Everyday Wellness

Dr. Thomas Dayspring joins me again today for the third class in our Lipid Masterclass Series. Dr. Dayspring brings a wealth of expertise as a certified specialist in internal medicine and clinical lipidology, holding fellowships with the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association. This hour-long class is devoted to women's health and abnormal lipids. We continue with our conversation about ApoB, discussing ways to look at other lipid abnormalities related to abnormal ApoBs and talking about our ideal lab values and lifestyle modifications, briefly touching on my lipid journey and the medication I have been taking for the past six months. We examine diagnostics and their limitations, getting into CACs, coronary artery calcification scoring, CIMT, the labs we need to look at, the role of Lp(a), and how it affects our heart. We look into the changes women experience from losing estrogen in menopause, clues women can use to predict future cardiovascular risk, how estrogen helps clear LDL from the body, and the changes occurring with menopause, including higher ApoBs. We also dive into risks women face for cardiovascular disease, the impact of the Women's Health Initiative study, and absorption and synthesis challenges with cholesterol. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why ApoB testing for inherited lipoprotein disorders is essential  Why hypo beta lipoproteins (HDL) are critical for maintaining good health The benefits of a holistic approach to treating high cholesterol The three stages of prevention for atherosclerosis How Lp(a) impacts heart health The importance of assessing early heart function through Lp(a) testing How your pregnancy history can help in predicting your risk for cardiovascular disease Why should women be more concerned about cardiovascular disease than breast cancer? How the Women’s Health Initiative led gynecologists to be more cautious about prescribing HRT How genetically mediated cholesterol abnormalities can impact our ability to absorb and synthesize cholesterol   Bio: Thomas Dayspring MD is a Fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association and is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology. After practicing in New Jersey for 37 years, in 2012, he moved to Virginia to serve as an educational director for a nonprofit cardiovascular foundation until mid-2019 as a Chief Academic Advisor for two major CV laboratories. Since then, he has served as a virtual cardiovascular / lipidology educator. Career-wise he has given over 4000 domestic (in all 50 states) and several international lectures, including over 600 CME programs on atherothrombosis, lipids/lipoproteins (and their treatment), vascular biology, biomarker testing, and women’s cardiovascular issues. He has authored several manuscripts and lipid textbook chapters and performed several podcasts. For several years, he was an Associate Editor of the Journal of Clinical Lipidology. He was the recipient of the 2011 National Lipid Association’s Presidents Award for services to clinical lipidology and the 2023 Foundation of NLA Clinician/Educator Award. He has over 34K followers on his educational Twitter (X) feed (@Drlipid). He has Gold Heart Member status as a professional member of the American Heart Association, and he serves as a Social Media Ambassador for the European Atherosclerosis Society and the National Lipid Association. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring On Twitter (@DrLipid) LinkedIn

It is my pleasure today to introduce Jodi Cohen, a best-selling author, award-winning journalist, functional practitioner, and the Founder of Vibrant Blue Oils, where her training in nutritional therapy and aromatherapy come together to craft unique and exclusive proprietary blends of organic and wildcrafted essential oils.  Jodi has assisted more than 50,000 individuals in overcoming brain-related issues such as anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmunity. In our discussion today, we dive into the fundamental aspects of essential oils, looking at what they are and how they work. We examine the role of the blood-brain barrier and the influence of the autonomic nervous system, focusing on the parasympathetic nervous system and vagus nerve. We explore the importance of vagal tone, the implications of vagal nerve dysfunction and toxicities, and the lymphatic system while also looking at the role of fascia in memories and trauma and the profound effects of essential oils on sleep quality, weight management, and more.  I am excited to share this insightful conversation with Jodi Cohen, as it provides invaluable insights into the vast potential of essential oils in promoting holistic well-being. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What essential oils are and how they work clinically The most effective way to use essential oils How emotional or mental dangers can trigger the autonomic nervous system   The autonomic nervous system can cause inflammation, impaired digestion, and compromised immune function if it is constantly activated Stimulating the vagus nerve can improve resilience and reduce stress Some natural ways to stimulate the vagus nerve The connection between the brain and digestion and how stress can impact digestion and overall health How fascia intertwines with the lymph and vagus nerve Essential oils can facilitate emotional release The benefits of essential oils for sleep and weight management during perimenopause and menopause Bio: Jodi Sternoff Cohen is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, functional practitioner, and founder of Vibrant Blue Oils, where she has combined her training in nutritional therapy and aromatherapy to create unique proprietary blends of organic and wild-crafted essential oils. She has helped over 50,000 clients heal from brain-related challenges, including anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmunity. For the past ten years, she has lectured at wellness centers, conferences, and corporations on brain health, essential oils, stress, and detoxification. She has been seen in The New York Times, Wellness Mama, Elephant Journal, and numerous publications. Her website, vibrantblueoils.com, is visited by over 300,000 natural health seekers every year, and she has rapidly become a top resource for essential oils education on the Internet today. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow On Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Jodi Cohen Vibrant Blue Oils  On Instagram Facebook Use the coupon code WELCOME 10 for $10 off anything you purchase from the Vibrant Blue Oils Shop Jodi’s book, Essential Oils to Boost the Brain and Heal the Body, is available on Amazon and most anywhere books are sold.

I am delighted to have the honor of connecting with Calley Means today. Calley is the Founder of Truemed, a company that facilitates tax-free spending on food and exercise. He also co-authored a book with his sister, Casey Means, called Good Energy, to be released later this year.  Calley graduated from Stanford and Harvard Business School. He was a consultant for food and pharmaceutical firms and now exposes their tactics to weaponize our trusted institutions. In our conversation today, Calley and I examine the impact of drug utilization, including GLP 1s, on obese children and discuss the relevance of his background in food and pharmaceuticals and the problem of treating obesity as a disease. We dive into the role of food stamps and subsidies and look at ways we can help improve food quality in the United States and reduce the influence of the pharmaceutical industry, also addressing conflicts of interest between the NIH and universities, the effects of reduced subsidies and processed food consumption on families, and dopamine regulation.  This conversation has been long-awaited, and as a dedicated fan of Calley's work, I am thrilled to share it with you. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Calley highlights the conflicts of interest in obesity research and the ineffectiveness of the US healthcare system in addressing chronic obesity in children. How the pharmaceutical industry prioritizes profit over health Why the American health crisis is not only a medical problem but also a moral issue The influence of processed food companies on nutritional research The crucial need to address the root causes of chronic diseases How the influence of pharmaceutical lobbyists corrupts Congress The growing distrust in American institutions  How nutrition research funding impacts US food guidelines The challenges of raising children when processed foods get weaponized to hook people Calley discusses his upcoming book, Good Energy, and explains how his company, Truemed, helps patients unlock tax-free spending on metabolically healthy items. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Calley Means On his website Truemed website Instagram Twitter

Today, I am delighted to connect with Caroline Alan, the Co-founder and CEO of Beam Minerals.  Coming from the corporate world, Caroline struggled until she discovered the incredible ability of plant-based minerals to support the body and restore its natural balance. She is now devoted to educating people about the benefits of mineral replenishment and the efficacy of plant-based humic and fulvic substances. In today’s discussion, Caroline shares her journey, and we dive into why we experience such significant mineral depletions in our modern-day lifestyles, looking at hidden hunger and the role of our mitochondria. We discuss the interrelationship between mineral storage and adrenal health, the extensive background of plant-based minerals, and the etiology of cramps and hydration. We also explore the signs and symptoms of mineral depletion and explain how to take mineral products for the best results. Join us to learn about the transformative power of plant-based minerals in our modern lives. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why so many people experience mineral depletion at this time How soil health, food quality, and human health are all interrelated The fundamental role mitochondrial function plays in energy production and overall health Why adrenal health is critical for women during perimenopause and menopause The origins of humic and fulvic minerals How fulvic and humic acids help in preventing chronic diseases Why Caroline advocates for using fulvic acid products instead of salt-based electrolytes Caroline shares tips for managing Herxheimer reactions How do mineral deficiencies impact sleep and exercise performance? The benefits of magnesium spray for foot cramps and plantar fasciitis Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Caroline Alan On the Beam Minerals website  Find Beam Minerals on social media @beamminerals Caroline on social media @themineralgeek

I am honored to connect with Dr. Susan Peirce Thompson today. Dr. Peirce Thompson is an adjunct associate professor of Brain and Cognitive Sciences at the University of Rochester and an expert in the psychology of eating. She is also the New York Times bestselling author of Bright Line Eating. In our conversation today, we dive into the complexities of food addiction, exploring why it is even more challenging than drug or alcohol addiction, the importance of awareness around food addiction, and the impact of genetics and trauma. We discuss the addictive properties of sugar and flour, the bliss point in the processed food industry, and misconceptions surrounding artificial sugars. Dr. Peirce Thompson also shares her journey of addiction and recovery, offering invaluable insights on breaking the cycle of addiction and reframing our relationship with hunger.  I am confident that today’s discussion with Dr. Susan Peirce Thompson will provide valuable insights and provoke thoughtful reflections. Join us to learn how to break the cycle of addiction and reclaim control over your relationship with food. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why food addiction is more challenging to treat than other addictions What are the signs of food addiction? The role of genetics in obesity and food addiction How trauma can lead to food addiction Why hyper-palatable processed foods are so addictive How sugar impacts the brain Why it is best to avoid high fructose corn syrup and all artificial sugars How food companies use the bliss point to make their products addictive Why structured eating is essential in modern society Why hunger is not an emergency Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Susan Peirce Thompson Bright Line Eating

I am honored to reconnect with Dave Feldman today. Our last encounter was in December 2020, for Episode 128, where we delved deeply into the topic of cholesterol. Dave is an engineer by profession. He is profoundly clever and commands great respect within the low-carb and keto community due to his willingness to challenge prevailing narratives, encouraging us to explore alternative perspectives on lipid metabolism and reconsider our understanding of LDL, particularly in the context of lean mass hyper-responders like myself. In our discussion today, we dive into how LDL became so vilified, with Dave shedding light on several crucial research findings. We explain what low-mass hyper-responders are, examine biases and cognitive dissonance, touch on Dave’s new LMHR study, and discuss the Miami Heart study, a longitudinal study of the roles of LDL and plaque burden. We also explore the impact of ApoB and reflect on the essence of science as a pursuit of truth, and Dave shares what lies ahead for himself and his research. I trust you will find this conversation engaging and thought-provoking. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why LDL is considered a villain  How AMRs and APB lipoproteins have influenced how we look at risk stratification What is a lean mass hyper-responder? How a low-carb, high-fat diet can improve the metabolic health of lean mass hyper-responders How Dave, an engineer turned scientist, challenges conventional wisdom in the health and wellness space Dave discusses a study on plaque progression in healthy individuals, focusing on correlating LDL levels  How we are at the forefront of finding the significance of lean mass hyper-responders and LDL Dave shares the next thing he and his team will look at to substantiate his findings on lean mass hyper-responders Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dave Feldman On his website Instagram X     Facebook Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 128 – Cholesterol Obsession: Why It’s the Intellectual Property of the Animal Kingdom with Dave Feldman

I am delighted to have Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe, the CEO and Co-founder of Pendulum, joining me today.  Dr. Cutcliffe is a proud alumnus of Johns Hopkins, with over 25 years of experience leading and managing biology teams in academia, pharmaceuticals, and biotech. Before starting Pendulum, she was the Senior Manager of Biology at Pacific Biosciences and a scientist at Elan Pharmaceuticals.  In our discussion today, we dive into the emerging science of the gut microbiome, examining the effects of aging, antibiotics, nutrition, stress, travel, and menopause on gut health and discussing how vaginal and C-section deliveries differ in impact. We explore differentiators for various categories of bacteria and the roles of butyrate and fiber, looking at fecal transplants and the difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and post-biotics, and explaining why Akkermansia is an essential bacteria for regulating insulin satiety, fortifying the mucin layer, and facilitating targeted delivery of butyrate. Dr. Cutcliffe also shares her top tips for mitigating the effects of travel on the gut microbiome and offers a special discount for listeners.  I am confident that you will find today’s discussion with Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe engaging and enlightening. Stay tuned to learn how to adjust your lifestyle for a healthier gut microbiome. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The benefits of a vaginal delivery Various factors that disrupt the gut microbiome Why it is essential to get enough fiber in your diet What are the signs and symptoms of an unhealthy gut microbiome? The benefits of fecal transplants How the vagus nerve fosters communication between the gut and brain Why artificial sweeteners might not be as harmful to the gut microbiome as previously thought How prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics are interconnected and necessary for overall health The role of Akkermansia in the gut microbiome How to maintain a healthy gut microbiome while traveling   Bio: Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe: Colleen Cutcliffe, PhD, is the CEO and Co-Founder of Pendulum. She has over 25 years of experience leading and managing biology teams in academia, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. Before starting Pendulum, Colleen was the Senior Manager of Biology at Pacific Biosciences and a Scientist at Elan Pharmaceuticals. Colleen received her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Johns Hopkins University and her B.A. in Biochemistry from Wellesley College. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe On the Pendulum Life website Use code THURLOW for 20% off your first order of Pendulum products.

Today, I have the honor of connecting with Juraj Kocar, the CEO of Somavedic Technologies. Somavedic is a groundbreaking frequency therapy device providing practical and easily accessible solutions for EMF exposure, improved sleep, and energy revitalization.  Juraj is a perpetually optimistic and forward-thinking entrepreneur motivated by a profound passion for developing and expanding products that significantly impact the lives of others, and he is currently propelling his dream project to new levels of success. In our discussion today, we meticulously define the role of EMFs, diving into how they affect our health, discussing proactive protection measures, and sharing strategies for mitigating EMF exposure while traveling. We also explore how the revolutionary Somavedic device works, my experience using it, how to choose the correct model, the effects of structured water, and biohacking strategies that Juraj uses daily. Join us for an enriching conversation where we provide valuable insights and practical strategies to enhance your health. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What are EMFs? Juraj discusses the biological effects of chronic EMF exposure How to protect yourself from or minimize the impact of EMF exposure How to deal with EMF exposure when traveling Juraj explains how the Somavedic technology works What structured water is  Why it is beneficial for us to drink structured water Juraj discusses his daily health routine  Strategies for improving your health How to select the Somavedic device that best suits your needs Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Juraj Kocar On his website *Get a 10% discount on Somavedic products by using the code CYNTHIA (Discount code is valid all year long!) On Instagram Via email: hello@somavedic.com

Dr. Thomas Dayspring is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology. He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association. He joins me today for the second class in our series of Lipid Masterclasses.   In today’s class, Dr. Dayspring shares valuable insights on cardiovascular health and lipid management. We dive into the complexities of cardiovascular disease, focusing on lipoproteins, atherogenesis progression, and its implications on myocardial infarctions (heart attacks). He explains the mechanisms of ApoB invasion into arterial walls and discusses the critical importance of finding competent healthcare providers, particularly for women navigating the perimenopausal to menopausal transition. He also gets into the limitations of bikini medicine, and we tackle pertinent issues surrounding hormone replacement therapy, including potential side effects and clinical observations.  Dr. Dayspring has a wealth of information to share today, and we have several additional masterclasses coming up to follow this class. Be sure to tune in for those episodes. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How lipids get transported, and how energy gets produced in the body How the liver prevents fatty liver tissue from building up Dr. Dayspring explains the process of lipolysis   What is the role of LDL particles in atherosclerosis? How the buildup of plaque in arteries can lead to blockages, causing heart attacks or strokes if left untreated Why high cholesterol needs to get diagnosed and treated as early as possible  The importance of HDL cholesterol in immunity and oncogenesis Why ApoB is essential for lipid panel analysis Why women need comprehensive medical care, especially during menopause Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring Twitter (@DrLipid) LinkedIn

Today, I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Sara Gottfried, a board-certified physician practicing evidence-based integrative precision and functional medicine. (She last joined me for Episode 211.) Dr. Gottfried graduated from Harvard and MIT. She is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences at Thomas Jefferson University and the Director of Precision Medicine at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health. She is also the author of four New York Times best-selling books, including her recent publication, The Autoimmune Cure.  In our discussion today, we discuss the interrelationship between trauma and autoimmunity, highlighting its prevalence, particularly among women. We dive into the impact of trauma, explaining its correlation with autoimmune conditions and demystifying the role of the PINE network (the Psycho Immune Neuro Endocrine system). We explore triggers for perimenopause and menopause, gender differences specific to the changes in immunity and vulnerability in women, the consequences of burnout in various professions, the shortcomings of conventional allopathic methods in addressing mental health and trauma, and immunomodulation, including vitamins, polyphenols, low-dose Naltrexone, and somatic-based therapies.  With Dr. Gottfried’s invaluable insights into crucial health topics, this episode is a must-listen. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the traumas we experience as children could make us more susceptible to autoimmune conditions later in life How trauma impacts our immune, neurological, and endocrine systems Addressing trauma through gut health, heart rate variability, and hormone balance How the metabolic and immune system changes triggered during perimenopause and menopause can make women more susceptible to autoimmune issues  How men in combat and women with sexual assault show similar trauma responses  How childhood trauma can shape our direction in life The potential benefits of alternative therapies like LSD, MDMA, and Ayahuasca How measuring gut health can provide valuable insights for treatment options Using low-dose Naltrexone for sleep and immune system modulation The potential of somatic therapies and breathwork for stilling the autonomic nervous system and promoting body awareness Bio: Dr. Sara Gottfried: Sara Szal Gottfried, MD, is a physician, researcher, author, and educator. She graduated from Harvard Medical School and MIT and completed a residency at UCSF, but is more likely to prescribe a CGM and personalized nutrition plan than the latest pharmaceutical. Dr. Gottfried is a global keynote speaker and the author of four New York Times bestselling books about hormones, nutrition, and health. Her latest book is called THE AUTOIMMUNE CURE (March 2024). She is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Dept. of Integrative Medicine and Nutritional Sciences at Thomas Jefferson University and Director of Precision Medicine at the Marcus Institute of Integrative Health. She takes care of executives and professional athletes. Her focus is on the interface of mental and physical health, N-of-1 trial design, personalized molecular profiling, use of wearables, and how to leverage these tools to improve health outcomes.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Sara Gottfried On her website    On Instagram Dr. Gottfried’s new book, The Autoimmune Cure, is available from most bookstores, including Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 211 – Addressing the Root Cause of Hormonal Imbalances with Dr. Sara Gottfried

I am delighted and honored today to interview Dr. Lisa Mosconi. She is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience in neurology and radiology at Cornell Medicine and Director of the Women's BRAIN Initiative and the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital. She is also a globally acclaimed neuroscientist with a Ph.D. in neuroscience and nuclear medicine and the author of the New York Times bestseller The XX Brain and, more recently, The Menopause Brain. In our conversation, we discuss how women’s brains change during perimenopause and menopause, looking at the significance of puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause, as well as the lack of medical research on women and medical gaslighting. We explore the concept of bikini medicine and its misconceptions regarding women's health and hormones alongside the crucial roles of hormones like estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone in our neuroendocrine system. Dr. Mosconi also provides insights into evolving menopausal treatments, including lifestyle interventions.  Dr. Mosconi is an esteemed figure in neuroscience and a prominent voice in women's health. I am confident you will gain valuable insights and perspectives from my discussion with her today. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How women's brains change during perimenopause and menopause How the lack of information for young girls can lead to medical gaslighting and confusion during perimenopause Dr. Mosconi explains how a simple sugar is used as a tracer to track glucose metabolism in the brain during perimenopause Why brain changes during menopause may lead to mental fatigue and brain fog How the lack of training and research on menopause in medical residency programs leads to a poor understanding among clinicians Why women need to consider their brain and metabolic health during perimenopause Why estrogen is essential after menopause The benefits of HRT for menopausal women How stress impacts hormone production Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Lisa Mosconi On her website On Instagram The Menopause Brain will be released March 12th, 2024.

Today's episode is a true gem! I am thrilled to introduce Craig Siegel, the Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best Selling Author of The Reinvention Formula. Craig is recognized globally as a keynote speaker, TEDx speaker, and host of the CLS Experience Podcast, where he has conversed with some of the most influential figures in the world. Having the privilege of being a guest on his show in 2023, I am delighted to have Craig joining me today to share his remarkable insights and discuss his inspiring journey.  In our conversation today, Craig shares how the pandemic became a catalyst for his evolution, which he refers to as his global awakening. We explore the importance of setting audacious goals and the transformative power of vulnerability. We also look into neuro-linguistic programming and clarify how it can cultivate confidence and reframe your mindset. We also discuss the role of adversity, ego dynamics, and why service implies love, and creates a lasting legacy. This conversation will infuse your year with invaluable wisdom, and I look forward to additional collaborations with Craig going forward.  Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the pandemic restructured Craig’s life and helped him redefine himself Craig shares his journey of embracing vulnerability and authenticity The benefits of having bold, fearless, and audacious goals How being willing to look silly or make mistakes can lead to success How mindset influences growth, both personally and professionally How neuro-linguistics can reprogram belief systems The power of choice and imagination for creating positive change Why it is essential to align your decisions with your personal and professional goals rather than being driven by ego Why building a community based on mutual support and collaboration is even more important than building an audience How authentic conversations can lead to inspired action Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Craig Siegel On his website Instagram The CLS Experience Podcast Craig's Book The Reinvention Formula is available on Amazon and most anywhere books are sold. For free inspirational messages throughout the week, text Craig at 917-634-3796 using the code CYNTHIA and share your favorite nugget from today’s conversation.

