The BeingBrigid Show: Top Science-Backed Women’s Health Podcast for Hormones, Inflammation, Gut Health & More

What if the reason nothing is working… isn’t you—it’s the diets?If you’ve been stuck in cycles of restriction, burnout, and frustration, this episode breaks down why most diets fail women—and what to do instead. Brigid shares the 5 foundational principles of functional nutrition that support real, sustainable results—without extremes, guesswork, or starting over (again).What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why most diets are designed to fail women’s health long-termHow chronic dieting impacts metabolism, hormones, and inflammationWhy the scale is misleading (and what to track instead)The difference between nutrient intake vs. absorption (and why it matters for gut health)Why personalized nutrition beats one-size-fits-all elimination dietsThe missing mindset shift that determines long-term successHow to start using food as medicine in a sustainable wayTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Functional Nutrition and Its Importance01:50 Understanding Diet Failures and Nutrition Principles05:56 The Role of the Scale and Holistic Health Metrics08:06 Nutrient Consumption vs. Absorption12:36 Biochemical Individuality in Nutrition Plans17:08 Mindset and Its Impact on Nutrition SuccessIf you’re ready to stop guessing and start seeing real results, this episode is your roadmap to a more personalized, sustainable approach to women’s nutrition and functional health.Resources & Links:+ Schedule your complimentary Discovery Call+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram

What if the reason you feel tired, hungry, or inflamed after meals has less to do with calories and more to do with the trillions of microbes living inside your gut?In this episode of The BeingBrigid Show, Brigid sits down with Professor Tim Spector, co-founder of ZOE, the nutrition science company leading the gut health revolution.Together they explore how emerging research is reshaping the way we think about holistic nutrition, gut health, and the connection between food and chronic disease prevention. Instead of focusing only on weight loss or blood sugar numbers, this conversation highlights a more comprehensive approach to functional nutrition and root cause healing—one that considers the powerful role the gut microbiome plays in inflammation, hormone health, energy, metabolism, and long-term disease risk.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:How the gut microbiome communicates with your brain, immune system, and metabolismWhy energy, mood, and hunger are early signs your gut health is improvingThe surprising ways ultra-processed foods trigger inflammationWhy focusing only on calories and macronutrients misses the bigger pictureHow eating 30+ different plants per week improves gut healthThe difference between prebiotics, probiotics, and fermented foodsWhy prebiotics may be more powerful than probiotic supplementsHow gut microbes influence blood sugar spikes and metabolic healthThe pros and cons of using a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)Why diversity—not restriction—is key for long-term gut and hormone healthTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Professor Tim Spector and his research02:12 How food signals to the brain, nervous, and immune systems04:06 The gut microbiome as a community of mini-pharmacies05:48 Holistic view of health: microbiome, immune, and nervous systems07:58 Harmful effects of ultra-processed foods on gut microbes11:52 Benefits of whole foods and dietary diversity14:04 Symptoms improve before lab markers in dietary interventions16:00 Short-term symptoms as signals of long-term health18:10 Inflammation, fatigue, and early signs of chronic disease22:01 Impact of diet on energy, cravings, and mood26:00 Supporting gut health through plant diversity and prebiotics31:00 Prebiotics vs probiotics: what works best for gut health36:53 How gut microbes produce anti-inflammatory signals44:59 Research on key microbes and diet changes49:08 Future of gut microbiome testing and personalized health54:04 Using stool tests and microbiome data to predict health risks01:00:10 The role of continuous glucose monitors and gut health01:03:50 Final thoughts and resources from Professor Tim SpectorIf you want to improve your gut health, support hormone health, and experience the power of food as medicine, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Resources & Links:+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram+ Dr. Tim's Instagram+ ZOE's Instagram+ ZOE's Website+ Join the ZOEverse

Seven strong nutrition stances on women’s health and blood sugar balance delivered in short, punchy takes. Covers why breakfast matters for hormones and energy. Calls out high-glycemic “healthy” meals that raise inflammation. Debunks protein myths and explains the power of diet variety for gut and metabolic health. Recommends balanced smoothies for afternoon focus and warns about influencer-driven supplements. Highlights mindful eating for digestion and body composition.

