

Well Beyond 40
JJ Virgin
Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin is the podcast for women who want to age powerfully and enjoy the best chapter of their lives. It’s YOUR turn now to focus on nutrition, wellness, fitness, mindfulness, and beauty. Refuel your body. Reignite your wellness. Renew your passion. Fall (back) in love with your life, and discover what it means to age powerfully. Every information-packed episode combines cutting-edge science, pearls of wisdom from JJ’s four decades as a health and wellness leader and the world’s leading experts on weight loss, metabolism, menopause, life transitions and much more. We dive deep into topics like cultivating mindfulness, building strong relationships and setting boundaries, and choosing health…in a nutshell, how we can AGE POWERFULLY into this second half of our lives. At Well Beyond 40, we empower women in their 40s, 50s, 60, 70s (and beyond!) to defy stereotypes and say, “It's my time now. It's my turn now. It’s my opportunity to step into my best life!” For four decades, JJ Virgin has helped people lose weight and stop weight regain by eliminating hidden food intolerances and lowering their sugar impact. As a triple-board certified nutrition expert and Fitness Hall of Famer, JJ helps you stay fired up and focused on being your healthiest rockstar self. In addition to hosting Well Beyond 40, JJ is a prominent TV and media personality. She was co-host of TLC’s Freaky Eaters and the on-camera nutritionist for Weight Loss Challenges on Dr. Phil. Over the years, JJ has made numerous appearances on PBS, Dr. Oz, Rachael Ray, Access Hollywood, and the TODAY Show. She also speaks regularly and has shared the stage with notables including Seth Godin, Lisa Nichols, Gary Vaynerchuk, Mark Hyman, Dan Buettner, and Mary Morrissey. JJ is the author of 4 New York Times bestsellers: The Virgin Diet, The Virgin Diet Cookbook, The Sugar Impact Diet, and The Sugar Impact Diet Cookbook. JJ is also the author of Warrior Mom: 7 Secrets to Bold, Brave Resilience. She regularly writes for major blogs and other publications including mindbodygreen and Medium. Visit jjvirgin.com for hundreds of free recipes and resources, plus state-of-the-art programs, products, and plenty of support to help you rev up your metabolism, reignite your wellness, and step powerfully into the second half of your life. Love the Podcast? Here’s what to do: Make My Day & Share Your Thoughts! - Subscribe to the podcast & leave me a review - Text a screenshot to 813-565-2627 - Expect a personal reply because your voice is so important to me. Join 55,000+ followers who make this podcast thrive.
Episodes
Mentioned books

10 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 3min
Enhancing Female Fitness with Dr. Stacy Sims
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Stacy Sims, a pioneering exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist specializing in women's health, shares key insights on fitness for women over 40. She emphasizes that women are not just 'small men,' highlighting the unique physiological differences in exercise and nutrition. Dr. Sims advocates for strength training and high-intensity workouts to combat age-related muscle loss and promote brain health. She debunks myths around fasted workouts and stresses the essential role of a balanced diet rich in protein and carbohydrates.

Aug 4, 2024 • 14min
How I Got Long, Lean Toned Arms at Age 60 (Goodbye Batwings!)
Ever wondered how to get those lean, toned arms that make you feel strong and confident? You're not alone! I get asked about my arms all the time, and today, I'm spilling the beans on how to achieve this look. Spoiler alert: it’s easier than you think if you follow the right strategies! In this episode, I'll break down the three critical steps to building great arms, with a special focus on the one step everyone tends to overlook. First, let's talk workouts. To build muscle, volume is key. I’ll explain the importance of compound movements involving pushing and pulling, which engage multiple muscles, including the triceps and biceps. Discover how to structure your workouts with the right sets, reps, and weekly frequency to maximize muscle growth. Plus, I'll share why hitting the point of near-fatigue at the end of your sets is crucial for those sculpted arms. But building muscle isn’t just about the gym. Nutrition plays a huge role. Learn how much protein you really need (hint: more than you might think) and which specific supplements can give you an edge. I'll also reveal my personal hacks to ensure your muscles are well-fed and ready to grow. Finally, let's get real about fat loss. To show off those newly built muscles, you need to shed the fat covering them. I’ll guide you through effective calorie tracking and the benefits of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to torch that fat. Plus, some insider tips on maintaining overall activity levels throughout the day to stay lean. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/tonedarms Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A): https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Reignite:Wellness Amino Power Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/amino-power-powder Reignite:Wellness Omega Plus: https://reignitewellness.com/products/omega-plus Reignite:Wellness Clean Creatine Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/clean-creatine-powder Download my FREE Protein Cheat Sheet: jjvirgin.com/proteincs Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 31, 2024 • 55min
The Rain Barrel Effect Explained: Life-Changing Detox Tips with Dr. Stephen Cabral
In this engaging conversation, Dr. Stephen Cabral, a board-certified naturopathic doctor specializing in environmental toxins, shares his inspiring journey from overcoming autoimmune disorders to becoming a voice in functional medicine. He discusses the hidden dangers of toxins like pesticides and microplastics and how they contribute to chronic health issues. Dr. Cabral offers practical detox tips, including sauna use and hair analysis, and stresses the importance of clean air, water, and food for overall wellness.

