Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Liz Roman, also known as The Poop Queen! Liz and I dive into her journey with chronic constipation and how she turned a personal health challenge into a mission to help others fix their own gut health issues. 

Liz shares how her struggles with digestive issues led her to create her 'Poop Queen' Instagram account and start initiatives like the 12 Days of Constipation Challenge during the holidays. We discuss the importance of diet diversity for gut health and how our gut microbiome impacts overall health, including the immune system and nutrient absorption. 

We share some practical tips on how to easily incorporate diverse foods into your diet, aiming to break the monotony of eating the same 12-15 foods repeatedly. We also explore how our gut health can influence and be influenced by stress and our nervous system responses to it. 

Nervous system regulation is crucial for optimal gut health, and we share some stories of clients who have undergone life-changing transformations by addressing their stress and nervous system health alongside dietary changes. If you're dealing with gut issues, chronic constipation, or chronic stress, or you’re frustrated with traditional medicine to get the answers you need and want to learn how to better support your overall health, this episode is packed with a ton of information to help you get started on your journey.

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Find more from Liz online: 

Website: https://fitmomlife.com/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-health-revival-show/id1492747637

Instagram: @thepoopqueen

The Constipation Cure free guide: https://fitmomlife.com/liz/

TikTok: @therealpoopqueen

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

For this week’s Thyroid Thursday, one of our listeners wanted to know about the importance of Vitamin A and why it's not commonly discussed in the context of thyroid health. Specifically, she asked whether low thyroid function impacts the release of Vitamin A from the liver or if low Vitamin A levels affect thyroid function. 

So to help answer this question, we’ll explore the components needed to make cortisol, including cholesterol, Vitamin A, and T3, and discuss whether low Vitamin A can result in low cortisol levels. I've thoroughly researched these questions for you, and I'm excited to share what I’ve learned along with what I’ve personally seen with my own clients. 

We'll cover how Vitamin A, cholesterol, and thyroid hormones are linked and the role each plays in maintaining overall endocrine function. I’ll also share how the body reacts when any of these hormones and minerals are out of balance, and what foods we can eat to get them back to ideal levels. 

If you've been curious about how Vitamin A and cholesterol might be influencing your thyroid function or vice versa, this episode is packed with valuable information. So grab a notebook, get comfortable, and let's get started learning about the vital connections between Vitamin A, cholesterol, and thyroid health!

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. I love hearing from you! Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today. 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Additional Resources:

Get Your Own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis: https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz

SHE Thrives: https://shetalkshealth.com/she-thrives-2/

Today, I am joined by my friend and fellow Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner Alison Jordan, founder of Better Belly Therapies. Alison and I both graduated from FDN around five or six years ago, and she has since helped over 600 clients address the root causes of gut and health issues through her unique Gut Healer System. 

In our conversation, we dive into the intricacies of failed health protocols and explore the four major failure points that hinder clients from achieving their wellness goals: practitioner error, missing labs, bad labs, and poorly analyzed labs. Throughout the episode, Alison and I share our experiences with clients who have spent potentially thousands of dollars without success. 

We discuss the nuances of protocols, the importance of accurately diagnosing with the right tests, and how to ask the right questions when seeking help from practitioners. We also touch on why relying on just one or two tests isn't enough and the pitfalls of incorrectly analyzed lab data. Alison emphasizes the need for continuous learning to provide the best outcomes for clients and highlights some of her favorite diagnostic tests, including the DUTCH test, GI map, and organic acids test. 

For anyone out there who has tried multiple protocols and still isn't feeling better, this episode is packed with information and advice to help you navigate your health journey more effectively. Don’t forget to check out the workshop Alison created called the Five Toxin Trap, which is a fantastic resource to further understand the factors impairing your recovery! 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Find more from Allison online: 

Website: https://betterbellytherapies.com/ 

Podcast: https://betterbellytherapies.com/podcast/

Instagram: @betterbellytherapies

Allison’s Candida Episode: Linked Here

Allison's H. Pylori Episode: Linked Here

Allison's SIBO Episode: Linked Here

Allison's Lyme Episode: Linked Here

The 5 Toxin Trap Free Training: https://betterbellytherapies.com/microcast-registration-oct-2024

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Welcome back to another Thyroid Thursday episode, and as always, thank you for all of your pre-submitted questions! In this episode, I tackle a big one: How do I know if I need iodine, and how much do I need? 

To kick things off, I share why iodine is so essential for thyroid function and what factors could be causing a deficiency, particularly in the U.S., where seafood and seaweed consumption are low on average. I'll also discuss the impact of antagonistic elements like fluoride, which can block iodine absorption, creating a tug-of-war that can mess with your thyroid function. 