Today, I am delighted to reconnect with two previous guests, Dr. Darren Candow. Dr. Candow is a distinguished professor and an internationally renowned researcher on creatine monohydrate, nutrition, and physical activity who joined me before on Episode 301, where we spoke about creatine.  We are doing an AMA session today, delving into various themes surrounding creatine, from debunking outdated RDA recommendations to exploring the synergies between strength training and creatine efficacy. We look into the cognitive benefits of creatine, exploring how it interacts with caffeine and its implications for bone health, hydration, anabolic resistance, and metabolic health.  I trust you will find today's AMA session as enlightening and enriching as I did while recording it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The safety and efficacy of creatine as a supplement How creatine increases muscle mass and reduces protein catabolism The benefits of combining creatine with protein  Is it better to take creatine before or after a workout? How creatine supplementation may improve brain performance and mental clarity Why exercise is essential for those who want to experience the benefits of creatine for maintaining their bone health The benefits of resistance-band workouts for post-menopausal women Are there any age-related limits for creatine supplementation? Bio: Dr. Darren Candow Dr. Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP, is Professor and Director of the Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina, Canada. The overall objectives of Dr. Candow’s research program are to develop effective lifestyle interventions involving nutrition (primarily creatine monohydrate) and physical activity (resistance training), which have practical and clinical relevance for improving musculoskeletal aging and reducing the risk of falls and fractures. Dr. Candow has published over 120 peer-refereed journal manuscripts, supervised over 20 MSc and PhD students, and received research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, the National Institute of Health, and the Nutricia Research Foundation. In addition, Dr. Candow serves on the editorial review boards for the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, Nutrients, and Frontiers. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Darren Candow On Instagram and Twitter (now X) Previous Episode Mentioned: Ep. 301 Creatine: The Best Supplement for Better Bones & Brain Health with Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP

Today, I have the privilege of engaging with Kashif Khan. Kashif is the author of The DNA Way. He is also a two-time TEDx speaker, a celebrity longevity coach, and Founder of The DNA Company, an innovative company at the forefront of personalized medicine that has leveraged unique insights into the human genome.  In our conversation today, we dive into the impact of our current healthcare system and share daily practices to help men and women enhance their longevity. We discuss the genome, considerations for bio-individuality and genetics, and how mood and behavior impact our overall well-being. Kashif also addresses some issues women face in midlife, including sleep problems, weight loss resistance, and bone health.  I am sure anyone seeking a deeper understanding of these matters will find our discussion significant and most valuable. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the focus of our current healthcare system is on symptom management, not prevention The fundamental principles of the 2018 Harvard study on five practices that every male and female can do to live longer Kashif explains how his company created a tool to make genetic testing more accessible and personalized  Why personalization in healthcare is so important How dopamine pathways affect the perception of pleasure and reward The symptoms of serotonin dysregulation Sleep disruptions and circadian rhythm in perimenopause and menopause How circadian rhythm disruptions can lead to sleep problems How our emotional intelligence impacts our ability to connect and empathize with others How broken detox pathways can lead to inflammation and disease How hormone dominance affects menopause, weight loss, and overall health Bio: Kashif Khan is the author of The DNA Way, a two-time TedX Speaker, Celebrity longevity coach, and Founder of The DNA Company, where personalized medicine is being pioneered through unique insights into the human genome. Growing up in Vancouver, Canada in an immigrant household, Kashif developed an industrious entrepreneurial spirit from a young age. Before his tenure at the DNA Company, Kashif advised several high-growth start-ups in a variety of industries. As Kashif dove into the field of functional genomics as the Founder of The DNA Company, it was revealed that his neural wiring was genetically designed to be entrepreneurial. However, his genes also revealed a particular sensitivity to pollutants. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Kashif Khan On Instagram On his website   Go to Kashif’s special landing page   The DNA Company

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Nicole LePera, the Holistic Psychologist.  Dr. LePera did her clinical psychology training at Cornell University. She has touched the lives of countless individuals seeking growth and transformation through her popular Instagram account and has written several self-help books, including How to Do the Work and How to Be the Love You Seek.  In our discussion today, we dive into the current impact of our childhood experiences, exploring crises of faith, the dark night of the soul, inner child archetypes, and shame. Dr. LePera sheds light on the dynamics of dysfunctional patterns, triggers, and regression while also examining the role of generational and systemic beliefs, trauma, and the emerging science of heart-brain coherence and heart rate variability, sharing practical tips for cultivating presence in our bodies to assist us in processing our emotions. Dr. LePera's work has been profoundly instrumental in my personal development journey, and I know you will find our conversation enlightening and enriching.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the subconscious mind determines our habits and relationships Dr LePera explains the concept of the dark night of the soul The importance of examining your conditioned behaviors and reconnecting with your true identity  How inner child archetypes impact behavior Why is self-development essential? How our past experiences shape the way we perceive and interpret current events The benefit of embodiment practices for developing emotional tolerance How childhood trauma impacts physical and mental health The impact of intergenerational trauma on mental health How to achieve heart coherence Dr. LePera shares mindfulness practices for stress management and self-awareness Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Nicole LePera On her website How to Be The Love You Seek  On Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, and X

Today, I have the pleasure of connecting with Dr. Sue Varma. Dr. Varma is a privately-practicing board-certified psychiatrist and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at New York University. She is a nationally acclaimed keynote speaker, medical contributor, media consultant, and advisor to leading television networks and programs. In our discussion today, we examine the impact of shared life experiences like 9/11 and the pandemic, exploring the role of PTSD and the effects of practical optimism, self-care, and self-reliance. We discuss optimism, its inheritability, and the significance of milestones for women, including transitioning from high school to college, navigating midlife, and addressing feelings of loneliness. We also look into purpose and compassion, the complexities of processing emotions, the challenges of the perfectionism façade, the role of trauma, ACE scores, autoimmunity, and the benefits of mindfulness and meditation.  Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Varma discusses the collective sense of grief, fear, connection, and empathy after 9/11 and the pandemic The importance of optimism and resilience when dealing with tragedy How Dr. Varma helps her patients identify their blind spots and other areas for improvement in their lives How perimenopause can bring about a sexual awakening and increased desire for intimacy but also loneliness and dissatisfaction in relationships Why friendships are essential for our well-being Why do we need to invest in different types of connections and relationships? The critical importance of finding purpose in life  How unprocessed emotions affect our mental and physical well-being How trauma impacts mental health Some practical tips for incorporating mindfulness into daily life  The benefits of meditation Bio: Dr. Sue Varma is a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at New York University (NYU) Langone Health. She is a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Varma was the first medical director and attending psychiatrist at the World Trade Center Mental Health Program at NYU Langone Health, treating civilians and first responders in the aftermath of 9/11. Dr. Varma is a nationally acclaimed keynote speaker, medical contributor, media advisor, and consultant to major networks and shows. She regularly appears on the Today Show, Nightly News, CBS Mornings, and Good Morning America and is frequently interviewed by Time, Washington Post, NPR, and beyond. Dr. Varma is the recipient of numerous prestigious awards for her ground-breaking efforts in mental health education and advocacy, including a Sharecare Emmy. Her forthcoming book, “Practical Optimism,” is eagerly anticipated worldwide, with translations in several languages. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Sue Varma On her website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Dr. Varma's book, Practical Optimism:  The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being

Today, I am excited to share the first class in a series of lipid masterclasses with the amazing Dr. Thomas Dayspring! Dr. Dayspring is certified in internal medicine and clinical epidemiology and is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association. He was previously the Educational Director of a nonprofit organization and has served as the Chief Academic Advisor for two major cardiovascular labs.  Due to the in-depth nature of my discussions with Dr. Dayspring over several sessions, each lasting nearly six hours, it seemed logical to present these masterclasses in segmented chunks to make them easier to understand. In our first class today, we dive into the fundamentals, exploring what lipids are and how lipids and fatty acids are classified. We cover the physiology and transportation of cholesterol and the role of apoptosis, apo-proteins, and apo-lipoproteins, unravel the differences between HDL, LDL, IDL, and VLDL, and explain how to calculate LDLs and triglycerides for assessing metabolic health. Dr. Dayspring also shares his preferences regarding lab values and the indicators that provide information to help him determine the early risk of cardiovascular disease. We get into some detailed aspects of physical chemistry in this episode, so I highlight the main clinical points throughout our conversation to make it more understandable. Be sure to join Dr. Dayspring and me for our next episode in the lipid masterclass series. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What are lipids, and why are they important? Dr. Dayspring explains what triglycerides are. How lipids get absorbed and transported throughout the body What lipoproteins are, and how they get classified How cholesterols get calculated The impact of triglycerides on cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health How high triglyceride levels can indicate early insulin resistance or increased ASCVD risk What is the role of HDL particles? How metabolic syndrome impacts cardiovascular health Bio: Thomas Dayspring MD is a Fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association and is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology. After practicing in New Jersey for 37 years, in 2012, he moved to Virginia. He served as an educational director for a nonprofit cardiovascular foundation and until mid-2019 as a Chief Academic Advisor for two major CV laboratories. Since then, he has served as a virtual cardiovascular / lipidology educator. Career-wise he has given over 4000 domestic (in all 50 states) and several international lectures, including over 600 CME programs on atherothrombosis, lipids/lipoproteins (and their treatment), vascular biology, biomarker testing, and women’s cardiovascular issues. He has authored several manuscripts and lipid textbook chapters and performed several podcasts. For several years he was an Associate Editor of the Journal of Clinical Lipidology. He was the recipient of the 2011 National Lipid Association’s Presidents Award for services to clinical lipidology and the 2023 Foundation of NLA Clinician/Educator Award. He has over 34K followers on his educational Twitter (X) feed (@Drlipid). He has Gold Heart Member status as a professional member of the American Heart Association and serves as a Social Media Ambassador for the European Atherosclerosis Society and the National Lipid Association. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring Twitter (@DrLipid) LinkedIn Books written by Gary Taubes

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Steven Gundry today. He last joined me for episode 236.  Dr. Gundry is one of the world's leading cardiothoracic surgeons and a nutrition pioneer. He hosts the highly acclaimed Dr. Gundry Podcast, on which I was honored to be a featured guest. He is the Founder and Director of the International Heart and Lung Institute Center for Restorative Medicine and the author of several New York Times bestselling books, including his most recent, Gut Check.  In our conversation, we dive into gut diversity, exploring the interrelationship between specific parasitic organisms like toxoplasmosis and behavior. We share information on mitochondrial DNA and polyphenols and uncover the synergistic relationships they share with our gut microbiome. We also get into Resveratrol and Urolithin A and discuss pre-, pro-, and post-biotics, the impact of leaky gut, glyphosate, statin therapy, and Dr. Gundry's new Gut Check program.  I am honored to facilitate this insightful dialogue with Dr. Steven Gundry and feel confident you will find it as engaging as I did while recording. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why should your spouse clean the cat litter tray if you are pregnant? The synergistic relationship that exists between the gut microbiome, mitochondrial DNA, and polyphenols How resveratrol in red wine activates mitochondrial DNA repair compounds Why a diverse microbiome is the key to longevity  How do fermented foods improve gut health? How a leaky gut impacts bone health What bacterial translocation can lead to in men and women How does glyphosate affect our health? How gut sealing can reverse a leaky gut and autoimmune diseases Dr. Gundry explains how statins affect the gut microbiome Bio:  Steven R. Gundry, MD, is the founder and director of the International Heart and Lung Institute in Palm Springs, California, and the Center for Restorative Medicine in Palm Springs and Santa Barbara. After a distinguished surgical career as a professor and chairman of cardiothoracic surgery at Loma Linda University, Dr. Gundry changed his focus to curing modern diseases via dietary changes. He is the author of New York Times bestsellers The Plant Paradox, The Plant Paradox Cookbook, The Plant Paradox Quick & Easy, and The Longevity Paradox, along with national bestsellers The Plant Paradox Family Cookbook, The Energy Paradox, Dr. Gundry’s Diet Evolution, and Unlocking the Keto Code, and more than 300 articles published in peer-reviewed journals on using diet and supplements to eliminate heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, and multiple other diseases. He is the host of the weekly Dr Gundry Podcast and founder of wellness brand, Gundry MD. Dr. Gundry lives with his wife, Penny, and their dogs in Palm Springs and Montecito, California About GUT CHECK: Unleash the Power of Your Microbiome to Reverse Disease and Transform Your Mental, Physical, and Emotional Health By Steven R. Gundry, MD In the latest addition to his New York Times bestselling Plant Paradox series, GUT CHECK: Unleash the Power of Your Microbiome to Reverse Disease and Transform Your Mental, Physical, and Emotional Health (Harper Wave, January 9, 2024; ISBN: 978-0062911773; $32.00; 352 pages), Dr. Steven Gundry offers a definitive guide to the gut biome and its control over its home – us! Revealing the unimaginably complex and intelligent ecosystem controlling our health, Gut Check teaches us how to heal our gut to prevent and reverse every type of disease. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Steven Gundry On his website or Gundry MD Gundry Health.Com The Dr. Gundry Podcast on YouTube Ep. 236 Keto Code: Unlocking Mitochondrial Health with Dr. Steven Gundry

I am delighted to reconnect with Esther Blum today. She joined me once before for Episode 264, one of the most popular podcast episodes for 2023.  Esther is the bestselling author of many books, including See You Later Ovulator. She is a registered dietitian with a thriving virtual practice specializing in helping women balance their hormones, shed stubborn body fat, and address the root causes of their health issues. Today, Esther and I discuss the state of hormones in 2024. Our conversation covers lazy medicine advocacy, meno-washing, and meno-care, and we explore uncommon symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause and methods for obtaining testing. Esther also shares her recommended supplements.  You will love this engaging and insightful conversation with Esther Blum! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How safe is hormone replacement therapy? Why hormone testing and monitoring is essential  The importance of prioritizing romance and connection in a marriage The benefits of pelvic floor therapy How working with compounding pharmacies can reduce the cost of hormone replacement therapy How to work with doctors to address hormone imbalances Some uncommon symptoms of perimenopause and menopause How dietary changes and probiotics can improve focus and brain clarity  Hormone testing and menopause management  Esther recommends supplements for adrenal support during menopause Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Esther Blum On her website Instagram Get Esther’s 14-Day Metabolic Menopausal Meal Plan   Esther’s Books Esther’s book, See Ya Later, Ovulator!, by Esther Blum Cavewomen Don’t Get Fat, by Esther Blum Eat, Drink, and Be Happy, by Esther Blum Previous Episode featuring Esther Blum Ep. 264 Peri/Menopause are a Natural Function of Aging: See you later, Ovulator!

I am honored to engage in a conversation with Dr. Sean Pastuch today. Dr. Pastuch spent more than ten years treating patients and training clients. He has worked with some of the most elite athletes in the world, guiding them toward success by seamlessly connecting fitness with healthcare.  In today’s conversation, we discuss the sustainability of New Year's resolutions, explain why strength training is essential, and talk about chronic cardio and muscular independence, the pitfalls of overtraining, and the impact of body image marketing. We explore advocacy within the current healthcare system, emphasizing the need for confidence-building to become effective advocates for ourselves and our children. Dr. Pastuch also explains the simplicity of his morning routine, highlighting the importance of uncomplicated habits for maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Stay tuned for simple-to-apply behavior changes, mindset shifts, and exercise protocols to help you live a life of freedom without compromise. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Pastuch shares his thoughts on New Year's resolutions How fitness planning in 5-year rather than 1-year chunks can make your progress feel less daunting and more achievable Why mindset is such an essential aspect of fitness Dr. Pastuch shares advice for finding a good trainer Some strategies for weight loss and fitness Why do we need to adapt to our body changes during perimenopause and menopause rather than relying on methods that worked in the past? The benefits of focusing on overall health and well-being instead of striving for a specific body ideal The importance of addressing underlying issues before focusing on exercise and nutrition for weight loss Why passive solutions are not enough to address generational problems How to become your own best health advocate  Bio: Dr Sean spent over a decade treating patients and training clients. He has worked with the most elite athletes in the world, the people who need the .01% edge on their competition, like professional baseball players, CrossFit games champions, and Olympic medalists. He found his success by bridging the gap between fitness and healthcare, using his expertise in both the gym and the clinic to create a new way to help people consistently get out of pain without going to the doctor or missing out on their active lives. Since leaving practice in 2017, Dr. Sean has taken the methods he used to help over 10,000 people perform at their best, free of pain, and made his methods and mindset shifts available to the masses through the founding of his company, Active Life, where his team not only help people from around the world to get out of pain without going to the doctor or giving up their active life, but they mentor fitness and healthcare professionals to do the same for their clients and patients.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Sean Pastuch Website    Instagram

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Jason Fung today. We last connected in October 2020 for Episode 121.  Dr. Fung is a nephrologist and a prominent figure in the intermittent fasting and low-carb space. He has made significant contributions as a founding member of The Fasting Method with his evidence-based guidance on weight loss and blood glucose management through low-carb diets and intermittent fasting. He has written several books, including The Obesity Code, The Complete Guide to Fasting, The Diabetes Code, and The Cancer Code.  In our discussion today, we look at the forecast for metabolic health in 2024, exploring how the growth of the diabetes population relates to the effects of the pandemic and addressing the conflict of interest with organizations like the ADA and registered dieticians. Dr. Fung shares some of his biggest frustrations, including the shallow and myopic thinking amongst those focusing on calories in and calories out, and we get into various facets of metabolic health, from the nuanced influences of gender, puberty, perimenopause, and menopause to hedonistic eating, sarcopenia, bio-individuality, and therapeutic fasting. Dr. Fung also shares his perspective on GLP-1s, shiftwork, supplements, and more. Join us for valuable insights on various aspects of metabolic health and how they impact our well-being. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN How the influence of food companies has led dieticians and diabetes associations to focus on moderation instead of a balanced diet Dr. Fung shares his frustration with the lack of progress in addressing the diabetes issue How hormones impact weight gain and hunger Why does focusing on calories in and out not provide the solution to weight loss? How intermittent fasting can help to control hormonal issues How middle-aged women need to find balance when fasting to maintain muscle mass and avoid sarcopenia How intermittent fasting can lead to increased strength despite losing muscle mass  What causes shift workers to gain weight? The potential drawbacks of using GLP-1 drugs for weight loss Why magnesium deficiency is a common problem in modern society Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Jason Fung Website Twitter and YouTube The Fasting Method Dr. Fung's books Previous Episode Featuring Dr. Jason Fung Ep. 121 – The Truth About Diabetes, Kidney Disease and Insulin Resistance with Dr. Jason Fung

Today, I have the pleasure of reconnecting with the incredible Dr. Jud Brewer, who was previously on the podcast in June 2020 in episode 99. Dr. Brewer is an internationally recognized addiction psychiatrist and neuroscientist. He is also a professor at Brown University and a former TEDx speaker, with his talk in 2016 amassing over 19 million views.  In our conversation, we discuss his latest book, The Hunger Habit, and explore many subjects, from the differences between homeostatic and hedonistic hunger to detachment from body awareness. We look at self-talk, self-judgment, and dopamine survival mechanisms, addressing issues like stress-eating and comfort-eating within the context of the food and reward system. Dr. Jud also shares his perspective on macro tracking, explaining why he does not endorse it, and he introduces his 21-Day Challenge, emphasizing the need to build awareness around our habits and be present. Lastly, we dive into how trauma impacts binge eating, touching on adverse childhood events and effective ways to reflect on our past experiences and how they affect our current behavior. Dr. Jud's wealth of knowledge and insights offer a fresh perspective on the interplay between our habits, mental well-being, and relationship with food. Stay tuned! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is the difference between hedonic hunger and homeostatic hunger? The evolutionary survival mechanisms that drive human eating behaviors How our self-talk impacts our eating habits and body image  Why we cannot depend on willpower to change our behavior   Dr. Jud shares his concerns about macronutrient tracking  Dr. Jud discusses the simple three-step process to healthier weight loss he outlined in The Hunger Habit How the brain learns and remembers  How past traumas and adverse childhood events can lead to binge eating How self-awareness allows us to create healthier eating habits Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Jud Brewer Website Instagram and Twitter TEDx Talk: A Simple Way to Break a Bad Habit   Episode 99: How To Change Bad Habits – with Dr. Jud Brewer

Today, I am privileged to connect with Sal Di Stefano.  Sal is a sought-after fitness and health expert with a straightforward and uncomplicated manner of communication. He is also a co-host of the immensely popular Mind Pump Podcast. In our discussion, we explore why the scale is an ineffective measure of success in our culture, particularly for women. We dive into the effects of body image and dysfunctional relationships with our bodies, contrasting self-hate patterns with self-love patterns. We look at ways to train differently in middle age with the challenges of perimenopause and menopause and consider the impact of physiological changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period. We also cover signs of overtraining and intuitive nutrition and address many listeners' questions about reverse dieting, hormetic strategies, and authenticity.  I am sure you will love this conversation, and I look forward to having Sal back on the show in 2024. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The limitations of relying solely on weight as a measure of success in health and wellness Why we should focus on the full scope of fitness and diet rather than a specific number or metric How patterns of self-hatred can lead to unhealthy behaviors  How to practice self-care with exercise and a healthy diet Why exercise routines should be founded on factors like sleep, stress, fitness levels, and diet The importance of starting with small, manageable steps toward self-care and weight loss Why strength training is the most effective exercise for women in perimenopause and menopause How high-performing athletes prioritize recovery and rest to prevent burnout and injury Post-pregnancy muscle recruitment patterns and exercises Diet and nutrition for improved mental clarity and physical performance The benefits of strength training for muscle growth and hormone balance Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Sal Di Stefano On YouTube Mind Pump Podcast

I am honored to connect with Dr. Sandi Scheinbaum today.  Dr. Scheinbaum is the Founder of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, an initiative focused on helping practitioners and businesses hire health coaches who focus on chronic disease and reducing healthcare costs. She is an educator and clinical psychologist with a career spanning over 40 years, lecturing prolifically on the psychology of wellbeing, mind-body medicine, and the psychology of eating, and writing several books on health coaching, panic attacks, and anxiety. In our conversation today, we dive into nutrition confusion, scientific evolution, biased myths and beliefs, contradictory messages, and how cognitive dissonance affects people’s eating patterns and attitudes toward food. Dr. Scheinbaum shares how she transitioned from being a vegan to becoming an omnivore, and we explore the role of Erikson's stages of development and family dynamics in shaping theories and behaviors around food. We look into the psychology of eating, social messaging, and the consequences of appetite judgments, food shame, and orthorexia. Dr. Scheinbaum also explains how to find local practitioners who can assist you in navigating your relationship with food, mind-body medicine, and cognitive-behavioral therapies. Stay tuned for today's insightful discussion, where Dr. Sandi Scheinbaum unravels the psychology that shapes our eating patterns, attitudes, and approaches to food.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why is there so much confusion around nutrition? The psychology of food labeling How eating habits get shaped by childhood experiences and cultural influences How we need self-compassion without judgment to develop a healthier relationship with food The potentially negative impact strict food rules can have on the mental and physical health of children How social influences and the desire to fit in affect people’s eating habits Dr. Scheinbaum tells her story of shifting from veganism to becoming a meat eater How gender differences impact eating habits The benefit of having a health coach to support lifestyle changes How thoughts and physical sensations are interconnected  Bio: Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum trains people to become Functional Medicine health coaches and helps practitioners and businesses hire them because she believes that health coaches are the key to combating chronic disease and reducing healthcare costs. As the Founder and CEO of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, a collaboration with The Institute for Functional Medicine, Sandi is a leader in the field of health coaching education. As an educator and clinical psychologist for over 40 years, she has lectured extensively on the psychology of well-being, mind-body medicine, and the psychology of eating. She wrote several books on health coaching, panic attacks, and anxiety. Sandi founded FMCA at age 65 because, rather than retiring, she is on a mission to grow the health coaching profession so that millions of people can get the support they need to lead healthier lives. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Learn Functional Medicine Coaching Connect with Sandra Scheinbaum On her website On Instagram  The Functional Medicine Coaching Academy on Instagram Books Mentioned: Salt, Sugar, Fat by Michael Moss The Dorito Effect by Mark Schatzker

I am thrilled to have Dr. Ken Berry joining me on the podcast for the third time today. He was with me before on episodes 111 and 139. Dr. Berry is a physician, best-selling author, and passionate health advocate with a no-nonsense approach to health and wellness. He has been practicing at the Berry Clinics since 2003 and is an active community member. He has written two books, Lies My Doctor Told Me and the recently published Kicking Ass After Fifty, in addition to various other resources, including Common Sense Labs Today. He also has a YouTube channel, serving over 2 million subscribers- one of my favorite go-to resources for my patients.  In our conversation today, we dive into the latest Lancet research on the impact of a diabetes diagnosis on life expectancy, along with insights from the American Diabetes Association regarding the costs of diabetes care. We discuss the need for proper diagnostic modalities to identify insulin resistance earlier and the labs Dr. Berry uses in his practice for identifying those at risk. We explore the recently recognized American Heart Association syndrome, CKM (Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic Syndrome), and the role of GLP agonists, continuous glucose monitors, and glucometers. Dr. Berry also shares his views on plant-based diets, proper diets, and more.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why does metabolic health continue to deteriorate in most of the general population?  The staggering amount of disposable plastic used within the healthcare industry The importance of fasting insulin levels when diagnosing metabolic disease Why are blood tests essential for determining metabolic health? The benefits of glucometers and continuous glucose monitors for metabolic health How Dr. Berry’s health improved after following a specific diet and measuring his lab results for a month How misinformation gets spread within the health and wellness industry Why are doctors not informing their patients about the absence of long-term studies and deluding them with false information? The long-term effects of Semaglutide on the body  How a proper diet can naturally lower lipid levels The limitations of the germ model for treating chronic diseases   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Ken Berry On YouTube Instagram, Facebook Twitter Dr. Berry’s books Lies My Doctor Told Me  Kicking Ass After 50    Common Sense Labs  Dr. Berry’s Private Community Phdhealth.community Medical News article Mentioned Here’s What to Know About Cardiovascular-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome, Newly Defined by the AHA   Previous Episodes Featuring Dr. Ken Berry Ep. 111 – Is The Keto Diet The Proper Human Diet? – with Dr. Ken Berry Ep. 139 – Hyperinsulinemia: What You Should Know About This National Health Crisis with Dr. Ken Berry