Jul 28, 2024 • 17min
Avoid These 5 Foods For Younger-Looking Skin!!
Are you tired of searching for the fountain of youth at Sephora? The real secret to younger-looking skin is found in your kitchen! In this episode, we delve into the dietary changes that can help you achieve that glowing complexion. Find out what daily ingredient accelerates skin aging through a process called glycation, damaging your collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Plus, learn about a fantastic alternative sweetener, which won't spike your insulin levels and even has prebiotic benefits! We also discuss the hidden dangers of seed oils, which ones to avoid, and why they wreak havoc on your skin and overall health. Learn why it's essential to balance your intake of omegas and which oils to avoid to reduce inflammation and promote clear, healthy skin. We’ll explore healthier alternatives that boast anti-inflammatory properties and help maintain a robust skin barrier. I also share my personal struggle with acne and what I eliminated to transform my skin. This food can increase insulin levels and trigger inflammation, leading to various skin issues. Find easy swaps that will make a huge difference. And for those enjoying a glass of wine, I’ve got tips on choosing lower-alcohol, additive-free options to avoid dehydrating your skin. Plus, I’ll share my favorite supplements to support skin health. Don't miss this episode for more tips, personal insights, and transformative advice on achieving radiant skin from within! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/skin JJ Virgin Anti-Aging Cheat Sheet: JJVirgin.com/antiaging 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Reignite Wellness™ Collagen Peptides Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/all-systems-glow-collagen Reignite Wellness™ Protein First Enzymes: https://reignitewellness.com/products/protein-first-enzymes Dry Farm Wines: dryfarmwines.com/jjvirgin Study: Systemic evening primrose oil improves the biophysical skin parameters of healthy adults: https://consensus.app/papers/systemic-evening-primrose-improves-skin-parameters-muggli/b3023bff177f507e9c6bb0a28760f6c3/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115795/ Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 24, 2024 • 58min
From Struggle to Strength with Mari Llewellyn
"I was ready to feel happy again, and every time I got that endorphin boost, I was like, oh my God, this is why I'm doing this." - Mari Llewellyn Have you ever felt stuck in a rut, both mentally and physically? My guest today, Mari Llewellyn, knows that feeling all too well, but found a sustainable and satisfying way out. As the co-founder of Bloom and the founder of Strength by Mari, Mari's story is a testament to the transformative power of fitness and mental health. She joins us to share her incredible journey from battling severe mental health issues and significant weight gain to becoming a successful fitness entrepreneur and mental health advocate. In this episode, Mari takes us back to 2017, a pivotal year when she decided to turn her life around. Struggling with borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety, Mari found herself at 250 pounds and deeply unhappy. She recalls how simple dietary and lifestyle swaps began to change her life. The gym became her sanctuary, where she discovered the empowering effects of weightlifting, setting her on a path to not only lose 90 pounds but also transform her mindset. Mari’s approach to fitness and nutrition is refreshingly realistic and sustainable. She emphasizes the importance of routine, finding what works for your body, and using dietary strategies as tools for achieving specific health goals. Mari shares how she navigated the often confusing world of nutrition, overcame the pitfalls of fad diets, and what she focuses on to support her active lifestyle. But the most profound change Mari experienced was in her mindset. She talks about how fitness helped her build confidence, set and achieve goals, and ultimately see herself in a new light. Mari's story is not just about weight loss; it's about reclaiming her life and finding a passion that she could share with millions. Her top 10 podcast, "Pursuit of Wellness," and her thriving business are testaments to the fact that when you change your mind, you change your life. Tune in to hear Mari's inspiring story and her actionable tips for achieving lasting health and wellness. Whether you're struggling with your own health journey or looking for a motivational boost, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement. Don't miss it! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/mari Organo King of Coffee: https://www.organogold.com/nz-en/premium-gourmet-king-of-coffee/ Evolved Chocolate: https://eatingevolved.com/ Lily’s Chocolate Chips: https://www.lilys.com/products/lilys-dark-chocolate-style-baking-chips-9-oz-bag.html Sprouts Organic Riced Cauliflower: https://shop.sprouts.com/product/28032?shopping_context=delivery&retailer_id=279 Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Glutamine Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/glutamine-powder Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Try Rx Sugar: jjvirgin.com/rxsugar use code JJVIRGIN20 for 20% off. Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep TRX Resistance Training Equipment: Free Shipping on all orders $99+: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=931205&pw=347877 Pursuit of Wellness: https://thepursuitofwellness.com/ Mari Llewellyn IG: https://www.instagram.com/marillewellyn/?hl=en Bloom Nutrition IG: https://www.instagram.com/bloomsupps/?hl=en Pursuit of Wellness Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/pursuitofwellnesspodcast/ Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12 snips
Jul 21, 2024 • 15min
5 Mistakes You MUST Avoid if You’re Using Ozempic/Wegovy
Learn essential strategies for using weight loss peptides effectively, preserving muscle mass during weight loss. Explore the critical role of high protein intake and resistance exercise, along with natural supplements to enhance your journey. Discover expert tips for success in your weight loss goals.

