
Well Beyond 40
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.
Latest episodes

Oct 2, 2024 • 42min
Unlocking the Secrets of Mitochondrial Health with Dr. Anurag Singh
"Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells, and if we don’t keep them in check, we risk losing the energy, strength, and vitality that allow us to age powerfully." - Dr. Anurag Singh In this energizing episode of the Well Beyond 40 podcast, I sit down with Dr. Anurag Singh, a pioneering expert in mitochondrial health, to dive deep into the science that can help us all age with power. As the Chief Medical Officer at Timeline, Dr. Singh has spearheaded over 50 clinical trials, focusing on groundbreaking ways to keep our cellular engines—the mitochondria—running optimally well beyond our 40s. We explore the fascinating compound Urolithin A, which I call “exercise in a bottle.” Urolithin A is derived from foods like pomegranates and walnuts, and plays a critical role in maintaining muscle health, boosting energy levels, and even improving skin quality as we age. Dr. Singh sheds light on the alarming statistics of muscle loss starting in our 30s and how it accelerates into our 60s and 70s. He offers actionable strategies that go beyond just increasing protein intake and resistance training, emphasizing the importance of using every tool available, including Urolithin A, to combat the decline. For those navigating the world of GLP-1 agonists for weight loss, Dr. Singh provides essential insights into how these medications impact muscle mass and mitochondria. His advice is clear: while these drugs can be effective, they must be coupled with proper nutrition, exercise, and mitochondrial support to prevent long-term muscle loss and metabolic issues. Tune in to discover how you can harness the power of your mitochondria to not only live longer but to live stronger, with more energy and resilience, well into your later years. Don't miss this chance to learn how to integrate cutting-edge science into your daily routine for a healthier, more vibrant you! Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/GLP1 Timeline Longevity Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/timeline_longevity/ 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Hand Grip Dynamometer: https://amzn.to/48OI2a1 Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products 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 Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance 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 50% off a Starter Pack of Timeline Nutrition or Skin Products Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 29, 2024 • 23min
10 BEST Fat Loss Foods to Eat REGULARLY
Unlock the secrets to breaking weight loss plateaus with powerful fat-burning foods! Discover nutrient-dense options like berries and wild-caught salmon that boost metabolism and curb cravings. Dive into the advantages of incorporating bone broth and mushrooms into your diet for anti-inflammatory benefits. Learn how apple cider vinegar can enhance your metabolic health, along with the perfect breakfast tweak for muscle retention. Packed with practical tips and delicious recipes, this discussion is your go-to for achieving fitness goals effortlessly!

Sep 25, 2024 • 55min
Thriving Through Perimenopause: Insights with Dr. Mariza Snyder
"At 41, I had a baby during perimenopause—and that was just the beginning. My journey is proof that this phase of life can come with unexpected challenges, but it can also be empowering when you learn how to manage it." – Dr. Mariza Synder Perimenopause isn’t just about night sweats and hot flashes—it can feel like being hit by a Mack truck, especially when you throw in unexpected hurdles like a traumatic brain injury. In this episode, Dr. Mariza Snyder opens up about her personal struggles with perimenopause, revealing how she went from thinking she had it all figured out to being blindsided by hormone shifts that rocked her mental energy, mood, and overall well-being. Her story is one of resilience, self-care, and persistence—a message that will resonate deeply with women navigating similar challenges in their 40s and beyond. Mariza shares the hidden connections between hormonal shifts and symptoms like brain fog, irritability, and mental exhaustion, and offers real, actionable strategies for reclaiming your energy and mental clarity. From adjusting your exercise routine to protect her brain health to fine-tuning her hormone therapy, Mariza's approach is grounded in both personal experience and her expertise as a functional practitioner. If you’re dealing with the first whispers of perimenopause or feeling overwhelmed by its unpredictability, Mariza’s story will leave you feeling empowered, not defeated. Her practical advice on everything from hormone therapy to metabolic health is a must-hear for any woman looking to thrive—not just survive—during this transitional phase. Tune in to hear how you can take control of your health, sharpen your mental focus, and even use these hormonal shifts as an opportunity for a major life upgrade. Ready to feel better, think clearer, and live fuller? Don’t miss this conversation! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/mariza Dr. Mariza Snyder on Facebook: @drmarizasnyder https://www.facebook.com/drmarizasnyder/ Dr. Mariza Snyder on Instagram: @drmariza https://instagram.com/drmariza/ Dr. Mariza Snyder on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/drmarizasnyder Dr. Mariza Snyder on Twitter: @drmariza https://twitter.com/drmariza Dr. Mariza Snyder on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drmariza/ Shop Apple Watches: https://amzn.to/43dn8QV Shop Oura Rings: https://ouraring.com/ Dr. Joe Dispenza meditations: https://drjoedispenza.com/?rfsn=6914154.37386a&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=6914154.37386a Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Clean Creatine Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/clean-creatine-powder Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Sunlighten Sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/JJVirgin use promo code JJVIRGIN when requesting pricing information for $600 off. Sleep Candy: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sleep-candy Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products TRX Resistance Training Equipment: Free Shipping on all orders $99+: https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?tt=ml&ti=931205&pw=347877 Twilla Pillows: https://twilla.com?sca_ref=3939090.I7brdyh2vq and use code JJSLEEP for 15% your purchase Walking Pad: https://amzn.to/3vccaOV Dry Farm Wines: dryfarmwines.com/jjvirgin 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 Attend Mariza’s Thriving in Perimenopause and Menopause Summit FREE & Online Oct 14-18, 2024 Get Mariza’s PERIMENOPAUSE SURVIVAL GUIDE Get Mariza’s HORMONE RECIPE GUIDE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 22, 2024 • 16min
5 Foods Every Woman MUST EAT to Naturally Balance Hormones
In this episode of the Well Beyond 40 Podcast, we're diving into the crucial connection between your diet and hormone balance—especially for women over 40. Did you know that nearly half of all women experience some form of hormonal imbalance that can disrupt everything from mood and weight to sleep and stress levels? The great news is that what you eat can have a significant impact on restoring that balance. Join me as I share five powerful foods that can help you get your hormones back on track. We’re talking about the surprising superpowers of certain vegetables and how they help manage estrogen levels and support detoxification. I’ll also reveal a tiny seed that packs a punch in balancing estrogen and progesterone and why they should be a staple in your diet. Plus, we’ll discuss foods with hormone-friendly fats and how these delicious options can improve everything from cell health to hormone receptor sensitivity. If you're looking for simple, practical changes that can make a big difference in how you feel every day, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how these foods can help you look and feel your best, and take control of your health journey! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/5foodsforwomentoeat 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Reignite Wellness™ Omega Plus: https://reignitewellness.com/products/omega-plus Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie Study: 11 unexpected signs of hormonal imbalance: https://www.northwell.edu/obstetrics-and-gynecology/fertility/expert-insights/11-unexpected-signs-of-hormonal-imbalance#:~:text=Statistics%20show%20that%2080%20percent,manifested%20due%20to%20hormonal%20irregularities. Study: Cruciferous vegetables and human cancer risk: epidemiologic evidence and mechanistic basis: https://consensus.app/papers/vegetables-cancer-risk-epidemiologic-evidence-basis-higdon/76be881f2e415a40a80cf54675408bd9/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Flaxseed Consumption Influences Endogenous Hormone Concentrations in Postmenopausal Women: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1207/S15327914nc391_8 Study: Women and Omega-3 Fatty Acids: https://consensus.app/papers/women-omega3-fatty-acids-saldeen/b30be32ee8855035a5bb90779acdb013/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Assessment of Total Fat and Fatty Acids in Walnuts Using Near-Infrared Hyperspectral Imaging: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/plant-science/articles/10.3389/fpls.2021.729880/full Study: Walnuts, Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids, and Adolescent Brain Development: Protocol for the Walnuts Smart Snack Dietary Intervention Trial: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8217431/ Study: Omega-3 ALA: https://walnuts.org/nutrition/nutrition-info/alpha-linolenic-acid/ 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

Sep 18, 2024 • 48min
How 100 Can Be the New 30 with Dr. Jeff Gladden
