In this must-listen episode of Menopause Mastery, our host sits down with Cynthia Thurlow, NP, a nurse practitioner, intermittent fasting expert, and TEDx speaker whose talk on fasting has amassed over 15 million views. Together, they explore the real impact of intermittent fasting on women's health, particularly during perimenopause and menopause.

Cynthia dives deep into the science behind fasting, explaining how it affects metabolism, hormones, and longevity. She reveals why fasting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution—and how the wrong approach can lead to muscle loss, hormonal imbalances, and metabolic slowdowns.

You’ll also learn why fasting works differently for women, the biggest mistakes people make with OMAD (One Meal a Day), and how to balance fasting with proper nutrition to build muscle, maintain energy, and support healthy aging.

If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and struggling with weight gain, fatigue, or metabolic changes, this conversation is packed with game-changing insights and actionable strategies to help you take control of your health.

Chapters:

Intro 0:00

Cynthia’s TED Talk on Fasting 0:09

Dealing with the Impact of Going Viral 0:52

The Commercialization of Fasting 2:49

The Risks of Extreme Fasting 4:49

Fasting and Muscle Loss in Menopause 7:25

The Importance of Strength Over Skinny 12:39

Women’s Health and Cardiovascular Risks 29:01

The Role of Cholesterol and Statins 39:01

Self-Care and Managing Stress 46:46

Links:

• Menrva Telemedicine: https://gethormonesnow.com/
• FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/3wNJOec
• Living Well Dallas: https://www.livingwelldallas.com/
• Hormone Reset: https://hormonereset.net/
• Betty Murray Website: https://www.bettymurray.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BettyAMurrayCN/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettymurray_phd/
• Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Connect with Dr. Betty Murray:

• Website: https://www.bettymurray.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BettyAMurrayCN/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettymurray_phd/

Thank you for listening to Menopause Mastery. Empowering your health journey, one episode at a time.