The Perimenopause Solution Podcast

In this episode Tara breaks down the common arguments for running a DUTCH test and provides her perspective on why it may not be the best investment for those experiencing perimenopausal symptoms. She discusses the limitations of the test in providing root cause answers and highlights the potential need for additional, often costly, tests to address the suggestions raised by the Dutch test results. Tara also discusses the significance of combining the results of Root Tests such as the comprehensive blood work, stool test, and HTMA to provide a more holistic understanding of hormonal imbalance and related health concerns, particularly during perimenopause.   Here's a sneak peek at what you can expect in this episode: 1. Root Cause Analysis: Understand why the Dutch test may not give root cause answers and how it may lead to additional expenses. 2. Metabolites vs. Practical Solutions: Uncover the reality around estrogen metabolites and how lifestyle changes can support pathways highlighted by the Dutch test. 3. Organic Acids and Blood Work Comparison: Explore the comparison between organic acids tests and comprehensive blood work, learning when each may be more beneficial. 4. Deep Dive into Adrenal Health: Gain a new perspective on interpreting cortisol patterns and understanding the importance of nervous system support. 5. The Best Hormone Tests for Perimenopause: Discover practical advice on which hormone tests may be more beneficial during the perimenopausal phase.   Mentioned in this episode: Purchase Herbatonin here and use Tara's discount code for 15% off, which is Tara15: https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/TaraHerbatonin The Hormone Balance Solution - My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.   You might also enjoy these recent episodes: EPISODE 45: My thoughts on the DUTCH test EPISODE 81: An interview with Deanna Minich, PhD, nutrition scientist, educator, & author about melatonin & its multiple functions, specifically, Herbatonin, which is far superior to other types of melatonin. . Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™     Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't.

By now, many of you have likely heard about the recent weight loss success stories emerging from Hollywood. Celebrities are stepping onto the red carpet looking noticeably slimmer, and social media is abuzz with mentions of semaglutide/GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. Amid the buzz, there’s also been a wave of criticism from the Functional Health community, arguing that relying on medication for weight loss is a shortcut and that individuals should put in the effort through traditional methods. While the sentiment behind this perspective is understandable, it often overlooks the complex realities that many people face in their health journeys and comes across as dismissive. On this episode of the HBS podcast, Tara explains that GLP-1 agonists are NOT medications; they are natural peptides - that could make a world of difference for those struggling with their health. Join Tara as she explores the science behind GLP-1 agonists, their potential benefits, and starts a broader conversation beyond weight loss.    Key Takeaways from this episode: Natural peptides like GLP one Agonists are not just about weight loss - they have a wide range of potential health benefits.        Functional medicine practitioners should consider the potential of natural peptides to address conditions that conventional medications may not effectively treat.       Prioritizing patient well-being over rigid beliefs can lead to more effective and holistic healthcare solutions.     Mentioned in this episode: The Doctor Tyna Show Podcast: HERE PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop. PALEOVALLEY – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off The Hormone Balance Solution - My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.     You might also enjoy these recent episodes: EPISODE 54: Exercise, weight loss & fasting for the midlife woman with Chris DeHollander EPISODE 49: How to lose & maintain a healthy weight in your 40's & beyond PART 1 EPISODE 63: Toxins: a big contributor to weight gain & the inability to lose weight     Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't.   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™

In this episode, we're joined by my own personal health coach and trainer Meaghan Janisse, who shares her incredible journey from fitness skeptic to a powerhouse in the world of weightlifting and macro-based dieting. Together we discuss:  Reverse Dieting and Muscle Gain: Meaghan Janisse's personal journey from at-home workouts to weightlifting at the gym highlights the importance of working with a coach for personalized feedback and accelerated results. The concept of reverse dieting is explained as gradually increasing food intake to support metabolic health and prevent muscle loss, challenging traditional dieting.   The Role of Muscle in Fat Loss: Building muscle is crucial for sustained fat loss and a toned physique, especially for midlife premenopausal women due to anabolic resistance. Working out is not just about burning calories but also about building muscle, which leads to burning more calories at rest. Consistency, patience, and proper nutrition are key for sustainable transformation and long-term health.   Nutrition’s Role in Muscle Gain and Fat Loss: Meaghan highlights the significance of carbs for muscle building and using proper nutrition to stimulate muscle growth. Meaghan advises against training fasted, emphasizing the need for fuel before workouts. A slow and steady approach to the reverse/cut process is crucial for lasting fat loss and muscle gain, challenging the misconceptions about dieting and exercise.   Finding Long-Term Success: The importance of consistency, patience, and a gradual approach to achieving lasting transformation is underlined.   Meaghan Janisse Meaghan Janisse is an online women’s fitness coach dedicated to helping women break free from the lies of diet culture by educating them about muscle gain from eating MORE and working out SMARTER, not harder. She has helped hundreds of women around the world of all different ages achieve jaw-dropping, and most importantly, SUSTAINABLE results by implementing proper weightlifting and reverse dieting. Learn more about Meaghan’s incredible method of eating more and working out less on her Instagram and YouTube here: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/meaghan_nomadicfitness YouTube - https://youtube.com/c/nomadicfitness   Join Tara on the Perimenopause Made Simple Masterclass! How to reclaim your happiness & confidence in midlife & overcome fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, insomnia, and more without sacrificing your favourite foods or relying on medication & set yourself up for healthier decades to come. WHEN: Tuesday, May 14th at 4pm PST / 7pm EST, (which is 9am AEDT on May 15th) WHERE: LIVE on ZOOM >> REGISTER HERE

On the latest episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast, I examine the findings of the largest study ever done on hormone replacement therapy involving over 10,000,000 women. The results are truly groundbreaking and incredibly important for women's health.   Here's an overview: The significant benefits of estrogen HRT in reducing the risk of various cancers, strokes, heart diseases, and more. The potentially harmful effects of synthetic progestins compared to bioidentical progesterone. The nuanced discussion on the different forms and types of estrogen and progesterone. A reality check on interpreting study outcomes and making informed decisions about HRT.   Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore PALEOVALLEY – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE Study referred to in this episode: Use of menopausal hormone therapy beyond age 65 years and its effects on women's health outcomes by types, routes, and doses https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38595196/   You might also enjoy these recent episodes: EPISODE 17: What you need to know about perimenopause, menopause & BHRT with Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN PART 1 EPISODE 18: What you need to know about perimenopause, menopause & BHRT with Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN PART 2   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™ Register for my Perimenopause Made Simple Masterclass on May 14th, at 7pm EST / 4pm PST: How to reclaim your happiness & confidence in midlife & overcome fatigue, weight gain, mood swings, insomnia, and more without sacrificing your favourite foods or relying on medication & set yourself up for healthier decades to come. >>REGISTER HERE

After hosting an Ask Me Anything regarding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) on Instagram, Tara's compiled your questions together and sits down on this episode of the HBS podcast to answer them one by one.  Here are some of the questions we received: I'm starting on Estrogen but my doctor has said that I don't need progesterone to counter it, is that true? I currently have a Mirena for lighter flowing cramps, can I take HRT alongside? Is BHRT better than HRT? Is there a maximum dose for progesterone? Does it matter which progesterone HRT is used, oral pills or vaginal compounded cream? Will I gain weight with estrogen? A testosterone pellets safe? If supplementing with testosterone, do you need also supplement EMP as well? My mom had breast cancer, and I am terrified to go on HRT; should I worry? What are your thoughts on Vitex?   Mentioned in this episode: PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop. PALEOVALLEY – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™   You might also enjoy these recent episodes: Episode 21: Is testing hormones in peri-menopause a waste of time? Episode 68: Metabolic health and the peri-menopause transition - An interview with MY OWN IFM-trained functional medicine Doc!     Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't

In this episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast, we're diving into why you can't solely rely on HRT to combat symptoms of perimenopause. Yes, HRT is a game-changer, but our lifestyle and dietary choices play a massive role in our hormonal harmony. Tara shares insights on why optimizing your body's nutrient stores and reducing toxic exposure are vital for making HRT truly effective. Tara's a strong advocate for functional testing, and she can't stress enough the importance of annually checking in on our nutrient levels with a stool test and an HTMA (hair tissue mineral analysis). These tests are eye-opening and help us tailor the approach to hormone health and overall wellness. And speaking of nutrient optimization, she's offering a special opportunity in connection with HRT Made Simple. You'll have the chance to supercharge your hormone support with a customized HTMA testing package—an invaluable resource in helping address nutrient deficiencies and bring balance to your health.   You won't want to miss: The significance of a wholesome and balanced diet, and its impact on overall health and hormone balance. The role of lifestyle choices, stress management, and quality sleep in effectively supporting HRT efforts. The importance of functional tests, such as the HTMA (hair tissue mineral analysis) and stool tests, in understanding and optimizing hormone balance. How endocrine disrupting chemicals in our environment can hinder hormone receptor health, and the strategies to reduce exposure to these toxins. The essential role of nutrients, especially in maintaining healthy hormone receptors and the potential benefits of HTMA testing in supporting hormonal health.   Mentioned in this episode: PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop. EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™   You might also enjoy these recent episodes: Episode 70: All about minerals & the HTMA test with Lisa-Pitel-Killah Episode 4: The Critical Role Minerals Play In Hormone Balance   Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't. Join my Mailing List HERE. 

In this episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast, we discuss the pervasive misconception that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is dangerous. This is a thought-provoking exploration of the disconnect between outdated medical knowledge and the evolving understanding of hormone health. Tara encourages listeners to seek doctors who are knowledgeable, open-minded, and humble, and emphasizes the essential role of modern medicine while advocating for a balanced approach to healthcare.   Here's and overview:  The reasons behind misconceptions: Discover why some doctors warn against HRT without truly understanding its benefits. The importance of finding an open-minded doctor: Learn why finding a doctor willing to learn and stay up-to-date is crucial for your hormone health. The impact of outdated medical knowledge: Understand how old studies can perpetuate false beliefs about HRT. The role of nutrients and diet in healthcare: Explore the connection between diet, nutrients, and overall health. The necessity of remaining open-minded about modern medicine: Uncover the importance of acknowledging the value of allopathic medicine while also being critical of misinformation.   Mentioned in this episode: Pique Tea – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop. Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™  

In this episode, Tara sheds light on the invisible benefits of HRT that go beyond alleviating menopausal symptoms and explores the life-saving potential of this therapy. Tara emphasizes that HRT can play a crucial role in protecting against multiple disease states, including osteoporosis, dementia, muscle wastage, and certain types of cancer. The podcast explains that the use of HRT can have a significant impact on bone health, reduce the risk of dementia and sarcopenia, and support cardiovascular health, among other benefits. The podcast episode also challenges the misconceptions about the duration of HRT usage. Tara advocates that HRT is not merely a short-term solution for symptom relief but rather a long-term strategy for overall health and wellness. She highlights the importance of considering HRT for life to reap its disease-preventing and protective benefits. Additionally, Tara shares insights from her HRT Made Simple course and discusses the importance of being proactive about hormonal health to ensure a fulfilling and healthy future, beyond the perimenopausal stage.     Here's an overview of the episode:    The invisible benefits of HRT: Tara discusses how HRT goes beyond just alleviating symptoms, revealing its potential to improve bone health, reduce the risk of dementia, prevent muscle wastage, and support cardiovascular health.   Long-term considerations for HRT: Discover why HRT should be considered as a long-term strategy for overall health and how it can contribute to a healthier and happier life.   The significance of hormone replacement at different stages of life: Tara offers insights into the importance of starting HRT during the perimenopausal stage and lays down the foundations for reaping the invisible benefits later in life.   The impact on disease prevention: Understand how HRT can reduce the risk of breast cancer, other cancers, and cardiovascular disease, providing a protective shield for your health in the long run.   Real-life experiences: Tara shares her personal journey with HRT, offering a relatable perspective on incorporating hormone replacement into your life and demonstrates how it can be an empowering and positive experience.   Mentioned in this episode: Pique Tea – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop. Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™

Even though we've been conditioned that in most cases 'natural is better', taking this approach with perimenopause and hormone decline may not be the best choice.  🎧 Tune into this insightful discussion on the uninformed decision of forgoing hormone replacement therapy and why it's crucial to stay informed about the benefits of HRT. Here's what to expect:  1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Can Safeguard Your Health: Embracing HRT is essential for safeguarding against diseases like osteoporosis, cardiovascular issues, and dementia, especially as our hormone levels decline with age. 2. Comprehensive Support for Holistic Well-being: While HRT is an important aspect of maintaining hormonal balance, it's crucial to remember that overall wellness is comprehensive. Alongside HRT, focus on weightlifting, proper nutrition, blood sugar balance, and nervous system support to ensure long-term health and vitality. 3. Long-Term Health and Independence: Tara emphasizes the importance of maintaining hormone replacement therapy for life to benefit from its health-promoting and protective effects. By doing so, women can potentially experience reduced symptoms, improved health, and enhanced independence as they age. 4. HRT Made Simple Course: If you're seeking to advocate for yourself and better understand the significance of hormone replacement therapy, check out the "HRT Made Simple" course, designed to empower women with the knowledge they need to advocate for their health. Educating yourself about HRT is a powerful step towards a healthier, more vibrant life during perimenopause and beyond.    Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™     Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't. 

I am thrilled to announce the launch of my new course, "HRT Made Simple™," which is now available for those seeking to empower themselves with knowledge about hormone replacement therapy. After years of research, client care, and extensive learning, I am delighted to share this comprehensive resource with you. Here's what you can expect from this episode: Introduction to HRT Made Simple™ Course My journey and experience with hormone replacement therapy The importance and need for the HRT Made Simple™ course My purpose of the course and empowering women to advocate for themselves   Misconceptions and Fears Surrounding HRT Breaking through the false data of the past and the resulting fear surrounding hormone replacement therapy Explaining the reasons behind the misconceptions and fears   Understanding the Benefits of HRT Exploring the invisible benefits of hormone replacement therapy Differentiating between symptom mitigation benefits and disease-reducing benefits Real-life transformative experiences with HRT   HRT Made Simple™ Course Content Examining the need for simplicity in understanding hormone replacement therapy Empowering women with essential, practical knowledge about HRT Different forms and dosages of hormone replacement therapy   Comprehensive Learning Resources included in the Course Recommended books for further education on hormone replacement therapy Other educational resources and practitioners to follow for ongoing learning Membership and course suggestions for further deepening knowledge   Speaking with your Doctor about HRT Navigating conversations with doctors about hormone replacement therapy Addressing the outdated knowledge and misconceptions among doctors Providing tools for confidently discussing HRT with healthcare professionals   Accessing Proper Care and Treatment Identifying knowledgeable HRT practitioners in North America, the UK, and Europe Database of resources for finding healthcare providers who understand hormone replacement therapy Effective ways to advocate for the need for HRT with healthcare professionals   Click here to check out HRT Made Simple™     Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC and women's health and hormone expert. After serving hundreds of women in my signature program, The Hormone Balance Solution, I bring to you, the HBS Podcast. This podcast is all about educating women, and giving them actionable strategies for supporting hormonal harmony. It's my passion to empower women to take back their health and their happiness. We'll cover gut health, mineral balancing, nutrient deficiencies, cellular health, nervous system health, functional testing, and so much more. No Fluff. No BS. Just everything you need to know and nothing you don't.    Leave a Review: Reviews are hugely important because they help new people discover this podcast. If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please leave a review on iTunes. Here's how.