I am thrilled to welcome the extraordinary Dr. Stephanie Estima back to the show today to join me in facilitating many questions from listeners. She was with me last on Episode 272, and before that, on Episode 123. Dr. Estima’s perspective aligns very closely with mine within the health and wellness space. She is an exceptionally knowledgeable and well-informed clinician specializing in female metabolism and body composition. She authored the invaluable resource known as the Betty Body and hosts The Better! podcast, where I have had the privilege of being her guest.   Today, we answer questions from both our communities, covering topics ranging from managing hormones during breastfeeding while coping with insufficient sleep to issues concerning preconception and methods for cycle tracking. We dive into the best contraceptives for younger women, strategies for supporting detoxification, addressing fibrocystic breasts, navigating autoimmune conditions and fibromyalgia, and determining the intensity of workout routines. There were also many questions about weight training, preferred pre-workouts, favorite supplements tailored for perimenopause and menopause, hormesis, and much more.  Dr. Estima's insights are as enlightening as ever, making today’s conversation a must-listen for anyone on a journey toward optimal well-being. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How breastfeeding can delay menstrual cycles without causing infertility Dr. Stephanie discusses fertility and the importance of evaluating both male and female factors Contraceptive options for younger women The importance of understanding the side effects and implications of long-term oral contraceptives The benefits of green leafy vegetables for fibrocystic breasts Supplements for breast health  The potential drawbacks of mammograms Perimenopause and autoimmune conditions, including Hashimoto's, thyroiditis, and fibromyalgia How trauma contributes to the dysregulation of the immune system and autoimmune conditions Supplements for middle-aged women How cold plunges and saunas benefit physical and mental well-being Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Stephanie Estima On Instagram  On her weekly podcast, Better! With Dr. Stephanie, where she explores the human potential, hormones, metabolism, and a life well-lived. Get a copy of Dr. Stephanie Estima’s #1 bestselling book, The Betty Body: A Geeky Goddess’ Guide to Intuitive Eating, Balanced Hormones, and Transformative Sex Previous Episodes featuring Dr. Stephanie Ep. 123 – Menstruation, Muscle, Maternity, & Metabolism: What Every Woman Should Know with Dr. Stephanie Estima Ep. 272 Understanding Women’s Health: Answering Your FAQs featuring Dr. Stephanie Estima

I am thrilled to have Gary Taubes back on the show today. (He was with me before on episode 137. Gary is an investigative science and health journalist whose work has been pivotal in catalyzing the low-carb keto movement. He has written many books, including his most recent, Rethinking Diabetes, and his articles are in many of the best anthologies. He has also received many science awards. Today's discussion is particularly significant, given the recent report from the American Diabetes Association revealing that the annual cost of diabetes in the United States reached a staggering $412.9 billion in 2022, with individuals diagnosed with diabetes now representing one in every four dollars spent on healthcare.  In our discussion today, we dive into the history of diabetes, pertinent statistics, the prevailing standard of care, and the transformative influence of insulin on diabetes management and reactive hypoglycemia. Gary provides insights into his reactions to GLP ones, the integration of medical and nutrition science into the medical field, and the influence of organizations such as the American Diabetes Association, AHA, USDA, and NIH. Our discussion also extends to the effects of pharmaceuticals, the shortcomings in our approach to diabetes management and existing models, and the challenge the low-carb community faces. Stay tuned for today's eye-opening conversation, where we shed light on the complexities surrounding diabetes care, explaining how simple lifestyle changes can tremendously improve quality of life. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Rethinking Diabetes is a groundbreaking exploration of diabetes diagnosis, management, and treatment Gary discusses the evolution of evidence-based medicine Why the traditional medical approach to treating diabetes is inadequate How the guidelines of the American Diabetes Association were based on outdated assumptions  How medical treatments compare with lifestyle changes for managing diabetes Controversies surrounding how the pharmaceutical industry has influenced the way medical associations have shaped their diabetes management policies How medical guidelines and dietary advice have evolved What constitutes a healthy diet? How patients often have trouble following diet recommendations, despite their best intentions Is obesity a hormonal disorder or caused by overeating?   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Gary Taubes On his website Twitter Facebook Ep. 137 – High Blood Sugar Levels And Its Long-Term Damage with Gary Taubes Book Mentioned: Rethinking Diabetes What Science Reveals About Diet, Insulin, and Successful Treatments is available from most bookstores or on Amazon.

I am delighted to have the privilege of reconnecting with Dr. Deb Matthew today. She joined me once before on Episode 259. She is a distinguished best-selling author, international speaker, and dedicated educator known as the Happy Hormone Doctor.  Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the United States, causing one of every 3.2 deaths among women annually. In our conversation today, Dr. Matthew and I delve into the realm of cardiovascular disease, exploring the benefits of hormone replacement therapy, essential laboratory testing, medications, and the neurocognitive changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause. We also focus on lifestyle, gut testing, and the all-time favorite topic of weight loss resistance.  Stay tuned for today’s engaging, enriching, and enlightening discussion with Dr. Deb Matthew. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How HRT reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease  How long-term use of estrogen can reduce the risk of heart disease over time Why should you do a hormone panel before starting HRT? How cortisol levels impact cardiovascular health How the coronary calcium score helps to predict heart attack risk Cholesterol markers and their significance in cardiovascular risk assessment Managing cholesterol levels in perimenopausal women The importance of addressing underlying hormonal imbalances in women to mitigate cognitive decline and lipid disorders The connection between gut health and brain fog How women’s testosterone levels impact their cognition and motivation Hormone imbalance and weight loss resistance in women   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com. Connect with Dr. Deb Matthew On her website Facebook Instagram Dr. Deb Mathew’s book This is Not Normal on Amazon or download the ebook  Previous Episode featuring Dr. Matthew Ep. 295: HRT’s Impact on Women’s Health Through Time with Dr. Deb Matthew

I am thrilled to connect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Anthony Youn today.  Dr. Youn is a nationally recognized board-certified plastic surgeon and the author of many best-selling books. He has a massive social media presence and hosts the widely acclaimed podcast The Holistic Plastic Surgery Show. In our conversation today, we dive into Dr. Youn’s new book, Younger for Life, and he offers valuable insights on skin health and overall well-being. We explore the aging process and address oxidative-free radical damage, chronic inflammation, autophagy, and the impact of processed foods. We also get into helpful supplements for skin support, examine the concept of greenwashing, and discuss sunscreen, exfoliation, in-office treatments, breast implant illness, and the power of lifestyle choices. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How to avoid aging too quickly through nutrition and lifestyle changes How sugar and seed oils impact skin aging The benefits of collagen supplements for healthier skin  Hormonal changes that affect the metabolism and skin health after menopause The importance of screening the ingredients in skincare products How chemical sunscreens differ from physical sunblocks Using Retinol for anti-aging and skin health Non-invasive fat reduction treatments and their potential risks Dr. Youn discusses breast implant illness What you need to look out for when using Botox Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Anthony Youn On his website Youn Beauty   Instagram YouTube TikTok Facebook Twitter The Holistic Plastic Surgery Show Buy a copy of Younger for Life  Bookshop.Org

I am happy to connect with Coach Bronson Dant today. He has spent over a decade guiding and training people in health and fitness. He discovered the benefits of a whole food animal-based ketogenic diet for optimizing metabolic health and performance and wrote The Ultimate Ketogenic Fitness Book. In our discussion today, we dive into the powerful story of Coach Bronson’s pain-to-purpose journey. We explore the value of mindset and look at how age-related changes affect muscle, inflammation, and metabolic flexibility. He shares his three pillars of muscle health related to nutrient density, bioavailability, and satiety, and we examine the importance of sleep, the impact of extremes in exercise, and the value of stress management. We also unravel the complexities of weight loss resistance, and Coach Bronson discusses his research from the Journal of Nutrition Metabolism and Health Science, sharing his perspective on macros and functional movement in menopausal women. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Coach Bronson shares his three pillars for nutrition The limitations of basing nutrition on calories alone How the hormone piece impacts effective weight management How to avoid physical deterioration through fitness and nutrition Why Coach Bronson advocates for living life to the fullest and dying quickly How does muscle mass impact metabolic health? The importance of taking a balanced approach to weight loss How sleep aids muscle recovery and growth  Stress management, nutrition, and fitness for overall well-being How alcohol affects our health and fitness The benefits of combining functional movement training and proper nutrition for older adults  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Bronson Dant On his website  YouTube and Instagram The Ultimate Ketogenic Fitness Bundle

Everyday Wellness Podcast – Episode 322 – Dr. Brooke Scheller Today, I am honored to be in conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller. She is a doctor of Clinical Nutrition, a nationally recognized health expert, and the founder of Functional Sobriety, a nutrition-based program for alcohol reduction. She also wrote How to Eat to Change How You Drink.  In our conversation today, we discuss the stigmatization of alcohol use and explore the nuances of curiosity and sobriety. We dispel common misconceptions, examine the research on alcohol consumption, tackle the definition of moderation, scrutinize the influence of industry ties, and unravel the issues linked to excessive alcohol consumption. Dr. Scheller also sheds light on how poor absorption impacts the gut microbiome and causes a leaky gut, offering insightful nutritional strategies to address those concerns. Our conversation also extends to fertility, blood sugar, and the challenges posed by initiatives like Dry January and sober challenges.   Stay tuned for today’s comprehensive exploration of the relationship between nutrition and alcohol use. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the stigma surrounding alcohol use is changing How does alcohol affect the brain and body? How alcohol impacts the gut microbiome, intestinal permeability, and nutrient absorption Dr. Scheller shares her personal experience with alcohol  How alcohol consumption in middle-aged women could increase inflammation and oxidative stress How alcohol impacts blood sugar The link between alcohol consumption and male infertility  Some suggestions for navigating a Dry January How alcohol use impacts mental health Overcoming alcohol addiction through self-awareness and wellness Bio: Dr. Brooke Scheller DCN, CNS Dr. Brooke Scheller is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, the founder of Functional Sobriety, and the author of How to Eat to Change How You Drink. After finding freedom from alcohol in 2021, Dr. Brooke took her experience in sobriety and applied her expertise in nutrition and functional medicine to help others change their relationship with alcohol. Her approach results in improved brain health, mood, energy, focus, gut health, and hormone balance.  Her launch of Functional Sobriety led to the development of her online community, the Functional Sobriety Network, and several online programs with members across the globe. Functional Sobriety offers the first-ever custom supplement program for the sober and sober-curious. As a motivational speaker, Dr. Brooke helps to spread the word about functional nutrition, alcohol-free wellness, and the power of sobriety.  She currently resides in NYC.  Follow Dr. Brooke on Instagram @drbrookescheller. Learn more at www.brookescheller.com or www.functionalsobriety.com  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller On her website Instagram (@drbrookescheller) Functional Sobriety How to Eat to Change How You Drink will be available in US bookstores on December 26th. It will be available around the world from January 4th.

I am thrilled to have my friend and colleague, Debra Atkinson, back on the show today. She was with me before for Episode 165, in August of 2021, which became one of the most sought-after episodes of the year.  Debra is a hormone-balancing exercise coach, a fitness expert, and an influential figure who has guided more than 275,000 women through transforming their second halves with newfound vitality and energy. She is also an accomplished author, the host of Flipping 50 TV, and a TEDx speaker. In our conversation today, we delve into the physiological changes during perimenopause and menopause that impact weight training and muscle development, and we explore how to shift into the second stage of life as an endurance athlete while promoting recovery. We discuss the importance of strength training during perimenopause and menopause and get into the role of volume, movements, zone 2 training, flexibility, and HiT. We also discuss biohacking, explain how hormone replacement therapy impacts muscle and bone health, and Debra shares her favorite supplements. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The physiologic changes that impact muscle health during perimenopause and menopause The challenges of transitioning from an endurance athlete to a menopausal women How Debra struggled with hormonal imbalances and inflammation during menopause Some common exercise mistakes during perimenopause and menopause Why recovery time between weight training sessions is essential The importance of breathing and pelvic floor exercises  The benefits of HiT training for women in midlife At which times during the menstrual cycle should strength training be done? Strength training and bone health for post-menopausal women  The advantages of doing high-impact exercises on most days of the week The merits of vibration training and infrared saunas for recovery and wellness Supplements for muscle gain and recovery Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Debra Atkinson On her website   On YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 165 – A Fresh Perspective On Menopause & Fitness: The Importance of Listening to Your Body with Debra Atkinson

I am thrilled to have my dear friend and colleague, Shana Hussin, joining me on the podcast today. Shana is a registered dietitian and host of the Fast to Heal podcast, where she passionately pursues her mission to empower women in reversing obesity, diabetes, PCOS, and fatty liver.  In our discussion today, we dive into the main contributors to poor metabolic health, also looking at other factors that may have roles to play. We identify signs of compromised blood glucose metabolism, discuss satiety, and explore ways of reversing insulin resistance and diabetes. Shana also shares her insights on labs to monitor and offers valuable strategies for addressing sleep and constipation issues.  Join us as we navigate several health topics, all aimed at fostering a healthier and more vibrant lifestyle. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Shana stepped back and re-evaluated her approach after her son got sick How Shana’s experience with intermittent fasting and whole foods led her to a renewed understanding of why people are unhealthy  How the culture of ultra-processed foods with artificial sweeteners and unhealthy fats started coming into play in the 1970s Why your genetics are not your destiny Why should seed oils be avoided? How sugar is an addictive substance that could lead to insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction What are the symptoms of insulin resistance? The benefits of intermittent fasting Why women must support their metabolic health during perimenopause and menopause Some natural remedies for improving sleep quality  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Shana Hussin On her website Instagram

I am thrilled to finally have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Jonny Bowden today! He is a board-certified nutritionist and the author of many books, including The Great Cholesterol Myth, my favorite one, co-authored with cardiologist Dr. Stephen Sinatra. In our conversation, Dr. Bowen and I dive into the anti-propaganda and flawed foundations that permeate the health and wellness space. We discuss the role of politics, economics, medicine, and commerce in shaping our health narratives and shed light on the misinformation, deception, and cognitive dissonance surrounding cholesterol. We explain how cholesterol works mechanistically in the body, explore why so much cognitive dissonance prevails within that space, and scrutinize the inadequacies of conventional lipid tests and the shift in focus to fat instead of sugar and insulin resistance, also looking into the metabolic plague of the 21st century, from insulin resistance to healthy and unhealthy metabolisms, to various types of fats. Additionally, we explain how statins work and share some side effects, and Dr. Bowden discloses the supplements he deems vital for a healthy life.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Debunking some of the myths surrounding cholesterol  How statins get overprescribed The lesser-disclosed side effects of statins How our understanding of cholesterol has been corrupted The history behind low-fat diets The truth about cholesterol How the fear of fat has negatively impacted people’s health The cognitive dissonance caused by the belief that fat and cholesterol cause heart disease The importance of advanced lipid panels for heart health assessments How insulin resistance underlies every chronic disease, including high cholesterol Dr. Bowden discusses his recommended supplements  Bio: Dr. Jonny Bowden is a board-certified nutritionist, and the best-selling author of 15 books including "The 150 Healthiest Foods On Earth", "Living Low Carb", "Smart Fat", and the controversial best-seller (with cardiologist Dr. Steven Sinatra), "the Great Cholesterol Myth". He is a frequent guest on podcasts, has contributed to articles in over 50 major publications, and has appeared on every major television network His favorite subject to talk about is healthy aging.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Jonny Bowden On his website On Facebook On Instagram and Twitter (@jonnybowden) Book Mentioned The Great Cholesterol Myth by Jonny Bowden and Stephen T. Sinatra

I have the privilege of connecting with a friend and colleague today!  Sam Horn is the Founder and CEO of the Intrigue Agency and the Tongue Fu! Training Institute. She is a communication strategist who helps people craft and convey unique presentations, pitches, books, businesses, and brands to drive positive change and permanently scale their impact. In addition to being a sought-after keynote speaker and organizational trainer, she is also a respected personal friend and mentor. In today's discussion, we dive into why we, as a culture, are so averse to conflict. We get into the implications of talking on eggshells and losing our voice and discuss the crucial role of pattern interruption and the art of addressing teasing, taunting, and bullying, both online and offline. We also explore ways to deal with complainers and people pleasers, we examine the transformative power of language, and Sam explains how to gracefully handle requests for free advice. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why many of us have been finding it harder to express our opinions after all that has happened in the last three years Common reactions that make difficult situations even worse An effective strategy for handling situations where someone deliberately tries to trigger or manipulate you or make you feel guilty How to how to interrupt harmful behavior patterns and become a force for good  How to reframe your perspective and promote empathy Which words should be used and which are best avoided to help children learn and grow? The importance of shifting focus from blaming to finding solutions Ways to address persistent complainers in a customer service-oriented world How to communicate effectively and resolve conflict  How to handle requests for free advice Bio: Sam Horn is a multifaceted professional, serving as the CEO of the Intrigue Agency, a consultancy specializing in positioning and messaging for TEDx talks, keynotes, funding pitches, and unique brands. Additionally, she leads the Tongue Fu! Training Institute, which focuses on communication skills to foster respect in various aspects of life. As the author of 10 books, including bestsellers like "Got Your Attention?" and "Take the Bully by the Horns," Sam has received acclaim for her work. Her latest book, "Talking on Eggshells," has garnered praise from notable figures and media outlets, with endorsements from Marie Forleo, Jack Canfield, and a glowing review from Publishers Weekly. Sam's impact extends globally, having spoken to over half a million people worldwide and delivering talks for prestigious clients such as Boeing, Intel, and National Geographic. Her books, published in 17 languages, reflect her international influence, with speaking engagements in various countries, including China, Germany, and Japan. Notably, Sam's expertise goes beyond writing and speaking; she served as the Pitch Coach for Springboard Enterprises, contributing to entrepreneurs generating a substantial $27.8 billion in funding. She's been sought after by TED FELLOWS and Richard Branson's NEW NOW Leaders for her insights into crafting compelling pitches. Sam's reach also extends to online platforms, with her LinkedIn Learning course utilized by organizations like Amazon and KPMG for communication, customer service, and leadership training. Her diverse contributions include co-founding the Business Book Festival and serving as the Emcee and Executive Director of the Maui Writers Conference for 17 years. Recognized by Sheri Salata, former Executive Producer of The Oprah Winfrey Show, as "one of the bright lights and most accessible wisdom-sharers in our culture today," Sam Horn's impact spans industries, continents, and various facets of professional and personal development. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Sam Horn website LinkedIn

Today, I am delighted to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Anna Cabeca. She was with me before on episodes 94 and 202. Dr. Cabeca is a triple board-certified physician in gynecology, integrative medicine, anti-aging, and regenerative medicine. She is also an authority on functional medicine, sexual health, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. In our conversation today, we dive into women's health care. We explore the impact of COVID and COVID vaccines on ovarian health, methods for measuring ovarian health and supporting fertility, the significance of oxytocin, the role of oral contraceptives, and navigating perimenopause and menopause. Our discussion also extends to alternative hormone replacement therapies, using pellets and bioidenticals for hormone replacement, the benefits of hormone holidays, pregnenolone use, and detox support.  You are sure to gain from the insights and expert information Dr. Cabeca shares with us today. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How COVID and COVID injections have impacted women’s health Improving ovarian function and fertility through detoxification and lifestyle changes The role of oxytocin in fertility and regulating hormonal balance The negative impact oral contraceptives have on cardiovascular and breast health Dr. Cabeca recommends a simple, pain-free, and non-hormonal IUD for birth control  Dr. Cabeca and I share our opinions on using pellets for hormone replacement therapy The potential risks of high-dose hormone replacement therapy Why is it important to give your body a hormone holiday? Why is it essential to use only natural and clean skincare and dental health products and avoid everyday products containing heavy metals? How mold toxicity affects the body Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca On her website On social media: @the girlfriend doctor Previous Episodes Featuring Dr. Cabeca Ep. 94 – Reclaim Your Vibrancy, Sexuality, Health and Happiness! – with Dr. Anna Cabeca Ep. 202 – Healing Your Hormones and Becoming Empowered with The Girlfriend Doctor

I am delighted to have the privilege of reconnecting with Dr. Ben Bikman today. (He was with me previously on episodes 114 and 168.)  Dr. Bikman has a Ph.D. in Bio-energetics and also served as a postdoctoral fellow at the Duke-National University of Singapore, specializing in metabolic diseases. His current professional focus, as a scientist and Associate Professor at Brigham Young University, is on understanding the effects of elevated insulin, obesity regulation, diabetes management, the relevance of ketones, and the workings of mitochondrial function. He is also the author of a book I love and often recommend called Why We Get Sick.  In today’s conversation, Dr. Bikman and I delve into a wide range of topics, including age-related changes in fat cells, gender-specific differences, the contrasting dynamics of hyperplasic and hypertrophic fat cells, and the impact of hormone replacement therapy and a metabolic buffer. We explore the changes in insulin sensitivity occurring during perimenopause and menopause and discuss the role of muscle, explaining how it can utilize either carbohydrates or fat for fuel. We also highlight the importance of strength training, discuss the impact of GLP-1 agonists- focusing specifically on Wegovy, and get into the effects of lifestyle factors like sleep and stress, the repercussions of endocrine-mimicking chemicals, and the significant impact of statin use with its associated diabetes risk. Lastly, we dive into the complex question of what poses more of a threat to our health- seed oils, high-fructose corn syrup, refined starches, or sugars?  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How our fat cells change with age  How lifestyle factors impact insulin sensitivity The hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause Why it makes sense for women to have more fat cells than men The importance of resistance training for building muscle Risks associated with relying on GLP-1 agonists for weight loss How immobility activates inflammatory pathways in muscles, leading to insulin resistance How stress and poor sleep impact insulin resistance Why is it essential to avoid high-carbohydrate or high-fat foods before bedtime? How alcohol, plastics, and pesticides impact insulin resistance and fat cell biology The potential risks of statin use How seed oils, refined starches, and refined sugars contribute to health problems Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Ben Bikman On his website On social media: @benbikmanphd Previous Episodes Featuring Dr. Ben Bikman Ep. 114 – Why Obesity Matters When It Comes to Coronavirus – with Dr. Benjamin Bikman Ep. 168 – What To Do About Insulin Resistance Disorders (and the Role that Digestion Plays) with Dr. Benjamin Bikman

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Becky Campbell. She is a board-certified doctor of natural medicine, the founder of Dr. Becky Campbell.com, co-host of the Health Babes Podcast, and author of The 4-Phase Histamine Reset.  Dr. Becky is a true expert in her field. In our conversation today, we look at many changes that occur with women in perimenopause and menopause, rendering them vulnerable to histamine sensitivity. We explore histamine, explaining what it is and where the histamine receptors are in the body, and get into the influence of genetic mutations on sleep. We look into anxiety and migraines, touching on the risk factors associated with histamine intolerances and how estrogen plays a role in exacerbating those issues. We also highlight the foods with the highest histamine content. Additionally, Dr. Becky enlightens us on how to test for histamine intolerance, and we offer some valuable advice on maintaining a sane, balanced, and vibrant life. I hope you enjoy today’s insightful discussion with Dr. Becky Campbell! I know you will learn a lot from it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why women in perimenopause and menopause are more susceptible to histamine problems The range of symptoms caused by histamine receptors How genetic mutations can affect histamine metabolism and lead to histamine intolerance The crucial role of estrogen and progesterone in regulating histamine release in the body How endocrine disruptors in personal care products can impact hormone levels and cause a histamine response How exercising can trigger histamine release in the body- particularly in warm environments Why people who have done a keto or Whole30 diet may experience histamine issues Dr. Becky identifies histamine-rich foods that could trigger cancer in some people The challenges associated with going low-histamine The importance of making conscious dietary choices and avoiding inflammatory foods Dr. Becky shares her experience with histamine intolerance  Bio: Dr. Becky Campbell is a board-certified doctor of natural medicine who was initially introduced to functional medicine as a patient. She struggled with many of the issues her patients struggle with today, and she has made it her mission to help patients all around the world with her virtual practice.  Dr. Becky Campbell is the founder of Dr. Becky Campbell.com, the host of The Health Babes Podcast, and author of The 30-Day Thyroid Reset Plan, The 4-Phase Histamine Reset Plan, Low Histamine Cooking in Your Instant Pot, and her latest book, The Health Babes Guide to Balancing Hormones. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Becky Campbell On her website Instagram The Health Babes Podcast Find Dr. Becky Campbell’s books on Amazon

