Everyday Wellness

Today, we have AMA number 9.  This episode is particularly significant to me as I discuss the recent fall and rapid decline of my father, which I believe could have been prevented.  My father was a thin and reasonably healthy man who became increasingly sedentary later in life. He grew weaker and became frailer, and a series of falls resulted in multiple brain bleeds. Despite hospitalization, he ultimately chose comfort care and passed away.  By sharing his story, I hope to inspire others to prioritize physical activity, proper nutrition, and strength training to prevent similar outcomes.  Your responses and thoughtful questions are deeply appreciated. Stay tuned for today’s AMA, focusing on preventing sarcopenia in older adults. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What are the hallmarks of sarcopenia? Why strength training is crucial for preventing and managing sarcopenia How stabilizing estrogen and progesterone with HRT can help mitigate muscle catabolism and bone density loss in post-menopausal women. Why an adequate protein intake is essential for preventing sarcopenia How creatine can help to help improve muscle mass in older adults How to improve muscle mass through increased repetitions with lighter weights   The benefits of hydration and electrolytes for easing joint pain and muscle recovery in post-menopausal women How encouraging your older relatives to improve their nutrition and find enjoyable physical activities can help them prevent muscle loss. Why working with trainers experienced in middle-aged and older adult fitness is recommended to ensure safe and effective exercise routines. How nutritional supplements can help prevent muscle loss Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Resources International Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sarcopenia (ICFSR): Screening, Diagnosis and Management Consensus guidelines for sarcopenia prevention, diagnosis, and management in Australia and New Zealand Sarcopenia definition, diagnosis, and treatment: consensus is growing  Weighted Vests on Amazon Beam Dream Sleep Powder (use code CYNTHIA for 20% off) LMNT Electrolytes

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 Dr. Sean O'Mara, the leading global health and performance-optimizing physician.  Dr. O'Mara is a former ER physician and attorney. He works with business executives, professional performers, and athletes, and he has also had the chance to collaborate with multiple United States presidents, Secretaries of State, senior government officials, and high-level foreign dignitaries.  In our discussion today, we address the dangers of visceral fat and the general lack of awareness of it, particularly among healthcare professionals. We cover various types of fat, the influence of Big Pharma, and the impact of menopause on disease susceptibility. We dive into health optimization, sarcopenia, sarcopenic obesity, frailty, adiponectin, and MRIs for assessing visceral fat, and Dr. O'Mara offers valuable insights on muscle tissue differences, lifestyle factors, epigenetics, and the most effective exercises, discussing his advocacy for intermittent fasting, the importance of clinical labs, and the specific supplements for managing visceral fat. He also shares his thoughts on alcohol and caffeine.  This engaging and informative episode with Dr. Sean O’Mara features numerous slides and MRI images. So, I recommended viewing it on YouTube. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why visceral fat is a significant contributor to chronic disease How visceral fat invades muscles, leading to the loss of spinal erectness Why superficial subcutaneous fat is essential for health The impact of visceral fat on muscle mass and bone density in older adults How lifestyle choices impact metabolic health The benefits of fermented foods and extended fasting for optimal health Why Dr. O’Mara believes that modern humans are less intelligent than our ancestors How fasting helps to cleanse the body and reverse disease How distance running and cycling can impact the body negatively, and the benefits of sprinting Why Dr O’Mara recommends avoiding alcohol 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 O'Mara On his website Instagram YouTube TikTok LinkedIn Join Dr. O’Mara’s online community (www.drseanomara.podia.com)  Recommended Podcast What Alcohol Does to Your Body, Brain & Health, from Andrew Huberman

I am delighted to have Shawn Wells, affectionately known as the Ingredientologist, joining me again today. Shawn is a leading nutritional biochemist and health optimization expert. He is also a biohacker and the formulator of over 500 supplements, foods, beverages, and cosmeceuticals.  In our conversation today, we cover how to evaluate the quality of supplements, explain what proprietary blends represent, and explore several exciting new supplements like Peptide 185, Paraxanthine, and various nootropic agents. Shawn shares his optimal supplement stacks for sleep, metabolism, gut health, and regulating blood sugar, diving into the impact of delivery systems, including transdermal approaches and IV therapies. He also offers guidance on setting intentions and affirmations around supplement consumption.  I trust that you will find this conversation with Shawn Wells as enjoyable and informative as I did while recording it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Shawn shares his concerns about quality control in supplement manufacturing. Why it is essential to buy supplements only from trusted brands when ordering from big retailers Shawn discusses the potential benefits of the new supplement, Peptide 185, for muscle protein synthesis. The potential leucine holds for age-related muscle loss and sports nutrition.  Shawn dives into the physical effects of the caffeine metabolite paraxanthine. BDNF-boosting ingredients for neuroplasticity and brain protection How adaptogenic herbs can increase resilience and improve sleep quality, energy, and focus Shawn highlights the importance of physical movement and proper posture for maintaining physical health. How a leaky gut can lead to immunological problems and cognitive impairment Shawn explores the effectiveness of supplementation versus methods like high-intensity interval training for boosting NAD levels. Shawn explains how to use intention and affirmations to maximize the absorption of supplements. Bio: Shawn Wells: Shawn Wells MPH, LDN, RD, CISSN, FISSN is the world’s leading nutritional biochemist and expert on health optimization. Meet the Ingredientologist, a visionary scientist behind over 1000 groundbreaking formulations, including 25 patented ingredients like Paraxanthine, Teacrine, Dynamine, and Dihydroberberine. Once a Chief Clinical Dietitian, he has empowered thousands with innovative health solutions like keto, paleo, fasting, and supplements, overcoming his own battles with Epstein-Barr Virus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and more. As a world-renowned thought leader on mitochondrial health, he has spoken on five continents and featured in acclaimed documentaries and podcasts. Discover his practical, research-backed solutions in "The ENERGY Formula," hailed by USA Today, Forbes, and an Amazon best-seller. Experience greater resilience and boundless energy under his expert guidance. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Shawn Wells On his website  Shawn’s biohacking book, The Energy Formula On Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and TikTok  Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 126 – Plant Medicine: Bio-Hacking Your Way to Optimum Health featuring Shawn Wells

