A CERTAIN AGE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ GET INBOX INSPO: Sign up for our newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AGE BOLDLY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We share new episodes, giveaways, links we love, and midlife resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Coffee First Thing, Fasted Workouts, and Why Your Morning Routine Is Wrecking Your Hormones in Midlife Morning fatigue isn't just about bad sleep — the first hour of your day shapes your hormone balance, metabolism, brain fog, and energy. Have you ever done everything "right" — fasted workout, coffee on an empty stomach, fasting until noon — and still felt more exhausted and anxious than ever? In this solo episode, I break down why those wellness habits are cortisol-wrecking chaos for a midlife woman. They were built for a twenty-five-year-old man's body, not yours. I'll walk you through six science-backed things to do before 9 AM that actually match your physiology, plus a twenty-minute version for busy mornings. Key Points The one simple swap that changes how women feel more than almost anything I recommend — and why order matters more than the habit. Why that "I can't function without coffee" feeling isn't an addiction — it's a hormonal clue most women miss. The reason your thyroid labs keep coming back "normal" while you still have every symptom of an underactive thyroid. How one client lost weight and got her energy back with six small morning swaps. We connect the dots between cortisol, the HPA axis, blood sugar, thyroid function, and metabolism — so you can finally understand why the "healthy" things you're doing might be working against you. Stop wasting time (and money) on products that don't work. My Trusted Brands Guide is the exact list I share with my private clients — the skincare, supplements, food, and wellness tools that have been tested and proven to deliver results. No fluff. No guesswork. Just the brands you can finally feel good about using. ✨ Plus, I scored exclusive discounts from some of these companies just for my community.

What happens to your gut when estrogen declines? In this episode, Jeff sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, nurse practitioner and author of The Menopause Gut, to explore the overlooked connection between hormones and digestive health. How declining estradiol impacts the microbiome and increases inflammation What is the estrobolome and estrogen processing in the gut Why 80% of autoimmune conditions affect women Sleep, stress, and their cascading effects on gut health Practical protocols for nutrition, movement, and hormone optimization This episode is for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, anyone curious about the gut-hormone connection, and those seeking science-backed strategies for midlife health. Stripes: Visit stripesbeauty.com and use the code COMMUNE20 for 20% off our entire product line. Stemregen: Get 20% off your first order at stemregen.co/commune with the code COMMUNEPOD Vivobarefoot: Try Vivobarefoot risk-free with a 100-day return guarantee, and get 25% off your order at vivobarefoot.com/commune. LMNT: Get a free 8-count Sample Pack of LMNT's most popular drink mix flavors with any purchase at drinklmnt.com/commune.

You have been told that weight gain, crippling anxiety, and hot flashes are just a "normal" part of getting older. But what if your menopausal symptoms are actually a warning sign that your gut and liver are failing to detoxify your body? And what if the unresolved trauma from your childhood is physically aging your ovaries right now? In this episode, nurse practitioner and bestselling author Cynthia Thurlow exposes the clinical realities of perimenopause and menopause. We break down the "Estrobolome"—the hidden collection of gut bacteria responsible for removing estrogen from your body—and explain why common constipation is causing toxic hormones to recirculate and drive estrogen dominance. Cynthia also reveals why millions of women are prescribed synthetic thyroid medications (like Synthroid) that their bodies literally cannot use, and outlines the exact nutritional and supplemental protocols (including Creatine, Magnesium, and Myo-inositol) required to truly repair your endocrine system. Uncover what's really going on in your body with advanced biomarker testing for hormones, thyroid, and metabolism— plus a 1-hour consultation with a Senior Health Advisor! → http://mybloodwork.com Thank you to our sponsors! Sunlighten Sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/axepodcast Manukora Manuka Honey: https://manukora.com/axe Caraway Home: carawayhome.com/drjoshaxe (Use code DRJOSHAXE) for an exclusive discount Watch The Dr. Josh Axe Show every Monday & Thursday on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjoshaxe?sub_confirmation=1