Have you ever lost weight but still felt exhausted, inflamed, or stuck in an unhealthy relationship with food? In this episode of The BeingBrigid Show, Brigid shares the six nutrition pillars that support long-term physiology, including blood sugar balance, hormone health, gut health, and reducing chronic inflammation. You’ll also hear the story of Jana, a member of The Being Collective, who lost 40 pounds through calorie tracking but felt trapped in what she describes as a “food prison.” Through the support, structure, and functional nutrition approach inside The Being Collective, Jana shifted to a sustainable food-as-medicine approach that helped improve her energy, skin, sleep, and overall relationship with food.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:The six nutrition pillars that support long-term physiology and women's healthWhy focusing only on calories and weight loss can harm hormone healthHow blood sugar regulation impacts mood, energy, and stress resilienceWhy gut health and plant diversity are essential for reducing chronic inflammationHow restrictive dieting can lead to an unhealthy relationship with foodThe surprising benefits Jana experienced within just a few weeks of changing her nutritionWhy sustainable nutrition requires community, accountability, and structureTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Brigid and Her Philosophy01:24 Jana's Journey: From Weight Loss to Food Relationship Struggles02:22 The Being Collective: Community and Support for Women’s Health03:21 Six Key Areas for Long-Term Physiology Change04:45 Nutrition Strategies for Better Energy, Sleep, and Mood06:11 Simplicity and Enjoyment in Healthy Eating07:35 Jana’s Experience with Food and Mindset Shifts09:23 Jana’s Health Symptoms Before and After Dietary Changes19:06 Notable Improvements in Skin, Sleep, and Mental Clarity21:55 Unexpected Wins: Mental Clarity and Food Peace26:20 Small Wins: Routine Changes and Confidence28:56 The Role of Blood Sugar Reset and Reintroduction ProcessResources & Links:+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Join The Being Collective+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram

What if most chronic diseases aren't inevitable—but misunderstood? In this powerful episode of The BeingBrigid Show, Brigid Titgemeier sits down with Dr. Jeffrey Bland, the founder of the entire field of functional medicine, to explore how systems biology reshapes our understanding of autoimmunity, chronic inflammation, and long-term health. Dr. Bland shares the story behind founding the Institute for Functional Medicine, why modern healthcare still treats downstream symptoms instead of root causes, and how food, the immune system, and environmental exposures shape disease trajectories—especially for women.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why healthcare and disease care are not the same thingHow systems biology explains autoimmunity and chronic inflammationThe “name it, blame it, tame it” model—and why it keeps people stuckWhy 80% of autoimmune disease affects womenThe gut–immune system connection and upstream drivers of dysfunctionWhy food quality and phytonutrient diversity matter more than everHow mitochondrial health, detoxification, and the microbiome intersectWhy functional medicine offers hope where diagnosis-only care does notTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jeffrey Bland and his contributions01:25 The growth and acceptance of functional medicine worldwide04:12 From academic roots to pioneering a new medical paradigm08:32 Overcoming opposition and misconceptions in functional medicine13:49 Systems thinking and the interconnectedness of body systems17:09 The importance of upstream causes in chronic diseases21:48 Autoimmune diseases and gender differences in immune response26:35 Blame, name, and treat: The pitfalls of symptom-focused medicine31:22 Case studies illustrating systems medicine and autoimmune treatment37:25 The role of diet, phytochemicals, and traditional foods in health44:42 Blue zones, longevity, and the impact of lifestyle and diet55:12 The significance of polyphenols, omega-3s, and fiber in health01:00:17 The impact of hybridized grains and gluten sensitivity01:02:05 Resources and where to find Dr. Jeffrey BlandResources & Links:This episode is a masterclass in root-cause healing—and a reminder that your diagnosis is not your destiny.+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram+ Dr. Jeffrey’s Website+ Big Bold Health Website+ Dr. Jeffrey’s Instagram+ Big Bold Health Instagram