Understanding symptoms of low iodine—like fatigue, depression, and even weight gain—can be your first clues, but lab tests can offer more concrete answers. We'll explore two key tests: the hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) and the 24-hour iodine test by Hakala Labs. Plus, I'll share the importance of prepping your body with iodine cofactors before supplementation to avoid any adverse reactions. If you're considering iodine, knowing how to correctly test and supplement is critical, so make sure you listen carefully to avoid common pitfalls. 

We wrap up by emphasizing the need to test and not guess, ensuring we approach iodine supplementation thoughtfully and safely. If you're wondering about your own thyroid health and potential iodine deficiency as a root cause of any symptoms you’re having, this episode is packed with advice for how to look into iodine more deeply. 

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. I love hearing from you! Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today. 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Additional Resources:

Get Your Own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis: https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz

SHE Thrives: https://shetalkshealth.com/she-thrives-2/

Hakala Labs 24-Hour Iodine Test: https://www.hakalalabs.com/24-Hour-Urine-Iodine-Loading-Test-Kit_p_45.html

Today I'm thrilled to have the incredible Dr. Tabatha Barber join us on the show. Dr. Barber and I recently connected at the Mindshare Conference, and in this episode, she shares so much incredible information on fasting, eating nutrient-rich whole foods, and their widespread impacts on thyroid health. 

Dr. Barber has decades of experience as a triple board-certified physician, focusing on a holistic and integrated approach to women’s health. She discusses how changes in diet like the removal of gluten and introduction of healthy fats and proteins, transformed her health, and how it can be a gamechanger for other women struggling with their thyroid health, too.

We also discuss the benefits of fasting for hypothyroidism and Hashimoto's, and how stress has a huge impact on overall thyroid health. Dr. Barber emphasizes the critical role of our adrenals and gut health in managing thyroid and hormone issues and shares her comprehensive approach to addressing these core health challenges. 

Finally, we explore the often misunderstood topic of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Dr. Barber has seen firsthand how HRT can be life-changing for women in menopause and what factors to consider before starting it. 

So many facets of women’s health have been riddled with misinformation, misguided treatments, and lack of research — but it doesn’t have to be like that anymore. If you’re struggling with thyroid issues, menopause, or anything we’ve discussed today, you’re not alone. I hope this episode brings you clarity and the motivation you need to take your health back and search for the answers you’ve been looking for.

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Find more from Dr. Barber online: 

Website: https://drtabatha.com/

https://fasttofaith.com/

Podcast: https://fasttofaith.buzzsprout.com/

Instagram: @gutsydrtabatha

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

It’s time for another episode of Thyroid Thursday! Today, we dive into what to do when lab results don't provide clear guidance on how to help a client. I love this question because it gives me the chance to share my philosophy on the foundations of health and why we shouldn't rely solely on lab tests in functional medicine. 

I get into the importance of foundational health practices and how my three-pillar system, the Thriving Thyroid Method, can help women achieve optimal health before even looking at lab results. Starting with these foundational elements is crucial and can lead to substantial improvements in health, even before introducing lab tests such as the HTMA test you’ll often hear me talk about on other episodes. I also discuss the role of toxins and trauma in health dysfunction and how we address these underlying causes by first establishing a solid foundation. 

This episode offers a practical take on lab testing and my personal health philosophy for anyone looking to improve their health holistically. Tune in to learn why addressing hydration, nutrition, sleep, stress, and movement should be your first steps and how labs can then be used to fine-tune your health journey and get you back to thriving. 

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today. 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Additional Resources:

Get Your Own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis: https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz

SHE Thrives: https://shetalkshealth.com/she-thrives-2/

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses themes and personal experiences involving suicide. If this is triggering to you, please proceed to listen to this episode with caution or skip this one. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or a crisis, 988 offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call, or chat 988.

Today, I’m thrilled to have a truly inspiring guest with me, Dr. Nasha Winters. Dr. Winters is a metabolic health specialist, integrative oncology pioneer, and the mind behind the groundbreaking works 'The Metabolic Approach to Cancer' and 'Mistletoe and the Future of Integrative Oncology'. 

In this episode, Dr. Winters shares her remarkable story of being diagnosed with end-stage cancer at the age of 19 and shattering all medical expectations to become a thriving survivor and a beacon of hope for many who are also struggling with cancer and other chronic diseases. 

I also share about my mom’s recent cancer diagnosis and recovery journey and how, through that, I discovered the work of Dr. Winters and was inspired by her Terrain 10 approach to cancer recovery. I’m so excited I got to go deep with her about why cancer is on the rise globally and what we can do to better support ourselves — because prevention is the best cure for cancer. 

