
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

Oct 17, 2023 • 28min
Coffee's amazing health benefits.
In this episode, we delve into the research surrounding coffee and its effect on our health. Tara uncovers some intriguing insights that challenge the popular notion of giving up coffee altogether. Despite the common misconception that coffee is harmful, numerous studies have actually linked moderate coffee consumption to several health benefits. Did you know that drinking coffee is associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality? That's right, your daily cup of joe might just be contributing to a longer lifespan! Multiple large studies and meta-analyses have consistently shown that moderate coffee consumption, ranging from 1 to 3 cups a day (or even up to 2 to 5 cups), is generally not associated with negative health effects. In fact, it may have significant benefits for conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, depression, certain types of cancer, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Here's a sneak peek of what we uncover: 1️⃣ The health benefits associated with moderate coffee consumption. 2️⃣ How coffee may protect your liver from diseases like nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. 3️⃣ The potential role of coffee in lowering the risk of certain GI tract cancers. 4️⃣ Coffee's impact on vascular health and its potential to reduce the risk of heart disease. 5️⃣ The relationship between coffee consumption and metabolic health, including its potential to lower the risk of type 2 diabetes. Mentioned in this episode: Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore SOURCES: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5440772/ https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0033062018300392?via%3Dihub https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10408390903586412?scroll=top&needAccess=true https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/FO/C7FO00388A https://journals.lww.com/eurjcancerprev/abstract/2017/09000/coffee_and_cancer_risk__a_summary_overview.9.aspx https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29167102/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8778943/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8352830/ https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/public-health-nutrition/article/does-coffee-tea-and-caffeine-consumption-reduce-the-risk-of-incident-breast-cancer-a-systematic-review-and-network-metaanalysis/9C2DE2DCA91F548E6898167852599BD8 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 10, 2023 • 36min
Toxins: A big contributor to weight gain & the inability to lose weight
Are you struggling with weight gain and hormonal imbalances? What if I told you that toxins and chemicals are sabotaging your weight loss goals? Many women in their 40s are not aware of the impact they can have in terms of slowing down weight loss. In the latest episode of The Hormone Balance Solution I dive deep into the connection between persistent organic pollutants (POPs), hormones, and weight gain. In this episode we'll: 1️⃣ Discover how persistent organic pollutants (POPs) can linger in the environment and wreak havoc on our health, including weight gain. We explore their impact on hormone receptors, the catchers mitts on our cells that regulate hormone function. 2️⃣ Explore the ways toxins disrupt sugar and fat metabolism, cause inflammation, and increase the number and quality of fat cells. Find out why even those who eat well and exercise struggle to shed those extra pounds. 3️⃣ Uncover the truth about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals that can cause significant weight gain. Learn how PFAS chemicals mimic fatty acids, interfere with glucose signaling, and make it harder to lose weight. 4️⃣ Get practical tips and advice on reducing exposure to harmful chemicals such as PFAS. From checking the safety of your cosmetics using the Skin Deep database to filtering your water, we've got you covered. 5️⃣ Gain insight into the connection between chemicals, hormone balance, and thyroid health. Discover how toxins can impede overall health and slow down metabolism, throwing your thyroid out of balance. Fun Fact: Did you know that exposure to certain chemicals during pregnancy can contribute to increased adult fat mass later in life? It's just one eye-opening example of how chemicals can impact our long-term health. If you're looking to understand the impact of chemicals on your hormones and weight, this podcast episode is a must-listen! Don't miss out on valuable insights and expert advice to help you attain hormone balance and reach your weight goals. And if you're interested in diving deeper into the hormone balance solution, be sure to check out the free video about the program and the women I've helped so far – HERE! 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 EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off FREE ON-DEMAND HBS VIDEO TRAINING - Get access HERE Sources: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ https://www.ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6101675/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31214942/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29438414/ https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-022-05695-5 [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]