I am privileged to connect with Dr. Rani Banik today, America's integrative eye doctor. Dr. Banik is a board-certified ophthalmologist and a fellowship-trained neuro-ophthalmologist with additional certifications in functional integrative medicine. In our discussion today, we dive into the evolution of migraines, exploring whether genetics and epigenetics have a role to play in the development of neurological headaches. We delve into the role of nutrition in maintaining optimal eye health, highlighting the specific nutrients essential for our eyes throughout the various stages of our lives. Our conversation touches on how hormone replacement therapy affects eye health, particularly in people with dry eyes, and we look at the effects of sunlight and ways to modulate the impact of blue light exposure. We also get into chronobiology and share strategies for safeguarding our vision as we age.  Dr. Rani shares a wealth of helpful information today that many women in the everyday wellness community have asked for. You are bound to be enlightened by her insights and wisdom! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What are migraines? How the hormonal changes that happen with menstruation, perimenopause, and menopause can trigger migraines   How migraines evolve and change with age Dr. Rani explains the neurological foundation of photophobia with migraines  How to differentiate migraine pain from debilitating headache pain The natural changes that occur with our eyes as we get older Why dry eye is a common issue in women, especially during perimenopause and menopause How Dr. Rani manages dry eye in her perimenopausal and postmenopausal patients How to prevent cataracts  Using UV protection and avoiding too much exposure to blue light for healthy eyes The role hydration plays in maintaining eye health Bio: Dr. Rani Banik is America's Integrative Eye Doctor. She is a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained neuro-ophthalmologist with additional certification in Integrative and Functional Medicine. Dr. Rani focuses on the root cause of eye diseases and uses integrative strategies for conditions that affect the visual system. Her treatments are based on nutrition, botanicals, lifestyle modification, essential oils, and supplements. Dr. Rani runs a private practice based in New York City and is also an Associate Professor at Mount Sinai in NYC, where she serves as an educator and researcher. As Principal Investigator of several clinical trials in diseases of the optic nerve, Dr. Rani uses cutting-edge approaches such as nanotechnology and gene therapy.  Dr. Rani is frequently featured as an expert in the media and has been interviewed on Good Morning America, CBS, NBC, ABC, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Fox, amongst many others. Dr. Rani has been voted Castle Connolly's Top Doctor and New York Magazine's Best Doctor in Ophthalmology every year since 2017. Dr. Rani’s first book, Beyond Carrots - Best Foods For Eye Health A to Z, has won high praise from medical professionals in both the fields of ophthalmology and integrative medicine. Beyond Carrots focuses on the 30+ nutrients and 40 foods that best provide complete nutrition for your eyes. Dr. Rani has a companion cookbook as well, The Beyond Carrots Cookbook, which includes over 160 delicious and nutritious recipes that will be a feast for your eyes! Both are available via Amazon and Kindle in print and eBook. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram  LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Rudrani Banik Dr. Rudrani’s website  Facebook Instagram Twitter YouTube

I am thrilled to reconnect with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge today!  Dr. Roseann is a much-loved guest with our listeners who appeared previously in episodes 174 and 273. Known for her incredible expertise in pediatric mental health, she mixes traditional and non-traditional methods to care for her young patients.  In this episode, we focus on the needs of teens and young adults and the unique challenges they currently face. We review the latest research relevant to shaping the mental health of the younger generation, covering topics from building resilience to navigating nutritional choices with university-level students to avoiding and addressing disordered eating behavior patterns. We explore strategies for addressing various issues, including sleepovers, acne in kids with special needs, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and intrinsic motivation. Additionally, Dr. Roseann sheds light on suicide, suicidal ideations, and the lack of stress tolerance in young people today and shares valuable insights into supplementation that has proven effective within her patient population. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the pandemic impacted the mental health of teenagers How to help your kid become more comfortable socially How to go about finding mental health providers qualified to work with children, teens, and young adults What can universities do to support better nutrition on campuses? How to address food intolerances in teenagers Dr. Roseann describes the QEEG brain mapping process How to help kids overcome their anxiety about sleepovers Some helpful advice for overcoming acne How to manage behavioral issues in kids with special needs How to help your child become more regulated to allow them to achieve at a higher level  How can families support young adults with suicidal ideations in a way that is helpful and not harmful? What can universities do to foster an emotionally healthy and supportive environment? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge On her website Dr. Roseann compiled a free guide for you! 147 Therapist-Endorsed Self-Regulation Strategies for Children: A Practical Guide for Parents Article written by Elizabeth Powell, Program Officer of the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Brain Scans Reveal How COVID Pandemic Affected Teenagers Previous Episodes Featuring Dr. Roseann Ep. 174 – Identifying and Treating Your Children’s Mental Health: How We Can Be Their Greatest Support with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge Ep. 273 Optimizing Mental Health with Myo-Inositol: Evidence-Based Strategies with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

I am honored to have Dr. Molly Maloof joining me on the podcast today. She provides health optimization and personalized medicine for high-achieving entrepreneurs, investors, and technology executives. She used to teach at Stanford University and has served as an advisor or consultant to over fifty companies within the digital health, consumer health, and biotech sectors.  In our conversation today, we dive into metabolic health and explain how mitochondrial health impacts our immune system, particularly in COVID, Long Haul COVID, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Our discussion also encompasses the significance of hormesis, gender-based variations, the influence of physical exercise, measuring VO2 Max, and why sedentary lifestyles can be more dangerous than being overweight. Additionally, we explore the latest trends in modern medicine and nutrition, the benefits of continuous glucose monitors, and how healing from trauma happens through spiritual growth. Dr. Molly is adept at helping people talk about things that make them feel uncomfortable. I am sure you will enjoy learning from her invaluable insights! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Metabolic health, intermittent fasting, and the importance of measuring and improving mitochondrial function Mitochondrial dysfunction in long-haul COVID patients, and the importance of understanding the root cause of persistent symptoms Alternative therapies for treating COVID How hormesis (a mild stress response) can be beneficial for females Dr. Molly discusses her approach to becoming metabolically flexible How being obsessed with health tracking could result in orthorexia and body disapproval  Why we should focus more on human connection instead of sacrificing it in pursuit of a perfect lifestyle Why is being sedentary more dangerous than being overweight? The significance of VO2 max in understanding metabolic health and longevity The potential of MDMA-assisted therapy for healing from sexual trauma Dr. Molly talks about her book, The Spark Factor, and Adamo, her new program for optimizing sexual health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Molly Maloof On her website On Instagram Find out more about Adamo sex therapy by emailing molly@adamobioscience.com  Your Healthspan Journey video course

I am honored to have Dr. Joseph Yi joining me on the podcast today. He is a board-certified addiction psychiatrist specializing in holistic psychiatry and detoxification who embraces a lifestyle medicine approach to mental and behavioral well-being.  Dr. Yi caught my attention when he appeared on the Model Health Show with Sean Stephenson. I was instantly captivated by his bright and inquiring mind and knew I had to share his wisdom on Everyday Wellness.  In our conversation, we dive into the effects of the pandemic on screen time and addiction behaviors in children. Dr. Yi shares his expertise on the role of Fentanyl and drug overdose fatalities, challenges the notion that marijuana is entirely benign, and highlights the lack of education among traditionally trained medical professionals regarding lifestyle medicine. We also explore the transformative potential of psychedelics, including ketamine therapy, and the societal acceptance of addictive substances like alcohol and nicotine. Our conversation also journeys through the realm of low vibrational frequencies and spirituality, concluding with a discussion on the role of supplements in enhancing our mental and emotional well-being.  I have no doubt you will find today’s conversation enlightening and thought-provoking. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Drug addiction and overdose trends with fentanyl The impact of tech addiction on mental health, particularly since the pandemic The potential risks of marijuana, especially for developing brains How traditionally trained healthcare professionals lack education on lifestyle as medicine How hyper-processed foods negatively impact the gut microbiome and mental health  How oral contraceptives suppress sex hormones in young women, leading to anxiety and antidepressant use The disconnection between allopathic medicine and the impact of lifestyle on mental and emotional health  How many healthcare professionals tend to struggle with addictions How the social acceptability of nicotine and alcohol plays down their highly addictive natures The benefits of ketamine therapy for depression and trauma The importance of addressing low vibrational frequencies  Dr. Yi discusses his mental wellness supplement company, Beyond Recovery, and their flagship product, a multivitamin for the mind Bio: Dr. Joseph Yi is a board-certified Addiction Psychiatrist with a specialization in Holistic Psychiatry and Medication Detoxification (both illicit and prescribed). Graduating as Chief Resident of Psychiatry from Cooper University Hospital (located in the heart of Camden, NJ) he gained invaluable experience in treating complex psychiatric and addiction cases. More recently, Dr. Yi has embarked on a journey exploring the realm of psychedelics, and he is eager to share his personal experiences and insights into the future of psychiatry. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow On Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Joseph Yi Beyond Recovery Instagram

Hello, everyone! It's that time again, and today, I am delighted to bring you AMA number six. In this edition of our AMA series, I dive into an eclectic mix of questions, all related to intermittent fasting, pregnancy supplements, working out, and what breaks a fast.  As I have mentioned before, I thoroughly enjoy this format. Your wealth of inquiries offers me valuable insight into your areas of interest and curiosity. So please keep those questions flowing!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How does age impact intermittent fasting? What vegans and vegetarians could consider incorporating into their diets to help meet their protein requirements How fasting while in consultation with a healthcare provider can benefit people with chronic illnesses I recommend longer fasts for deep cellular cleansing; but only with medical supervision. The benefits of night-time aids like medicinal mushrooms and golden milk while in a fasted state Why I advise against fasting while pregnant, breastfeeding, or trying to conceive Is it okay to take supplements during a fasting period? Why is it essential for perimenopausal and menopausal women to find balance in their exercise routines? Experimenting with feeding windows to find what works best Why is hormone replacement therapy essential for women who go into menopause before turning 45?   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Recommended book: The XX Brain by Lisa Mosconi Related Podcast Episodes: Ep. 217 The Shocking Truth about Mold Exposure and Mycotoxin Illness with Dr. Aaron Hartman Ep. 95 – Why Muscle Is The Organ Of Longevity! – with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Ep. 302 Protein’s Transformative Impact on Muscle and Aging Well with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Ep. 94 – Reclaim Your Vibrancy, Sexuality, Health and Happiness! – with Dr. Anna Cabeca Ep. 221 Part 1- An Integrative Approach to PCOS and Menstrual Irregularities with Dr. Felice Gersh Ep. 237 Perimenopause and Menopause: What You Didn’t Know with Dr. Felice Gersh Ep. 297 Dr. Felice Gersh: Estrogen, Immunity & Menopause Mysteries

I am delighted to have my friend and colleague, Dr. Tro Kalayjian, back on the podcast today! He was with me once before for episode 54.  Dr. Tro has a background in internal and obesity medicine and is a founding member of the Society for Metabolic Health Practitioners. He managed to lose more than 150 pounds by challenging conventional medical advice.  In our discussion today, we dive into the impact of food addiction and how our current medical framework has compounded the difficulties of so many patients. We explore the limitations of the calories in calories out model and explain why the term binge eating does not adequately describe food addiction. We go into the role of macronutrients and discuss surgical interventions and medications for food addictions, highlighting the need for patient autonomy and shared decision-making. We also scrutinize the influence of institutions like the CDC, FDA, and insurance companies on how physicians and other healthcare practitioners practice medicine and help their patients manage hunger cravings, social interactions, emotions, and more.  Dr. Tro's dedication to empowering practitioners to become strong patient advocates and oppose the conventional medical paradigm shines through in this impactful and thought-provoking episode. I truly admire him for his commitment to challenging traditional medical protocols!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why should binge eating be called food addiction? How to address a food addiction proactively How most physicians and healthcare practitioners have failed people with food addictions The issue with surgical interventions and medications  What can physicians and healthcare practitioners do to build insight into addicted patients? Dr. Tro shares his take on shared decision-making and patient autonomy regarding flu shots Why licensed healthcare providers should be obliged to have continuing education How the CDC, FDA, medical organizations, and insurance companies have influenced the way that physicians and healthcare providers help their patients The problem with central planners and their followers  Why does a low-carb bias still exist within the medical community? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Tro Kalayjian On his website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Previous Episode Mentioned Episode 54: Losing Weight The Healthy Way with Dr. Tro Kalayjian

Today, I am honored to connect with Dr. Mary Claire Haver, a board-certified OBGYN who has dedicated her entire adult life to championing women's health.  Dr. Haver is the visionary creator of the Galveston Diet, the first and only nutrition program ever designed by a female OBGYN to cater to menopausal women.  In our conversation today, Dr. Haver shares her background, and we discuss her new book, The Galveston Diet. We examine the glaring systemic gap where the health of middle-aged women remains undervalued and underfunded in research, and our discussion touches on various facets of women's health, including perimenopausal symptoms, the distinction between chronological and endocrine aging, the scientific misconceptions surrounding weight gain and hormones, the advantages of intermittent fasting, inflammation, macros. We also get into the supplements Dr. Haver finds beneficial for women in middle age, in addition to dissecting the impact of non-nutritive sweeteners and the role of continuous glucose monitors. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Haver highlights various symptoms of perimenopause How menopause can increase health risks How muscle loss with aging can make women more insulin resistant and lead to cardiovascular changes How the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause can impact weight management What are the benefits of intermittent fasting for perimenopausal women? How a combination of genetics and lifestyle factors can help women prepare for menopause and manage its symptoms How sugar, alcohol, and gluten impact inflammation, insulin levels, and blood sugar How a lack of protein and the wrong types of fats can lead to hunger and satiety issues and lead to muscle breakdown and weight gain in menopausal women Dr. Haver talks about her book, The Galveston Diet How do non-nutritive sweeteners impact the gut microbiome and blood sugar levels? The benefits of using a continuous glucose monitor to track blood sugar levels Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Mary Claire Haver Website Instagram TikTok YouTube Pre-order a copy of The Galveston Diet

I am delighted to have my friend, colleague, and mentor, JJ Virgin, joining me on the podcast again today! She last appeared in Episode 112, back in August 2020.   JJ is a thriving and influential health and wellness expert. She is a multiple New York Times best-selling author and triple board-certified nutrition expert who earned a place in the Fitness Hall of Fame. In our conversation today, we debunk some common misconceptions around weight loss, discussing the role of muscle and examining the importance of macro management- particularly in the context of perimenopause and menopause. We explore the art of aging powerfully and share some great hacks for navigating middle age, including our favorite supplements, like creatine monohydrate. We also look into the value of doing flexibility work like Pilates and yoga, the latest research on grip strength and its implications for overall strength, and the impact of chronic stress, and we share some effective strategies for tackling cellulite. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Where have we gone wrong with weight loss? The optimal amount of strength training for perimenopausal and menopausal women  How changing your macros in middle age is the key to mastering your metabolism, maintaining muscle, and maintaining insulin sensitivity Three things that must happen for you to age powerfully Why is it best to eat the protein in a meal first? Foods that positively impact the metabolism The benefits of taking a creatine monohydrate supplement How Pilates and yoga help with flexibility, strength, and muscle-building  How grip strength correlates with overall strength The importance of thinking strategically about how we move as we get older How to counter the effects of stress and chronic cortisol elevation during perimenopause and menopause How to deal with cellulite Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with JJ Virgin website   The Well Beyond Forty podcast Protein Calculator   Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 112 – Your Body Is Not A Bank Account – with JJ Virgin

I am delighted to welcome all my listeners to AMA number five! You have flooded me with a myriad of questions once again, and as promised, we will be focusing on supplements today.  I aim to keep the AMAs between 35 and 40 minutes long to make them a quick listen that is easy to digest. However, looking ahead into 2024, we might consider extending the sessions if your questions lead us in that direction. I have tried to paraphrase your questions wherever I could and will do my best to answer as many as possible in this episode.  Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How will BCAAs and essential amino acids benefit a 56-year-old woman with Hashimoto's? Why I recommend essential amino acids over branched chain amino acids for muscle protein synthesis and overall health Why do we need to consume much more protein as we age? What are the benefits of Berberine? Why I recommend focusing on nutrition, physical activity, sleep, and stress management for optimal health during menopause The benefits of creatine supplementation for enhanced exercise performance and overall health The benefits of creatine for muscle gain and sleep improvement I address concerns about using creatine in hot food Is there an affordable alternative to myoinositol that offers the same concentrated benefits?  Will a myoinositol supplement lower testosterone levels? Will myoinositol help a child manage mood swings and sugar intake? Some of the potential benefits of the Mitopure Urolithin A supplement The most important nutrition and supplements for supporting aging women Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Dr. Roseann’s website My YouTube video: Stop Wasting Your Money on These Supplements

I am honored to have Dr. Jenn Simmons joining me on the podcast today! She is a top breast cancer surgeon who made a pivotal shift in her practice after developing an illness that led her into the functional medicine world. She has since become a beacon of hope as the doctor with the answer to breast cancer in helping her patients reclaim their health. In our discussion, Dr. Jenn shares her background, and we dive into breast physiology and the role of hormones, dispelling the myth that estrogen causes breast cancer. We explore the latest advancements in breast cancer screening, including some new screening tools Dr. Jenn employs in her practice. Our conversation also encompasses risk factors, diagnostic approaches for women, and lifestyle-related choices that can play a role in either preventing breast cancer or helping women heal from it. I have incorporated many of your questions into our discussion, including information about alcohol consumption, whether or not breast implant illness is a real issue, and how Dr. Jenn helps her patients heal from it.  Dr. Jenn possesses deep wisdom, and her insights are bound to enhance your understanding of breast cancer. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why Dr. Jenn made it her mission to save and empower women Dr. Jenn dives into breast physiology and all the changes that breasts go through in a lifetime Why estrogen does not cause breast cancer How can we be proactive in protecting ourselves from breast cancer? Lifestyle choices that are essential for our health How QT Imaging will soon replace mammograms Some of the risk factors for breast cancer Small changes you can make to avoid breast cancer Why Dr. Jenn routinely looks at gut health first and always insists that her patients remove all grains, including gluten-free varieties, from their diet  Why is there no safe amount of alcohol for all women? Is breast implant illness a real issue? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Want more of Dr. Jenn? You can catch her on her podcast, KEEPING ABREAST with Dr. Jenn here (new episodes drop every Monday!): https://www.buzzsprout.com/2184587 If you have general questions about breast health or screening, we recommend joining our free Facebook group, Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn. You can join here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn/ You can find Dr. Jenn’s book, The Smart Person’s Guide to Breast Cancer, here:  https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer To get your free copy of The Breast Owner's Guide to Health, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/BreastOwnersGuide If you are looking to learn more about working privately with Dr. Jenn, please use this link to set up a call with a member of the team:  https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

I am honored to have Samantha Harris joining me today!  Samantha is a best-selling author and prominent figure in the television world, having graced our screens as an Emmy Award-winning TV host. At age forty, her life took a shocking and unexpected turn when she received a breast cancer diagnosis, moving her far beyond the glamor of the entertainment industry. In our conversation today, Samantha shares her remarkable story, explaining how her persistence and intuition guided her toward identifying and understanding ductal carcinoma. We discuss the value of seeking second and third opinions and why you should trust your intuition when navigating medical decisions. Samantha also sheds light on the critical role of raising awareness and empowering individuals in their healthcare journeys, and we examine the risk factors associated with breast cancer, looking at lifestyle choices and how they affect our health and well-being. Samantha is a wellspring of hope and inspiration! I trust you will find my conversation with her as captivating and enlightening as I did while recording it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Samantha made the leap into entertainment journalism Samantha dives into her journey to health after receiving a breast cancer diagnosis How her persistence allowed her to receive an earlier diagnosis   How she learned to listen to her inner voice Why is it important to get second and third opinions on treatment options? What prompted Samantha to change her personal care products and makeup? Nutritional changes Samantha made that impacted her health the most The importance of taking things one step at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed when making changes How her exercise routine has changed over the last eight years Why is it essential to keep your body flexible? The three pillars that helped Samantha get through her illness Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Samantha Harris On her website On Facebook and Instagram (@SamanthaHarrisTV)

I am honored to connect with Dr. Deanna Minich today! She is a pioneer in the realm of optimum nutrition, a nutrition scientist, international lecturer, educator, and author with an impressive background amassed over two decades in academia and the food and dietary supplement industry. With six consumer books to her name, Dr. Minich has been a beacon of insight and guidance on my social media horizon. Her dedication to bio-individuality and her holistic approach have made her a prominent figure in her field and a source of inspiration for many, including me. In today’s discussion, Dr. Minich and I dive into the intricate world of nutrition science. We delve into topics such as the unique dietary needs of women, the impact of organic foods on reproductive health, and the critical role of an anti-inflammatory diet during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Minich emphasizes the principle of bio-individuality, pointing out that each person's nutritional needs are as unique as their DNA. We also discuss the transformative power of quantum healing and its potential to bring about profound changes in one's health. Among other topics, we explore the importance of supporting circadian biology and shed light on the language of aging. Discussions on melatonin as a chronobiotic agent, distinctions between naturally-sourced and lab-created melatonin, and the crucial role of detoxification in our well-being are also included. I am thrilled to share this enlightening conversation with you today. I am confident you'll find it as captivating and informative as I did when recording it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The unique nutritional needs women have at different stages of life, highlighting the significance of optimum nutrition The importance of consuming phytonutrients How compounds found in fruits and vegetables of various colors benefit reproductive health Specific strategies women should adopt during the middle-age stage of their life and beyond The influence of circadian rhythms on women throughout their lives The importance of being your own best advocate during menopause The distinction between plant-based melatonin and its lab-created counterpart Methods to support your body to ensure proper methylation Why sleep should be viewed as a form of detoxification. An introduction to quantum healing and its transformative effects on people's lives Bio: Dr. Deanna Minich is a nutrition scientist, international lecturer, educator, and author with over twenty years of experience in academia and the food and dietary supplement industries, currently serving as Chief Science Officer at Symphony Natural Health. She has been active as a functional medicine clinician in clinical trials and her own practice (Food & Spirit™). She is the author of six consumer books on wellness topics, four book chapters, and over fifty scientific publications. Her academic background is in nutrition science, including a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Illinois at Chicago (1995) and a Doctorate (Ph.D.) in Medical Sciences from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands (1999).  She has served on the Nutrition Advisory Board for The Institute of Functional Medicine and on the Board of Directors for the American Nutrition Association. Currently, she teaches for the Institute for Functional Medicine, the University of Western States, the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, and the Institute for Brain Potential. Through her talks, workshops, groups, and in-person retreats, she helps people practically and artfully transform their lives through nutrition and lifestyle.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Deanna Minich Or on her website Facebook Instagram