Whether you're battling cancer or looking to prevent it, I hope this episode inspires you to check out Dr. Winters’ work and take control of your health journey. Get ready for an incredible discussion that could change your entire view on cancer. 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Find more from Dr. Winters online:

Website: https://www.drnasha.com/

The Metabolic Approach to Cancer

Podcast: https://www.drnasha.com/metabolic-matters

Dr. Winters’ Research: https://www.mtih.org/

Link to Huberman Labs episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xjEFo3a1AnI&ab_channel=AndrewHuberman

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Welcome back to another episode of Thyroid Thursday! Today, we're diving into a topic that many of you have been asking about: thyroid nodules and goiters. If you've ever wondered what causes these conditions, how they are diagnosed, or what natural treatments might be available, then this episode is for you. 

We'll start by discussing what thyroid nodules are, their prevalence, and why it's crucial to get them checked by a doctor. Interestingly, while many thyroid nodules are benign, a small percentage can be cancerous, making early detection and regular monitoring essential.

I’ll share some valuable insights from studies that highlight the potential benefits of supplements like spirulina, Boswellia, and curcumin, as well as nutrients like inositol and selenium. These could help in reducing the size of thyroid nodules or at least keeping them from growing. 

Finally, we'll touch upon goiters and their triggers, how they are diagnosed, and some natural support strategies that could help, like balancing iodine levels and addressing estrogen dominance.

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today. 

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Additional Resources:

Get Your Own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis: https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz

https://www.hakalalabs.com/testing_services.html

SHE Thrives: https://shetalkshealth.com/she-thrives-2/

I am super excited for today's guest, Dr. Marisol, founder of Queen of the Thrones. I've been a fan of her work since pretty much day one, and she's here to share the phenomenal benefits of castor oil and her clean beauty advocacy. From how she discovered castor oil to the ways it transformed her health and now her business, this episode is packed with amazing ideas and practical tips for incorporating castor oil into your daily routine. 

You'll learn about the versatility of castor oil for beauty, meditation, and overall wellness. She also shares about the importance of clean beauty and why we need to scrutinize the ingredients and packaging in our products — even if we think they’re “clean.” And keep listening for a free resource on where to find real clean health and beauty products!

Dr. Marisol's passion for castor oil and natural, non-toxic beauty solutions is contagious. So, whether you're new to castor oil or looking for innovative ways to upgrade your self-care regimen, this episode is a must-listen. Dive in and discover how simple swaps can lead to cleaner, healthier living.

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Find more from Dr. Marisol online: 

Website: https://queenofthethrones.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqIWRcYAHrt_VbfxyXWwEWCBTKAby7XjAyGYlprJcQxM_zdKHKl

Instagram: @bewellqueen

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bewellqueen

Get the free Alternative Beauty Guide here: https://wellqueen.com/

Access your discount on Queen of the Thrones Products here: https://queenofthethrones.com/?ref=SOPHIESHEPHERD or use code SOPHIESHEPHERD at checkout

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Today, we have an exciting topic lined up for you — magnesium. Yes, that essential mineral that our bodies need in so many ways! In this Thyroid Thursday Q&A, we're going to explore why magnesium is so vital for your health. We'll dive into the specifics of what magnesium does in the body, including its role in hundreds of enzymatic and biochemical reactions.

I'll also cover the best forms of magnesium you can incorporate into your diet and how much you should be aiming to get each day. Magnesium is one of my favorite minerals, and it's tied with potassium in terms of the benefits it offers. In this episode, you'll learn why I hold this mineral in such high regard as an essential mineral for supporting our overall health.

If you have a question you’d like me to discuss on the next Thyroid Thursday, please email me at [email protected] or [email protected] or DM me on Instagram @shetalkshealth. Enjoy this short and sweet episode of Thyroid Thursday!

To get your own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis test, visit https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz to book today.

Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. It is being provided to educate you about how to take care of your body and as a self-help tool for your own use so that you can reach your own health goals. It is not intended to treat or cure any specific illness and is not to replace the guidance provided by your own medical practitioner. If you are under the care of a healthcare professional or currently use prescription medications, you should discuss any dietary changes or potential dietary supplement use with your doctor, and should not discontinue any prescription medications without first consulting your doctor. This information is to be used at your own risk based on your own judgment. If you suspect you have a medical problem, we urge you to take appropriate action by seeking medical attention.

Connect with Sophie: 

Instagram: @shetalkshealth

Website: shetalkshealth.com

Apply to work with us: www.shetalkshealth.com/call

Courses and workshops: https://shetalkshealth.com/courses-and-workshops/

Additional Resources:

Get Your Own Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis: https://l.bttr.to/WfoEz

Sophie on The Hormone Genius Podcast

Find Sophie-approved magnesium supplements here: https://bioptimizers.com/

https://www.ancient-minerals.com/