Oct 3, 2023 • 21min
All about MTHFR & methylation Part 2
In the 2nd episode of this 2-part series, we dive into the fascinating topic of methylation and its impact on hormonal balance. You will get some valuable insights about the factors that impact methylation, including gut health, Candida, dysbiosis, parasites, and more. Listen to the previous episode on methylation HERE. 1️⃣ Methylation is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Simply taking methylated B vitamins may not be enough to address methylation issues. Considering the role of various cofactors in optimizing methylation. Nutrients like methionine, cysteine, taurine, DHA, zinc, magnesium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, B6, betaine, and choline are all essential for supporting methylation. It's crucial to address all these aspects and provide your body with the complete package of nutrients it needs. 2️⃣ Support your methylation pathways with the right nutrients. The key is to relieve the strain on your methylation pathways and provide optimal conditions for healthy methylation to occur. This includes focusing on essential aspects of health, such as gut health, digestion, supporting the microbiome, dealing with dysbiosis, and eliminating gut pathogens like Candida and parasites. 3️⃣ The connection between Candida overgrowth and methylation. Candida produces a toxic byproduct called Acetylaldehyde, which inhibits a vital cycle in the methylation process known as Methionine Synthase. Reducing alcohol consumption is also crucial, as it produces Acetylaldehyde and adds extra pressure on methylation. Remember, methylation is a delicate dance that requires a holistic and personalized approach. So, if you suspect methylation issues or resonate with the symptoms we discussed in the podcast, consider working with a functional practitioner to determine the best course of action for your unique situation. I hope these tips provide you with valuable insights into supporting your methylation for optimal hormone balance. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where we delve deeper into other aspects of hormone health. And if you're interested in diving deeper into the hormone balance solution, be sure to check out the free video about the program and the women I've helped so far – HERE! Mentioned in this episode: Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off

Sep 26, 2023 • 23min
All about MTHFR & methylation Part 1
In the first episode of this 2-part series, we took a closer look into methylation and MTHFR gene mutations. If you're interested in learning more about how these factors can impact your health, you won't want to miss this episode. Here are three MTHFR points we discussed in part 1: 1️⃣ MTHFR Gene: MTHFR stands for methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase, which is responsible for the production of the MTHFR enzyme. When there is a mutation or variant in this gene, it can lead to reduced enzyme function, affecting the conversion of folate to its active form. 2️⃣ Importance of Methylation: Methylation is a crucial process that occurs over a billion times per second in every cell of our body. It plays a fundamental role in various bodily processes and can impact every tissue and organ system. Healthy methylation is essential for optimal mental health, as neurotransmitters rely on it for their synthesis, metabolism, and excretion. 3️⃣ Gene Expression: Methylation also has significant implications for gene expression. It can determine whether certain genes are activated or suppressed, potentially influencing disease prevention or onset. Understanding the impact of methylation on gene expression is crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being. If you're curious to learn more about methylation and its relationship to hormonal harmony, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies, make sure to tune in to the Hormone Balance Solution podcast. Mentioned in this episode: Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off

Sep 19, 2023 • 33min
Why "estrogen dominance" in perimenopause isn't entirely accurate & why LOW estrogen is far more dangerous.
In this episode, I dispel a few common myths around estrogen and menopause. I delve into the dangers of low estrogen levels and debunk the notion that perimenopause is solely characterized by estrogen dominance. I also touch on how taking the 'natural' approach to this midlife transition may do more harm than good! The term estrogen dominance has been widely used in the past, but it may not accurately describe the hormonal imbalance experienced during perimenopause. In fact, estrogen tends to be erratic - up, down and all over the place. Instead, we need to recognize the potential dangers of low estrogen levels, and consider hormone replacement as a key strategy at this time in our life. While low estrogen levels in peri-menopause can lead to various symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and decreased bone density, it's far more concerning of what diseases it can lead to later in life. I know that the concept of going through menopause naturally seems like a lovely idea but not bringing hormone replacement on board is unhealthy and could potentially be harmful in a lot of ways. Estrogen is vitally important for more than 400 different functions in the body and with low levels we set ourselves up for a much higher chance of dementia, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and the list goes on. Join me for this episode, and help me dispel some of the myths of estrogen. And if you're interested in diving deeper into the hormone balance solution, be sure to check out the video mentioned in the podcast - HERE! 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 Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE MACA femmenecessen Use the code Tara15 for 15% off. The Hormone Balance Solution

Sep 12, 2023 • 35min
All about blood work: markers you need to do in midlife & beyond, trends, proper preventative ranges, myths about certain markers & more!
This week we are taking a closer look at the fascinating world of blood work recording and its importance in achieving optimal health and hormone balance. Here are the key takeaways from this episode: 1️⃣ Be your own health advocate: It's crucial to prioritize your health and educate yourself about the importance of blood work. Being proactive and informed empowers you to make better choices and take control of your well-being. 2️⃣ Find a functional medicine practitioner: Seek out healthcare professionals who are open-minded, knowledgeable, and not driven by institutional greed. Functional medicine practitioners integrate evidence-based research and a holistic approach to address the root causes of health issues, ultimately promoting overall wellness. 3️⃣ Optimal ranges matter: Relying solely on traditional lab reference ranges may not provide an accurate picture of your health. It's important to work with healthcare professionals who stay up-to-date with the latest scientific research to determine personalized optimal ranges for blood markers and identify potential issues before they become larger problems. 4️⃣ Inflammation markers are vital: Assessing inflammation levels is crucial in understanding the state of your health. However, it's also important to consider symptoms and other factors when evaluating inflammation. 5️⃣ Building your health file: Request a copy of your blood test results and create a health file to keep track of your progress over time. This empowers you to monitor changes, spot trends, and have a comprehensive view of your health status. Don't miss out on this enlightening episode! Tune in to The Hormone Balance Solution podcast to learn more about the importance of blood work recording, functional medicine, and achieving hormone balance for optimal well-being. And if you're interested in diving deeper into the hormone balance solution, be sure to check out the video mentioned in the podcast HERE. 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 EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off The Hormone Balance Solution Other episodes you might enjoy: EPS 8: All about the GI MAP & why I love it & why hormone testing alone is not enough EPS 14: Why I love these 2 functional tests together EPS 22:

Sep 6, 2023 • 34min
Answering your questions!
Today's episode is a little different. I wanted to take a moment and answer some of the questions I receive regularly in my inbox. In this episode I answer: Do I recommend seed cycling? How is the GI MAP different from other stool tests? I am still using a form of birth control, can I still work with you in the HBS? What book recommendations do you have regarding minerals? Do I need a health professional when interpreting the GI MAP or HTMA? Does Saw Palmetto stop hair loss from BHRT with testosterone? Will taking magnesium glycinate help me optimize my sleep? Is it true that collagen doesn't contain all of the amino acids? And a whole lot more! Listen to the full episode to hear my answers to these popular questions. Mentioned in this episode: The Mineral Fix: How to Optimize Your Mineral Intake for Energy, Longevity, Immunity, Sleep and More by James DiNicolantonio (Author), Siim Land (Author) Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations: Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15 The Hormone Balance Solution ******************************************************************************************* Make sure to register for my FREE live training that's happening Sept 12 / 13 – depending on where you're located in the world. Click HERE to save your seat. I've never done this training before, and I will likely not run another live training at least for the rest of this year, (or longer) so now’s your chance. PLUS I’m going to be making a HUGE announcement on this training that you don’t want to miss! Bring all your questions for a live Q&A with me at the end too. See you there! Register for my FREE Women's Masterclass: How to kick fatigue, weight gain, raging moods and insomnia in your 40s, so you can find that lost libido, self-esteem and confidence… without having to give up multiple foods, coffee, or resort to medications. REGISTER HERE *******************************************************************************************

Aug 29, 2023 • 17min
Short & sweet but needs to be said: a new approach to ageing, (and no, age is not "just a number").
In today's episode we're discussing something close to my heart - the privilege of aging. Here are three key takeaways for you: 1️⃣ Aging is a privilege: We often take our loved ones and our own lives for granted, assuming we have endless time. However, recent losses have reminded me that aging is indeed a privilege. Let's cherish the people we love and make the most of every moment we have together. 2️⃣ Embrace your age: Instead of hiding or being ashamed of your age, wear it with pride. Getting older is a gift not everyone gets to experience, so let's celebrate each year and acknowledge the wisdom and growth that comes with it. 3️⃣ Accept and appreciate the aging process: As human beings, we all go through physical changes as we age. Rather than resisting or complaining about these changes, let's embrace them and find joy in the process. By accepting the inevitability of aging, we can lead happier, more content lives. Remember, age is not just a number – it's a part of our unique journey. Let's make the most of it by embracing every stage and finding gratitude in the privilege of growing older. If you want to dive deeper into this topic, tune into the full episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast for more insights and inspiration. Keep learning, keep growing, and keep embracing the beautiful gift of aging. 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 Make sure to register for my FREE live training that's happening Sept 12 / 13 - depending on where you're located in the world. Click HERE to save your seat. I've never done this training before, and I will likely not run another live training at least for the rest of this year, (or longer) so now’s your chance. PLUS I’m going to be making a HUGE announcement on this training that you don’t want to miss! Bring all your questions for a live Q&A with me at the end too. See you there! Register for my FREE Women's Masterclass: How to kick fatigue, weight gain, raging moods and insomnia in your 40s, so you can find that lost libido, self-esteem and confidence… without having to give up multiple foods, coffee, or resort to medications. REGISTER HERE