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 Previous Episode Mentioned: 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.

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with one of my favorite physicians, Dr. Lara Briden, a naturopathic doctor specializing in women's health.  Dr. Briden is on a mission to help women achieve natural menstrual cycles without relying on hormonal birth control. She has authored several books, including her latest, Metabolism Repair for Women. In our conversation today, we dive into why we cannot consciously control energy balance, the impact of ultra-processed foods, epigenetic factors in obesity, the significance of satiety hormones, the role of muscle, and the effects of visceral fat versus subcutaneous fat. We also discuss ways to assess metabolic health and explore various treatments.  This insightful discussion with Dr. Lara Briden is bound to captivate and inform all our listeners. Stay tuned for more. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why energy balance is not under our conscious control How the regulatory mechanism in the body naturally reduces hunger and burns energy How ultra-processed foods were created to be addictive and lead to overeating How the adiponectin hormone impacts insulin sensitivity and satiety The importance of maintaining muscle mass and avoiding sarcopenia, particularly during menopause The difference between subcutaneous and visceral fat Measuring and managing visceral fat How High triglycerides often indicate insulin resistance The limitations of the fasting insulin test Using the entrainment of circadian rhythm to improve metabolic health The benefits of addressing gut problems for improving metabolic 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. Lara Briden On her website On social media: @Lara Briden  Dr. Briden’s latest book is titled The Metabolism Reset in Australia and New Zealand. Everywhere else, it is titled Metabolism Repair for Women Other Books by Dr. Briden Period Repair Manual Hormone Repair Manual Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 220: A Detailed Guide to Healthy Hormones with Dr. Lara Briden

I am sincerely honored to connect with Walter Green today.  Walter served as the Board Chairman and CEO of Harrison Conference Services for 25 years and played a significant role in the Young Presidents Organisation. Since selling his company, he has dedicated himself to supporting various nonprofits, focusing on education and health for the underserved.  Walter’s work is powerfully inspiring. I initially heard him on one of Peter Attia’s podcasts, which moved me so profoundly that I shared it with anyone willing to listen. In our conversation today, Walter shares his background and we discuss how I took purposeful action after hearing him talk on the podcast. We dive into gender socialization and emotional expression, the value of authenticity and integrity, the concept of saying it now, and the importance of intentionality and boundaries. We also discuss crucial elements of making meaningful connections, cultivating deep, authentic friendships, and transforming our lives to become agents of change.  Having this conversation with Walter was invaluable for me, and I have no doubt you will also love it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Reflecting on his 60 years of marriage, Walter highlights the importance of deep passion and respect in enduring relationships. Walter offers his perspective on authenticity and openness in relationships, emphasizing the importance of being true to yourself. How Walter values authenticity in his relationships and finds it hard to be open and vulnerable with those who are not candid and authentic   How Walter’s career in finance influenced his relationships Walter talks about gratitude and shares how at the age of 71, he shared stories with people he loved on Zoom, inspiring the Say It Now movement. Walter shares his journey of intentional living, explaining the importance of thinking backward and aligning your actions with your ideal outcomes. Why it is essential to consider the context of every decision you make in all aspects of life The importance of finding your purpose and living in the present   The benefits of developing deep and long-lasting relationships How to identify those who have made a difference in your life Walter discusses love languages, sharing the importance of understanding how others prefer to receive love and affection. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Walter Green On Just Say It Now website On This Is the Moment website (For Walter’s book) Walter’s Ted Talk: Why We Should Eulogize the Living Peter Attia’s Podcast: The impact of gratitude, serving others, embracing mortality, and living intentionally with Walter Green

