Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+

We have a follow-up from our last mashup episode on progesterone today, featuring Dr. Amy Killen, Dr. Anna Cabeca, and me, as we share our insights on the significance of progesterone for women’s health and the importance of personalized hormone therapy. In this mashup episode, I explore the importance of individualized hormone therapy and the benefits of progesterone, even post-hysterectomy. Dr. Amy Killen explains how progesterone sensitivity affects some women, discusses the importance of laboratory tests when evaluating hair loss, and cautions against popular but ineffective treatments. Dr. Anna Cabeca emphasizes the need to build foundational health before starting bioidentical hormones and outlines her approach to hormone replacement. Join us for an informative discussion on how progesterone, when tailored to individual needs, can support hormone balance and overall well-being. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Amy Killen On her website HopBox (Supplement Company) Subscribe to Dr. Amy’s Substack Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca Website On social media: @the girlfriend doctor

Today, I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Roseann, an integrative children's mental health expert and the founder of the Global Institute of Children's Mental Health. Over the last 30 years, Dr. Roseann has helped thousands of children and families overcome the most challenging behavioral and mental health conditions. In our conversation today, we take a deep dive into emotional dysregulation, exploring the biology behind it and the origin of emotional triggers. We discuss parenting and boundaries, the effects of rumination and negative thinking, the value of mindset changes, the role of gut health, vagal tone, and the connection between the gut and brain. Dr. Roseann also walks us through QEEG brain testing, touching on pharmacological options, lifestyle, AI, and tech, and sharing her favorite supplement for mental health.  As always, this discussion with Dr. Roseann is rich and insightful, and I know you will enjoy it as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: What emotional dysregulation is, and what it takes to break free from emotionally dysregulated patterns  How the brain's perception of safety can either support or block emotional regulation Steps to take if you find yourself in a pattern of dysregulation The importance of teaching children about boundaries How changing your mindset can help you break free from negative thought patterns How subliminal negative messaging from parents trickles down to the children The link between rumination and emotional dysregulation How stress affects gut bacteria and impacts brain function The benefits of QEEG brain mapping AI technologies that can help regulate the nervous system Bio: A mental health trailblazer, media personality, and founder of The Global Institute of Children’s Mental Health and Dr. Roseann, LLC, who is on a mission to change the way we view and treat mental health, showing people it's gonna be ok with science-backed tools that calm the brain. With her trademarked BrainBehaviorResetTM Program, she has helped thousands address the most challenging conditions affecting kids and families today, including PANS/PANDAS, OCD, anxiety, mood/behavior, and ADHD/executive functioning. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge On her website Podcast: Science Fact Solutions for Dysregulated Kids 

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

Today, I am excited to welcome you to AMA #13. In this AMA episode, I cover a wide range of topics, including satellite stem cells and the importance of strength training as estrogen and testosterone levels decline. I also answer many questions about hormone replacement therapy, offering general explanations and resources rather than medical advice. Join me for another information-packed AMA session. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why strength training and sufficient protein intake are essential when your estrogen and testosterone levels drop Importance of HRT for women experiencing mood disorders What reverse dieting is, and how it is more challenging for middle-aged individuals than younger people Benefits of testosterone for muscle building and executive function How low estrogen levels impact the body When should you start taking estrogen? How reduced satellite cell activity during menopause can impair muscle repair and regeneration   The value of progesterone, beyond the uterus What are peptides, and why are they important? How GLP-1s can assist blood flow and immune regulation, and support tissue regeneration Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Research Links: Estrogen Regulates the Satellite Cell Compartment in Females Sarcopenia and Menopause: The Role of Estradiol (2021)/Frontiers in Endocrinology Previous Episodes Mentioned: Ep. 470 Your Midlife Hormone Survival Guide with Dr. Amy Killen Ep. 198 Dispelling Myths about Hormone Replacement Therapy with Dr. Bluming and Carol Tavris Ep. 448 Hair Loss in Women: Causes, Fixes & Expert Tips with Dr. Omer Ibrahim Ep. 463 Midlife Body Masterclass: Strength, Bone, Metabolism with Dr. Vonda Wright, Dr. Stacy Sims, Dr. Shannon Ritchey, and Debra Atkinson Ep. 406 Protein, Creatine, and Training for Menopause and Beyond with Dr. Stacy Sims Ep. 386 Muscle Strength in Menopause: Key Tests & Lifestyle Measures with Dr. Vonda Wright Ep. 456 Why Muscle Matters: Metabolism, Myths & More with Dr. Shannon Ritchey Ep. 321 Muscle, Bone & Joint Health in Menopause with Debra Atkinson Recommended Books: Estrogen Matters by Dr. Avrum Bluming and Dr. Carol Tavris