“What if your bloating, fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, stubborn weight gain, and hormone symptoms are actually starting in your gut?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Dr. Cassie Smith — dual board-certified endocrinologist, founder of Modern Endocrine, and author of Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones — to unpack the powerful connection between gut health, hormone balance, stress, metabolism, inflammation, and reproductive health. Together, they dive into how chronic stress, poor gut health, blood sugar dysregulation, inflammation, and lifestyle overload silently impact everything from cortisol and insulin to estrogen, progesterone, thyroid function, and fertility. Dr. Cassie explains why so many women are told their labs are “normal” while still feeling exhausted, bloated, anxious, inflamed, and disconnected from their bodies — and why gut dysfunction is often the missing piece conventional medicine overlooks. They also explore the growing metabolic and hormonal crisis happening in younger women, the connection between PCOS, insulin resistance, gut dysfunction, and birth control, and why many women are struggling to restore healthy cycles and fertility later in life. This conversation is a powerful reminder that hormones do not work in isolation. Your gut, nervous system, metabolism, sleep, stress resilience, and hormones are all deeply interconnected. If you've been feeling like your body is trying to tell you something but nobody has connected the dots yet, this episode will help you understand where healing truly begins. DR. CASSIE SMITH Dr. Cassie Smith is a dual board-certified endocrinologist and the founder of Modern Endocrine. After becoming frustrated with the limitations of conventional medicine, she built a practice focused on uncovering the root causes behind hormone dysfunction, metabolic issues, fertility struggles, and gut-related symptoms. She is also the author of the book Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones. IN THIS EPISODE Why chronic stress has such a powerful impact on gut health and hormones How gut dysfunction contributes to fatigue, brain fog, bloating, anxiety, and weight resistance The connection between estrogen decline, microbiome diversity, and inflammation Why insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction are rising in younger women The hidden relationship between PCOS, gut health, cortisol, and fertility Why birth control is often used as a Band-Aid instead of addressing root causes The foundational lifestyle habits that support gut and hormone healing Why slowing down, resting, and reducing nervous system overload matters for recovery QUOTES “Your hormones are doing the best they can in the environment you give them.” “It doesn't matter how many supplements or hormones we throw at you if the foundations aren't in place.” “Your gut is where all healing begins.” “Your body cannot heal in survival mode.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Get your “Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones” Book by Dr. Cassie Smith https://guthormonefix.com/ ⁠Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Modern Endocrine Website Modern Endocrine Instagram Modern Endocrine Facebook Modern Endocrine Tiktok Modern Endocrine Youtube Hormones, Metabolism and You PodcastThe Menopause Gut Book by Cynthia Thurlow RELATED EPISODES  741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan 738: The Hidden Link Between Inflammation, Hormones & Fertility with Dr. Natalie Crawford  740: Why You're Bloated, Gaining Weight & Feeling Off in Menopause (It Starts in Your Gut) with Cynthia Thurlow

Today, I am excited to welcome you to the eagerly awaited third installment of Ask Me Anything!  In this episode, I shine a spotlight on a universal challenge that affects the lives of countless women over 35 as I delve into the heart of the problems of weight-loss resistance, plateaus, and the notorious belly fat that seems to cling for dear life.  The flood of questions that keep pouring in speaks volumes and is a testament to the exasperation we all feel! Join me on a journey to navigate that landscape, unravel the mysteries, confront misconceptions, and uncover strategies to overcome, decode, and dismantle the common issue of shedding those unwanted, stubborn pounds! I urge all of you, particularly those older than 35, to know you are not alone in your struggle! Stay tuned for the treasure trove of insights that awaits! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why should you know what your fasting insulin is?  The importance of stress management Helpful supplements for those who have had their gallbladders removed How to deal with cravings and weight gain during the week before your period The first thing to work on if you are struggling with plateaus or weight loss resistance The importance of mitigating stress Managing your macronutrients The loss of muscle as we get older Physical activity and weight loss How important is body set weight?  How trauma impacts weight loss resistance Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Purchase Cynthia's book, The Menopause Gut. Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

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If you're a woman in your 30s, 40s, or 50s feeling like your body is betraying you, this episode reveals the hormonal, gut, and environmental triggers behind perimenopause that most doctors never address, and exactly what you can do about it. -Watch this episode on YouTube for the full video experience: https://www.youtube.com/@DaveAspreyBPR Host Dave Asprey sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner, CEO and founder of the Everyday Wellness Project, and a globally recognized expert in intermittent fasting and women's hormonal health. Her TEDx talk on intermittent fasting has surpassed 10 million views, and she brings over 20 years of functional medicine clinical experience to one of the most underserved conversations in longevity and human performance. Together, they tear apart the outdated medical narrative around perimenopause and menopause, exposing how a lack of knowledge, not biology, is destroying relationships, careers, and quality of life for millions of women. Dave and Cynthia dig into the gut microbiome's role in every symptom women experience in midlife, the mold toxin that is 10,000 times more potent than human estrogen and directly linked to hormonal chaos, and why biohacking your hormones as early as 35 could be the most important longevity move a woman makes. They also cover why statins are wrecking women's metabolism, how trauma accelerates ovarian aging and mitochondrial decline, the surprising connection between histamine reactions and hot flashes, and why GLP-1 micro-dosing alongside hormone replacement therapy is a game-changer for body composition and anti-aging. This episode is essential for listening for anyone serious about biohacking, sleep optimization, functional medicine, longevity, brain optimization, supplements, metabolism, human performance, and smarter not harder approaches to women's health. You'll Learn: Why perimenopause actually begins around age 35 and what to do about it before symptoms hit How a mold-derived xenoestrogen found in conventional beef disrupts hormones at 10,000 times the potency of human estrogen The gut microbiome changes that drive hot flashes, brain fog, weight gain, and mood disorders in perimenopause Why oral micronized progesterone beats topical for sleep optimization and hormonal stability How testosterone drives executive function, motivation, and brain optimization in women The lab tests every woman in perimenopause should run, including fasting insulin, ApoB, ferritin, and a full thyroid panel Why adverse childhood events and unresolved trauma age the ovaries and tank mitochondria How mold toxicity and Lyme disease create a hormonal perfect storm that no amount of supplements will fix The real reason 70 percent of divorces are initiated by women, and what hormones have to do with it Thank you to our sponsors! - Neuronic | Go to www.neuronic.online Code DAVE for $100 off - Superstratum Labs | Get Dave's exact home mold detox kit and save 10% at superstratumlabs.com/products/dave - Joymode | Go to tryjoymode.com/DAVE Or enter DAVE at checkout for 20% off. - Viome | Check it out at viome.com and use code 10DAVE for 10% off. It's time to stop guessing and start knowing your body. Dave Asprey is a four-time New York Times bestselling author, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and the father of biohacking. With over 1,000 interviews and 1 million monthly listeners, The Human Upgrade brings you the knowledge to take control of your biology, extend your longevity, and optimize every system in your body and mind. Each episode delivers cutting-edge insights inhealth, performance, neuroscience, supplements, nutrition, biohacking, emotional intelligence, and conscious living. New episodes are released every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday (BONUS). Dave asks the questions no one else will and gives you real tools to become