In this episode of Asking for a Friend, we’re getting real about what’s happening inside your body in midlife—far beyond diet culture, quick fixes, or another “Motivation Monday.”

I’m joined by Christa Tyler, functional nutritionist, founder of Your Gut Goddess, and breast cancer survivor whose near-fatal sepsis and reconstructive surgery complications sent her on a mission to rebuild health from the inside out. From a hospital bed to a thriving practice, Christa’s story is a powerful example of why midlife women can’t afford to ignore their gut, hormones, and metabolism any longer.

We dig into:

• The blood tests every woman should be asking for in midlife: fasting insulin, A1C, vitamin D, hs-CRP, homocysteine, lipids, B12, and more
• Why “normal range” on labs isn’t always optimal—and how to track trends over time
• The difference between a short-term diet and a sustainable wellness lifestyle (and why 95% of diets fail)
• How gut health, fiber, and the microbiome influence cravings, weight regulation, mood, and long-term disease risk
• The real impact of alcohol on gut health and hormones
• How to help your 20- and 30-something kids build a foundation for longevity now
• Movement, steps, and simple daily habits to nursing-home-proof your future

If you’re a midlife woman navigating perimenopause or menopause, confused about your labs, or wondering where to start with gut health, this conversation will give you the questions, tools, and mindset to become your own best health advocate.

You can find Christa Tyler at https://www.instagram.com/yourgutgoddess/

To get a FREE Food, Mood, Poop Journal, go to https://christa-tyler.com/

_________________________________________
1:1 health and nutrition coaching or Faster Way - Reach me anytime at mailto:[email protected]

If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, it may be time to look deeper. I’ve partnered with EllieMD, a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 peptide therapy—to support metabolic health and longevity.

https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.

✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter:
https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq

🎤 In addition to coaching, I speak to women’s groups, moderate health panel discussions, and bring experts together for real, evidence-based conversations about midlife health.

Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.