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon today! She is a dear friend and a physician whose work has profoundly impacted my own work, particularly during the past few years. She previously appeared on the podcast in episode 95 about three years ago.   Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a highly respected functional medicine provider, the founder of the Institute for Muscle-centric Medicine, a nationally recognized speaker and media contributor, and the author of the book Forever Strong.  In our conversation, we dive into areas where confusion often clouds our understanding of protein intake. We explore the distinctions between commodities and consumer packaged goods and the impact of sarcopenia and other muscle-related changes that affect women during perimenopause and menopause. Our discussion also goes into the hallmarks of aging, uncovers the critical importance of a specific protein threshold to initiate muscle protein synthesis, and examines the role of food matrices and Leucine thresholds, misconceptions surrounding carbohydrates, and the most effective methods for tracking muscle mass. Additionally, we explore the connections between poor metabolic health and cognitive decline, making this conversation exceptionally relevant and informative.  I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Lyon's forthcoming book coming out in early October. Her work has played a significant role in shaping my personal and professional life and had a profound impact on many of my female patients and clients.  I am confident that you will find today’s show with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon as enlightening and valuable as I do. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Where did the confusion around the proper intake of protein originate? Physiological changes that occur in women as they age How hormonal changes during midlife lead to muscle loss and insulin resistance, which can contribute to aging What is insulin resistance? How unhealthy skeletal muscle leads to low energy efficiency and metabolic implications. The importance of protein for women's health How carbohydrates impact our metabolic health The impact of intermittent fasting on muscle health What is skeletal muscle and how does it affect our health?   The interconnectedness between skeletal muscle, obesity, and cognitive decline The benefits of D3 Creatine supplementation  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect With Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Check out her website  Connect on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter Her podcast, the Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show Order her book, Forever Strong, on Amazon or her website Episode 95 – Why Muscle Is The Organ Of Longevity – with Dr. Gabrielle Lyon

Today, I have the honor of connecting with Dr. Darren Candow, a distinguished professor and internationally renowned researcher on creatine monohydrate, nutrition, and physical activity.  With an impressive portfolio boasting 87 peer-reviewed publications in prestigious journals, Dr. Candow is an absolute delight to converse with. Our extensive discussion delves into many fascinating topics, including the role of creatine monohydrate in bone health, the influence of estrogen, anabolic processes, and the synergy of exercise with creatine. We explore groundbreaking research on the evolution of sarcopenia, dissect outdated recommendations for protein intake, and uncover the connection between creatine utilization and brain health, particularly in traumatic brain injuries, sleep deprivation, jetlag, and mood disorders. In addition, we navigate the intricacies of creatine dosing and venture into the impact of creatine on anaerobic strength training, fat loss, cardiovascular health, and endurance exercise while also exploring its potential as an anti-inflammatory and anti-muscle catabolism agent. The overwhelming influx of questions we received prompted a gracious offer from Dr. Candow to join me sometime soon for an AMA dedicated specifically to creatine.  From the date this podcast airs on October 4th until October 11th, we are delighted to offer a special treat of a discount code on creatine. You will not want to miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enhance your journey toward better health and performance! I trust you will enjoy today's conversation with Dr. Candow as much as I did! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The benefits of creatine for bone health in perimenopausal and menopausal women.  Dr. Candow highlights the importance of exercise for postmenopausal women while using creatine supplements Is creatine supplementation without any exercise beneficial to bone health? How sarcopenia progression impacts muscle strength and bone health The impact of creatine on brain health  The potential cognitive benefits of creatine supplementation Concussion research and creatine dosage How creatine supplementation affects the body Dr. Candow discusses the research results on creatine for concussion in children How to take creatine to enhance absorption and reduce side effects  How creatine impacts fat loss and muscle gain Bio: Dr. Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP, is Professor and Director of the Aging Muscle and Bone Health Laboratory in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies at the University of Regina, Canada. The overall objectives of Dr. Candow’s research program are to develop effective lifestyle interventions involving nutrition (primarily creatine monohydrate) and physical activity (resistance training) which have practical and clinical relevance for improving musculoskeletal aging and reducing the risk of falls and fractures. Dr. Candow has published over 120 peer-refereed journal manuscripts, supervised over 20 MSc and PhD students, and received research funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, the National Institute of Health, and the Nutricia Research Foundation. In addition, Dr. Candow serves on the editorial review boards for the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, Nutrients, and Frontiers.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter (now X) Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Darren Candow On Instagram On Twitter (now X) University of Regina Use the code CREATINE 15 for a 15% discount on creatine monohydrate between October 4th and 11th

I am honored to connect with Dr. Bill Rawls today! He is a distinguished figure in the healthcare field, having departed from conventional allopathic medicine to illuminate the profound potential of herbs in revitalizing health through the principles of cellular healing and regeneration.  With a foundation in classical obstetrics and gynecology and backed by scientific research, Dr. Rawls joins me today to furnish us with his actionable recommendations for optimal health and well-being.  In our conversation, Dr. Rawls dives into his background and explains the inherent limitations of the traditional allopathic model that has guided modern medicine for generations. We explore questions surrounding the alarming state of health in our society and examine the factors contributing to disease. We navigate the landscape of cellular biology, shining a light on the role of mitochondria and the impact of diet, environmental toxins, stress, and microbial pressures on our well-being. Dr. Rawls also unveils the distinctions that set herbs apart from pharmaceutical agents, and we journey through the realm of phytochemicals, the spectrum of herbal safety, and the health concerns around perimenopause, menopause, bone health, and sleep.  Dr. Rawls is a source of profound wisdom in the world of health and wellness, and his invaluable insights promise to empower us on the path to a healthier and more vibrant existence! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why Dr. Rawls chose to go into obstetrics and gynecology What prompted Dr. Rawls to redirect the focus of his work? How Dr. Rawls has spent the past decade and a half figuring out what herbs were doing and what chronic illness is The differences between acute medicine and functional medicine How mitochondrial power and illness are intertwined How stress factors impact cellular health How does the safety and efficacy of a particular herb get determined? What is an adaptogen?  The value of taking herbs for essential hypertension The importance of bone health for women The impact of sleep pressure on sleep The importance of restoring natural sleep cycles Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Bill Rawls On his website  Dr. Rawls at https://rawlsmd.com Dr. Rawls's book, The Cellular Wellness Solution

I have the honor of connecting with Dr. Kelly Casperson today! She is a urologist with an unwavering commitment to empowering women to embrace their love lives to the fullest! As the host of the enlightening You Are Not Broken podcast and the author of the equally insightful book bearing the same title, she has become a beacon of knowledge and inspiration in the world of human intimacy and sexual wellness.  In our discussion today, we delve into the world of sexuality. We dissect the influence of Hollywood on the woeful lack of education around sexual intimacy, explore the role of parenting, the absence of comprehensive sex education in our schools, and the consequential impact on how society perceives female physiology. Dr. Kelly sheds light on the alarming lack of sexual education in medical school curricula, the intricate interplay of hormones, and the significance of hormone replacement therapy. Our dialogue also extends to the distinctions between oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy and the transformative potential of bridging behavioral gaps in the bedroom for enhanced lovemaking. Dr. Kelly also sheds light on the changes occurring in the genital urinary system with age and prompts us to rethink our approach to sexual health. This show has been one of the most captivating podcasts I have ever had the pleasure of hosting! Dr. Kelly Casperson emerges as an invaluable resource in human intimacy, offering a treasure trove of wisdom and insight through her podcast and illuminating TEDx talk. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The poor state of sex education in the world today Why must parents step in and educate their children on sex and sexuality? The power of being a urologist versus being someone who cares for women How things are improving  Why teenagers need to be direct and clear about consent How you can use Hollywood films as a backdrop in conversations to call out the inequalities in society Why is the pleasure aspect of sexuality seldom spoken about? Hormone replacement therapy for women Hormone replacement therapy for men The importance of finding a connection and taking time for arousal in a relationship Reframing the heteronormative theory of low desire  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Kelly Casperson On her website TEDx talk: Why We Need Adult Sex Ed Podcast: You Are Not Broken  Book: You Are Not Broken- Stop “Should-ing” All Over Your Sex Life

I am thrilled to welcome you to another engaging episode of the AMA series!  Today, I dive into a diverse array of topics and address the questions that have emerged time and time again. As always, the sheer abundance of questions from all of you has made the selection process a delightful challenge!  For this show, I decided to address those questions sent in by many different people. Join me as I embark on an expedition through the most commonly asked questions, focusing on those recurring questions that have consistently caught your interest and shedding light on the subjects that have piqued the curiosity of a great many of you. Sorting through the multitude of questions you submitted was an enjoyable endeavor, and I am delighted to address all the inquiries that resonated with so many of you today!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is melasma?  Is a continuous glucose monitor recommended?  My recommendations for lowering LDL How to know if you are metabolically healthy or flexible What causes recurrent urinary tract infections? What I recommend as a preventative measure for recurrent urinary tract infections What can high sugar levels in the morning indicate? How to find a recommended functional integrative medicine doctor in your area The books I am currently reading How do I plan for success? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Find a recommended functional integrative medicine doctor in your area through the Institute for Functional Medicine   Books mentioned:  The Dorito effect by Mark Schatzker  Hooked by Michael Moss  The Tiger Protocol by Dr. Akil Akil Palanisamy Toxic Superfoods by Sally K. Norton  Next Level Metabolism by Dr. Jade Teta

Prepare to be enlightened by an engaging discussion with a true powerhouse in women's health! I have the pleasure of being joined once again by the esteemed Dr. Felice Gersh, a renowned physician with a cutting-edge career in obstetrics, gynecology, and integrative medicine.  In today’s episode, Dr. Gersh and I explore the intricate interplay between estrogen and immune function, delving into the impact of ovarian aging, menopause, bone health, mental cognition, sleep, and mood. We traverse the vast landscape of the gut microbiome and vascular system, unraveling the secrets of different estrogen types and receptors while addressing the crucial role of inflammation.  With a keen focus on hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Gersh also shares her invaluable insights on the critical window for intervention and her exceptional approach to caring for women in perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Felice Gersh is an invaluable resource on women’s health! Tune in for an enriching discussion that will leave you eagerly anticipating more episodes with this esteemed physician!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Gersh discusses hormone supplementation and menopause.  The role of estrogen in the immune system The systemic effects of estrogens How to turn on the off switch to inflammation The connection between estrogen and the gut microbiome   The role of estradiol in the body Having a healthy gut will translate into a healthy liver and vice versa. The magic of phytoestrogens The perfect storm for creating breast cancer Is there a magic window of time for menopause? Estrogen receptors and the risk of blood clotting   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Felice Gersh On her website: Integrative Medical Group of Irvine On Instagram All of Dr. Gersh’s books are available on Amazon Ep. 221 Part 1- An Integrative Approach to PCOS and Menstrual Irregularities with Dr. Felice Gersh Ep. 237 Perimenopause and Menopause: What You Didn’t Know with Dr. Felice Gersh

In the ever-evolving journey toward holistic well-being, it is my privilege to welcome the esteemed Dr. Vincent Pedre onto the podcast once again!  Dr. Pedre believes that the gut is the gateway to excellent wellness. His latest book, The Gut Smart Protocol, features a 14-day personalized gut healing plan, which is a testament to his commitment. As a functional medicine physician, the Medical Director of Pedre Integrative Health, the Founder of Dr. Pedre Wellness, and the CEO and Founder of The Happy Gut Life LLC, Dr. Pedre brings a wealth of expertise!  In today’s conversation, we embark on a profound exploration of the gut microbiome's intricate relationship with pesticides, particularly scrutinizing glyphosate's role as an antimicrobial chelating agent. We navigate how that impacts our gut microbiome significantly, from dysbiosis to leaky gut syndrome, including the reduction in mucus production. Our dialogue also covers the profound impacts of antibiotics, the often-underestimated role of the soil biome, how we can reframe weight loss resistance through a gut-centric lens, the value of fermented foods, and the role of histamine. In addition, Dr. Pedre also unveils invaluable insights gleaned from his 2020 experiences with the Hadza tribe, shedding light on the nexus between the gut microbiome and holistic well-being. Today's discussion with Dr. Pedre reveals a myriad of information that will transform how we perceive the intricate interplay between our inner ecosystem and overall health. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The impact of glyphosate on the gut microbiome How are most people getting exposed to glyphosate?  Why some countries have outlawed the use of glyphosate The importance of the soil concerning our health The cumulative effects of antibiotics on gut health Why is it essential to eat fermented foods Fiber-rich versus high-fermented foods How it all starts with the food you eat The triad of detoxification How different types of gut bacteria impact the extraction of calories Why is the Hadza tribe so fascinating? Over-sanitisation and the gut microbiome Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Vincent Pedre On Instagram  Dr. Pedre’s book, The Gut Smart Protocol, is available from www.gutsmartprotocol.com, Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or your local bookshop. Ep. 222 Strategies for Naturally Healing the Gut Microbiome with Dr. Vincent Pedre

Step into a world of insight and expertise with me today as I dive into a captivating conversation with Dr. Deb Matthew, affectionately known as the Happy Hormone Doctor!  A remarkable best-selling author, international speaker, devoted educator, and a multitasking mother of four boys, Dr, Matthew brings a wealth of knowledge to the forefront.  In this episode, we unravel the complexities surrounding oral contraceptives as hormone replacement therapy in perimenopause and menopause. We navigate the intricate web of effects these medications pose and shed light on the pivotal role of specific lab tests in understanding the phases of womanhood.  Join Dr. Matthew and me as we explore the nuanced realm of premature menopause and delve into the significance of testosterone in hormone replacement strategies. Our discussion also encompasses the profound connection between cognitive well-being and the often-overlooked genitourinary symptoms of menopause.  This episode is the first segment of a two-part podcast series with Dr. Matthew. Join us as we embark on an illuminating expedition into the domain of women's health and uncover strategies ranging from cutting-edge medical interventions like PRP lasers and acoustic wave therapy to the realm of energy medicine. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why are oral contraceptives being used in menopausal women? What are oral contraceptives? Why oral contraceptives are not a replacement for hormone replacement therapy The disruptive effect of birth control pills How to know if you are in perimenopause The importance of getting a baseline on hormones. Early menopause and ovarian failure What is the differentiator between bioidentical and synthetic hormones?  The importance of testosterone for women Hormone replacement and sexual health The changes that happen in women’s brains as they age The power of the one About Dr. Deb Matthew: Dr. Deb Matthew MD, The Happy Hormones Doctor, is a best-selling author, international speaker, educator, wife, and mom of four boys. After suffering for years from fatigue and irritability due to hormone imbalances, her quest to resolve her personal health led her to change everything about her practice of medicine. She has been featured on national podcasts, radio, and broadcast shows, including NBC, ABC, CBS, and FOX. Her books, This Is NOT Normal! and Why Can't I Keep Up Anymore? address hormone health in women and men. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Deb Matthew On her website On Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn Get a copy of Dr. Matthew’s book, This is Not Normal: A Busy Woman’s Guide to Symptoms of Hormone Imbalance, on Amazon, or download a free copy at www.isityourhormones.com.

Today, I am delighted to have the privilege of embarking on a journey through scientific discovery and the secrets that shape our existence with the esteemed Dr. Morgan Levine! Dr. Levine is an assistant professor of pathology at Yale University School of Medicine, where she stands at the forefront of a groundbreaking exploration into the enigma of biological aging. Armed with the tools of bioinformatics, she has unraveled the intricacies of aging, deciphering its code. She is the author of the book True Age, and her insights have enlightened those fortunate enough to peruse its pages!  Our discussion delves into the recesses of Dr. Levine’s profound expertise, exploring the domains of biologic aging and epigenetics, unlocking the mysteries of cellular senescence, revealing the connections between lifestyle and longevity, and unearthing the reasons behind aging being considered a veritable disease state. We navigate the landscape of gender-specific aging research, gene influence exemplified by APOE, and the intriguing permanence of our youthful fat cells. We also get into the efficacy of blue zones and hormesis and the importance of exercise and sleep optimization.  Today’s conversation with Dr. Levine promises a symphony of insight and discovery! Join us as we traverse the landscapes of longevity, epigenetics, and the science that might one day render age no more than a number. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Dr. Morgan became interested in epigenetics. What telomeres are, and how aging impacts them. Why should aging be treated as a disease state? How taking probiotics can improve longevity. What can we do to slow the aging process? How can we reduce our risk of dementia? Intermittent fasting and weight loss. The role of exercise in preventing sarcopenia and muscle loss with aging. How do exercise and sleep impact our brains? The effects of being disconnected from our natural circadian rhythm. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Morgan Levine On Twitter On Instagram Dr. Levine’s book True Age: Cutting-Edge Research to Help Turn Back the Clock

Today, I am excited to welcome you to the eagerly awaited third installment of Ask Me Anything!  In this episode, I shine the spotlight on a universal challenge that affects the lives of countless women north of 35 as I delve into the heart of the problems of weight loss resistance, plateaus, and the notorious belly fat that seems to cling on 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 in embarking on a journey to navigate that landscape, unravel the mysteries, confront the misconceptions, and uncover the 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 Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com

I am delighted to reintroduce Shawn Stephenson today! Shawn is a leading figure within the world of health and well-being, where his insights have had a profound impact! Shawn's USA Today national bestseller, Eat Smarter, and his international sensation, Sleep Smarter, have redefined how we approach vitality. He is also the creator and driving force behind the Model Health Show podcast, which has millions of devoted listeners.  In today's conversation, we discuss Shawn’s latest book, the Eat Smarter Family Cookbook, and deeply explore how family culture can shape our children's future.  The pandemic has changed our world irrevocably, and some worrisome numbers about how it has impacted childhood obesity have been catching our attention lately. We dive into that today and also share some obesity statistics for adults. Additionally, we explore the decline of family meals, dissect the effects of feeling isolated, and discuss the importance of staying connected. Get ready to delve into the interconnected threads of food, family, and nurturing body and soul. This talk is not just valuable- it is vitally important!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: One of the most overlooked aspects of all of the pandemic shutdowns Why are the majority of Americans overweight and not well? We are currently looking at a situation where you are not normal if you are healthy How can we eliminate the suffering within American society? Some staggering statistics on American health The problem with ultra-processed foods The value of the hunter-gatherer culture Family eating behaviors and health outcomes How the dinner table is a unifier in many senses The importance of relationships About Shawn Stevenson: Shawn Stevenson is the author of the USA Today National bestseller Eat Smarter, and the international bestselling book Sleep Smarter. He’s also the creator of The Model Health Show, featured as the number #1 health podcast in the U.S. with millions of listener downloads each month. A graduate of the University of Missouri–St. Louis, Shawn studied business, biology, and nutritional science and became the cofounder of Advanced Integrative Health Alliance. Shawn has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, The New York Times, Muscle & Fitness, ABC News, ESPN, and many other major media outlets. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Shawn Stevenson Order the Eat Smarter Family Cookbook and get access to the 2023 Family Health & Fitness Summit On Instagram (shawnmodel) Purchase Links for Shawn’s latest book, Eat Smarter Family Cookbook Amazon Barnes & Noble  iBooks Bookshop Previous Episode with Shawn: Ep. 248 Eat Smarter: The Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Your Gut, Brain, and Metabolic Health with Shawn Stevenson

I am honored and delighted to have Vanessa Spina joining me on the podcast today!  Vanessa is the best-selling author of Keto Essentials and a sports nutrition specialist whose expertise on the ketogenic diet has left a lasting impact on countless lives! With a background in biomedical science and a multifaceted career as an international stockbroker, her pioneering journey in the health and wellness industry has been nothing short of remarkable!  In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating realm of nutrition, from unraveling the mysteries of protein-recommended daily allowances and the leucine threshold to exploring the pivotal role of strength training in metabolic health. We dispel common misconceptions about the ketogenic diet, debunk the deceptive nature of the scale, and unveil the significance of DEXA scans in understanding changes in body composition. Vanessa also sheds light on the crucial importance of mitochondrial health and shares invaluable insights on various methods, including red light therapy, cold thermogenesis, micronutrients, and structured supplementation, to support our cellular powerhouses.  Join Vanessa and me as we embark on a knowledge-rich journey and uncover the keys to optimal health and well-being! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Common misconceptions about ketogenic diets Why a traditional ketogenic diet is not for everyone Why macronutrients are essential Misinformation regarding the recommended daily allowance for protein How to build muscle The relationship between metabolic health and muscle health The importance of DEXA scans for understanding body composition Why resistance training is a priority How to support the mitochondria The benefits of red light therapy and cold therapy Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Vanessa Spina On her website (ketogenicgirl.com) The Optimal Protein Podcast Vanessa’s book, Keto Essentials: 150 Ketogenic Recipes to Revitalize, Heal, and Shed Weight  Resource: Use Code CYNTHIA for $20 OFF any on the Tone LUX devices.

