The Perimenopause Solution Podcast

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

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

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:

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 *******************************************************************************************

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    

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

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.

In this week's podcast episode, I had a fascinating conversation with fitness and nutrition coach, Chris DeHollander. Chris, a midlife fitness expert with over 26 years of experience, shared her wisdom on maintaining balance during perimenopause and menopause. Don't miss our chat about the impact of undereating on metabolism and weight loss. We dove deep into the topic of undereating and its impact on metabolism and weight loss. It turns out that consuming too few calories can actually slow down your metabolism resulting in weight gain. Crazy, right? We discussed the importance of tracking macros and calories to identify any undereating patterns. For those who think their metabolism may already be sluggish, Chris also touched on the concept of reverse dieting, which involves gradually increasing your calorie intake to rev up your metabolism. Chris spoke on how intermittent fasting is a beneficial stressor, but with a reminder that longer fasts may not be suitable for everyone, especially if you're already stressed. And she emphasized the need to fuel the body with enough NUTRIENTS during fasting periods. Further sharing her expertise, Chris dove into how strength training and adequate protein intake as key strategies to combat the (what seems to be inevitable) midlife weight gain. Chris explained how declining hormones during perimenopause and menopause can cause fatigue, low energy, and increased stress reactivity (which includes how we fuel and move our body). If you are in your 40s and don't already know of Chris DeHollander, I highly suggest you check her out on Instagram @functionalhealthcoachchris2.0.    Chris DeHollander is a Fitness and Nutrition Coach for women over 40. Chris is also a functional health coach and a seasoned group fitness instructor with over 26 years in the industry. She maintains a busy virtual practice offering nutrition and lifestyle group coaching for MIDLIFE women in the FASTer WAY to Fat Loss program.  Grab Chris' FREE Midlife Metabolism Guide HERE Connect with Chris on Instagram @functionalhealthcoachchris2.0

This week I invited a very dear friend of mine, Alison Gallagher to join me for a discussion of what energy healing is and how it supports the work that we do for ourselves through physical healing. One of the things I found particularly intriguing was the idea that energy healing goes beyond just the spiritual realm. It encompasses various practices and even includes how we speak to ourselves. It's about being in integrity with ourselves and making choices based on our inner guidance rather than seeking validation from external sources. Alison shared how energy healing is not about "fixing" someone, but empowering them to take control of their own lives. And that's something I truly believe in. Our bodies are incredibly intelligent and capable of healing themselves if we tap into our innate potential. It's just unfortunate that society often promotes low vibrational states instead of encouraging us to acknowledge and appreciate our own divine abilities. Alison has been working in the natural skincare and aromatherapy industry since 2003, formulating her own skincare and perfumes for over ten years and has won a number of local and international awards for her handcrafted products.   Alison is also an intuitive healer and energetics coach, drawing on over 10 years experience working with a wide range of energy medicine modalities.   Instagram handle: https://www.instagram.com/alyssumalchemy/ Alison's website: https://alyssumalchemy.com.au/

After sharing last week of my challenging month, I wanted to take a minute to also discuss how I dealt with everything that life was throwing at me at the time. In hindsight I can see that it was more about my mindset and my nervous system than anything else.   This week on the podcast I really wanted to speak to the importance of slowing down and letting go and truly taking some time to pour into one's own mindset and nervous system restoration.   Here are some ways that I focused on my mindset and nervous system. 1.    In those rough times when it was all too easy to keep spinning, I found that reconnecting with my spirituality had a profound impact on my mindset on multiple levels.   2.    I slowed down in order to speed up my healing. Slowing down, taking things off my plate, allowed me to focus on the things that are important, the things that really matter.   3.     It's truly a blessing to have beautiful, supportive, and healing friendships and to recognize the value of cultivating such relationships. I try to remember that while acknowledging our own personal achievements, it's also really important to be open to receive support from others around us. After all, success is a team effort! 4.      Prioritizing self-care, forgiveness, and surrendering and letting go of negative emotions and old stories are key to overcoming challenges and moving towards healing and success. When you love yourself, I think you can love others better.   COMING UP NEXT WEEK:  If you're interested in diving deeper into the healing modalities discussed today, make sure to check out the next episode of The Hormone Balance Solution podcast called Healing Beyond the Physical with Alison Gallagher. It promises to be an enlightening conversation that you won't want to miss.