I’m honored to reconnect with Dr. Felice Gersh today! She is a multi-award-winning physician with dual board certification in OB-GYN and Integrative Medicine. We connected once before in Episode 221, where we spoke about PCOS and metabolic health. Today, Dr. Gersh joins me to dive into perimenopause and menopause. We discuss various issues surrounding the Women’s Health Initiative, and talk about estrogen as a family of hormones, estrogen-mimicking chemicals, synthetic hormones, and oral contraceptives. We get into the importance of thyroid function, the pro-inflammatory state of a loss of estrogen in perimenopause and menopause, and the importance of nutrition and exercise for the metabolism. We also speak about the lesser-known changes that occur in menopause, including changes in body odor, constipation, sarcopenia, osteoporosis, and vocal changes.  I intend to invite Dr. Gersh back to discuss women and mitochondrial health and to talk about her latest book, Menopause: The Fifty Things You Need to Know.  Stay tuned to find out what menopause really is and what it does to a woman’s metabolic system. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Gersh discusses the Women’s Health Initiative study and its devastating effects. The difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones. How chronic diseases of aging can be delayed when hormones are incorporated along with other lifestyle refinements. What do hormones do? Why every immune cell in the body has receptors for vital hormones. Why menopause cannot be defined by a specific moment in time. Changes that occur physiologically during the perimenopause years. How hormones can change the perimenopause paradigm entirely. Why perimenopause translates into many sleep issues. Why phytoestrogens are nature’s gift to women. 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 Episode 221 on PCOS with Dr. Felice Gersh Resource Mentioned Go to www.toxicology.gov to see all the ingredients in birth control pills listed as endocrine disruptors.

Today, I am delighted to connect with my dear friend, Dr. Mariza Snyder. Dr. Snyder is a best-selling author, dedicated wife, and wellness advocate passionately committed to empowering women through lifestyle changes, whole food nutrition, essential oils, and other health practices.  In our discussion today, we dive into the perimenopausal journey, looking at the warning signs and ways to rediscover ourselves. We explore the impact of lifestyle choices and the importance of understanding cravings in middle age, offering practical strategies for navigating perimenopause and menopause. We get into the benefits of continuous glucose monitors and glucometers, the critical role of fiber and fermented foods, and the supplements Dr. Snyder recommends for optimal brain health. We also address gut health and the misconception that constipation is normal.  I am confident you will find my conversation with Dr. Snyder as enlightening and enjoyable as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why women need to educate themselves about perimenopause and its symptoms Common early signs of perimenopause How lifestyle choices significantly impact the severity of perimenopause symptoms Why women must eat enough protein Importance of maintaining stable blood sugar levels Benefits of using continuous glucose monitors How strength training helps women maintain muscle mass and functional strength The benefits of fermented foods for supporting the gut microbiome Why managing stress and getting enough sleep are essential Brain-boosting supplements Dr. Snyder recommends How to avoid constipation  Bio: Dr. Mariza Snyder Dr. Mariza Snyder is a functional practitioner, women’s hormone expert, and the author of eight books: The newest book, The Essential Oils Menopause Solution, focuses on solutions for women in perimenopause and menopause and the #1 National Bestselling book, The Essential Oils Hormone Solution, focuses on balancing women’s hormones naturally. For the past fifteen years, she has lectured at wellness centers, conferences, and corporations on hormone health, metabolic health, nutrition, and detoxification. She has been featured on Dr. Oz, Oprah Magazine, Fox News Health, MindBodyGreen, and in many publications. Dr. Mariza is also the host of the top-rated Energized Podcast, (with over 11 million downloads) designed to empower women to become the CEO of their health. Check out her website, drmariza.com, for women's hormone tips, including recipes and 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. Mariza Snyder On Instagram Energized with Dr. Mariza (Podcast) Dr. Snyder’s books are available on Amazon

Today, I am thrilled to connect with Farmer Lee Jones, who oversees The Chef's Garden, a family-owned regenerative farm dedicated to cultivating the most flavorful and nutrient-rich vegetables, herbs, and microgreens.  With a legacy of over three decades, The Chef's Garden has been the go-to supplier for some of the finest chefs and restaurants worldwide.  Join us as we dive deep into the differences between regenerative agriculture and traditional industrial farming, looking at the importance of flavor-focused cultivation, the limitations of USDA guidelines in determining mineral efficacy, how the pandemic affected the operations of the Chef's Garden, the rising trends of seasonal eating in the vegetable industry, and the differences between hybrid and GMO products.  Get ready for an enlightening conversation with Farmer Lee Jones, whose infectious enthusiasm for sustainable farming practices is bound to leave you inspired. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The differences between regenerative agriculture and traditional industrial farming Why traditional industrial farming is unsustainable, and how it negatively impacts soil and human health The benefits of regenerative agriculture Why Farmer Lee grows for flavor, not just for nutritional levels The importance of maintaining healthy soil  How Farmer Lee managed to keep his team together and maintain his farming operations during the pandemic Why it is essential to pay attention to the packaging and labeling when purchasing produce The nutritional benefits of microgreens Farmer Lee explains the difference between GMO and hybrid vegetables Why we need to tune into our bodies and understand what they need instead of relying on artificially available produce throughout the year Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Farmer Lee Jones On Instagram    The Chef’s Garden on Instagram (For vegetable box subscriptions) The Culinary Vegetable Institute on Instagram

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 am thrilled to present the last class of our Lipid Masterclass series today with the esteemed Dr. Thomas Dayspring. Dr. Dayspring is board-certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology and is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association.  Today, we round things out by diving into medications for lipid abnormalities and discussing lipid physiology, with Dr. Dayspring shedding light on insulin resistance and statins and cautioning against statin use for those predisposed to diabetes or insulin resistance. He also explains why LDL particle size is not worth testing and discusses ways to identify specific laboratory abnormalities.  Be sure to stay tuned for the AMA session to follow, where Dr. Dayspring will answer listeners’ questions.  It has been a privilege engaging with Dr. Dayspring throughout this masterclass series. I know you will have learned a lot from it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: · The lack of research and consistency in addressing the needs of women in various stages of life · Dr. Dayspring discusses the use of bile acid sequestrants for lowering LDL cholesterol · Dr. Dayspring discusses the history of bile acid sequestrant use, explaining why their use is limited · How bempedoic acid and statins lower LDL cholesterol · Potential contraindications for bempedoic acid · The benefits and risks of using fibrates to reduce heart attacks · Dr. Dayspring explains why fibrates work best for genetic hypertriglyceridemia · Why reducing ApoB is essential for atherosclerosis patients, especially for high-risk patients · Dr. Dayspring explains why small LDL particles are dangerous · The ideal ApoB level for those who have no heart disease and are not diabetic  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 received 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) On LinkedIn

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Anurag Singh today, the Chief Medical Officer at Timeline Nutrition. He joined me once before on Episode 268.  I invited Dr. Singh back to discuss the latest research on GLP-1 agonists like Wegovy, Semaglutide, and Ozempic, which are gaining significant traction with projected sales exceeding $100 billion by 2030, potentially affecting 9% of the US population. In our conversation, we explore the contributors to our metabolic health crisis by looking at the research surrounding GLP-1 agonists, the physiology of GLP-1 peptides, and the influencing elements Dr. Singh refers to as the trifecta. We dive into the loss of muscle mass and strength, sarcopenia, and frailty associated with these drugs, and Dr. Singh shares his concerns about their impact on bone health, the gut microbiome, and their use in younger patients. We also get into lifestyle measures, mitochondrial health, hallmarks of aging, Akkermansia, and the importance of advocacy and patient empowerment.  Today’s compelling and invaluable discussion with Dr. Anurag Singh highlights crucial insights into GLP-1 agonists and their broader health implications. I know it will provide significant value for our listeners. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Singh breaks down what GLP-1 agonist drugs are and how they work. How our modern-day lifestyles contribute to poor metabolic health The benefits and side-effects of using GLP-1 agonist treatments for improving metabolic health Why strength training is essential for preventing muscle loss and frailty in middle-aged women What are the potential long-term effects of SARMs on muscle mass and health? Why dietary counseling is essential for those taking GLP-1 agonist drugs The benefits of supplements for boosting mitochondrial health  Dr. Singh discusses a research study on combining lithium with GLP-1 agonists to improve the muscle quality of those with muscle-wasting conditions. Why akkermansia is essential for GLP 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. Anurag Singh Timeline Mitopure Email Dr. Singh: asingh@amazentis.com  Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 268: Understanding the Biology of Aging with Evolved Supplementation and Nutrition, featuring Dr. Anurag Singh

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

I am honored to have Dr. Carolyn Dean joining me today. Dr. Dean is a medical doctor, naturopath, and best-selling author. She has dedicated more than 50 years to integrating the science of medicine with the gifts of nature to help her patients feel better, boost their energy, and take control of their health. Today, our conversation centers on The Flexner Report and its influence on modern medicine and the essential role of magnesium in over 80% of metabolic functions. We dive into why we are so magnesium-depleted and common disorders associated with low magnesium levels, and we explore the effects of magnesium on bone health and the microbiome and the synergistic properties of various forms of magnesium and other micronutrients.  I am confident you will find today’s discussion with Dr. Carolyn Dean as enjoyable as it is enlightening. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the Flexner Report has impacted allopathic, functional, and integrative approaches to health and wellness Why is magnesium so poorly understood? How to get your magnesium accurately tested How our modern-day lifestyles are contributing to the current magnesium deficiency epidemic  Dr. Dean shares her formula for hydration  The potential side effects of allopathic medications and how they impact our health Why magnesium is essential for aging women The relationship between magnesium and bone health The benefits of magnesium supplementation The complex relationship between magnesium and other minerals Dr. Dean talks about Magnesium Threonate and explains how all magnesium compounds can ultimately reach the brain. Bio: Carolyn Dean, MD, ND, is a medical doctor, naturopath, and best-selling author. She has spent 50+ years committed to applying the science of medicine and the gifts of nature to help people feel better, find more energy, and take control of their personal health. Dr. Dean follows the 2017 revision of 2004's best-selling book The Magnesium Miracle® with her newest revision Magnesium: The Missing Link to Total 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. Carolyn Dean On her website (For educational resources) RnA ReSet Store website Podcast  Magnesium: The Missing Link to Total Health by Dr. Carolyn Dean is available on Amazon  Recommended Publication Magnesium in the Central Nervous System