Greetings, curious minds, and welcome back to AMA number two with yours truly!  Your relentless curiosity about me and my endeavors has touched my heart, and I have to admit that I was utterly amazed and humbled by the sheer number of questions pouring in. I cannot thank you enough for your overwhelming participation! Today, we embark on a journey through the world of nutrition with a touch of personal revelation and the delightful exploration of your inquiries about me. We might also venture into the realm of intermittent fasting if time permits.  Get ready to dive into an enriching Q&A experience! If you have been enjoying these episodes, please don't hesitate to let me know, and keep those thought-provoking questions coming! Your input means the world to me!  Join me as I answer your questions and unravel some of the mysteries of nutrition! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The difference between conventional and grass-fed beef Can alternative sweeteners cause stomach issues? Navigating the changes when transitioning from perimenopause to menopause Why should you avoid counting calories to maintain a healthy metabolism How to help your kids make healthy food choices Finding a balance between healthy and unhealthy eating How to cut down on eating too many good fats Moving to a lower-carb diet with severe diabetes How much protein should you eat? Reducing cholesterol and triglycerides with a whole-food diet and fasting The best foods for women in perimenopause Ways to keep your glucose levels from spiking Connect with Cynthia Thurlow • Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn • Check out Cynthia’s website

In the pursuit of understanding the fascinating complexities of our brains and unraveling the secrets to a healthier, happier life, I am delighted to have the opportunity to engage in an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Marc Milstein!  With an impressive background in Biological Chemistry and a degree from UCLA in molecular, cellular, and developmental biology, Dr. Milstein's expertise lies in distilling cutting-edge scientific research on health and happiness into captivating presentations that entertain, educate, and empower his audience to live better.  In today’s discussion, we delve into a myriad of intriguing topics ranging from the astonishing anatomy of sorry and the mesmerizing intricacies of our brains' physiology to the pivotal role of neuroplasticity and the detrimental effects of plaques and tangles. We explore how waste build-up impacts our focus, productivity, and energy, and we uncover the factors influencing brain health, including the crucial interplay between a robust immune system and the intriguing link between leaky gut and memory issues. We also tackle the distinctions between mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease, examining the impact of insulin resistance and trauma while seeking actionable ways to age-proof our most precious organ.  I invite you to join Dr. Milstein and me as we embark on the enthralling journey of discovering the keys to unlocking the full potential of our minds and enriching our lives as we unravel the mysteries of our most vital organ. Stay tuned as we explore ways to age-proof our brains while gaining invaluable insights into enhancing focus, productivity, and energy! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The role of lifestyle factors on brain health.  The importance of learning new things.  How to cross-train your brain.  The interrelationship between the brain and immune system.  The importance of sleep and gut health.  How the dopamine squirt pertains to memory.  Signs of mild cognitive impairment.  Hearing loss and the role of hormones.  Metabolic health and brain health.  The importance of sleep and the brain.  The role of exercise in brain health.  About Dr. Marc Milstein Dr. Marc Milstein specializes in taking the leading scientific research on health and happiness and presents it in a way that entertains, educates, and empowers his audience to live better.  His presentations provide science-based solutions to keep the brain healthy, lower the risk of dementia, boost productivity, and maximize longevity. He earned his Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry and his Bachelor of Science in Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology from UCLA.  Dr. Milstein has conducted research on topics including cancer biology and neuroscience, and his work has been published in multiple scientific journals. Dr. Milstein has been quoted breaking down and analyzing the latest research in popular press such as USA Today, Huffington Post, and Weight Watchers Magazine. Dr. Milstein has also been featured on television explaining the latest scientific breakthroughs that improve our lives. Dr. Milstein's upcoming book "The Age-Proof Brain" will be published on October 25th, 2022. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Marc Milstein On his website On Instagram  On social media: @drmarcmilstein.com Dr. Milstein’s book, The Age-Proof Brain: New Strategies to Improve Memory, Protect Immunity, and Fight Off Dementia

I am delighted to have the remarkable Dr. Amie Hornaman return to the show today!  We last connected with Dr. Amie on episode 210, where she captivated us with her mission to optimize thyroid patients worldwide through her groundbreaking techniques.  Known as The Thyroid-Fixer, Dr. Amie has dedicated her life to giving back the lives of thyroid patients using her proprietary programming. In our conversation today, we delve into the enigmatic world of thyroid hormones, focusing on the misunderstood T2 hormone. Dr. Amie reveals the clinical indications for incorporating T2 with regular thyroid methodologies and sheds light on the intricate relationship between thyroid hormones and cholesterol. We also explore the differences between compounded and synthetic thyroid hormones, the challenges women face in building muscle during perimenopause and menopause, the vexing issue of weight loss resistance, and the intriguing connection between creatine monohydrate and thyroid health.  Prepare to be enlightened by today's invaluable conversation as Dr. Amie graces us again with her passion and expertise! Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What do we know about the T1 and T2 thyroid hormones? How T2 works at the mitochondrial level Finding the optimal dose of thyroid medication based on your symptoms When does Dr. Amie introduce her patients to T2? Why there is no shame in taking medication or hormone replacement therapy Why do we need to recognize menopause as a disease state? The interrelationship between lipids and thyroid function Where is T3 converted in the body? How thyroid treatment can be personalized and individualized Why is it so hard for middle-aged women to build muscle? Ways to overcome weight-loss resistance How does creatine impact thyroid function? About Dr. Amie Hornaman: Dr. Amie Hornaman, “The Thyroid-Fixer”, is host to the top-rated podcast in medicine and alternative health: The Thyroid Fixer™, with listeners around the globe. She is the founder of The Institute for Thyroid and Hormone Optimization, an organization with transformational, proven approaches to address thyroid dysfunction and support you in returning to full health. Dr. Amie is also the creator of The Fixxr™ Supplement line with revolutionary, proprietary supplements that specifically address the struggles Dr. Amie saw in her patients: inability to lose weight, fatigue, low libido, hormone imbalance, and more. From the Fixxr™ products to her one-on-one programs, Dr. Amie is on a mission to optimize you …and give you your life back. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman On her website On Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube Ep. 210 – Understanding the Thyroid’s Effect on Your Hormones, Weight Loss Resistance, and Metabolic Function with Amie Hornaman Books mentioned: Metabolical: The Lure and the Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine by Robert H. Lustig

Join me today in stepping into the world of nutrition science and exploring the fascinating realm of dietary oxalates alongside renowned expert Sally Norton! Armed with a nutrition degree from Cornell and a Master's degree in Public Health, Sally has dedicated her life to unraveling the mysteries of plant-based oxalic compounds. In her groundbreaking new book, Toxic Superfoods, she untangles the intricate web of oxalic acid, oxalate salts, and oxalate crystals, shedding light on their affinity for binding to essential minerals and disrupting the delicate balance of glutathione and oxidation. In today's conversation, Sally and I explore the prevalence of oxalates in modern lifestyles. We dive into the alarming deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals in the American diet and the impact of consumer demand for so-called superfoods. We also uncover the fascinating connections between genetics, lifestyle, and symptoms and get into how to address the consequences of consuming oxalate-laden foods.  Prepare yourself for an enlightening discussion that will give you a fresh perspective on health and well-being! You will be captivated by the depth of knowledge and insights Sally reveals about the pressing health issues surrounding dietary oxalates! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Sally's health journey led to her passion for sharing information about oxalates. The difficulty of questioning basic cultural assumptions What are oxalates, and how do they impact the body? Why do we feel the symptoms of high oxalate exposure systemically? How our modern-day lifestyles are contributing to oxalate symptoms Many clinicians are unaware of how superfoods are contributing to the poor health of their patients. Sally dives into the problem of hyper-nutrition. The hidden pathology of eating disorders Sally explains how primary hyperoxaluria plays out. Foods that seem benign Dealing with constipation and kidney stones How to get enough minerals in the body About Sally: Sally K. Norton, MPH, holds a nutrition degree from Cornell University and a Master’s degree in Public Health. Her path to becoming a leading expert on dietary oxalate includes a prior career working at major medical schools in medical education and public health research. Her personal healing experience inspired years of research that led to her book, Toxic Superfoods: How Oxalate Overload is Making You Sick-and How to Get Better, which was released in January 2023 from Rodale Press and is available everywhere books are sold.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Sally Norton On her website  On Facebook and YouTube Order a copy of Sally’s book, Toxic Superfoods

I have the privilege of reconnecting with Dr. Rick Johnson today. Our paths first crossed in 2022 for an enlightening podcast episode, and I am thrilled to continue our journey! What truly sets him apart is his warm and humble nature which I had the honor of experiencing first-hand when we met at an event earlier this year. Dr. Johnson is a beacon of knowledge in the fields of medicine, obesity, and diabetes. As a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado, his expertise extends far beyond the confines of academia. His groundbreaking research on sugar and fructose has unraveled the intricate web connecting these sweet substances to obesity, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.  Today, we delve deep into the latest research on the complex interrelationship between Alzheimer's and fructose, exploring the role of inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and insulin resistance. We untangle the mysteries surrounding Alzheimer's, the sixth leading cause of death, and discover how the survival switch within our bodies can predispose us to insulin resistance, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease. Our conversation also explores the differences between high fructose corn syrup and naturally occurring fructose in sugar, the impact of processed salt versus more natural alternatives, the significance of hydration, and the profound effects of the standard American diet. We also examine the intriguing connection between alcohol, sugar, mood, and fructose-induced behaviors, shedding light on the role of uric acid and its contribution to impulsivity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.  Join us for an enlightening discussion on multiple health issues as Dr. Rick Johnson imparts his knowledge and wisdom. Prepare to be enlightened and empowered as we embark on this transformative journey! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How fructose impacts brain health How fructose may lead to the development of Alzheimer’s The three characteristic stages of Alzheimer’s Why Alzheimer’s is insulin resistance in the brain. How dementia and obesity are both low-energy states caused by starvation of the brain The link between sugar, salt, and Alzheimer’s Why is sugar a toxin? Should you be fearful of salt? The importance of being metabolically healthy The interrelationship between sugar and alcohol How sugar impacts behavior. The link between fructose and ADHD Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Rick Johnson On his website On Instagram Dr. Johnson’s book, Nature Wants Us To Be Fat Ep. 205 – Fructose – The Driver Behind Metabolic Disease with Dr. Rick Johnson

Get ready to venture into the realm of cutting-edge health and nutrition as I reconnect with Kara Collier, a registered dietitian and the co-founder of Nutrisense, the revolutionary continuous glucose monitor app!  Our paths last crossed back in January of 2021, and I am thrilled to catch up with Kara again! Today, we delve deep into the ever-evolving landscape of metabolic health in 2023, exploring the pivotal role of CGM labs and glucometers in understanding our bodies.  In today’s captivating conversation, Kara unravels the significance of measuring glucose against other metabolites, unveiling the profound impact of macros, exercise, supplements, sleep quality, life stage, and bio-individuality on our well-being. With a plethora of invaluable hacks to optimize your blood sugar, we invite you to join us on a captivating journey that will leave you empowered to take charge of your health and transform your life!  Gear up for an enlightening conversation packed with valuable insights you will not want to miss! Prepare to be inspired and informed as we uncover the secrets to unlocking your metabolic potential! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The current state of metabolic health What is leading to obesity in the US? Getting your fasting glucose value below 90 The pros and cons of glucometers Glucose monitoring and the 8020 rule Tracking your data to learn about yourself Hacks to improve your diet The role of movement in metabolic health How important is Zone 2 training for mitochondrial health?  Follicular versus luteal phase and insulin sensitivity The importance of protein and carbohydrates Blood sugar and sleep quality About Kara: Kara Collier is the co-founder and VP of Health at Nutrisense, one of America’s fastest-growing wellness-tech startups. After becoming frustrated with the shortcomings of the traditional healthcare system, she made it her mission to help others reach their maximum health potential using modern technology & expert coaching. She is the leading authority on the use of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology for health optimization and disease prevention. Kara is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist (LDN), and Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC). Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Kara Collier On Instagram  Nutrisense Ep. 132 – Continuous Glucose Monitors: Why They’re Not Just for Diabetics Anymore with Kara Collier

Today, I am thrilled to welcome all of my wonderful, Everyday Wellness listeners to a special episode of the podcast they specifically requested- an Ask Me Anything session with yours truly! Interestingly, the subject that resonated most among listeners was hormone replacement therapy. To be crystal clear, I am here only to provide general insights and share information. If I answer your question today, I earnestly recommend that you listen, learn, and then find a practitioner who can best support your particular needs.  It is essential to remember that we are all bio-individuals. So what works for me may not work for someone else. I also want to ensure that women who choose not to pursue HRT are fully informed about the potential consequences of that choice. So, I appeal to you not to let fear dictate your decision-making around HRT if it is appropriate for you.  I believe informed consent is paramount, regardless of how you navigate the perimenopause and menopause phases of your life, and I ask you to embark on this journey with me, free from judgment.  Stay tuned for my advice, recommendations, and resources! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Is it too late to start HRT at 62?  What is the net impact of menopause?  Why is estrogen essential for health and wellness? The benefits of progesterone therapy. What is the best time to take progesterone? How would I approach hormone therapy with a 52-year-old who has had a partial hysterectomy and has been in menopause for two years? When is the best time to start HRT? Adrenal support for perimenopause.  For how long should a woman stay on HRT? How can you increase your progesterone without taking a pill? Janet is 57 and still has a menstrual cycle. Does she need HRT? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow • Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn • Check out Cynthia’s website Ep. 94 – Reclaim Your Vibrancy, Sexuality, Health and Happiness! – with Dr. Anna Cabeca Ep. 211 – Addressing the Root Cause of Hormonal Imbalances with Dr. Sara Gottfried Ep. 220 A Detailed Guide to Healthy Hormones with Dr. Lara Briden

Step into the world of metabolic health and fasting as we embark on a captivating journey with the renowned Canadian clinical educator Megan Ramos! In an era when chronic illness and obesity have become alarmingly prevalent, and dieting has become a lifelong struggle for many, Megan is on a mission to revolutionize our understanding of metabolic health. Known for her expertise in therapeutic fasting and low-carb diets, she co-founded the revolutionary Fasting Method alongside the renowned Dr. Jason Fung and co-authored the bestselling book Life in the Fasting Lane. Now, she returns with her latest work, delving into the untold stories of women and fasting.  In today’s captivating discussion, Megan and I explore the staggering statistics that reveal a nation plagued by chronic illness and weight issues, where even the average person has tried 126 diets in their lifetime. Megan shares her groundbreaking insights on women and fasting, unveiling the truth behind misdiagnosis, the myths surrounding intermittent fasting, the role of macros and insulin secretion, and the profound impact of the pandemic on our hormones, sleep, and stress levels.  Prepare yourself for a thought-provoking episode as we tackle pressing questions from listeners, covering the dawn effect, gout, insomnia, and invaluable strategies for achieving fasting success! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: My journey with PCOS Why does body composition matter so much? PCOS, the number one endocrine disorder in Westernized countries Common myths about intermittent fasting The fertility aspect of postmenopausal women The slippery slope of perimenopause Is fasting just an extreme form of calorie restriction? The impact of sleep and stress on glucose and insulin levels How to integrate intermittent fasting into your lifestyle Magnesium supplementation for insulin resistance How to deal with gout Connect with Cynthia Thurlow • Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn • Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Megan Ramos • The Fasting Method • Find Megan on social media @Megan J. Ramos • Purchase a copy of Life in the Fasting Lane  • Purchase a copy of The Essential Guide to Intermittent Fasting For Women Previous Episodes Featuring Megan Ep. 116 – Using Intermittent Fasting to Reverse Chronic Illnesses – with Megan Ramos Ep. 188 – Troubleshooting Your Fasting Method with Megan Ramos

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with an exceptional friend and colleague, McCall McPherson!  McCall’s profound expertise in thyroid health has paved the way for a revolutionary approach to functional medicine. As the visionary behind the cutting-edge Modern Thyroid Clinic in Austin, Texas, and a former TEDx speaker, she joins me to discuss the intricate differences between Grave’s Disease and Hashimoto's.  In this episode, we also delve into the unique treatment methods of the Modern Thyroid Clinic and the crucial role of comprehensive lab work support. Our conversation ventures into disordered eating, the detrimental effects of yo-yo dieting, and the starvation diet mentality, emphasizing the significance of metabolic potency. We also explore the impact of synthetic oral contraceptives, the importance of informed consent in hormone resets, and the merits of hormone replacement therapy.  My discussion with McCall encompasses a wide range of strategies that include the utilization of low-dose Naltrexone, GLP-one agonists, fasting techniques, and the pervasive effects of fear-driven food restrictions and weight loss resistance.  Join me as I share our enlightening conversation that promises to leave you informed and inspired! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is Grave’s Disease, and how is it treated? What are the symptoms of Grave’s Disease? What they do at the Modern Thyroid Clinic to reduce Grave’s antibodies. How Naltrexone acts in the body, and what it does for thyroid patients. McCall discusses the supplements she uses for thyroid and explains why she will not use compounded thyroid medication. How disordered eating has crept into the intermittent fasting space. How the hormonal shifts during perimenopause can lead to weight gain. Why is it essential to allow blood sugar to drop, retrain itself, and tap into your fat stores? McCall discusses the labs she prefers using for individuals with some degree of weight loss resistance or presumed metabolic inflexibility. What is the net impact of oral contraceptives? Some common reasons for women becoming weight loss resistant. McCall shares her perspective on iodine. About McCall McCall McPherson is the Founder of Modern Thyroid Clinic, a thyroid-centered functional medicine practice in Austin, Texas, and the owner and Chief-Hope-Giver of Thyroid Nation. She is a physician assistant, TEDx speaker, and thyroid expert by way of being a thyroid patient. Her passion is helping women rebuild their lives from the devastating effects of thyroid and hormonal disorders. Her philosophy is simple: There is no reason to still have thyroid symptoms. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with McCall McPherson On her website On Facebook, TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram Sign up for McCall’s courses

I am thrilled to announce a monumental milestone in our podcast journey! At the time of this recording, our latest podcast reached an astounding 4 million downloads! With continued support and enthusiasm from our dedicated listeners, we hope to surpass 6 million downloads by the end of this year! Today, I am delighted to dive into an intriguing topic as we explore the latest collaboration between MD Logic Health and myself. Joining me on the podcast is Scott Emmons, the esteemed COO of MD Logic Health and a fellow health entrepreneur. For this episode, our focus centers on Alpha GPC, a groundbreaking cobranded supplement that will redefine the landscape of brain health, exercise performance, and neuroprotection. This remarkable supplement will captivate your attention as we explore its multifaceted benefits and synergistic mechanisms alongside creatine monohydrate. Acting as a precursor to acetylcholine, Alpha GPC plays a pivotal role in cognition, learning, memory, and attention, with the ability to traverse the formidable blood-brain barrier. Brace yourself for an in-depth discussion on the cutting-edge research surrounding these mechanisms and their profound implications. Mark your calendar, as Alpha GPC will be launched in July 2023, accompanied by exclusive pre-sale incentives you will not want to miss! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is Alpha GPC, and how does it work? The benefits of green tea and coffee for Alpha GPC. Key areas in terms of benefits for Alpha GPC. Little tricks to make your coffee taste great. Keeping your wits about you as you get older. The effect of caffeine on the mitochondria. The remarkable physical benefits of Alpha GPC. How Alpha GPC elevates human growth hormone. The efficacy of Alpha GPC on physical endurance. Why recovery is more important than the exercise. How Alpha GPC impacts the brain. I chose to incorporate Alpha GPC as my third product due to my personal experience with its remarkable benefits. Over the past six months, intermittent use of Alpha GPC has provided me with enhanced mental clarity without the need for caffeine. I have also noticed improved information retention and memory, complementing my lifestyle practices such as quality sleep, exercise, nutrition, and intermittent fasting. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow • Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn • Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Scott Emmens MD Logic Health On LinkedIn On Instagram (@longevityprotocol) Relevant research: Effect of a new cognition enhancer, alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine, on scopolamine-induced amnesia and brain acetylcholine - PubMed (nih.gov) Alpha-Glycerylphosphorylcholine Increases Motivation in Healthy Volunteers: A Single-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Human Study - PMC (nih.gov) Evaluation of the effects of two doses of alpha glycerylphosphorylcholine on physical and psychomotor performance - PubMed (nih.gov) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4595381/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4595381/#:~:text=Acute%20supplementation%20with%20caffeine%20or,large%20individual%20variability%20between%20subjects. https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/110/6/1416/5540729 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8235064/

Today, I have the privilege of engaging in a fascinating and eye-opening conversation with Dr. Judy Morgan, a renowned figure in the field of veterinary care.  As a certified veterinary acupuncturist, chiropractic owner, and food therapist, Dr. Morgan's expertise extends way beyond traditional allopathic medicine. Although she retired from clinical practice in 2020, her dedication to promoting exceptional veterinary care remains unwavering, both within the United States and abroad.  In our discussion, we dive into the factors contributing to the declining health of our beloved pets, such as the alarming obesity rates affecting 60% of pets in the United States. We also explore the flaws within the pet food industry, including the significant influence of Mars Petcare, a conglomerate that has acquired a substantial portion of the processed food industry.  Our conversation covers a myriad of topics, ranging from the distinctions between rendered and food-grade meat to the complexities surrounding grain-free diets. We touch on the contentious subject of vaccines, explain how to navigate between core and non-core vaccinations, and discuss specific concerns, such as lipomas, tooth care, exercise, and grooming. We also explore the best approaches to selecting flea and tick preventatives and the potential health implications of chemicals and plastics on our pets.  As someone who once contemplated a career in veterinary medicine, it was a true delight to interview Dr. Morgan- especially considering my allergies prevented me from pursuing that path! I encourage you to explore her insightful books and online resources because I am confident you will find them invaluable. Join me in this enlightening discussion that will undoubtedly shed light on essential aspects of pet care and welfare! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why the health of our animals is declining. The difference between feed-grade and food-grade meat or food. How conglomerates are taking over the care of our pets- and not in a good way. Pet food that has Dr. Morgan’s stamp of approval. What to look out for when reading the list of ingredients on a bag of pet food. The longest chapter in Dr. Morgan’s brand new book, Raising Naturally Healthy Pets, is on vaccines. Dr. Morgan shares her recommendations for navigating flea and tick season. Dr. Morgan talks about lipomas. Why do you need to brush your dog’s teeth every day? The problem with ignoring dental disease. Why dogs and cats need to exercise every day. What to look out for if you have to have your pet’s anal glands cleaned out all the time. An entire chapter in Dr. Morgan’s new book is dedicated to finding a veterinarian who is right for you. Bio: Dr. Judy Morgan: Judy Morgan DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT is a certified veterinary acupuncturist, chiropractitioner, and food therapist. After 36 years, Dr. Morgan retired from clinical practice in 2020. She now focuses on empowering pet parents to provide longer, healthier lives for their pets through educational courses, seminars, blogs, and speaking engagements. Her e-commerce site, Naturally Healthy Pets, provides high-quality products to enrich the lives of animals. She is a best-selling author of four books and has appeared on CNN, PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, and hundreds of radio shows and podcasts. Her goal is to change the lives of over ten million pets by teaching pet owners worldwide how to minimize the use of chemicals, vaccinations, and poor-quality processed food while using natural healing therapies. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Judy Morgan On her website On Facebook and Instagram The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association Dr. Morgan’s books are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or her website.