Aug 16, 2023 • 41min
All about HRT including rhythmic dosing, Estradiol vs. Bi-Est & more with Dr. Felice Gersh PART 2
In this episode, I continue my conversation with special guest, Dr. Felice Gersh, diving into the various phases of the menstrual cycle and the fascinating world of cyclical hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Here are 3 key takeaways from this episode: 1️⃣ The menstrual cycle is a highly orchestrated dance of hormones, influencing cellular health and receptor functionality. By understanding its different phases, we can better understand the impact of hormones on our overall well-being. 2️⃣ Estrogen and progesterone play protective roles in the menstrual cycle, preventing cell damage, reducing inflammation, and even turning on tumor suppressor genes. The natural ebb and flow of these hormones is crucial for optimal health. 3️⃣ While perpetual hormone use may have its benefits, prioritizing natural methods of managing menstrual health is preferable. Harnessing the power of our body's natural rhythm can lead to long-term balance and prevent the development of age-related diseases. So, grab your favorite cup of tea, and don't miss this enlightening conversation. Felice L. Gersh, M.D.: Felice Gersh, M.D. has degrees from Princeton University and University of Southern California School of Medicine and is fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine from the University of Arizona School of Medicine. She is a multi-award winning physician with dual board certifications in OB-GYN and Integrative Medicine. She is the founder and director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, a practice that provides comprehensive health care for women by combining the best evidence-based therapies from conventional, naturopathic, and holistic medicine. She taught obstetrics and gynecology at Keck USC School of Medicine for 12 years as an Assistant Clinical Professor, where she received the highly coveted Outstanding Volunteer Clinical Faculty Award. She now serves as an Affiliate Faculty Member at the Fellowship in Integrative Medicine, through the University of Arizona School of Medicine, where she lectures and regularly grades the case presentations written by the Fellowship students for their final exams. Felice Gersh, M.D. is the bestselling author of PCOS SOS and the PCOS SOS Fertility Fast Track, and Menopause: 50 Things You Need to Know. She has also had numerous scientific articles published in peer-reviewed medical journals. She is a prolific lecturer nationally and internationally and has as well been featured in several films and documentary series, including The Real Skinny on Fat with Montel Williams and John, Fasting with Valter Longo, Ph.D., and The Business of Birth Control. 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

Aug 8, 2023 • 38min
All about HRT including rhythmic dosing, Estradiol vs. Bi-Est & more with Dr. Felice Gersh PART 1
I recently had the privilege of interviewing my mentor, Dr. Felice L. Gersh, who is known for her extensive knowledge and willingness to share valuable insights on hormonal health. In the first of this 2 part series, Dr. Gersh provides valuable insights into birth control and what we don't know about the long term effects of these contraceptives. We also discussed where the fear of Hormone Replacement Therapy stems from and how most of it is based on irrelevant data. Here are some more of the topics we hit on in this enlightening conversation: 1️⃣ Understanding Hormonal Health: Dr. Gersh emphasizes the need to grasp female biology and the crucial role hormones play in overall health beyond just fertility and menstruation. This episode provides essential knowledge to empower women to take control of their health and happiness. 2️⃣ Connection between Birth Control, inflammation and diseases associated with aging: Dr. Gersh shares insights on how Birth Control aka Endocrine Disruptors, can contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation, which could lead to a range of health conditions commonly associated with aging. 3️⃣ The power of estrogen: Dr. Gersh highlights the benefits of estrogen and its role in supporting optimal health. Estrogen, a vital hormone for women, goes beyond fertility and menstruation. It plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis, along with other benefits that support overall well-being. As always, our aim is to provide you with essential knowledge and empower you to take control of your health and happiness. Don't miss this enlightening interview with Dr. Felice Gersh. Tune in and gain valuable insights into the world of hormones (bio and synthetic) and how they impact us in ALL stages of life. Felice L. Gersh, M.D.: Felice Gersh, M.D. has degrees from Princeton University and University of Southern California School of Medicine and is fellowship trained in Integrative Medicine from the University of Arizona School of Medicine. She is a multi-award winning physician with dual board certifications in OB-GYN and Integrative Medicine. She is the founder and director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, a practice that provides comprehensive health care for women by combining the best evidence-based therapies from conventional, naturopathic, and holistic medicine. She taught obstetrics and gynecology at Keck USC School of Medicine for 12 years as an Assistant Clinical Professor, where she received the highly coveted Outstanding Volunteer Clinical Faculty Award. She now serves as an Affiliate Faculty Member at the Fellowship in Integrative Medicine, through the University of Arizona School of Medicine, where she lectures and regularly grades the case presentations written by the Fellowship students for their final exams. Felice Gersh, M.D. is the bestselling author of PCOS SOS and the PCOS SOS Fertility Fast Track, and Menopause: 50 Things You Need to Know. She has also had numerous scientific articles published in peer-reviewed medical journals. She is a prolific lecturer nationally and internationally and has as well been featured in several films and documentary series, including The Real Skinny on Fat with Montel Williams and John, Fasting with Valter Longo, Ph.D., and The Business of Birth Control. Mentioned in this episode: Herbatonin – Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations: Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15 Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15 The Hormone Balance Solution I'm your host, 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.