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Dave Rabin today. He last joined me for Episode 91 in April of 2020. Dr. Rabin is a board-certified psychiatrist and neuroscientist. He is the Co-founder and CMO at Apollo Neuroscience, the first scientifically validated wearable system to improve heart rate variability, focus, and relaxation, and helps attain meditative states. He is also Co-founder and Executive Director of the Board of Medicine and a psychedelic clinical researcher, currently evaluating the mechanism of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy and treatment-resistant illness. Today, we examine the value of touch and sensory techniques, discussing the distinctions between sympathetic and parasympathetic vagal tone in the autonomic nervous system, changes in sex hormones during perimenopause and menopause, and how that impacts sympathetic dominance, the development of stress responses, and the concept of stress leading to personal growth. We explore the influence of the vagus nerve on systemic health, explaining what HRV is and how it can demonstrate bodily coherence, and we also dive into wearable technologies like Apollo, the disruption of psychedelic interventions, and the impact of trauma on physical and mental well-being.  I am confident that you will find today’s engaging discussion with Dr. Dave Rabin eye-opening and enlightening. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How touch helps us connect, bond, and support our autonomic nervous system How finding balance between the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems can help us manage stress and anxiety Techniques for quickly restoring balance to the nervous system Why women experience more anxiety, depression, and heart arrhythmias during perimenopause How breathing techniques can improve heart rate variability  The significance of HRV metrics for understanding physical and mental health How the Apollo device activates a healing response within the body The potential of MDMA and other psychedelics hold for trauma healing Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Dave Rabin On his website Apollo Instagram Twitter (X) The Psychedelic Report Podcast Your Brain Explained Podcast Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 91 – How To Listen To Your Body and DE-STRESS During COVID-19 – with Dr. David Rabin

I am thrilled to connect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Tony 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   On Instagram, YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter The Holistic Plastic Surgery Show Buy a copy of Younger for Life  Bookshop.Org

Today, I am thrilled to be connecting with Jillian Turecki, a renowned relationship coach, educator, author, and host of the Jillian on Love podcast.  Sought out for her empathetic approach, Jillian has guided 1000s of individuals over the past two decades, driven by an unquenchable curiosity about what makes a relationship thrive. Through her compassion, directness, and authenticity, she has helped them transform their relationships with themselves by focusing on self-growth.  In our conversation, we explore the societal expectations for women and how improving our relationships with ourselves allows us to become more authentic in our other relationships. We address loneliness and trauma, unlearning parental conditioning, and dealing with situationships, and get into the difference between sexual chemistry and a real connection, narcissism, and warning signs in relationships. Jillian also shares her perspective on marriage and the importance of self-reflection.  Join us for the invaluable insights Jillian has drawn from her extensive experience over the past twenty years.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How women internalize narratives of weakness due to societal expectations How self-esteem impacts relationship choices What people can do to empower themselves and avoid feeling alone The benefits of self-validation What we can do to heal past wounds and foster healthy relationships The challenge of distinguishing lust from love Why self-awareness is essential within relationships Red flags to look out for in relationships How to deal with communication breakdowns in relationships Tips for moving on from a broken heart BIO: Jillian Turecki is a certified relationship coach, teacher, author, and host of the Podcast, Jillian On Love. Fueled by an insatiable curiosity about what makes a relationship thrive, Jillian has helped thousands over the last 20 years through her teachings, courses, and writing to revolutionize their relationship with themselves so that they transform their romantic relationships. Jillian is sought out for her compassionate, direct, and very authentic style of coaching, teaching, and writing. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Jillian Turecki On her website On Instagram or Jillian On Love on Instagram Jillian On Love Podcast

I am honored to connect with Dr. Dave Diamond today. Dr. Diamond is a professor at the University of South Florida in their Department of Psychology, Molecular Pharmacology, and Physiology. He has a Ph.D. in biology, specializing in behavioral neuroscience. In our discussion today, Dr. Diamond talks about his journey as a neuroscientist and his interest in heart disease, and we discuss how Ancel Keys, the nutritional department at Harvard, and governmental dietary guidelines have significantly hindered our state of health. We explore the diet-heart hypothesis, the effects of seed oils and low-fat diets, the misconceptions surrounding cholesterol, metabolic errors, and the role of insulin resistance in coronary artery disease and metabolic health. We also scrutinize the implications of scientific misconduct, the effects of statins, and the role of nutrition in shaping lipid panels.  Join us for today’s valuable, insightful, and informative conversation with Dr. Dave Diamond.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How Dr. Diamond became a leading voice in heart disease research The negative impact of a low-fat, high-carb diet  How the American Heart Association ignored the effects of sugar on heart disease How seed oils have contributed to the obesity epidemic  Why a low-carb diet could increase the risk of heart disease How the demonization of cholesterol deflects from nutritional factors exacerbating poor metabolic health How the benefits of statins get overstated  How statins can lead to strokes and heart attacks and contribute to metabolic damage The perils of scientific misconduct and the profit-driven pharmaceutical industry The benefits of a low-carb diet Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. David Diamond On X (Twitter)   Email Dr. Diamond: ddiamond@usf.edu

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  On YouTube and Instagram The Ultimate Ketogenic Fitness Bundle is available on Amazon