stronger, smarter, and more resilient. Keywords: Cynthia Thurlow, The Menopause Gut, perimenopause, menopause, hormones, hormone replacement therapy, HRT, bioidentical hormones, progesterone, estrogen, testosterone, thyroid health, gut microbiome, women's health, functional medicine, biohacking, longevity, anti-aging, human performance, mitochondria, sleep optimization, metabolism, supplements, mold toxicity, zearalenone, xenoestrogen, hot flashes, brain fog, body composition, GLP-1, intermittent fasting, trauma, cortisol, adrenal health, leaky gut, histamine intolerance, mast cell activation, insulin resistance, fasting insulin, ApoB, ferritin, statins, ovarian aging, Dave Asprey, smarter not harder Resources: • Learn More From Cynthia And Get Her New Book The Menopause Gut at: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/ • Get My 2026 Clean Nicotine Roadmap | Enroll for free at https://daveasprey.com/2026-clean-nicotine-roadmap/ • Dave Asprey's Latest News | Go to https://daveasprey.com/ to join Inside Track today. • Danger Coffee: https://dangercoffee.com/discount/dave15 • My Daily Supplements: SuppGrade Labs (15% Off) • Favorite Blue Light Blocking Glasses: TrueDark (15% Off) • Dave Asprey's BEYOND Conference: https://beyondconference.com • Dave Asprey's New Book – Heavily Meditated: https://daveasprey.com/heavily-meditated • Join My Substack (Live Access To Podcast Recordings): https://substack.daveasprey.com/ • Upgrade Labs: https://upgradelabs.com Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 04:35 – Root Causes of Perimenopause 07:50 – When Perimenopause Starts 09:47 – Progesterone: When & How 12:16 – Testosterone for Women 14:14 – Thyroid & Energy 18:41 – FDA's HRT Policy Change 20:15 – Hormones & Divorce21:53 – GLP-1s & Body Composition 27:17 – Key Lab Tests 31:13 – AI & Budget Labs 39:44 – Gut Microbiome & Menopause 42:57 – Histamine, Mast Cells & Hot Flashes 47:55 – Toxic Mold & Xenoestrogens 50:31 – Dairy, Raw Milk & Leaky Gut 59:27 – Healing Trauma 1:03:00 – Book Recommendations See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It was once believed that the process of menopause was just something that women had to suffer through, often silently. But today, the conversation is changing. We now know that perimenopause and menopause symptoms can be reduced with science-backed education, hormone replacement therapy, and lifestyle interventions.  Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner and bestselling author who is passionate about helping women take control of their health from midlife and beyond. Her newest book, The Menopause Gut is a paradigm-shifting guide to how hormones shift in perimenopause and menopause, and how balancing the microbiome can shape your health outcomes as you age.  Today, Cynthia is back on The Model Health Show for an important conversation on how women can prioritize feeling their best through the transition of menopause. You're going to learn about the bidirectional relationship between gut health and hormones, how women can navigate the aging process as smoothly as possible, and the critical role nutrition plays in metabolic health, immune health, and more. I hope you enjoy this interview with the one and only Cynthia Thurlow!  In this episode you'll discover: The meaning behind the book title, The Menopause Gut. (2:37) What the 3 Ps of a woman's life are. (5:31) Why the gut is a powerful regulator for aging. (6:28) Specific things that accelerate aging of the ovaries. (7:38) Two things that women need to think about before entering perimenopause. (8:20) What the estrobolome is and why it matters. (9:21) The link between inflammation, the immune system, and menopause. (16:52) How adverse childhood experiences can lead to autoimmune diseases. (29:31) The truth about counting calories, especially for menopausal women. (37:30) Nutrition principles for perimenopausal and menopausal women. (48:36) The main caveat that midlife women should consider about intermittent fasting. (53:00) Items mentioned in this episode include: WildPastures.com/model - Get 20% off every box plus an additional $15 off!  Organifi.com/Model - Use the coupon code MODEL for 20% off + free shipping! The Menopause Gut by Cynthia Thurlow - Order your copy today! Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Website / Podcast / Instagram / Facebook / YouTube  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  Apple Podcasts Spotify Soundcloud Pandora YouTube  This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Wild Pastures and Organifi. Get 100% grassfed and finished beef, pasture raised chicken, and other nutrient dense, regenerative meats. Sign up with my link to get 20%