Jul 17, 2024 • 50min
Balancing Blood Sugar and Building Muscle with Kelly LeVeque
"Protein is the unlock that a lot of people aren't using. It supports blood sugar balance, keeps you feeling full, and helps maintain muscle mass—crucial as we age." - Kelly LeVeque In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kelly LeVeque, a clinical nutritionist, celebrity health coach, and bestselling author of Body Love. Kelly's story is particularly resonant as she navigates the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while balancing the demands of being a mother of three young children. Her expertise in blood-sugar balance and protein intake provides invaluable guidance for those of us aiming to stay energized and vibrant. Kelly emphasizes the importance of getting the basics right—prioritizing protein, healthy fats, and fiber in our diets to maintain stable blood-sugar levels and support overall health. Throughout our conversation, Kelly delves into the science of how protein aids in blood sugar balance, debunks common myths about protein intake, and shares her practical tips for incorporating more protein into our diets. She also addresses the often overlooked role of amino acids in regulating hunger hormones and supporting muscle maintenance, which is crucial for aging powerfully. We also touch on the impact of industrial seed oils and the importance of choosing whole, unprocessed foods to reduce inflammation and promote health. Kelly's approach is not about rigid dieting but about understanding our body's needs and fueling it properly to achieve lasting wellness. To get more actionable tips from Kelly, download her Fab Four guide at jjvirgin.com/kelly. This guide will help you build balanced meals that support your health goals and make meal prep a breeze. Tune in to this episode to learn more about Kelly’s balanced approach to nutrition and get inspired to take charge of your health journey. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/kelly Learn more about Kelly LeVeque: https://bewellbykelly.com/ Body Love by Kelly LeVeque: https://amzn.to/4evEUE7 Body Love Every Day by Kelly LeVeque: https://amzn.to/3zaCiLT 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst OmegaQuant: https://omegaquant.com/ref/679 Theia Health Continuous Glucose Monitor: https://join.theiahealth.ai/c/jj Track your protein & macros with Cronometer App: jjvirgin.com/cronometer Food Scale: https://amzn.to/3IBttvS Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Use Code VIRGIN to Get 20% off Kelly’s Protein and Courses: https://bewellbykellyshop.com/?rfsn=7955133.997a894 Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Use Code VIRGIN to Get 20% off Kelly’s Protein and Courses Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 14, 2024 • 18min
#1 Absolute Best Way To Lose Belly Fat in 2024
If belly fat has become your nemesis, especially as you age, this episode is your guide to fighting back. We're diving deep into the science of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), that sneaky belly fat hidden deep within your abdominal cavity surrounding vital organs. It's not the pinchable stuff; it's the insidious kind linked to serious health risks like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But don't worry, I've got you covered with effective strategies to tackle it head-on. First, I reveal the essential step with your food intake that you need to master before anything else will work. Then, I share the impact that different types of physical activity (like walking, running, HIIT, and resistance training) have on VAT fat. Plus, we'll explore the importance of quality sleep and hormonal balance, especially if you're navigating menopause. Join me in this transformative episode where I blend practical tips with personal insights, including my own struggles and triumphs. Let’s make middle age the prime time for your best health yet. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/losebellyfat2024 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Track your protein & macros with Cronometer App: jjvirgin.com/cronometer Renpho Bioimpedance Scale: https://amzn.to/4abj8Cz Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Tape Measure: https://amzn.to/3wQw4Q2 Study: A reduced ratio of dietary carbohydrate to protein improves body composition and blood lipid profiles during weight loss in adult women: https://consensus.app/papers/reduced-ratio-carbohydrate-protein-improves-composition-layman/01653d342eab51adbb319a1a1b45079f/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Is the goal of 12,000 steps per day sufficient for improving body composition and metabolic syndrome? The necessity of combining exercise intensity: a randomized controlled trial: https://consensus.app/papers/goal-12000-steps-improving-body-composition-necessity-chiang/676d54b152e25c6b80e07f6a12b02fc0/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Physical activity and healthy ageing: A systematic review and meta-analysis of longitudinal cohort studies: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/biochemistry-genetics-and-molecular-biology/physical-activity Study: Effects of exercise on physical outcomes of breast cancer survivors receiving hormone therapy – A systematic review and meta-analysis: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/body-fat-percentage Study: Effect of High-Intensity Interval Training on Total, Abdominal and Visceral Fat Mass: A Meta-Analysis: https://consensus.app/papers/highintensity-interval-training-total-abdominal-maillard/ff423c36fff25dc5b7f114fc3ccce4d1/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Molecular signaling of ginsenosides Rb1, Rg1, and Rg3 and their mode of actions: https://consensus.app/papers/signaling-ginsenosides-actions-mohanan/16ed4dc8b6c9524b9cd4f2897c7d5dc6/?utm_source=chatgpt Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 10, 2024 • 58min