I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz today. Dr. Gilberg-Lenz is involved in women's empowerment and public education, appearing frequently to share her expertise in women's health and integrative medicine. She received her medical degree from the USC School of Medicine and did her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at UCLA Cedars Sinai Medical Center. She is the author of The Menopause Bootcamp.  In our discussion, we dive into paradigm shifts and identity differentiation in middle age, debunking the common misconception that our worth ties into our physical attractiveness or the ability to have children. We talk about ageism and the impact of misogyny on sexual education and healthcare, exploring precursors to disease risk in menopause, pelvic floor advocacy, bone and muscle changes in menopause, and the effects of disordered eating on mental health. We also touch on brain remodeling, the three Ps, and how cycle changes can impact our ability to interact with our environment and affect our relationships.  I am excited for you to listen to this insightful conversation, which is the first of two discussions with Dr. Gilberg-Lenz. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How women get pressured to conform to societal standards  Sexual health education is so important Why we need policy changes to address gender-related health disparities How our past medical history is essential for predicting our future health outcomes The importance of pelvic floor health for women The benefits of vaginal estrogen and energy-based devices during menopause  Why annual pap smears are essential for sexually active women over 40 The musculoskeletal changes that occur in menopause How disordered eating patterns often get hidden, and how they can worsen with hormonal changes and mood disorders How the brain chemistry brain of women gets remodeled with puberty, pregnancy, and menopause Bio: Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz A Diplomat of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz, MD, received her medical degree in 1996 from the USC School of Medicine and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at UCLA/Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Dr. Gilberg-Lenz is involved in women’s empowerment and public education. She appears frequently as an expert in women’s health and integrative medicine in print, online, and on TV, where she is the Chief Medical Correspondent for the Drew Barrymore Show. She is the author of MENOPAUSE BOOTCAMP: Optimize Your Health, Empower Your Self, and Flourish as You Age (Harper Wave; October 11th)  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Suzanne Gilberg-Lenz On her website Dr. Gilberg-Lenz on Instagram The Menopause Bootcamp on Instagram Dr. Gilberg-Lenz’s Menopause Bootcamp

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Casey Means today. Dr. Means is the Co-founder of Levels, a health technology company dedicated to reversing the global metabolic health crisis. She is also the co-author of the book Good Energy, along with her brother Callie Means.  In our discussion today, we dive into mitochondria and metabolism, looking at the impact of cognitive dissonance and the reductionistic philosophies of medical specialization. We explore the effects of siloing, the challenges posed by our broken medical system, the Flexner Report, the role of RVUs, the effects of insulin resistance on metabolic health and mitochondrial dysfunction, and the symptoms commonly seen in women. Dr. Means also offers her insights on advocacy, continuous glucose monitors, and the labs she finds impactful, and she shares the incredible story of her mother's health journey.  Good Energy is an outstanding book that will benefit every listener and clinician, and I will often recommend it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How energy gets created in the body The link between insulin resistance and acne How insulin resistance impacts fertility How underpowered parts of the brain and neurological system can show up as depression or anxiety, potentially leading to dementia The problem of our siloed, reactive, and specialist-obsessed culture The importance of getting your biomarkers tested and learning simple strategies to improve your metabolism, based on the results  What are the conditions encompassed by the metabolic spectrum disease?  The labs that Dr. Means finds most impactful Dr. Means shares her thoughts on continuous glucose monitors. The benefits of looking at your basic eating patterns in a non-judgmental and curious way before implementing any changes Dr. Means shares the powerful story of her mother’s health journey.   Bio: Dr. Casey Means Casey Means, MD, is a Stanford-trained physician and co-founder of Levels, a health technology company with the mission of reversing the world’s metabolic health crisis. Her book on metabolic health, Good Energy, comes out in May 2024 with Penguin Random House. She received her BA with honors and MD from Stanford, was President of her Stanford class, and has served on Stanford faculty. She trained in Head & Neck Surgery before leaving traditional medicine to devote her life to tackling the root cause of why Americans are sick. She has been featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Women’s Health, and more.  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Casey Means On her website Good Energy  Newsletter signup On Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube, and LinkedIn Good Energy, by Casey and Calley Means, is available from Amazon and most anyplace good books are sold.

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 On Facebook and Instagram Purchase Dr. Deb Mathew’s book This is Not Normal on Amazon or download the ebook  Ep. 295: HRT’s Impact on Women’s Health Through Time with Dr. Deb Matthew

I am thrilled to have Dr. Elisa Song joining me today.  Dr. Song is an integrative pediatrician and author of Healthy Kids Happy Kids. She trained at Stanford University, New York University (NYU), and the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF).  In our conversation today, we dive into kids in crisis, exploring the butterfly effect of crisis impacting teens and young adults. We discuss the significance of the gut microbiome, dispelling myths surrounding antibiotics and addressing the resulting global health crisis. We touch on PANS, PANDAS, rheumatic fever, and strategies for restoring the gut microbiome of children, post-antibiotics. We also look at the significance of food labeling and constipation in children, explore the importance of the vagus nerve and heart rate variability, and examine the impact of sugar, glyphosate, and other forever chemicals.  Stay tuned for today's insightful and enlightening conversation with Dr. Elisa Song as we dive deeply into crucial aspects affecting pediatric health and wellness. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr Song discusses the crisis surrounding the health of children and the shifts and trends she has seen in pediatric medicine over the last two decades Why do we need to address the root cause of illness instead of just treating the symptoms? How autoimmune disease rates in children are rising The importance of empowering teens through education and support to make healthy choices  How do antibiotics impact children’s health? Strategies for restoring the gut microbiome of children after antibiotics How the vagus nerve impacts the gut microbiome and brain How sugar affects children’s health The importance of gut health for brain function and detoxification How to improve children’s health through diet, exercise, and integrative treatments Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Elisa Song On her website Find out more about Dr Song’s book here