Dr. Aaron Hartman, founder of Richmond Integrative and Functional Medicine, shares his expertise on women's health, particularly during menopause. He discusses mood issues tied to hormonal fluctuations and how societal pressures worsen stress. The importance of a balanced diet, supplements, and gut health is highlighted, as they can aid in inflammation and immune function. Dr. Hartman also reveals the complex interplay between environmental factors like mold and chronic conditions, urging a personalized approach to health for middle-aged women.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Eric Balcavage, a functional medicine practitioner and thyroid specialist, dives deep into the nuances of thyroid health. He reveals the complexities of cellular hypothyroidism, emphasizing why it's often mismanaged in clinical settings. The conversation covers the role of bile in thyroid function, the impact of hypothyroidism on sex hormones, and the importance of a holistic approach to thyroid care. Dr. Balcavage also shares insights from his new book, addressing nutrition, inflammation, and the controversial role of iodine.

Dr. Staci Whitman, a leading authority in functional dentistry, aims to transform oral healthcare through science and compassion. In this engaging talk, she reveals how the oral microbiome acts as a gatekeeper for overall health, particularly for middle-aged women during menopause. Chronic mouth breathing’s repercussions, the importance of nitric oxide production, and changes in salivary flow are discussed. Dr. Whitman also challenges conventional dental practices and shares innovative tips for achieving optimal oral health.

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Brooke Scheller today. She is a doctor of Clinical Nutrition, an author, and the founder of Functional Sobriety, a nutrition-based program for alcohol reduction. In our discussion, we explore current trends and shifts in alcohol use and what it means to be sober-curious. Dr. Scheller shares insights on how to have conversations about alcohol use with teenagers and young adults, on recognizing the signs of blackouts and binge drinking, and on the brain changes and elevated cancer risks associated with alcohol use. She also offers her perspective on using GLP-1s to reduce or prevent alcohol cravings, highlights the physiological differences in how alcohol affects men and women, and clarifies how to support the natural detoxification pathways of the body when consuming alcohol or navigating a sober-curious lifestyle. This valuable and insightful conversation with Dr. Brooke Scheller is essential listening for anyone seeking a healthier approach to alcohol use. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN:  How awareness and acceptance of sobriety and reduced alcohol consumption are growing The value of approaching alcohol reduction as a proactive health decision The long-term effects of alcohol on cortisol levels and overall health The importance of addressing your relationship with alcohol before counseling teenagers or young adults on alcohol use   The potential neurological risks and brain effects of long-term alcohol use How alcohol use is linked to seven types of cancer The potential benefits and limitations of GLP-1s for managing alcohol cravings The different ways in which alcohol affects men and women Some simple ways to support detoxification  Bio: Brooke Scheller, DCN, CNS Dr. Brooke Scheller, Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, stands at the forefront of a transformative movement in health and wellness. As the esteemed founder of Functional Sobriety and the author of "How to Eat to Change How You Drink," Dr. Scheller has dedicated her career to revolutionizing the approach to alcohol recovery and holistic well-being. Inspired by her journey to sobriety in 2021, Dr. Scheller embarked on a mission to empower others to reclaim their lives through nutrition and functional medicine. Drawing upon her extensive expertise, she crafted an innovative approach that not only liberates individuals from the grips of alcohol but also fosters profound improvements in brain health, mood regulation, energy levels, focus, gut health, and hormone balance. In 2022, Dr. Scheller launched Functional Sobriety, a groundbreaking approach that has since garnered global recognition and acclaim. Serving as a beacon of hope for those seeking an alcohol-free lifestyle, Functional Sobriety provides a comprehensive platform encompassing a supportive wellness community, educational resources on alcohol recovery through nutrition, and pioneering custom supplement solutions tailored for both the sober and the sober-curious. Beyond her role as a visionary entrepreneur, Dr. Scheller is a motivational speaker, captivating audiences with her passionate advocacy for functional nutrition, alcohol-free wellness, and the transformative power of sobriety. For further insights and guidance on your journey to wellness, connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller on Instagram (@drbrookescheller) or visit her websites at brookescheller.com and 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 Book website Instagram Substack

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

Zora Benhamou, a gerontologist and biohacker, challenges stereotypes around menopause to empower women. She discusses how factors like stress and trauma can influence menopause timing and introduces midlife biohacks such as blood-flow restriction training. Loneliness and its impact on health are explored, emphasizing the importance of positive relationships for better aging. Zora also highlights the benefits of peptides, exosomes, and HRT, advocating for a proactive mindset towards aging that fosters resilience and longevity.