In a world where human sexuality often remains shrouded in silence and misinformation, I had the incredible opportunity to engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the esteemed Dr. Jolene Brighton!  Renowned as a hormone expert, nutrition scientist, and thought leader in women's medicine, Dr. Brighton's expertise spans multiple disciplines, including naturopathic endocrinology and clinical sexology. With her recent book, Is This Normal, she offers a non-judgmental guide to achieving hormone balance, eliminating unwanted symptoms, and nurturing the sexual desire we all crave.  In this enlightening discussion, we explore the cultural factors fueling ignorance around sexuality, the origins of hormone imbalances, the significant impact of lifestyle choices on our hormones, and the often-overlooked role of detoxification. We also delve into the profound implications of oral contraceptives and synthetic hormones on our health and intriguing topics such as PCOS, PMDD, and PMS.  With so many questions to explore, this is the first in a series of two podcasts that promise to provide invaluable insights for women at every stage of life. Join me as we embark on this journey to unravel the mysteries of our bodies and empower ourselves with knowledge from Dr. Jolene Brighton's remarkable book, Is This Normal?. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How shame impacts the libido and sexuality of women. Why sex education should include the concept of consent. The impact of coming off oral contraceptives. Changing the narrative for all women. Why do women need more time to get aroused? The mind-body connection. How hormones and menopause influence women’s sexuality. Everything we do in our 20s and 30s affects our transition into perimenopause and beyond. How to avoid endocrine disruptors. Dr. Brighten discusses her 28-day detox program. Some important differentiators between PMS and PMDD. Bio: Dr. Jolene Brighten Dr. Jolene Brighten is a hormone expert, nutrition scientist, and thought leader in women’s medicine. She is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology and trained in clinical sexology. Dr. Brighten is the author of Is This Normal, a non-judgemental guide to creating hormone balance, eliminating unwanted symptoms, and building the sexual desire you crave. A fierce patient advocate and completely dedicated to uncovering the root cause of hormonal imbalances, Dr. Brighten empowers women worldwide to take control of their health and their hormones through her website and social medical channels. Dr. Brighten is an international speaker, clinical educator, and medical advisor within the tech community. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Jolene Brighten On her website Find Dr. Brighton on social media: @Dr. Jolene Brighten Order your copy of Is This Normal Order Dr. Brighten’s digital cookbook

Today I have the honor of connecting with Temple Stewart! She is a registered dietician specializing in low-carb dieting for women’s weight loss.  I have spoken on the stage with Temple several times over the last year, and she is delightful! In this episode, she shares her background, and we dive into how she was able to reverse her PCOS and Hashimoto’s by adopting a low-carbohydrate ketogenic diet. We discuss food psychology, woke nutrition, whether or not “if it fits your macros” is a good philosophy, issues surrounding the traditional allopathic nutrition model, and challenges related to nutrition research. We also get into plateau busters and share five ways to measure success other than the scale.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Temple transformed her life by using nutrition as medicine. Which foods tend to provoke inflammation in the thyroid gland in women? How people’s relationships with food play into the work Temple does. Temple shares her thoughts on woke nutrition. Temple dives into some of the big issues with the allopathic nutrition model. I share some interesting statistics related to American health. How creating consumer awareness will hopefully lead to consumers demanding more for their health regarding food supply and health care. Why is it so challenging to do nutritional research? Temple shares a starting point for addressing weight loss resistance. What carbohydrate reduction or restriction does for us metabolically. The benefits of following a carnivore diet. Why do we need to read food labels and become aware of where sugar may sneak into our diets? Temple shares her favorite ways to break plateaus. Five ways to measure success other than the scale.   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Temple Stewart On Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and Spotify (@the.ketogenic.nutritionist) The Ketogenic Nutritionist Podcast Books mentioned: Metabolical, by Robert Lustig

Today I have the honor of connecting with Dr. Sharon Melnick! Dr. Sharon is a leading Executive Coach and Speaker in the area of resilience, power, and women’s leadership. She was intricately involved in research at Harvard Medical School and is a Marshall Goldsmith Top 100 Coach who has coached and trained at over 60 Fortune 500 organizations and numerous equity-owned and startup companies. She is the author of In Your Power. In today’s episode, Dr. Sharon shares her background, and we dive into trauma, intergenerational trauma, triggers, how to change a definition and narrative, how to distinguish between being in your power and feeling powerless, regaining a sense of control and confidence, the metaphor of the thermostat versus the thermometer, ways to align more closely with your power, strategies for dealing with intrusive people, and more. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why do we tend to create unhealthy self-soothing behaviors to cope with the uncomfortable feelings associated with unhealed trauma? Dr. Sharon defines triggers. The power of reframing and changing the narratives of triggering situations. How to regain a sense of control when you are in an acutely emotional or reactive state. How to reconnect with yourself and regain your power after moving through difficult emotions. Dr. Sharon shares a technique for moving from being reactive to becoming intentional. What it means to be in your power, and how being in your power differs from having power. Dr. Sharon explains why she wrote her book. How our built-in protective mechanism prevents us from feeling good enough and taking control of our lives. How to become more resilient. How to re-establish your power and use it effectively. How to align with others and influence them to do as you ask.  How to stay in your power when your boundaries get disrespected, or when dealing with narcissistic people. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Sharon Melnick Dr. Sharon's Website Get Dr. Sharon’s resources: www.inyourpowerbook.com

Today, I have the honor of connecting with Dr. Robynne Chutkan, one of the most recognizable gastroenterologists in the United States. She is also the author of Anti-Viral Gut, one of the books I enjoyed reading most in 2022! Knowledge of the microbiome dates back to the 1600s when Anthony van Leeuwenhoek observed bacteria in his dental plaque through a microscope. However, it has taken us several centuries to understand the interdependence and beneficial nature of those bacteria. The terms "microbiome" and "microbiota" are often used interchangeably. They refer to the organisms and genes that live in and on our bodies, predominantly in the GI tract. Those organisms include bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi, parasites, and archaea, which, despite their microscopic size, collectively weigh around four to five pounds.  Today, Dr. Chutkan and I dive deep into the physiology of the microbiome and discuss how that interplays with immunology. We discuss the benefits of hydrochloric acid, the impact of proton pump inhibitors and other medications on the health of the gut microbiome, and the role of dysbiosis and the Estrobolome. We get into how the pharmaceutical industry has influenced both medical practice and the outlook of healthcare providers, and we talk about the impact of sleep, exercise, stress, and alcohol on the gut. Dr. Chutkan also shares top tips from her anti-viral diet book on the best ways to support the gut. (One of her tips is to consume 30 plant types per week for a healthier gut microbiome.)  This show has been one of my favorite podcasts I have recorded in the last year. I hope you enjoy listening to it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is the microbiome, and why is it important? Why do we need to understand the interrelationship between the oral microbiome, the gut microbiome, and the vaginal microbiome? The importance of stomach acid. How do proton pump inhibitors affect gut health? The three big things that interfere with digestion. How pharmaceutical companies have taken over medical education. The role of statins in women. The importance of the Estrobolome test. The three different types of estrogens in the body. Why exercise is an important contributor to gut health. The net impact of low-quality sleep on immune function. Dr. Chutkan shares her top tips for a healthy gut microbiome. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Robynne Chutkan  On her website  On Instagram (@gutbliss) Books by Dr. Robynne Chutkan: The Anti-Viral Gut: Tackling Pathogens from the Inside Out Gutbliss: A 10-Day Plan to Ban Bloat, Flush Toxins, and Dump Your Digestive Baggage The Bloat Cure: 101 Natural Solutions for Real and Lasting Relief The Microbiome Solution: A Radical New Way to Heal Your Body from the Inside Out Books mentioned: Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker

I am delighted to reconnect with Lance Essihos today! He was with me once before on Episode 69, back in 2018.  Lance is a Canadian traveler who made it his life's mission to help heal the world through the art of powerful storytelling and human connection. He is the host of the top-rated podcast, University of Adversity, which I have been honored to be on twice. In his new book, Mastering Adversity, Lance explores the quest for personal growth, leveling up, and healing. He believes that true mastery is an ongoing process and there will always be new challenges at every level of growth. Writing the book was challenging, and he is grateful to have completed it. He found sharing his thoughts with the world- especially his family, a tough yet transformative experience.  In this episode, Lance talks about his book and dives into the transformational experience of how adversity shaped his life. We discuss his craving for personal growth and meaning and get into how our internal narrative can influence how we perceive the world. We also speak about masculine and feminine energy, why we must embrace the history of trauma, and how doing that can be a powerful motivator for health and change. I truly hope you will gain from today’s discussion and enjoy listening to it as much as I did recording it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How adversity has impacted all of us.  How to deal with uncomfortable feelings. Why do most people get stuck in their stories? What is trauma, and how does it impact us? What makes us more vulnerable to trauma? Dealing with anxiety and addiction. How personal development work changes our relationships with others. Intermittent fasting in any aspect of life. Where does people-pleasing come from? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Lance Essihos On his website On Instagram The University of Adversity Podcast Episode 69: Living a Life with Purpose and Impact with Lance Essihos Books mentioned: Lance’s book, Mastering Adversity: Unlock the Warrior Within 90 Seconds to a Life You Love: How to Master Your Difficult Feelings to Cultivate Lasting Confidence, Resilience, and Authenticity by Joan I. Rosenberg PhD How to Do the Work: Recognize Your Patterns, Heal from Your Past, and Create Your Self by Dr. Nicole LePera

I am honored to reconnect with Dr. Will Cole today! The last time we connected was in 2021, on Episode 138.  Dr. Cole is a leading functional medicine expert who specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors of chronic disease and customizing a functional medicine approach. He is the author of many books, including The New York Times bestseller Intuitive Fasting and most recently, Gut Feelings, a book I think everyone will benefit from reading.  Today, Dr. Cole and I dive into the impetus for his latest book and discuss the toxic food culture, mixed messages, the psychology of food, finding peace with food, and how to reduce our toxic tribalism. We also talk about inflammatory foods and their impact on our gut microbiome, the role of the vagus nerve, how chronic stress is the ultimate junk food for the body, the effects of adverse childhood events and trauma, and what shame-flammation is. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Cole discusses his latest book, Gut Feelings. The role of mixed messages. What is most important in the wellness world? Types of foods that do not serve the best needs of our bodies. Is it the grain? Or is it what we have done to it? What are we feeding our bodies, and what are we eating in our hearts? How to differentiate between poor vagal tone and dysautonomia. Stress and how it impacts our biochemistry. How stress is implicated in many health problems. Re-negotiating your relationship with life. The role of trauma in weight loss. How shame can be the basis of many physical and emotional health issues. Bio- Dr. Will Cole: Dr. Will Cole is a leading functional medicine expert who specializes in clinically investigating underlying factors of chronic disease and customizing a functional medicine approach for thyroid issues, autoimmune conditions, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders, and more. He is the host of The Art of Being Well podcast and author of Ketotarian, The Inflammation Spectrum, New York Times bestseller Intuitive Fasting, and now, Gut Feelings: Healing the Shame-Fueled Relationship Between What You Eat and How You Feel. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Will Cole On his website The Art of Being Well Podcast Get a copy of Dr. Will Cole’s new book, Gut Feelings Ep. 138 – Our Authentic Intuition: What It Can Teach Us About Fasting with Dr. Will Cole

I’m delighted to have Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge back on the show again! She was with me before in Episode 174. Dr. Roseann is an incredible pediatric mental health expert who utilizes traditional and non-traditional modalities for her patient population. She joins me today to discuss the role of Myo-inositol from a mood and mental health perspective. We dive into what Myo-inositol does in the body, what depletes it, and how the gut and the brain connect with the vagus nerve. We talk about the mental health benefits of Myo-inositol and how it impacts mood disorders- specifically eating disorders and binge eating, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress and anxiety, panic attacks, and depression. We also get into Dr. Roseann’s unique ways of calming the autonomic nervous system and brain inflammation, the current medical model and its limitations, and the impact of trauma. I sincerely hope you enjoy listening to today’s interesting and informative conversation with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The benefits of Myo-inositol. The impact of having low magnesium in the body. How to protect yourself from the depletion of the microbiome. Why it is essential to listen to your body. The connection between the gut and the vagus nerve. How the magic in mental health is in the micro-changes. Where to start when helping a teenager or young adult struggling with OCD, anxiety, or depression. Why is it important to reframe negative thoughts? What happens when the brain is dysregulated? What is going on in the brain when we’re under stress? The root cause of mental illness. What you can do to improve your brain health. The role of trauma in mood disorders. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge On her website Dr. Roseann’s podcast, It’s Gonna Be OK! Ep. 174 – Identifying and Treating Your Children’s Mental Health: How We Can Be Their Greatest Support with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge

I am honored to have Dr. Stephanie Estima back on the show today! (She was with me before in 2020, on Episode 123.) Dr. Estima is an exceptionally well-read and well-versed individual! She is an expert on female metabolism and body composition, the author of a fantastic resource called the Betty Body, and the host of an incredible podcast called The Better Podcast.  Dr. Estima is one of my favorite voices in the health and wellness space! She and I dive into an Ask Me Anything format today. We speak at length about the ideal percentage of body fat for perimenopause and menopause, thyroid health, the impact of diastasis, and weight training based on that core imbalance. We discuss the Gardasil vaccine, optimal nutrients, Hashimoto’s, period cramps, and general PMS symptoms- particularly with inter-uterine devices. We also get into sleep basics, supplement support, the role of parasympathetic days and hormesis, and talk about load management and optimization.  I know you will love today’s conversation with Dr. Stephanie Estima! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is diastasis recti, and how do you treat it? Dr. Estima dives into pelvic floor rehabilitation. The mortality risk versus the benefit of the Gardasil vaccine. What causes low Oestrogen? What happens when you have low estradiol? Why patients often tend to be confused about what they should be doing. Stress management in autoimmune diseases. What hormones can be the most impactful on body fat? How women can overcome insulin resistance. The side effects of the copper IUD. How to support undisturbed sleep.  How to get the best sleep of your cycle in the luteal phase.  How to eat to support the luteal phase. How to optimize your load management.    Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Stephanie Estima On Instagram  On her weekly podcast, Better! With Dr. Stephanie, where she explores the human potential, hormones, metabolism, and a life well-lived. Get a copy of Dr. Stephanie Estima’s #1 bestselling book, The Betty Body: A Geeky Goddess' Guide to Intuitive Eating, Balanced Hormones, and Transformative Sex Episode 123 – Menstruation, Muscle, Maternity, & Metabolism: What Every Woman Should Know with Dr. Stephanie Estima

Today, I am honored to connect with Jason Wachob, the co-author of The Joy of Wellbeing!  Jason is the Co-CEO of mindbodygreen, the leading independent media brand dedicated to wellbeing, and the host of the mindbodygreen Podcast, on which I recently had the honor of being a guest. In this episode, Jason shares his and his wife, Colleen’s backstory, and their pain-to-purpose mission, and we dive into the role of longevity, epigenetics, joy span, and the impact of the lack of connection and loneliness during the pandemic. We discuss social media algorithms, nutrition concerns over tribalism, bio-individuality, the processed food industry, exercise, and hormesis. We also talk about forever chemicals and toxins and how they impact our health. I loved reading Jason and Colleen’s new book, The Joy of Wellbeing, and I sincerely hope you enjoy listening to my conversation with Jason! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Jason and Colleen’s health issues motivated them to create mindbodygreen. How Colleen re-assessed what was important in her life, and where she wanted to be, after being diagnosed with pulmonary embolism. The importance of nutrition and sleep. The power of epigenetics. How the science of longevity has advanced tremendously. How crisis tends to amplify what is already wrong in the world.  The importance of connection.  The importance of incorporating exercise and movement into your day. The role of sarcopenia.  The benefits of intermittent fasting and hormetic stressors. The impact of forever chemicals in the world. Why is it essential to be thoughtful about where you spend your money?   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Jason Wachob Websites: mindbodygreen and The Joy of Wellbeing  The mindbodygreen Podcast Jason and mindbodygreen on Instagram Jason and mindbodygreen on Twitter Additional social handles: @mindbodygreen Book The Joy of Well-Being: A Practical Guide to a Happy, Healthy, and Long Life

I am delighted to have my good friend and fan-favorite, Dr. Tabatha Barber, joining me again to share her wisdom on the podcast!  Dr. Tabatha is a triple board-certified OB/GYN specializing in menopause and functional medicine. She has a wonderful podcast called The Gutsy Gynecologist Show and is often referred to affectionately as the Gutsy Gynecologist. Dr. Tabatha was with me in two previous podcast episodes, #206 and #212, and both are in the top twenty downloaded podcasts in the last 18 months! Many women suffer unnecessarily when going through perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Tabatha and I have an AMA (Ask Me Anything) episode today. We discuss weight gain related to perimenopause and menopause, issues with estrogen replacement therapy, how libido can be impacted by many different factors, how to address a partial hysterectomy and HRT, and bioidenticals versus synthetic hormones. We also get into lab work, skin reactions relative to perimenopause and menopause, emotional eating, leptin resistance, and many other topics.  I’m grateful for all the great questions and have no doubt this episode with Dr. Tabatha will be another fan-favorite! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why do too much estrogen and too little estrogen both cause weight gain?  How fragrances and plastic contribute to the imbalance between estrogen and progesterone. How changing to organic tampons and pads, or using a Diva cup, can be a game-changer for women. Should women who have had a partial hysterectomy and are on HRT still check progesterone and testosterone levels and fast like a post-menopausal female? Dr. Tabatha shares her thoughts on plain estradiol versus Biest and Triest. Dr. Tabatha offers her recommendations for a healthy 48-year-old female with zero libido. What can a 17-year-old with high testosterone do to get her testosterone level within the normal range? Is there a biological or mindset issue at play if you never feel full and always want to eat, irrespective of how healthy or satisfying the foods you eat are? The benefits of fasting.  What can we do to support our pelvic joints? How do our hormones affect our skin? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Tabatha Barber On her website The Gutsy Gynecologist Show Episode 206 Pt 1: A Deep Dive into Perimenopause- Hormonal Imbalances and Birth Control with Dr. Tabatha Barber Episode 212 Pt. 2: A Deep Dive into Hormonal Imbalances and Menopause with Dr. Tabatha Barber Books mentioned: The XX Brain by Lisa Mosconi

I am delighted to have Jessie Inchauspe, the Glucose Goddess, joining me on the podcast today! Metabolic health is my passion! It is a huge area of focus in my work, and Jessie is truly a gift in the space! She is a rising star author and biochemist with a clear and accessible way of explaining the science behind glucose metabolism.  Jessie joins me today to discuss the impact of glucose metabolism and spikes. We dive into her background and how an accident created her pain-to-purpose story. We discuss the role of continuous glucose monitors and how glucose spikes impact our mitochondria, inflammation, and oxidative stress. We get into glycation and aging, how weight gain is a protective aspect of glucose spikes- or hyperglycemia, and the role of vinegar, movement, and fiber. We also talk about Jessie’s new book, her opinions on fasting, and so much more.  I loved interviewing Jessie! Her enthusiasm is contagious, and it is easy to understand why she is such a beloved author in the health and wellness space! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Jessie shares how an accident led her to where she is today. How a continuous glucose monitor changed everything for Jessie. How Jessie came up with her simple principles to steady glucose levels. What is the purpose of glucose in the body? How do glucose spikes impact our mitochondria? Jessie shares a fascinating vinegar hack for reducing side effects and symptoms of glucose spikes. How being metabolically unhealthy impacts the aging process. The benefits of having savory breakfasts and eating vegetables first with every meal. Jessie talks about her new book, The Glucose Goddess Method. How gaining weight protects our bodies from the impact of glucose spikes. How walking or moving after meals balances blood sugar levels. Why is blood sugar so important? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Jessie Inchauspe On her website   On Instagram Jessie’s books The Glucose Goddess Method Glucose Revolution

I’m honored to connect with Dr. Anurag Singh today!  Dr. Anurag Singh is the Chief Medical Officer at Timeline Nutrition, where they develop next-generation advanced nutritional and skincare products targeting improvements in mitochondrial and cellular health. His background is in internal medicine and immunology. He has authored over 40 articles for top science journals and has more than 15 patents. He has designed and led more than 50 randomized controlled studies.  Today, Dr. Singh and I dive into his background, key biological hallmarks of aging, what accelerates aging, and what we can do to address aging proactively. We discuss sarcopenia, mitochondrial health, the gut microbiome, supplementation, and the differences between prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics. We also get into the benefits of Mitopure and the research behind it. Mitopure is a supplement I have been taking for several years. I feel it has been instrumental in improving and maintaining the mass and strength of my muscles. Research has been emerging specific to brain health and cognition, immune and metabolism, and topical applications of Mitopure. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The key biological hallmarks of aging. How healthy lifestyle choices can contribute to our health and longevity. How can improving our mitochondrial health impact our lives and delay some of the comorbidities of aging? The key role nutrition plays in everything we do, including how we age. Some of the biggest contributors to the aging process. Five lifestyle choices that can benefit mitochondrial health.  Dr. Singh gives a simple view of the mitochondrial life cycle and shares his approach to mitochondrial health. How Urolithin A was discovered, and how it works. The difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and post-biotics. Dr. Singh discusses the research that resulted in the advent of Mitopure. Dr. Singh dives into the natural aging process of muscles and sarcopenia. Why is it critically important to boost and maintain our muscular health? How modern-day lifestyles impact the gut microbiome. What are all the benefits of Mitopure? Bio: Anurag Singh is currently Chief Medical Officer at Timeline Nutrition, which develops next-generation advanced nutritional and skincare products targeting improvements in mitochondrial and cellular health. With an M.D. in internal medicine and a Ph.D. in immunology, his experience includes work at top consumer health (Nestlé, Nestlé Health Science) and startup companies (Amazentis/Timeline). He’s authored > 40 articles for top science journals, been awarded >15 patents, and has designed and led > 50 randomized clinical trials. His research over the past decade across multiple clinical trials on the postbiotic Urolithin A and its health benefits has led to the launch of multiple consumer products. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Anurag Singh Websites are: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/ and https://www.mitopure.com/

I am delighted to connect with Dr. Anshul Gupta today!  Dr. Gupta is a best-selling author, speaker, researcher, and world expert on Hashimoto’s. He educates people worldwide on reversing Hashimoto’s disease. He is a Board-Certified Family Medicine Physician who worked at the prestigious Cleveland Clinic alongside Dr. Mark Hyman. In this episode, Dr. Gupta shares his personal story, and we speak about the root of autoimmunity, how Hashimoto’s causes the slow destruction of the thyroid gland, and the impact of chronic stress, food, and an imbalanced gut microbiome. We also talk about toxins and infections, labs to look out for, fasting and thyroid disease, as well as medication options, peptides, and the issues surrounding iodine supplementation.  I sincerely hope you enjoy listening to today’s conversation with Dr. Gupta as much as I did recording it!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Dr. Gupta’s personal health journey sparked his passion for thyroid issues. What is autoimmunity, and what is Hashimoto’s? How increasing doses of thyroid medication indicates a deterioration of the thyroid gland. Dr. Gupta shares five major root causes of Hashimoto’s. Why do foods like gluten and dairy make it much harder for the thyroid gland to function? Why are heavy metals such a big issue? The impact of exposure to mold and mycotoxins. How the Epstein-Barr virus interacts with the thyroid, to make people more susceptible to Hashimoto’s. How does exposure to stress impact thyroid function? Some natural ways to detoxify the body. Dr. Gupta talks about lab testing for the thyroid and Hashimoto’s. The benefits of fasting for mitochondrial health- particularly for people with thyroid issues.  Dr. Gupta discusses different medication options for people with Hashimoto’s, including peptides and LDN (low-dose naltrexone). Dr. Gupta shares his thoughts on iodine. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Anshul Gupta On his website On YouTube and other social media (@AnshulGuptaMD)

I’m delighted to connect with Dr. Izabella Wentz today! She is a PharmD, an internationally acclaimed thyroid specialist, and a licensed pharmacist who has dedicated her career to addressing the root causes of autoimmune thyroid disease. She is also the author of three books. Her most recent book is The Adrenal Transformation Protocol. Dr. Wentz joins me to dive into how to identify what is going on with our adrenal health and why adrenal issues tend to occur along with thyroid issues. We speak about her background and how it influenced her life’s work, the myth of adrenal fatigue, and HPA dysfunction. We also discuss the physiology of the adrenals, acute versus chronic stress, signs of a dysregulated HPA axis, lifestyle, the impact of trauma, and how Dr. Wentz’s protocol works.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Wentz explains what led her to write The Adrenal Protocol. What happens in the body when we experience significant amounts of fatigue? How the physical impact of acute stress differs from that of chronic stress. Symptoms of adrenal dysfunction (other than chronic fatigue). How does sleep apnea tie to Hashimoto’s and mitochondrial health? Lifestyle factors that may contribute to adrenal fatigue. Adaptogens and supplements that can assist in balancing cortisol levels. How to know when to cut back on exercise. Foods that support thyroid and adrenal health, and foods that could negatively impact thyroid and adrenal health. What is molecular mimicry? How does trauma impact adrenal health? Dr. Wentz talks about her latest book, The Adrenal Transformation Protocol. Something you can do right now to improve your adrenal health. Bio: Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP, is an internationally acclaimed thyroid specialist and a licensed pharmacist who has dedicated her career to addressing the root causes of autoimmune thyroid disease after being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis in 2009. She is the author of three books on Hashimoto’s: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root Cause, Hashimoto’s Food Pharmacology, and Hashimoto’s Protocol, which became a #1 New York Times bestseller. Dr. Wentz currently lives in Texas with her husband, Michael, and their son, Dimitry. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Izabella Wentz On her website On Facebook and Instagram Get Dr. Wentz’s adrenal healing guide: The ABCs of Adrenal Support Find Dr. Wentz’s new book, The Adrenal Transformation Protocol  Books mentioned: From Fatigued to Fantastic by Jacob Teitelbaum

