The Neuro Experience

What Actually Happens to Your Brain When You Start Fasting | Dr Mindy Pelz

26 snips
Jan 23, 2026
Guest
Mindy Pelz
Dr. Mindy Pelz, a bestselling author and hormone expert specializing in fasting and women's health, dives into the controversial topic of fasting for women. She reveals how fasting can adversely affect hormonal cycles, leading to issues like hair loss and missed periods. Mindy discusses the unique needs of women's brains during menopause, emphasizing the critical role of ketones. She also outlines practical fasting durations and introduces a tailored fasting cycle for women, highlighting why understanding hormonal changes is key to metabolic health.
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ADVICE

Get Obsessed With A1C After 40

  • Track hemoglobin A1c from age 40 to monitor chronic glucose exposure; aim nearer to 4.5–5.0 for longevity and avoid >5.5 for symptoms.
  • Use A1C rather than single-day measures to assess long-term metabolic risk for brain and body.
ADVICE

Use CGMs For Education, Not Panic

  • Use a CGM as an educational tool: live normally for a few days, then analyze meals and workouts to learn what spikes or delays glucose recovery.
  • Interpret exercise or stress-related glucose rises in context rather than panicking at single readings.
INSIGHT

Neurochemical Loss Drives Increased Sensitivity

  • The menopause transition causes a wide neurochemical decline (dopamine, serotonin, GABA, BDNF) that increases sensitivity to stress.
  • Prioritizing parasympathetic-restoring practices reduces symptom severity and improves adaptability.
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