I am excited to share AMA number eight with all our listeners today, where we dive deep into listener questions concerning sleep and HRV.  In today's AMA episode, we investigate the physiology of sleep, also looking at changes that occur with perimenopause and menopause. We discuss supplements for better sleep, explore sleep hygiene and metrics for REM and deep sleep, examine melatonin and glycine, touch on heart rate variability, and review various gadgets beyond the Aura that can enhance sleep quality. Join me for a comprehensive exploration of HRV and the benefits of better sleep. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why middle-aged women experience poor sleep during perimenopause Why sleep hygiene is essential, particularly during perimenopause and menopause Which supplements help with better sleep? The benefits of a low-carb or ketogenic diet for improving sleep quality How HRT helps to induce better sleep  The benefits of melatonin for improving sleep quality Why deep sleep is essential for memory consolidation, improving the immune system, and overall health Factors that could impact heart rate variability (HRV) How to improve your heart rate variability (HRV) Gadgets I have found helpful for sleep Tips 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 Resources: Ep. 301 Creatine: The Best Supplement for Better Bones & Brain Health with Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP Purchase myo-inositol Purchase creatine Research:  Nocturia through the menopausal transition and beyond: a narrative review The influence of high and low levels of estrogen on diurnal urine regulation in young women Technically sleeping? A clinical single-case study of a commercial sleep robot

I am excited to share our fourth class in our informative Lipid Masterclass series today, with the esteemed Dr. Thomas Dayspring. Dr. Dayspring is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology and is a distinguished fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association. He brings a wealth of expertise to our discussion today. In this class, we dive into lipid and lipoprotein dynamics during the menopausal transition, exploring the impact of estrogen on gut health and its effects on laboratory findings. We look at the differences between hyper absorbers and hyper synthesizers, sharing clinical insights on routine lipid panels that can let you know if you are one of those individuals. We talk about Boston Heart Testing, highlighting the impact of specific biomarkers on brain health lipids and lipoproteins, and we get into the staggering differences between the half-lives of peripheral cholesterol and brain cholesterol. We discuss lipid permeability across the blood-brain barrier, highlighting those at risk for brain health concerns as they age, and we reveal strategies for managing lipid abnormalities. We also focus on LP(a), an ApoB lipoprotein with potent atherogenic and thrombotic properties, and its implications regarding calcific aortic stenosis.  I am sure you will find this enlightening conversation with Dr. Dayspring invaluable. There is one more class yet to come in this masterclass series. Be sure to listen in! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How cholesterol absorption in the gut increases in perimenopausal women How hyper cholesterol absorbers tend to have elevated HDL cholesterol The impact of phytosterols on cholesterol absorption When should hyperabsorbers consider treatment? What research has shown regarding the differing effects of estrogen on brain health for older versus younger menopausal women What happens if a statin crosses the blood-brain barrier? How cholesterol synthesis relates to cognitive impairment  The importance of understanding LP-PLA2 test results How Lp(a) levels in women tend to fluctuate, particularly during menopause Should women with heart disease consider hormone replacement therapy?   Bio: Thomas Dayspring MD is a Fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association 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 received 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) On LinkedIn

Today, I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Nick Bitz, a renowned naturopathic physician specializing in Ayurvedic medicine.  Dr. Bitz is an influential figure in the natural products industry, specializing in nootropics, anti-aging, medicine, biohacking, herbology, nutrition, and dietary supplements. He is currently the Senior Vice President of Product Development at Neurohacker Collective. In our discussion, we cover cellular senescence, zombie cells, and distinctions with autophagy, highlighting some hallmarks of the aging process. We discuss the gut microbiome and the significance of akkermansia, also exploring the impact of senomorphics and senolytics, brain aging, lifestyle factors, the challenges of sarcopenia, and anabolic resistance. Join us for today’s enlightening conversation with Dr. Nick Bitz as we journey into various aspects of holistic health and wellness. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How modern lifestyle factors exacerbate age-related cellular dysfunction Why it is critically important to consume enough fiber each day  Senescent cells and their impact on aging, health, and disease What is the difference between senolytics and senomorphics? How senolytics get used in a clinical setting to target different body parts Diet, lifestyle, and supplements for brain health How adaptogens are used in Ayurvedic medicine The role of senescent cells in muscle aging Dr. Bitz discusses the popular senolytic product he created with Neurohacker Collective Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Nick Bitz Neurohacker Collective Collective Insights Podcast Use the code EverydayWellness to save 15% on any Qualia formulation

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Felice Gersh today for our fourth discussion.  Dr. Gersh is a globally recognized expert on women's hormones. As the Medical Director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, she often collaborates with numerous research organizations.  In our discussion today, we dive into cardiovascular disease risks and menopause, highlighting the metabolic transition that menopause represents and exploring risk factors like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and PCOS. We get into the use of oral contraceptives, particularly before the age of 20, early puberty, and premature ovarian failure, while examining the role of the RAS system, synthetic hormones, and the differences between estrone and estradiol. We discuss the optimal timing for starting hormone replacement therapy and explain why we should love our menstrual cycles, addressing the risks related to circadian rhythm disruption. We also look at arterial changes, cholesterol dynamics, the autonomic nervous system, gut health and cardiac wellness in menopause, and proactive ways to support our bodies.  I am confident you will find today’s conversation with Dr. Felice Gersh most enlightening and informative. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why women need to understand basic female physiology  How pregnancy-induced insulin resistance and leaky gut can lead to cardiovascular issues later in life Dr. Gersh highlights the importance of metabolic health in pregnancy and menopause Why it is risky for young women to use oral contraceptives What irregular bleeding in perimenopausal women might indicate Why the inflammatory response is critical for survival, even though it may become problematic if not properly regulated How estrogen is a family of hormones, not a single hormone How estradiol differs from estrone Why should menopause be treated like any other hormone deficiency state? The optimal time for hormone replacement therapy Why post-menopausal women are more susceptible to heart attacks than 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. Felice Gersh On her website: Integrative Medical Group of Irvine Instagram All of Dr. Gersh’s books are available on Amazon Ep. 297 Dr. Felice Gersh: Estrogen, Immunity & Menopause Mysteries Ep. 237 Perimenopause and Menopause: What You Didn’t Know with Dr. Felice Gersh Ep. 221 Part 1- An Integrative Approach to PCOS and Menstrual Irregularities with Dr. Felice Gersh

I am thrilled to have the award-winning personal trainer, Doug Bopst, joining me today.  Doug is also an author and host of the Adversity Advantage Podcast. He is a former convicted felon and drug addict who spent time in jail and is now on a mission to inspire others to conquer adversity and realize their fullest potential. Today, Doug and I engage in a thought-provoking conversation on gratitude, how exercise enables individuals to confront their fears and connect with themselves, the distinction between healthy and unhealthy habits, and the restrictions associated with seeking validation externally. We also discuss the transformative power of resilience, faith, and learning to be comfortable with being uncomfortable.  Doug’s remarkable journey from adversity to triumph serves as a beacon of inspiration for countless individuals seeking transformation, and I am confident that our conversation will resonate deeply with listeners. Stay tuned for Doug’s profound insights on personal development. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How gratitude reshaped Doug’s life How people use drugs as a coping mechanism to numb emotional pain Doug explains how he realized he had power and was able to control his life despite feeling powerless  How exercise can catalyze self-discovery and growth Why anxiety and stress are normal responses for those raised in troubled environments Why do some individuals constantly seek external validation instead of seeking self-worth internally? How self-awareness can help to conquer the need for external validation The benefits of coaching and therapy for overcoming unhealthy relationships with food Why many women avoid pushing themselves to the limit during workouts How faith helped Doug to transform his pain and become a better person Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Doug Bopst On his website Instagram The Adversity Advantage Podcast

I am delighted to have the remarkable Dr. William Li joining me again today. He was previously with me on Episode 260, which became one of the most popular podcasts in 2023.  Dr. Li is a world-renowned physician-scientist and New York Times bestselling author known for his role as President and Medical Director of the Angiogenesis Foundation.  In our conversation today, we dive into the vocabulary surrounding health and microbiome-supporting foods, exploring how to measure the microbiome, the benefits of fermented foods, and the role of the appendix. We also look at pre, and post-biotics, strategies for supporting the microbiome after a colonoscopy prep, foods to avoid, immune function, and metabolic nuances, and discuss the differences between subcutaneous visceral fat, brown fat, and white fat, and polyphenol-rich beverages.  I know you will find today’s conversation with Dr. William Li as enlightening as I did. I eagerly anticipate inviting him back to the podcast later this year. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Li explains the importance of the gut microbiome  The interrelationship between the microbiome, body fat, and the metabolism How to measure your gut microbiome Foods that promote gut health and support the microbiome The role of the appendix How a colonoscopy prep impacts the gut microbiome How excess body fat can fuel the metabolism rather than slowing it down Why sleep is crucial for metabolism The role of brown fat in weight loss The benefits of polyphenols in coffee and tea Bio: William W. Li, MD, is an internationally renowned physician, scientist, and New York Times bestselling author of “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 Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. William Li On Social media: @ Dr William Li On his website Sign up for Dr. Li’s free newsletter Ep. 260 Eat To Beat Your Diet: Achieve a Balanced and Healthy Lifestyle with Dr. William Li

Today, I am thrilled to bring you our seventh AMA episode. I am super excited to connect with all of you today to share valuable insights and answer your questions about dysfunctional uterine bleeding, hormone replacement therapy, perimenopause, and menopause. I will also be addressing queries on blood loss thresholds and dysfunctional uterine bleeding and offering strategies for managing endometriosis and cravings.  Join me as I answer many questions from listeners, shedding light on all these critical concerns and several more. I love doing the AMA episodes, and I know you love listening to them, so keep your questions coming! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How an estrogen and progesterone imbalance could cause persistent bleeding  How much blood loss should there be in a menstrual cycle? Why some women crave sweet and salty foods at night during perimenopause and menopause Strategies for managing cravings during perimenopause and menopause How endometriosis often links to autoimmunity and digestive issues Why would someone experience unusual symptoms like itchy ears, crankiness, and bloating in menopause? Various hormone replacement therapy options for perimenopause Why you should implement lifestyle changes before considering HRT The benefits of oral progesterone for sleep and bone health Join my free Facebook group to have me answer your questions personally, or you can send your questions to my admin team (support@cynthiathurlow.com) Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com

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