How Quality Relationships Enhance Your Health and Longevity with Shawn Stevenson
"We know that the number one component for aging healthfully and extending our lifespan is the quality of our relationships." - Shawn Stevenson On this episode of Well Beyond 40, I'm thrilled to speak with my good friend Shawn Stevenson, bestselling author of Eat Smarter and Sleep Smarter, and host of the top-ranked Model Health Show. Shawn shares the often-overlooked power of communal eating, diving deep into how sharing meals with loved ones can profoundly impact our physical and mental well-being. Shawn shares how our relationships are fundamental to not only living longer but also living healthier. This episode is a goldmine of actionable advice on fostering these crucial connections through the simple yet profound act of eating together. Shawn’s new family cookbook is filled with delicious, nutritious recipes designed to bring people together around the table, making healthy eating a communal and enjoyable experience. One of the standout moments is Shawn's discussion on "healthwashing," where foods marketed as healthy are actually highly processed and detrimental. He explains how these foods interfere with our metabolism and overall health, and offers practical tips to navigate this tricky landscape. Shawn’s emphasis on making truly nutritious choices that benefit the entire family resonates deeply, especially for those of us striving to maintain our health and vitality in our 40s and beyond. Tune in to this enlightening episode to hear more about Shawn’s journey, the science behind communal eating, and how you can incorporate these life-enhancing practices into your daily routine. Don’t miss out on Shawn’s invaluable insights and practical tips that will inspire you to build stronger, healthier relationships and take your well-being to the next level. Listen now and transform your health with the power of community! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/eatinghabits Learn more about Shawn Stevenson and The Model Health Show: https://themodelhealthshow.com/ Eat Smarter Family Cookbook: https://eatsmartercookbook.com/ 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Renpho Bluetooth Tape Measure: https://amzn.to/3wQw4Q2 Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Get a FREE copy of Shawn’s “The Waist Reduction Quick-Start Plan” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jul 7, 2024 • 22min
5 Foods I Eat DAILY as a Nutrition Expert
Ever wondered what a nutrition expert eats every day? In this episode, I'm sharing my top five daily foods and my personal food rules that help me stay on track. We'll dive into my favorite ways to prepare these foods quickly and easily, and I'll also touch on my thoughts about cheat meals. Whether you're looking for healthy meal ideas or trying to build better eating habits, this episode has got you covered. I'll start by discussing the importance of a food audit and the mantra I live by: eat protein first. Learn how to determine your protein needs using my handy online calculator and discover why it's crucial to get the right amount of protein in your diet. I'll also share my go-to sources of clean, lean protein along with some delicious preparation tips. But it's not all about protein. I'll explain how I incorporate non-starchy vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats into my meals for balanced nutrition and optimal health. From cauliflower pilaf and shaved Brussels sprouts to antioxidant-rich berries and heart-healthy avocados, you'll get a peek into how I create nutrient-dense plates that satisfy and nourish. Join me for a detailed look at what a typical day of eating looks like for me, and pick up some practical tips to apply in your own kitchen! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/dailyfoods 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Use my Eat Protein First Calculator: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst ButcherBox grass-fed & grass-finished beef: https://butcherbox.pxf.io/jWYQqZ Flavorchef bone broth: https://affiliates.theflavorchef.com/121.html Living Ratio chocolate: https://livingratio.com/?sca_ref=2747593.vgty26M7uP&utm_source=2747593&utm_medium=jj-virgin&utm_campaign=4533 Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Food Scale: https://amzn.to/3IBttvS Lakanto Monk Fruit: https://lakanto.sjv.io/c/2208035/1270804/15633 Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A): https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes RxSugar Allulose: https://rxsugar.com/?rfsn=7896896.603c03&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7896896.603c03 Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie The Virgin Diet Cookbook: https://reignitewellness.com/products/the-virgin-diet-cookbook The Virgin Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/the-virgin-diet-paperback Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS now to try Qualia Senolytic backed by a 100 day money back guarantee, and use promo code VIRGINWELLNESS to get 15% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices