
The Perimenopause Solution Podcast
Hi, I'm Tara Thorne, FDN-P, RHN, FNC, CMRCP. Basically? I’m a women's health and hormone expert. After serving thousands of women in my 10+ years of clinical experience, I bring you The Perimenopause Solution podcast - a podcast aimed to educate and empower midlife women.
Midlife can be a confronting time but it doesn’t have to be a bumpy ride. No matter where you’re at, or where you’ve come from we can get you feeling better in midlife than you have in years - plus set yourself up for healthier decades to come.
I’ll be bringing you weekly doses of inspiration, education and conversations with amazing people to give you real, actionable strategies for supporting your health now and in the future.
So tune in, make sure you’re subscribed, leave a review, and get ready to learn important health information that isn’t readily available …. everything you need to know and nothing you don't.
Latest episodes

Jan 9, 2024 • 30min
74: Why I don't recommend or use food sensitivity testing
In this episode, Tara delves into the topic of food sensitivity testing, and why she doesn't currently run them for her clients. Even though it's one of the most requested topics, she gives a deep dive into the topic and breaks down her reasons for not running food sensitivity tests on clients. Here are 5 key points from this episode: 1. The difference between food intolerances, food allergies, and food sensitivities. 2. The flaws in food sensitivity testing and why it might not be the answer to your health concerns. 3. How leaky gut can impact food sensitivity test results and what it means for your overall health. 4. Insight into why simply removing foods may not address the root cause of problems. 5. Future possibilities in gut testing and how understanding gut metabolites could revolutionize gut health approaches. Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE WATCH MY FREE HORMONE BALANCE SOLUTION TRAINING VIDEO HERE [box] 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. [/box]

Jan 2, 2024 • 4min
73: Free live training this week! The first in months. Don't miss it.
My brand-new live training is happening THIS WEEK! I'm super excited and I really do hope I'll see you there live. If you come live you'll get all your questions answered in a Q&A at the end and find out about a big discount on my flagship program! PLUS! If you show up live you'll get the chance to go into a draw to win one of 5 free 30-minute private one-on-one consultations with me! Click HERE to save your seat. On this training you'll discover: Why you shouldn’t run a hormone test in midlife and what to do instead to get ROOT CAUSE answers. How to regain HOPE that there ARE answers - that your health struggles are NOT insurmountable - and trust you’re on the right path with an effective plan to feel better once and for all! Why restrictive diets, giving up coffee or doing parasite cleanses, coffee enemas, and seed cycling aren’t necessary and how to enjoy life WHILST healing your hormones. Why HRT is important for every middle-aged woman to start thinking about and what to consider to ensure you're not dismissed and that you're doing HRT healthfully. And so much more! You’ll walk away from this training feeling excited, clear, and ready to finally get the answers you seek and a clear path forward to feeling like your old self again. I promise it is possible! My trainings are always best attended live and you'll get access to me during a live Q&A at the end - and I always answer EVERY question. PLUS! If you show up LIVE and stay until the end of the training, you get the chance to go into a draw to win one of 5 free 30-minute private one-on-one consultations with me! Tara XO

Dec 19, 2023 • 34min
72: All about peri-menopause and strategies for mid-life: An interview with Jennifer Woodward, FDN-P
In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jennifer Woodward, a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner specializing in guiding women through perimenopause naturally. Jennifer shared valuable insights into addressing hormone imbalances and provided practical solutions to navigate this phase with grace. Here is some of what she shared with us: Recognizing perimenopause symptoms Recognizing perimenopause symptoms is crucial, and Jennifer emphasizes the value of paying attention to sleep disturbances, weight changes, anxiety, depression, and menstrual irregularities. Managing fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels The conversation highlighted the importance of managing fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels, recognizing perimenopause symptoms, and prioritizing stress management and self-care practices. Proactive stress management Jennifer advocates proactive stress management, urging women to prioritize self-care, deep breathing, and mindful practices to reduce chronic stress and support hormone balance. Jennifer also shared her inspiring perspective on embracing the mindset of abundance and positivity, encouraging women to focus on nourishment, positivity, and repletion in their journey through perimenopause. A fantastic message for all of our HBS podcast listeners. About Jennifer Woodward: Jennifer Woodward holds a Master’s of Science in Integrative Nutrition and is a certified Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner and a Board Certified Functional Wellness Coach. Jennifer is the creator of the acclaimed FDN Business School and she loves getting to help new FDNs thrive professionally. She is also the former Executive Director of the Association of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Professionals where she was mentored by course creator Reed Davis. Jennifer was recently a quarter-long guest lecturer in graduate Endocrinology at Parker University and also completed a three-month long internship with Dr. Kyrin Dunston, getting hands-on training in women’s hormones. She loves to be active with her high school sweetheart husband and four kids. CONNECT WITH JENNIFER WEBSITE: jenniferwoodwardnutrition.com INSTAGRAM: @jennifer_woodward_nutrition FACEBOOK: facebook.com/jenniferwoodwardFDNP/ Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore WATCH MY FREE HORMONE BALANCE SOLUTION TRAINING VIDEO HERE 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.

Dec 12, 2023 • 55min
71: Holistic Healing for Rosacea and Hormonal Balance with Joy McCarthy
I'm absolutely thrilled to share the latest episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast featuring the wonderful Joy McCarthy. In this episode, Joy, a holistic nutritionist and founder of Joyous Health, shares her journey to natural health and explores the link between gut health, hormones, and skin conditions like rosacea. It's a real game-changer for anyone seeking a holistic approach to their health journey. 1. The Gut-Skin Connection: Joy emphasizes the crucial connection between gut health and skin conditions, shedding light on the bidirectional relationship and advocating for support of gut health to address skin conditions. 2. Holistic Approach to Skin Health: Joy delves into the significance of using natural and fragrance-free makeup and skincare products to avoid aggravating skin conditions like rosacea. 3. Hormones and Skin: The conversation tackles the significant role hormones play in skin conditions, particularly exploring how fluctuating estrogen levels and hormonal imbalances can worsen conditions like rosacea and acne. 4. The Mental Impact: The discussion uncovers the mental health impact of skin conditions, emphasizing the importance of understanding and addressing the emotional toll these conditions can take. 5. Nurturing the Skin Microbiome: Joy shares invaluable insights into maintaining a healthy skin microbiome, addressing the impact of synthetic preservatives, harsh surfactants, and the importance of using gentle, natural skincare and hair care products. About Joy McCarthy: Joy McCarthy is the Creator of Joyous Health, an award-winning Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Podcast Host and best-selling author of The Joyous Cookbook, Joyous Detox and Joyous Health. She is also the co-founder of Hello Joyous, an organic + plant-based beauty brand with a rock-solid mission: to help people find more joy in the everyday. A trusted nutrition expert, Joy has been featured in hundreds of publications both online and in print; and is a regular health expert on TV. CONNECT WITH JOY WEBSITE: www.joyoushealth.com INSTAGRAM: @joyoushealth FACEBOOK: facebook.com/joyoushealth.ca YOUTUBE: youtube.com/joyoushealth1 Tune in to the Joyous Health Podcast 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. WATCH MY FREE HORMONE BALANCE SOLUTION TRAINING VIDEO HERE 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. Subscribe to The Hormone Balance Solution podcast on any of the following podcast platforms! APPLE PODCASTS SPOTIFY GOOGLE PODCASTS RSS FEED 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.

Dec 5, 2023 • 49min
70: All about minerals & the HTMA test with Lisa Pitel-Killah
In this insightful episode, Lisa Pitel-Killah, a seasoned expert in functional medicine, shares her wealth of knowledge on the HTMA test and the pivotal role of minerals in our overall health and wellbeing. From the significance of the HTMA test in identifying mineral sufficiency and toxicity to the impact of mineral interrelationships and the complexities of balancing our bodily minerals, this episode is packed with invaluable information. We discuss he following: Unraveling the Mystery of Mineral Testing: Lisa takes us through her journey of discovering the HTMA test, a non-invasive diagnostic tool that provides vital information about mineral sufficiency and toxic metal levels in the body. You'll also gain valuable insights into choosing the right lab for accurate results. The Intricate Dance of Minerals and Nutrients: Lisa emphasizes the importance of understanding the intricate interplay between minerals and nutrients for optimal bodily functions. From the role of magnesium in vitamin D utilization to the impact of estrogen, copper, and zinc on bodily balance, you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the power of minerals in maintaining wellness. The Impact of Water and Well Water on Mineral Levels: Discover the surprising influence of water, specifically well water, on hair mineral test results. Lisa shares her personal experiences and provides actionable tips for ensuring accurate testing. The Dangers of Mineral Isolation: Learn about the potential pitfalls of fixating on single minerals in isolation and the complex interrelationships between different minerals. This eye-opening discussion will change the way you approach mineral supplementation. Reversing the Aging Process through Mineral Balancing: Delve into the incredible potential of mineral balancing in slowing down the aging process and promoting overall health. From preventing premature graying of hair to positively impacting heart health and detoxification, Lisa's journey underscores the transformative power of mineral balance. About Lisa Pitel-Killah: Lisa Pitel-Killah is the Founder of Vykon®. She specializes in Mineral Balancing using Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis and has a background in functional medicine. Lisa educates health practitioners and individuals using HTMA testing to regain energy, erase debilitating symptoms and maximize health. She is the creator of the Foundation Mineral Protocol TM and the first ever all-encompassing custom mineral powders produced exclusively by Vykon Supplements based on HTMA testing. CONNECT WITH LISA EMAIL: lisa@lisapitelkillah.com WEBSITE: lisapitelkillah.com INSTAGRAM: @lisapitelkillah Subscribe to the Human Optimization Podcast

Nov 27, 2023 • 24min
69: Genitourinary and vaginal health in midlife and beyond
In this episode, we delve into the important topic of vaginal health and genitourinary symptoms, especially as we age and experience changes in our hormone levels. If you're experiencing symptoms like burning, pain, irritation, itching, bladder urgency or leaking, recurrent UTIs, painful sex, vaginal dryness, loss of libido, increased yeast infections, or other vaginal discomfort, this episode is a must-listen! Join us for the discussion on: 1️⃣ Vaginal Microbiome: The vaginal microbiome is dominated by Lactobacillus species, which keeps the pH optimal at about 4 to 4.5. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining this bacterial balance and acidic pH, so as estrogen levels decrease with age, the vaginal ecosystem can change, leading to various symptoms. 2️⃣ Assessing Vaginal Health: Monitoring vaginal pH is an essential way to assess vaginal health. 3️⃣ Hormone Therapy: If hormonal imbalances are contributing to vaginal health issues, hormone therapy may be necessary. If you or someone you know is experiencing vaginal health symptoms, don't miss this informative episode. Remember to share it with anyone who can benefit from understanding their hormonal health and finding solutions for vaginal well-being. Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore ** BLACK FRIDAY SALE ** Check out my Black Friday Hormone Balance Solution Quick Start packages here.

Nov 21, 2023 • 53min
Metabolic health and the peri-menopause transition - An interview with my IFM-trained functional medicine doc!
I had the pleasure of interviewing my very own doctor, the incredible Dr. Jasmina Dedic-Hagan on this episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast! We covered a wide range of topics related to hormonal health, sleep, bone health, and the role of hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It was an eye-opening conversation that provided some valuable insights on what happens to us through perimenpause and our menopausal journey. Here are a few of the things she shed light on: 1️⃣ Prioritize Sleep: Lack of sleep can have a significant impact on hormone balance and overall health. Develop a sleep routine, practice good sleep hygiene, and consider natural supplements like melatonin to support healthy sleep patterns. 2️⃣ Understand Perimenopause: Perimenopause is a transitional phase that occurs before menopause, characterized by hormone fluctuations and changes. It's crucial to educate ourselves about its effects on our bodies and seek help when needed. Our understanding and support during this stage can make a world of difference. 3️⃣ Focus on Metabolism, Not Just Weight: Instead of fixating on the number on the scale, shift your focus to metabolic health. Prioritize a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and monitor blood sugar levels. Managing hormones like cortisol, insulin, and estrogen is key to achieving hormonal balance and maintaining a healthy weight. To dive deeper into these topics and gain more valuable insights from Dr. Jasmina, listen to the full episode on The Hormone Balance Solution podcast. And if you're looking for personalized guidance and support, don't hesitate to reach out to Dr. Jasmina through the Linden Health website for telehealth consultations. Here's to taking charge of our hormone balance journey and empowering ourselves with knowledge, holistic approaches, and supportive strategies! ABOUT Dr. Jasmina Dedic-Hagan Jasmina is a medical doctor with particular interest in Functional Medicine, a science- based approach that seeks to understand the root cause of illness. She focuses on the biochemically unique aspects of each patient and then tailors individual interventions to restore health. In addition to her specialty training, Jasmina is certified with the prestigious Institute of Functional Medicine in the US and is board certified in Lifestyle Medicine. Prior to becoming a doctor, Jasmina completed a PhD in Molecular Biology, publishing her work on the genetics of cardiovascular disease and the regulation of gene expression. She is now applying her knowledge of genetics and biochemistry to her areas of interest which include gut health, autoimmune disease, endometriosis, PCOS, fertility, perimenopause / menopause, metabolic issues, cardiovascular disease and sports nutrition. This experience is rare amongst doctors but is important given the increasing relevance of personalised genetic testing in the understanding of chronic disease. Jasmina believes that patient education and empowerment are critical to long-term health. Her extensive teaching experience allows her to translate complex science into a language that patients understand and can engage with. Find her through LINDEN HEALTH here. Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE ** BLACK FRIDAY SALE ** Check out my Black Friday Hormone Balance Solution Quick Start packages here.

Nov 14, 2023 • 26min
Is Cold Water Therapy All It's Cracked Up To Be? PART 2
On the previous episode of the Hormone Balance Solution podcast we looked at some studies on Cold Water Therapy and today we will continue delving into this research by looking closer at how it affects our mitochondrial health. (Episode 66) Here's what we've found and discuss on this episode: 1. The effects of cold water immersion are mainly due to the increased activity of the sympathetic nervous system. 2. Cold exposure can increase the activity and volume of brown fat, which can potentially aid in preventing obesity and metabolic diseases. 3. Cold water immersion after exercise can support muscle recovery, reduce soreness, and improve perceived recovery. 4. Cold exposure shows promise in improving lipid metabolism and clearing circulating metabolites. 5. While more research is needed, cold exposure might be a fantastic strategy for improving metabolic flexibility. **While there are promising studies indicating the benefits of cold water therapy, more research is needed due to the small sample sizes and variable study designs. It's important to approach this practice with caution and always consult with a healthcare professional.** Mentioned in this episode: Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 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. The Hormone Balance Solution Researched Studies: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30974799/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8561167/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9518606/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19882167/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9649023/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21941017/ https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3402/ijch.v63i2.17700 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/lim2.12 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00365510701516350?journalCode=iclb20 http://www.sld.cu/galerias/pdf/sitios/rehabilitacion-bal/adaptation_related_to_cytokines_in_man.pdf https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4049052/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S030698770700566X?via%3Dihub https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0001691817301336 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s004210050065?noAccess=true https://www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(21)01454-9 https://www.nature.com/articles/tp201546 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40279-022-01644-9 https://www.wemjournal.org/article/S1080-6032(14)00405-0/fulltext https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/Fulltext/2012/09000/Work_Volume_and_Strength_Training_Responses_to.33.aspx https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9989468/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9861294/ https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(22)00042-8/fulltext https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7029124/ 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.

Nov 7, 2023 • 38min
Is Cold Water Therapy All It's Cracked Up To Be? PART 1
There are a lot of health claims out there about cold water immersion - I'm sure you've seen them; it seems like everyone is talking about it lately. And whenever I see this kind of trend come up, it peaks my curiosity to uncover the truth behind the claims - so I've attempted to do just that. I tasked my team researcher with finding as many studies on cold water immersion/ therapy as possible and that is what I will be discussing on this 2-part series on Cold Water Therapy. Here's what we've found and discuss on this episode: 1. Cold water immersion, when done correctly and under controlled conditions, may have several potential health benefits. Research suggests that it can increase brown adipose tissue and resting energy expenditure, potentially aiding in weight management. 2. Gain insight into how exercise and physical activity may influence the benefits of cold water immersion. 3. Learn how cold water immersion and the cold face test can stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing acute stress responses. 4. Uncover the potential effects of cold water therapy on insulin resistance, insulin sensitivity, and cardiovascular health. 5. Winter swimming has been associated with improved mood, decreased fatigue, pain relief, and decreased tension. This suggests that cold water immersion may provide mental and emotional benefits, in addition to potential physical benefits. **While there are promising studies indicating the benefits of cold water therapy, more research is needed due to the small sample sizes and variable study designs. It's important to approach this practice with caution and always consult with a healthcare professional.** Mentioned in this episode: ZINZINO – If you're interested in trying out the ZINZINO fish oil I recommend in this episode, please email me. Make sure you tell me which country you live in when you email me so I can send you the right information: tara@tarathornenutrition.com 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 The Hormone Balance Solution 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.

Oct 31, 2023 • 28min
Overwhelm is a choice: strategies to reduce overwhelm in order to feel more relaxed & happier
In this episode of the Hormone Balance Solution podcast we discuss how overwhelm is a choice and I share some tips on reframing our mindset to manage our busy lives more effectively. Overwhelm is a choice We have the power to choose how we perceive and approach our daily tasks and responsibilities. By reframing our mindset and practicing mindfulness, we can ease the burden of overwhelm. Prioritize peace and calm In our fast-paced society, busyness is often glorified. However, we should strive to prioritize peace, calmness, and tranquility in our lives. It's essential for our mental and physical well-being. Mindfulness is the antidote Being mindful and catching ourselves when we start spiraling into overwhelm is crucial. Practice being present, recognize when the "hamster wheel" mentality kicks in, and consciously choose to take one task at a time. 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 The Hormone Balance Solution 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.