What if your brain fog, cravings, and exhaustion weren’t a willpower problem — but a blood sugar problem?In this episode of The BeingBrigid Show, Brigid sits down with style educator and founder of Merrick’s Art, Merrick White, to talk about her personal journey from post-baby burnout and sugar cravings to balanced blood sugar, improved energy, and sustainable body composition. They dive into how functional nutrition transformed Merrick’s health — and how consistency (in both wellness and business) changed everything.If you're navigating women’s health, hormone shifts, or simply trying to feel like yourself again, this episode will show you what’s possible.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:How blood sugar imbalance can contribute to brain fog, fatigue, and cravingsWhy protein and fiber are foundational for women’s nutritionThe mindset shift that supports sustainable body compositionHow to fuel your body for longevity instead of dietingWhy consistency matters more than perfection — in health and businessMerrick’s top confidence-boosting style tipsWhat it really takes to build a successful online brandTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Brigid and Merrick01:23 Merrick's Personal Health Journey and Symptoms04:26 The Impact of Blood Sugar Reset08:07 Key Changes in Merrick’s Nutrition and Lifestyle12:03 Cravings and Satiation Strategies15:03 Body Composition and Aging17:00 Merrick’s Fashion Influencer Journey25:11 Starting Out as a Fashion Influencer43:23 Launching the Anthropologie Collection45:42 Building a Top Influencer Brand46:43 Advice for Women Building Online Businesses50:36 Follow Merrick White’s Content and TipsResources & Links:+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram+ Merrick’s Art Website+ Merrick’s Instagram+ Merrick’s Facebook+ Merrick’s Tiktok+ Merrick’s LikeToKnowIt+ Join the TENTH Round of The Blood Sugar Reset If you loved this episode, please leave a rating and review. It helps us reach more women ready to use food as medicine and reclaim their energy.Until next time — here’s to balanced blood sugar, strong muscles, and thriving at every age.

What if the reason your weight won’t budge… isn’t calories — but blood sugar swings? GLP-1 medications are everywhere right now. But whether you’re taking one or not, this episode will help you understand what actually drives sustainable fat loss, stable energy, and long-term metabolic health — especially in perimenopause and post-menopause.In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Michelle Sirmons, one of our registered dietitians at BeingBrigid Functional Nutrition, to break down what women over 40 truly need to focus on: blood sugar stability, muscle preservation, protein intake, gut health, and consistency. Because your body isn’t broken — it just needs the right inputs.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why GLP-1 medications don’t automatically stabilize blood sugarThe hidden risk of muscle loss and sarcopenia during weight lossWhy protein becomes essential during perimenopause and menopauseHow resistant starch and fiber naturally support GLP-1 productionThe connection between gut health, inflammation, and cravingsWhy chewing your food and eating in a calm state improves hormone healthLab markers every woman over 40 should track (A1C, fasting insulin, DEXA scans)How food as medicine supports sustainable body composition changesTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Brigid and Michelle01:54 Working with clients on GLP-1s and blood sugar stabilization04:53 Risks of blood sugar fluctuations and nutrient deficiencies07:12 Key nutrition principles for women over 40 on GLP-1s08:30 Stabilizing blood sugar for better energy and health12:00 The role of protein in aging and muscle preservation15:58 Natural ways to support GLP-1 production through diet17:33 The importance of fiber and resistant starch for gut health20:15 Enhancing GLP-1 secretion with amino acids and omega-3s21:38 How to optimize digestion and reduce bloating22:44 Foundational habits for long-term health and vitality29:21 Tracking health markers and symptom improvements36:25 Empowering women at any age to thrive and flourishResources & Links:+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Join the TENTH Round of The Blood Sugar Reset+ Explore The Being Collective Membership+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram

What if bleeding gums, mouth breathing, or frequent cavities weren’t just “dental issues”—but early warning signs of hormone imbalance, chronic inflammation, and gut dysfunction?In this eye-opening episode of The BeingBrigid Show, Brigid Titgemeier sits down with Dr. Leedia Riman, a biological and integrative dentist trained at UCLA, to uncover the powerful (and often ignored) connection between women’s hormones, the oral microbiome, gut health, and whole-body inflammation. From fertility and pregnancy to perimenopause and menopause, this conversation will completely change the way you think about oral health.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why oral inflammation can impact fertility, pregnancy, and hormone healthHow the oral microbiome mirrors the gut microbiomeWhy women experience more dental issues during pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause, and menopauseThe connection between mouth breathing, airway health, cognition, and behavior in childrenWhy cavities, gum recession, and dry mouth are not just signs of agingHow nutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and inflammation show up in the mouthSimple daily habits that support oral health, gut health, and anti-inflammatory balanceTimestamps:00:02 – Meet Dr. Leedia Riman + why oral health matters for women01:06 – Gingivitis, fertility, miscarriage & oral inflammation02:28 – Leaky gums = leaky gut04:25 – Oral microbiome vs. gut microbiome05:40 – Oral bacteria linked to colon cancer07:38 – Passing the microbiome from mother to child09:10 – Childhood cavities, nutrition & snacking frequency11:29 – Airway health, mouth breathing & kids’ development16:36 – Cognition, ADHD, and breathing before medication21:33 – Hormones, estrogen & oral health in women28:22 – Perimenopause, menopause & dry mouth32:42 – Gum recession, pregnancy & postpartum changes40:00 – How to support gum health naturally48:40 – Ozone therapy explained54:01 – Mouth taping, tongue scraping & oil pulling01:07:34 – Where to find Dr. Leedia RimanResources & Links:This episode is a must-listen for any woman who wants to understand how hormones, inflammation, nutrition, and oral health are deeply connected—and how small, consistent changes can protect your health for decades to come.+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram+ Dr. Leedia Substack+ Dr. Leedia Kids Course

Dr. Carrie Jones, naturopathic doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner specializing in hormone testing and perimenopause. She explains the progesterone–GABA link behind 3AM anxiety and night waking. Short, practical non‑HRT tools for sleep and anxiety are discussed. Cortisol, blood sugar, gut changes and lesser‑known perimenopause symptoms are explored. Tests, HRT basics, and trending remedies round out the conversation.

What if the reason calorie counting has never worked for you isn’t a lack of willpower—but outdated science? In this episode, Brigid sits down with world-renowned nutrition scientist Dr. Sarah Berry to unpack why all calories are not created equal, how blood sugar dips (not spikes) drive hunger, and why menopause fundamentally changes how women metabolize food.What You’ll Learn In This Episode:Why calorie counting often backfires—especially for womenHow blood sugar dips increase hunger, cravings, and fatigueWhat the food matrix is and why whole foods matter more than labelsHow ultra-processed foods change metabolism and fullnessWhy menopause alters blood sugar, insulin sensitivity, and gut healthHow to build balanced meals without cutting carbsThe role of the gut microbiome in hormones, inflammation, and metabolismWhy how you eat matters just as much as what you eatTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Functional Nutrition and Guest Introduction01:38 The Flaws of Calorie Counting06:36 Understanding Weight Loss and Maintenance12:02 Blood Sugar Dynamics and Satiety18:00 The Importance of Food Structure27:21 Smoothies and Their Impact on Satiety31:32 The Significance of Eating Habits39:21 The Order of Eating and Its Effects49:28 The Interconnection of Gut Health, Inflammation, and Insulin Resistance54:10 Menopause and Changes in Gut Microbiome01:01:47 Practical Tips for Managing Blood Sugar Post-MenopauseThis conversation reframes nutrition through a functional, science-backed lens—without fear, restriction, or obsession. If you’ve struggled with energy, blood sugar, weight, or hormone health, this episode will change how you think about food.Resources & Links:+ Watch the full episode on YouTube+ Brigid’s Website+ Brigid’s Instagram+ Dr. Sarah's Instagram+ ZOE's Instagram+ ZOE's Website+ Join the ZOEverse+ Get your MenoScale Score