Everyday Wellness Podcast – Episode 265 – Love From the Inside Out: The Key to Living a Fulfilling Life with Robert Mack I have the honor of connecting with Robert Mack today! He is an Ivy-League-educated Positive Psychology Expert, Celebrity Happiness Coach, Executive Coach, and Published Author. He recently released the book Love from the Inside Out: Lessons and Inspiration for Loving Yourself, Your Life, and Each Other.  We dive into Robert’s background in applied positive psychology and the influences of experts like Byron Katie and Martin Seligman, the founder of Positive Psychology. We discuss happiness, the potentiality of partners, adversity, resiliency, and love. Robert also gets into daily habits that can help us become healthier and happier humans.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Robert dives into his motivation for getting into applied positive psychology. Most people believe that happiness comes from external circumstances. However, research shows it does not. How simplicity contributes to a happy life. Robert shares the formula for happiness. How inner work makes a meaningful, lasting, and sustainable change to our happiness score. How happiness tends to lead to and facilitate success. What contributes to the general perception that happiness comes from external forces? What love is, and how it relates to happiness. How to make college a happier experience. How to become more focused and present. How to remain present when triggered. Robert talks about surrender. Bio: Robert is an Ivy-League-educated Positive Psychology Expert, Celebrity Happiness Coach, Executive Coach, and Published Author. Robert studied under the direction of Martin Seligman, the founder of Positive Psychology, at the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn). UPenn is the only institution in the world to offer a Master’s Degree in Applied Positive Psychology. Robert's work has been endorsed by Oprah, Vanessa Williams, and many others, and he has been seen on Good Morning America, The Today Show, Access Hollywood, E!, OWN, GQ, Self, Health, Cosmopolitan, and Glamour. Robert's first book, Happiness from the Inside Out: The Art and Science of Fulfillment, is celebrity-endorsed and critically acclaimed. His most recent release, Love from the Inside Out: Lessons and Inspiration for Loving Yourself, Your Life, and Each Other, is a best-seller. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Robert Mack On his website On social media: @robmackofficial  Find Robert’s books Happiness from the Inside Out: The Art and Science of Fulfillment Love from the Inside Out: Lessons and Inspiration for Loving Yourself, Your Life, and Each Other

I am honored to connect with Esther Blum today! She is the bestselling author of "Cavewomen Don’t Get Fat," "Eat, Drink, and Be Gorgeous," and most recently, "See Ya Later, Ovulator!". Esther currently maintains a busy virtual practice where she helps women balance hormones, lose stubborn body fat, and treat the root cause of health struggles.  Today we speak about medical gaslighting, how weight gain does not have to be a part of aging, andropause and menopause, and the Women’s Health Initiative. We dive into physical changes and significant symptoms during perimenopause and menopause, the role of the pelvic floor, deciphering what the dreaded “menopot” is, what does not work, and advocacy in terms of testing and hormones. We also address constipation, weight loss resistance, and how our tolerance for alcohol changes as we age, especially when using bioidenticals or hormone replacement therapy.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How women can redefine their experience and continue having an active sex life after menopause. How to surrender, lean in, and take the pressure off yourself while going through perimenopause and menopause. Why is there so much misinformation and medical gaslighting in our society? Why Esther wrote See Ya Later, Ovulator! Some common symptoms of perimenopause. Risks women may face after a hysterectomy. Changes that happen in the vaginal canal and pelvic floor during menopause. The significant and profound impact of the decline of sex hormones. How to avoid weight gain in menopause. What can menopausal women do to prevent fatty liver and digestive problems? Lab tests women should be asking their health providers for. Why should perimenopausal women avoid alcohol?  Some simple ways to address constipation. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Esther Blum On her website On Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn Get your free copy of Esther’s Happy Hormone Cocktail Esther’s Books Esther’s book, See Ya Later, Ovulator!, by Esther Blum Cavewomen Don’t Get Fat, by Esther Blum Eat, Drink, and Be Happy, by Esther Blum

Today I am honored to connect with my good friend and multiple-time past guest, Ben Azadi!  Ben was most recently with me on Podcasts #149 and #101. He is a prolific social media star and a fasting and ketogenic dieting expert. He is known as “The Health Detective” because he investigates dysfunction and educates, not medicates, to return the body to normal function. Ben is the founder of Keto Kamp and the popular Keto Kamp podcast. Today, Ben and I use an Ask Me Anything format and dive into listener questions. We talk about the nuances of macronutrients, fasting, and supplements. We discuss gut health and how changing your diet and intermittent fasting can help the body realign and be better balanced. We get into troubleshooting with fasting, including insomnia-related issues, and we also discuss the DUTCH test and how it can be beneficial in conjunction with other lab tests. I love doing AMAs, and I hope you will enjoy listening to my conversation with Ben Azadi. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Serita asks how to keep her energy up while on a keto diet and fasting. Mary Julie wants to know what is happening inside her body when her ketones are 1.8, but her glucose is 115, 19 hours into a fast. How does losing sex hormones when approaching perimenopause and menopause make women less metabolically flexible? Why is it essential to stay hydrated and get enough good quality sleep every night? How circadian rhythm impacts our metabolic flexibility. How breathing exercises can help us get into the parasympathetic state. Janie would like to know how much protein her body can absorb at once and how much protein she should consume over a 24-hour period. Suzanne lives a clean lifestyle and wants to know if there is a way to shift the metabolism of estrogen away from the 4OH pathway. (She is referring to the DUTCH test. A listener asks how to use fasting to help with candida. Michaela was recently diagnosed with gallstones and has one blocked duct. She read that saturated fat is not good for her condition, so she wants to know what she can eat to stay on keto. Lena has been doing strict keto with OMAD for three months, but her GGT is very high. She asks if that could be due to fasting. Why we tend to experience insomnia while doing a ketogenic diet, and how to address chronic insomnia patterns. Mary Jo wants to know when to take my creatine supplement powder. Ben and I discuss the supplements we use. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Ben Azadi On his website On Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok The Keto Kamp Podcast Ben Azadi Speaker Reel Episode 149 – Keto Flex, Feasting and Fasting: Bringing the Body Back to Normal  Episode 101 Keto and Fasting the RIGHT Way with Ben Azadi Books mentioned: The Circadian Diabetes Code by Dr. Satchin Panda Wheat Belly by William Davis Super Gut by William Davis Breath by James Nestor

I am honored to reconnect with Dr. Tracy Gapin today. He is a board-certified urologist and men’s health expert.  The current state of metabolic health in the United States and most westernized countries has sparked a great interest in a GLP1 agonist, AKA Semaglutide Ozempic. So I wanted to talk to a clinician actively utilizing this medication. Dr. Gapin and I discuss what this drug class represents. (These are synthetic peptides.) We speak about Semaglutide, Ozempic, Wegovy, and oral Rybelsus. We get into current research, side effects, who should not take these medications, and the mechanisms of action specific to the pancreas and beta cells, reductions, gastric emptying, and the upregulation of satiety. We discuss changes in the brain regarding leptin and how these drugs work. We also talk about weight loss resistance, and I answer questions from listeners.  From my perspective, it all comes back to basics. I believe that if we are to prescribe these medications, we must help our patients understand how lifestyle impacts weight-loss resistance and metabolic health. I loved that Dr. Tracy spent some time talking about the specific ways he works with his patients, even before prescribing medications. He also explains how important he has felt this drug has been for his patients. I approached today’s conversation with an open mind, and I hope you will do the same. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the GLP1 agonists help Dr. Tracy motivate his patients to lose weight. What are GLP1 agonists, and how do they work? The physical benefits of GLP1 agonists. Who is Semaglutide not appropriate for? Some of the common side-effects of GLP1 agonists. How those who fail to implement lifestyle changes when they stop using Semaglutide may regain all the weight they lost. Why it is essential to stay hydrated when using Semaglutide. Why you need to eat enough food- protein in particular when taking Semaglutide. How to follow the metrics that matter. Some factors that could hinder successful weight loss. What Dr. Tracy does to ensure his patients do not regain the weight they lost after they stop using Semaglutide. Listener questions: Why is a diabetic drug being used for non-diabetics? Does this drug target muscle versus fat in terms of weight loss? For how long do most patients take it? Are there unique characteristics in perimenopausal and menopausal women that must be accounted for differently? Bio: Dr. Tracy Gapin is a board-certified urologist, a world-renowned men’s health & performance expert, and the founder of the Gapin Institute, the global leader in High-Performance Health.  He has over 20 years of experience focused on men’s health optimization, human performance, and longevity, providing executives & entrepreneurs a personalized path to fulfill their highest potential. He’s been featured in Entrepreneur, Dave Asprey’s Biohacking Conference, and as a TEDx speaker. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Tracy Gapin On his website Gapin Institute Text “Health” to 26786 to receive 10 Secrets to High-Performance Health and a free copy of Dr. Gapin’s book.

I have the honor of reconnecting with Scott Emmens today! Scott is the COO of MD Logic and a fellow health entrepreneur.  Scott and I dive into Myo-inositol, one of my latest and favorite supplements! We explain what it is, its mechanism of action, and how it impacts the blood-brain barrier. We discuss its clinical considerations, relevant research regarding metabolic health, sleep, sleep architecture, and how we supplement ourselves. We also get into how we create Myo-inositol in our bodies, factors that could deplete endogenous Myo-inositol, and why supplementation can be beneficial. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What Myo-inositol is and what it does.  Why I decided to make Myo-inositol my next supplement. How does a supplement containing sugar alcohol support metabolic health? How Myo-inositol benefits metabolic health. Will it break your fast if you use Myo-inositol in a fasted state? What is the mechanism of action of Myo-inositol in the cells? How Myo-inositol impacts the blood-brain barrier and neurotransmitter pathways. How Myo-inositol may reduce inflammation and impact thought-processing. Why is it critically important to maintain metabolic health throughout our lifetime? Some natural sources of Myo-inositol. How our modern lifestyles can impact our ability to create endogenous Myo-inositol and make it harder to keep the levels optimized in the body. How Myo-inositol improves the entire sleep structure. What distinguishes MD Logic from other similar companies? Bio: Scott Emmens is the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of MD Logic Health. His interest in BIOHACKING and nutrition began in college as an amateur natural bodybuilder and Biology major. While in college he sought to teach others how to stay strong, lean, and fit via recovery. It was in college he created his first fitness system and a 30-page booklet called “The Natural Body Building System” He continues to be on the cutting edge of bio-optimization and utilizes ice baths “cold immersion” photobiomodulation commonly referred to as redlight and infrared therapies among many nutrition and fasting techniques.  Scott utilized his knowledge and love of biology and fitness to help drive his career in Biotech where he held a variety of roles as a Sales Leader, Disease Education Awareness Director, Director of Operations, and executive. In 2018 Scott was the lead founder of Olaregen therapeutics (Pronounced Ola-Region therapeutics.) Specializing in wound and skin care using nutrients, peptides, and collagen for a variety of skin conditions.   During his 20 years as Biotech founder and executive, Scott focused on a blend of integrative and allopathic medicine. Working within many complex therapeutic areas, including neurology, rare disease, asthma, and diabetes. Scott has held various strategic and operational roles preparing him to be both a health advocate and entrepreneur. His personal mission is to help people become their own health advocates while providing them with the knowledge and resources to be physically spiritually and emotionally fit. Ultimately leading Scott to create MD Logic Health. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Scott Emmens MD Logic HealthOn Instagram (@longevityprotocol) On TikTok (@collagenguru) Go to www.cynthiathurlow.com/inositol to get 25% off Myo-inositol between the 11th and the 19th of March and 15% off between the 20th and the 31st of March. Episode 244 - The Metabolic Effects of Creatine Monohydrate: Its Evidence of Efficacy for Muscle & Brain Health with Scott Emmens and Kara Lazauskas

I am happy to connect with Dr. William Li today! He is a world-renowned physician, scientist, speaker, and author. He is known for leading the Angiogenesis Foundation, and his groundbreaking work has impacted more than 70 diseases. He is also a Ted-X speaker and the author of Eat to Beat Your Diet, one of my favorite books thus far this year.  Dr. Li’s latest book is about what happens in the body, how it should operate, and the steps we can take to restore the body to its hard-wired level. We dive into how body fat impacts our health, the role of metabolism throughout our lifetime, the differences between the three fat-impacting hormones, including leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, and gender differences. We speak about new drugs like Ozempic and Semaglutide, the role of brown fat, the impact of the microbiome and specific bacteria, and we also discuss nutrition and lifestyle. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why Dr. Li chose this time to write his latest book.  Why Dr. Li believes 60 is the new 20. The four stages of metabolism all humans have been hard-wired to go through throughout their lifespan. How does excess body fat derail the metabolism, and how can we unleash our inner metabolism? Why is it better to eat slowly? Why should we learn to respect and tame our fat instead of hating or fearing it? Dr. Li shares his views on new prescription drugs like Ozempic and Semaglutide. Dr. Li shares some interesting facts about body fat. Changes that occur in our body fat distribution as we get older. How can we help our bodies fight excess body fat, let our inner metabolism come to the surface, and lower inflammation by being aware and mindful? How modern-day lifestyle choices contribute to metabolic disease. Dr. Li gets into the interplay between the gut microbiome and our metabolism and the role of Akkermansia.  Some everyday foods contain natural chemicals that can activate our body’s health defenses, tame the metabolism and fight body fat. BIO William W. Li, MD, is an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and New York Times bestselling author of the forthcoming book “Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, Live Longer”. His groundbreaking work has led to the development of more than 30 new medical treatments and impacts care for more than 70 diseases, including cancer, diabetes, blindness, heart disease, and obesity. His TED Talk, “Can We Eat to Starve Cancer?” has garnered more than 11 million views. Dr. Li has appeared on Good Morning America, CNN, CNBC, LIVE with Kelly and Ryan, and the Rachael Ray Show, and he has been featured in USA Today, Time Magazine, The Atlantic, and O Magazine. He is the president and medical director of the Angiogenesis Foundation. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. William Li On his website On social media: @DrWilliamLi Dr. William Li’s latest book, Eat to Beat Your Diet: Burn Fat, Heal Your Metabolism, and Live Longer is available from most bookstores.

Today I am honored to connect with a friend and fellow nurse practitioner, Marcelle Pick! Marcelle is passionate about transforming how women experience healthcare through an integrative approach. She has successfully treated thousands of women through her unique approach to wellness. Marcelle is currently a faculty member of The Institute of Functional Medicine and has served as a Medical Advisor to Healthy Living Magazine. She has written countless articles and multiple books, including Is It Me or My Hormones? I always think of Marcelle as a pioneer in the women’s health/nurse practitioner space. In this episode, we dive into her background and the impact of the Women’s Health Initiative. We discuss the limitations of the traditional allopathic model regarding hormones, common misconceptions about adrenal health, perimenopause, and menopause, adverse childhood events and adrenal health, how lifestyle affects our sex hormones, fibroids, endometriosis, PMS, PMDD, and contraception for perimenopause. We speak about endocrine disruptors, mold, and micro toxins. We also get into ways to think about hormone replacement therapy and ways to address intimacy and low libido. I love connecting with other nurses and nurse practitioners! I hope you will love today’s conversation with Marcelle as much as I did! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Marcelle was part of the first all-women practice in the country. How the Women’s Health Initiative has impacted health care for women. The limitations of the traditional allopathic model, particularly in terms of perimenopause, menopause, and hormones. The less common labs that Marcelle likes to look at for her patients. Marcelle shares her approach to unraveling the symptoms of perimenopause. Some unique ways in which Marcelle deals with problems like fibroids and endometriosis. How childhood trauma could lead to adrenal and autoimmune issues, weight-loss resistance, and various other health problems. Many of the things Marcelle recommended for treating PMS and PMDD back in the day (1985) have now become the standard of care. Contraceptive options for women in perimenopause. The impact of stress on adrenal function during perimenopause and menopause. Marcelle dives into liver health and detoxification, chemicals and other factors that could impact our health, and changes we can make to avoid problems and feel better. What Marcelle does to help women with low libido. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Marcelle Pick On her website    On Facebook and Instagram All of Marcelle’s books are available on Amazon

I am honored to reconnect with Dave Asprey today! He is the renowned father of biohacking and a New York Times bestselling author.  Dave would like a world where we all have enough free time and peace to be at full power! In this episode, he and I have a no-nonsense conversation about his newest book, Smarter Not Harder, which is my favorite of all his books! We dive into the impact of the pandemic, the art and science of environment, the laziness principle, homeostasis, and the concept behind “slope with the curve” thinking. We discuss anti-nutrients, the biohacking pathway, REHIIT training, and various other cellular hacks, including hypoxification and specialized breathing, and how trauma pertains to becoming a more efficient human. I also ask Dave about his favorite supplements. I hope you enjoy listening to today’s conversation with Dave Asprey as much as I did recording it!    IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why Dave chose to write his latest book now. How Dave’s book can help you achieve homeostasis. The 5 goals in Dave’s book that he recommends for people focus on, one at a time. A fundamental mistake that people in the world of health and fitness often make.  How the “slope with the curve” biology works. How you can save energy with biohacking. The benefits of REHIT (Reduced Energy High-Intensity Interval Training). Some foods that can negatively impact our health. Dave shares his thoughts on dairy. Using hypoxification as a cellular biohack. Dave sheds some light on his favorite supplements. The role of trauma resolution. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dave Asprey On his website  Danger Coffee    To open an Upgrade Labs, go to www.ownanupgradelabs.com Books mentioned Men Are from Mars Women Are from Venus by John Gray Dave’s new book, Smarter Not Harder is available from most bookstores.

I am happy to connect with Kristin Rowell today! Kristin is an attorney, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and the CEO and Founder of Energetically Efficient. After spending 16 years building a successful business trial practice, she left to create Energetically Efficient so that she could speak to and coach other high-performers on navigating food, exercise, and other lifestyle practices efficiently. Kristin fell and broke her leg in ten places in 2013. She started meditating and received several nudges from the universe that prompted her to leave her job to pivot and transition into nutritional therapy and coaching. In this episode, she shares her pain-to-purpose story, and we dive into the role of the ego in soul work, common limiting beliefs, energy work, and why weight gain is not a normal function of aging. We also discuss how chronic stress impacts our hormones, lifestyle choices, nutritional detoxification, why muscle is the organ of longevity, and Kristin’s favorite foods to take with her when she travels. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The story behind Kristin’s career transition. Kristin discusses her process of letting go of the ego. What is energy work? Some common limiting beliefs that may prevent people from reaching their full potential. How Kristin helps people recalibrate themselves. Does gaining weight have to go along with aging? Some of the common errors Kristen sees women making.  How Kristin helps her clients detoxify naturally. How often should women do strength training? How to support yourself after a strength training workout. The foods Kristin loves to take along when she travels. Bio: Kristin Rowell is a lawyer, Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and CEO/Founder of Energetically Efficient. After spending 16 years building a successful business trial practice, she left to create Energetically Efficient so that she could speak to and coach other high-performers on how to efficiently navigate food, exercise, and other lifestyle practices to maximize their energy and become their best self each day. The foundation of Kristin's coaching centers on energy and consciousness, which makes her unique. Kristin also provides 1:1 coaching to professionals seeking to make a career transition, given that she successfully navigated that transition herself. Kristin is releasing her first cookbook this year, called Eating Efficiently. Kristin lives in Minneapolis with her two gorgeous Golden Retrievers, Catch & Belle. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Kristin Rowell On Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn  On her website

Today I am delighted to connect with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum! He is a pioneer in neuro-optometry and is passionate about unlocking life’s potential through vision. He is an owner and managing doctor at Appelbaum Vision and practices in the Bethesda and Annapolis, Maryland areas. Our brain uses 48-50% of its physiology just for us to be able to see, and there is a very complex interrelationship between the eyes and the brain. In this episode, Dr. Appelbaum and I dive into his background in neuro-optometry and discuss how his family influenced his career trajectory. We get into eye physiology and the differences between vision and sight and explain how eye problems are also brain problems specific to rewiring our brain and processing. We discuss the impact of nutrition on eye health, foods to support vision and eye health, and how electronics impact myopia. We also talk about ways to address screen limits and visual hygiene, traumatic brain injuries, and more. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Appelbaum explains how his passion for eye and vision health began in the first grade and how he helps people turn their visual weaknesses into strengths. Some of the basics of eye physiology. The interrelationship between our eyes and our brains. Why are more vision problems emerging now than ever before- particularly in the younger generations? What is the difference between eyesight and vision? How do our eyes feed information to the rest of our body? Doing vision therapy versus getting stronger prescription lenses as we age. How vision problems can lead to or be misdiagnosed as ADD, ADHD, or dyslexia.  How does electronic use impact eye health? How to practice 20-20-20 for visual hygiene. Dr. Appelbaum shares some recommendations for managing screen time. The interrelationship between nutrition, metabolic health, and eye health. Some dietary guidelines for the brain injury population. Dr. Appelbaum dives into depth perception. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum On the Appelbaum Vision website  ConcussionClear ScreenFit Use code CYNTHIA10 On Instagram Go to the College of Optometrists in Vision Development website to find a doctor board-certified in vision therapy close to where you live.

I am honored to have Dr. Stephen Hussey joining me today. He is a chiropractic doctor with an interest in and a methodology related to cardiovascular disease.  Dr. Hussey suffered from a large STEMI, a type of myocardial infarction or heart attack, and he has been diabetic since childhood. In this episode, we dive into his background and the open-minded curiosity with which he views the world. We talk about statistics related to cardiovascular disease, mitochondrial dysfunction, the impact of Ancel Keys and his research, how cholesterol and statins work in the body, and the causes of heart attacks. We also discuss ways to navigate cardiovascular health proactively and the impact of fasting. I hope you enjoy listening to our discussion as much as I did recording it!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Hussey shares his background and his journey to figuring out how to manage the various physical conditions he suffered from since childhood. Why Dr. Hussey believes heart disease is not just about diet.  The vast number of Americans currently affected by vascular disorders proves that a different and better treatment approach is required. Dr. Hussey discusses the frustration he experienced trying to navigate conversations with traditionally-trained providers. What may prevent western physicians and practitioners from investigating other effective treatment options? What causes mitochondrial dysfunction? Dr. Hussey explains the metabolic theory of cancer. Why is cancer of the heart so rare? How Ancel Keys profoundly impacted American nutritional guidelines and the health of the American population. The benefits of cholesterol and LDL, and the problem with statins. What causes heart attacks? Dr. Hussey shares his take on meal frequency and snacking and how that relates to heart health. Bio: Dr. Stephen Hussey MS, DC, is a Chiropractor and Functional Medicine practitioner. He attained his Doctorate of Chiropractic and a Master's in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States in Portland, OR. He is a health coach, speaker, and the author of two books on health; The Health Evolution: Why Understanding Evolution is the Key to Vibrant Health and Understanding The Heart: Surprising Insights Into The Evolutionary Origins Of Heart Disease - And Why It Matters. Dr. Hussey guides clients from around the world back to health using the latest research and health-attaining strategies. In his downtime, he likes to be outdoors, play sports, read, write, and travel.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website  Connect with Dr. Stephen Hussey On his website On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn Dr. Hussey’s book, Understanding the Heart, is available from Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and the publisher’s website.

I am excited to connect with one of my favorite neuroscience experts today! Louisa Nicola is at the intersection of neuroscience and athleticism. She helps to bring a fresh understanding of what it takes to achieve peak performance through science-based tools and methods. She is also the host of The Neuro Experience podcast, which focuses on brain health, neuroscience, longevity, and athletics.  Louisa knows how to take complicated subjects related to brain physiology and hormones and explain them so that people can fully understand and appreciate them. In this episode, she and I dive into her background. We speak about her three pillars for peak performance, alcohol, and how sleep impacts the glymphatic system. We get into strategies for better sleep, the perimenopausal brain, how chronobiology impacts sleep, how to address jet lag, and how exercise improves brain performance and health. We also talk about the best foods and supplements for brain health and how creatine improves performance.  I hope you enjoy listening to today’s conversation as much as I did recording it!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How an accident shifted the trajectory of Louisa’s life.  Louisa unpacks the various stages of sleep and explains why sleep is so important. How sleep impacts the glymphatic system. Some common characteristics of perimenopause. Some simple ways to aid the penetration of naturally secreted hormones into the brain.  How blood pressure fluctuations impact the brain. What is jet lag, and how can we combat it? How does alcohol affect the brain? Louisa explains cardiac remodeling. The value of different types of exercise for brain health. The difference between physical activity and exercise. How our food choices impact our brain health. How to mitigate the effects of traumatic brain injuries. How does creatine monohydrate improve brain performance? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow • Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn • Check out Cynthia’s website  Connect with Louisa Nicola On Twitter and Instagram  The Neuro Experience Podcast Book mentioned The XX Brain by Dr. Lisa Mosconi