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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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:

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.

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• 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:

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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:

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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!

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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. 

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Previous Episode Mentioned

Ep. 211 – Addressing the Root Cause of Hormonal Imbalances with Dr. Sara Gottfried

I am delighted and honored to interview Dr. Lisa Mosconi today. 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

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Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community (The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow) 

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The Midlife Pause supplement line

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The Menopause Brain

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!

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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:

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.

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Previous Episode Mentioned:

Ep. 301 Creatine: The Best Supplement for Better Bones & Brain Health with Darren Candow, PhD, CSEP-CEP