Today, we welcome back Kaycee Parker, and I hand the mic over to Kaycee as she leads a heartfelt conversation about my recent transition to an insulin pump after 42 years of managing diabetes with multiple daily injections (MDI).

Download my Free Guide -  How to Navigate Diabetes Into Menopause and Beyond

Here’s what we cover:

• My early diabetes journey with insulin vials and syringes.
• The impact of community and family in shaping my treatment choices.
• Why now and how did I choose the tubeless pump over other options
• Insights from my 30-day trial with the OmniPod 5 and the lessons learned.
• The highs and lows of switching to a pump system.
• Practical tips for anyone considering this change.

Kaycee Parker is a frequent contributed here on the show, she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12, brings decades of personal experience to the table. She’s also a loving wife, an incredible mom of two, and a journalism graduate.

Join us for reflections on mindset, the power of community, and how embracing change has brought me greater freedom and flexibility in managing diabetes.

You can connect with Kaycee Parker on her website, http://www.devotionsondiabetes.com  

to purchase her book, “Devotions on Diabetes” her blog articles and Bible reading plans.

Considering a change in your pump therapy? Reach out and let’s chat and I’ll share more details on how I’m loving the Omnipod 5 automated delivery system. Share what’s important to you, why a change is something you need right now

I'm sure you'll enjoy another episode with Kaycee Parker as much as I did recording it.

Visit her website http://devotionsondiabetes.com/

IG @devotionsondiabetes

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

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Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this episode, I’m joined by Andrea Nakayama, a trailblazing Functional Medicine Nutritionist and educator. After losing her young husband to a brain tumor in 2002, Andrea’s journey into functional nutrition began, driving her mission to reclaim health in the face of chronic illness.

Download my Free Guide -  How to Navigate Diabetes Into Menopause and Beyond

As the founder of the Functional Nutrition Alliance and host of the 15-Minute Matrix Podcast, Andrea shares her innovative approach, using systems biology and root cause methodology to address health challenges. We dive into the differences between functional and conventional nutrition, and why “hacking” our way to health isn’t enough—especially for those managing Type 1 diabetes.

Andrea offers practical tips for navigating hormonal changes, balancing blood sugar, and tuning into your body’s unique signals. Join us for an inspiring conversation that will empower you to take control of your health journey!

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

0:02 – Andrea's Journey into Functional Nutrition: Andrea shares how her husband's 2000 brain tumor diagnosis and her own autoimmune condition led her to functional nutrition, inspiring her to start the Functional Nutrition Alliance in 2009.

4:03 – Differences Between Conventional and Functional Nutrition: Andrea explains functional nutrition’s focus on root causes, therapeutic partnership, and systems-based care, contrasting it with conventional methods.

7:13 – Systems Thinking in Health: Andrea highlights the importance of seeing the whole person and introduces her mantra: "Everything is connected. We are all unique. All things matter."

14:03 – Hormonal Health and Autoimmunity: Andrea addresses hormonal shifts and autoimmune challenges, introducing her "three roots, many branches" approach to chronic health issues.

16:10 – Practical Health Tips: Andrea shares tips for balancing blood sugar, focusing on hydration, sleep, and including fat, fiber, and protein in every meal.

37:51 – Being an Expert in Yourself: Andrea encourages listeners to understand their own health patterns and work with healthcare providers who support their journey.

40:33 – Success Stories: Andrea shares a patient’s success in improving multiple sclerosis through personalized care, emphasizing patience and addressing root causes.

47:34 – Future Directions and Resources: Andrea discusses her ongoing work and offers resources on functional nutrition, biohacking, and narrative medicine.

Connect with Andrea:

Website

IG @AndreaNakayama

Podcast

Functional Nutrition Alliance Website

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Azure Wolfe, a Type 1 diabetes warrior of 45 years, yoga teacher, and retreat leader based in Utah. Known as "The Empowered Diabetic," Azure shares her journey from diagnosis to creating diabetic women's circles and guiding others to become their own heroes and healers. Together, we explore her empowered mindset approach, her passion for fitness and yoga, and the transformative role of self-leadership in diabetes and menopause management.

Join our Abundant Health Group Coaching Circle, launching January 20, 2025! Get expert support, connect with women like you, and access lifetime resources to navigate diabetes and menopause confidently. Join now or anytime!—click here!

Join Azure for this deep dive into resilience, advocating for a women’s journey through menopause, redefining limits, and building a supportive community for women with diabetes!

Topics we discuss:

1.     Challenges of menopause and perimenopause for women with diabetes

2.     Common menopause symptoms: emotional changes, brain fog, and skin issues

3.     Importance of listening to and understanding one’s body during menopause

4.     Lack of attention to hormone changes in women with diabetes

5.     Need for more research and awareness on hormone health in diabetic women

6.     Importance of open discussion, support, and information sharing for women in similar situations

Follow Azure Wolfe:

@azure.wolfe

@theempowereddiabetic

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Jennifer Smith is a Registered (and Licensed) Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Trainer on all the diabetes tech systems, Jennifer specializes in the management of pregnancy with diabetes, women's health and specialized diet and exercise. Jennifer has had type 1 diabetes for 36 years and is the Director of Lifestyle, Nutrition and Women's health at Integrated Diabetes Services.

She is the co-author of "Pregnancy with Type 1 Diabetes", is a speaker for many national diabetes conferences, and a regular guest on the Think Like a Pancreas and Juicebox podcasts. In depth experience as a dietitian, diabetes educator, athlete, mother, and woman with diabetes, has provided Jennifer with first-hand knowledge of the day-to-day variables that affect diabetes management, allowing her to assist others in learning personalized management to live their best life.

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In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Smith, a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, and tech expert who's lived with type 1 diabetes for 36 years. We explore how hormonal changes, from menstrual cycles to menopause, affect diabetes management.

Jennifer shares her journey, insights into managing blood sugar through diet, exercise, and tech, plus her experience with intermittent fasting and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Tune in for practical tips on navigating diabetes through life’s stages and find out how to stay empowered as you age.

In this episode you will learn:

Family's Role in Diabetes Management

• Jennifer talks about how her family helped, including her mom's meal prep and dad's focus on activity.
• This early support helped Jennifer transition to managing diabetes on her own.

Aging and Hormonal Changes (3:00)

• Discussion about how medical education lacks focus on hormones' role in diabetes.
• Jennifer highlights the importance of good habits and managing structure in daily life as one ages.

Hormonal Cycles and Blood Sugar (8:19)

• Jennifer explains how hormonal cycles affect blood sugar and insulin needs.
• She stresses the importance of tracking signals and using CGMs to manage diabetes effectively.

Perimenopause and Menopause (11:56)

• Jennifer explains how perimenopause impacts blood sugar and the variability of symptoms.
• They discuss the importance of body awareness and making adjustments during this life stage.

Diet and Lifestyle for Aging (21:45)

• Sleep is critical for diabetes management, along with hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
• Jennifer encourages acceptance of aging changes and working with healthcare professionals.

 Intermittent Fasting (31:11)

• Jennifer shares her experience with intermittent fasting and its benefits for diabetes.
• She advises working with professionals to navigate intermittent fasting safely.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) (41:02)

• Discussion on the benefits of HRT for women with diabetes, such as easing symptoms like brain fog.
• Regular monitoring and working with knowledgeable healthcare professionals is essential.

Vitamin D in Diabetes (50:15)

• The role of vitamin D in glucose metabolism and Jennifer’s experience with low levels.
• Regular vitamin D monitoring is vital for diabetes management and overall health.

 Final Tips for Women with Diabetes (54:28)

• Jennifer’s advice: focus on one thing at a time and be kind to yourself.
• Seek support from healthcare professionals and stay informed through resources like "Think Like a Pancreas, by Gary Scheiner.

Jennifer's Website

Jennifer’s article – “How to navigate changes as a female living with Diabetes”

Contact  Jennifer Smith

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Why simply tossing a pill at your perimenopausal symptoms isn’t the answer. Instead, I share three essential nutrients that promote healthy aging and help tackle common issues like poor sleep, sticky highs, weight gain, and joint pain.

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Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

I highlight the importance of building a strong foundation in health before considering hormone replacement therapy, sharing personal experiences with gut health and the impact on women transitioning into perimenopause.

Topics Covered:

• Vitamin D3 & K2: How this hormone-like nutrient supports insulin sensitivity, metabolism, and bone health, plus safe ways to boost levels through food and sun exposure.
• Magnesium: The stress-relieving mineral critical for relaxation, sleep, and stress management, with tips on the best forms and sources.
• Protein: Essential for muscle health, metabolism, and energy, with guidance on how much to consume and various food and supplement options.

Tune in for tips on adding these nutrients to your daily routine and see how foundational health practices can boost vitality and support lasting benefits from hormone replacement therapy.

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Kelly Schmidt, a registered dietitian, fitness instructor, wife, and mother of two, leads T1D Functional Nutrition, a virtual practice that offers a holistic approach to T1D management—one that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit for total wellness. Drawing from her expertise in dietetics and 33 years of managing type 1 diabetes, she helps ambitious individuals optimize their metabolism and nutrition.

In episode 79, Kelly returns to discuss gut health, emphasizing functional testing like stool analysis to uncover autoimmune and digestive issues. Both Kelly and I share personal experiences, delving into the importance of enzymes, probiotics, hydrochloric acid, and hormone balance for gut health.

Kelly stresses a holistic approach that combines mindset, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support to tackle root causes and sustain digestive health.

Topics we cover:

·       The Role of Stool Tests and Kelly's top recommendations (GI Map, GI Effects and BiomeFx).

·       I share my GI Map results, which revealed a parasite and led to antibiotic treatment.

·       Kelly interprets my results, providing clinical feedback and treatment recommendations.

·       Importance of Enzymes and Hydrochloric Acid

·       Supporting Gut Health Long-Term

·       The Role of Probiotics

·       Hormones and Gut Health

·       Kelly urges addressing root causes through functional testing.

·       Why women over 40 with type 1 diabetes, experiencing midlife symptoms, should get a GI map or similar test to evaluate gut health.

·       Stresses the importance of working with a knowledgeable practitioner and ongoing support.

Connect with Kelly Schmidt:

T1D Functional Nutrition

IG @DiabeticDietitian

The 14-day real food cleanse - vegetarian option and collagen option

Free 30-min Discovery call

Practitioner grade supplements

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this episode, fellow health coach and friend Kim Hynes and I share the gut health challenges we’ve faced over the past year during perimenopause and menopause. From bloating and skin rashes to constipation, we explored both functional and Western medicine, including GI-MAP testing, and made lifestyle changes.

Through our experiences, we’ve gained a deeper understanding of what many women face during this time.

We discuss how hormonal shifts affect gut health, estrogen metabolism, and overall well-being. You'll hear practical tips for managing symptoms like weight gain, joint pain, and insulin resistance through diet, supplements, and stress management.

We also dive into our ongoing health goals, emphasizing lifelong habits to support gut and hormone balance. We hope this conversation resonates with you and encourages you to seek support.

Don’t miss next week’s episode, where my guest Kelly Schmidt will unpack my own gut healing journey, offering insights into what to do—and what not to do—while navigating gut health with autoimmune conditions. Tune in for tools to support your own health journey!

Kim Hynes Health and Wellness website

IG @kimhyneshealth

Emotional Eats Podcast with Kim Hynes — Kim Hynes Health & Wellness

Books we recommend:

The menopause Brain by Lisa Mosconi

Good Energy by Casey and Callie Means

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Today, we welcome back Kaycee Parker for our ongoing series highlighting topics from her book, Devotions on Diabetes. Kaycee, who has been managing type 1 diabetes since she was 12, is a dedicated wife, an amazing mom of two, and holds a journalism degree.

In this episode, Kaycee Parker joins us to discuss her devotional "Day 23: A New Prayer" from her diabetes-focused book. We explore the power of prayer beyond simply asking for a cure, and how being present in our prayers can shift our focus towards gratitude, faith, and daily management. Kaycee shares personal stories, practical prayer tips, and resources to help listeners stay connected with God through their diabetes journey. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how faith and prayer can bring peace, strength, and perspective to managing chronic illness.

Don't miss this episode for a heartfelt discussion on faith and practical diabetes management. Reach out to Kaycee and me with your feedback

You can connect with Kaycee Parker on her website, http://www.devotionsondiabetes.com for her blog and get started with her Bible reading plan.

I'm sure you'll enjoy another episode with Kaycee Parker as much as I do recording it!

Visit her website http://devotionsondiabetes.com/

IG @devotionsondiabetes

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this solo episode, we tackle common myths and facts about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), especially for women managing diabetes. Prompted by a listener's question about the safety of HRT, I explore misconceptions, the benefits of bioidentical hormones, and how menopause impacts blood sugar.

Download my Free Guide -  How to Navigate Diabetes Into Menopause and Beyond

From addressing the fear caused by the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study to sharing my personal 4-year journey with HRT and type 1 diabetes, I aim to help you feel empowered and informed. You'll also hear stories from my husband’s 40th high school reunion, conversations I had with women, who were hesitant about HRT due to misinformation.

Tune in to learn how HRT can support your health, minimize risks, and optimize aging—plus tips for finding the right care.

Debunking Myths Around HRT

• A deep dive into the 2002 WHI study and its role in shaping negative views on HRT.
• The safety of bioidentical hormones versus traditional hormone therapy.
• Personal stories about women avoiding HRT due to misconceptions, and why it's important to stay informed.

Stay tuned for practical advice, personal insights, and encouragement to advocate for your hormone health!

Consult with healthcare providers, explore bio-identical hormone options, and stay proactive in managing hormone health. Visit north American menopause society.

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

DR. NAYAN PATEL is a sought-after pharmacist, wellness expert, and thought leader in his industry. He has been working with physicians since 1999 to custom develop medication for their clients and design a patient specific drug and nutrition regimen. He has been the pharmacist of choice to celebrities, CEOs and physicians themselves. He recently published his first comprehensive book, The Glutathione Revolution: Fight Disease, Slow Aging & Increase Energy.

After 11 years of clinical research on the master antioxidant, glutathione, Dr. Patel and his team developed a patented technology to deliver Glutathione topically, changing the game on how best to absorb GSH systemically. From this technology he additionally developed The Auro GSH Antioxidant Delivery System to create a skincare line to deliver antioxidants more efficiently and effectively than ever before at potent concentrations.

In this episode, I spoke with Dr. Patel, a pharmacist turned wellness expert, to dive deep into the benefits of glutathione—your body's master antioxidant. Dr. Patel shares his journey from traditional pharmacy to developing cutting-edge glutathione products, explaining its critical role in detoxification, aging, and managing chronic conditions like type 1 diabetes.

In this episode you will learn:

·       [0:02] Dr. Patel's Journey to Glutathione Dr. Patel shares his background as a pharmacist and his shift towards compounding and glutathione, driven by a need for more effective solutions to health issues beyond medications.

·       [2:28] The Role of Glutathione in the Body Glutathione is the most abundant molecule in the body, crucial for detoxification and reducing oxidative stress. It’s referred to as the "master antioxidant" due to its recycling ability.

·       [7:44] Aging, Lifestyle, and Glutathione Production Aging, stress, and lifestyle factors impact glutathione production. Dr. Patel emphasizes that while the body's need for glutathione stays constant, its production may decline over time, affecting overall health.

·       [16:55] Challenges in Measuring Glutathione Levels Measuring glutathione is difficult due to its rapid oxidation. Dr. Patel stresses the importance of looking at overall health and lifestyle factors rather than focusing solely on glutathione levels.

·       [22:54] Common Glutathione Supplementation Methods Glutathione can be supplemented by reducing toxin exposure and consuming amino acids like glutamine, glycine, and cysteine. Dr. Patel highlights NAC as the only FDA-approved drug for boosting glutathione.

·       [30:31] Dr. Patel's Unique Glutathione Product Dr. Patel introduces his innovative product with enhanced absorption, discussing its benefits for conditions such as type 1 diabetes and autoimmune diseases, and sharing success stories from patients.

·       [39:17] Practical Health Tips for Chronic Conditions Dr. Patel advises listeners on maintaining health through a balanced diet, exercise, and toxin reduction. He stresses the importance of consistent, long-term habits for managing chronic conditions like diabetes.

·       [45:21] How to Connect with Dr. Patel Dr. Patel shares how listeners can connect with him and learn more about his products, including his glutathione supplement and skincare line designed for those with chronic health conditions.

Tune in for practical tips on enhancing your health and balancing glutathione levels for long-term well-being.

To try Glutaryl by Auro Wellness visit https://aurowellness.com/coupon/melissa10/  and use promo code Melissa10 to save 10% off your first purchase.

Connect with Dr. Nayan Patel:

Auro Wellness

IG @AuroWellness

Save 10% off your first purchase, use coupon code Melissa10

Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.

What to do now:

*Take a Free Assessment and Escape the Weight Gain Trainwreck with T1D

*Join our Type 1 In Midlife community on the free Honey Health App to chat about podcast topics and more

*Follow me @bloodsugarboss on Instagram to stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.

*Contact us about our coaching programs

Shop my favorite products

Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.