"Aging gracefully? More like defying it altogether. I’m aiming for a 30-year-old body with a 300-year-old mind." - Dr. Jeff Gladden In this episode of Well Beyond 40, I sit down with Dr. Jeff Gladden, a renowned interventional cardiologist turned longevity expert, to unravel the secrets of turning 100 into the new 30. Dr. Gladden shares his personal journey of overcoming midlife health challenges that many of us can relate to—exhaustion, weight gain, and the looming threat of mental decline. But instead of accepting these as signs of inevitable aging, he cracked the code to reclaiming his vitality and has since dedicated his life to helping others do the same. Dr. Gladden’s approach to longevity isn’t just about avoiding decline; it’s about optimizing every aspect of your health, from your genetics to your daily habits. He dives deep into the science behind why some of us age faster than others, how personalized nutrition and exercise can make a world of difference, and the game-changing role of bio-identical hormone therapy—especially crucial for women navigating menopause. His insights on the exponential nature of aging and how to combat it with comprehensive, customized strategies will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about getting older. But the real magic happens when Dr. Gladden talks about regeneration—the future of anti-aging. Imagine resetting your biological clock through advanced therapies that clean out old, damaged cells and replace them with the vitality of youth. It’s not just science fiction; it’s happening now. If you’ve ever wished you could freeze time or even roll it back, this episode is your roadmap. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/gladden Gladden Longevity Shop: Use code JJVirgin for 20% off at our supplement store: https://gladdenlongevityshop.com/ Learn more about Dr. Jeffrey Gladden: https://gladdenlongevity.com/ Shop Apple Watches: https://amzn.to/43dn8QV Shop Oura Rings: https://ouraring.com/ Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance 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 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 the first four chapters of Dr. Gladden's new book, 100 is the NEW 30 for FREE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 15, 2024 • 17min
10 Alarming Signs Your Body Needs More Magnesium
Many of us suffer from unseen symptoms that may signal a magnesium deficiency. Muscle cramps and unexpected discomfort can indicate your body needs more of this crucial mineral. Beyond physical pain, low magnesium affects mood and energy levels, leading to broader health issues. Boosting magnesium can enhance well-being in surprising ways. Essential sources of magnesium are discussed, along with the importance of supplementation for optimal intake. Don’t ignore your body’s signals—it's time to reassess your magnesium levels!

Sep 11, 2024 • 1h 10min
Hormones and Heart Disease: A Vital Conversation with Dr. Felice Gersh
"Estrogen isn’t just a 'sex hormone'—it’s the life hormone. It’s the key to keeping your heart, brain, and body healthy and vibrant for decades beyond menopause." – Dr. Felice Gersh In this eye-opening episode of the Well Beyond 40 podcast, I sit down with Dr. Felice Gersh, a leading expert in integrative medicine and a trailblazer in hormone therapy, to tackle one of the most critical yet overlooked health risks for women—heart disease. While breast cancer often dominates the conversation, heart disease remains the number one killer of women, particularly after menopause. Dr. Gersh sheds light on the powerful role that certain hormones play in protecting our bodies and why it’s essential to rethink how we approach hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as we age. Our discussion is not just groundbreaking—it's life-changing. We explore which hormone makes the most dramatic impact on our bodies as we age, leading to increased risks of heart disease, stroke, and even cognitive decline. But here's the silver lining: it's never too late to take action. Whether you’re 50, 60, or even 70, Dr. Gersh provides compelling evidence that starting hormone therapy later in life can still offer significant benefits, and what crucial steps you can take to support your hormone receptors. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s safe to start HRT years after menopause, or if you’ve been told you’re too old to begin, this episode will give you hope and empower you with the knowledge to take control of your health. And for those who’ve battled breast cancer, Dr. Gersh also addresses the complexities of hormone therapy, discussing when it might be safe and effective, and when alternative approaches are necessary. Tune in to discover why Dr. Felice Gersh is my go-to expert on hormones and aging, and learn how to take proactive steps to protect your heart, your health, and your future. Don’t miss out—this episode is packed with pearls of wisdom that every woman needs to hear. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/gersh Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A): https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Dr. Felice Gersh on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.felicegersh/ Dr. Felice Gersh on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrFeliceGersh Dr. Felice Gersh on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/felicegershmd/ Dr. Felice Gersh on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrbn9RUdGuc6Wq-FT7V4u3g Study: Estrogen and cardiovascular disease: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003306202400015X 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 Dr. Gersh’s FREE ebook Menopause SOS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 8, 2024 • 18min
Signs You’re Eating Too Much Sugar (These BLOCK Results!)
In this episode, we dive deep into a sneaky culprit that could be sabotaging all your hard work: sugar overload. Even if you're steering clear of obvious sweets, hidden sugars might be sneaking into your diet from unsuspecting sources, leaving you feeling drained, struggling with cravings, and frustrated with stubborn weight that just won’t budge. Could sugar be the reason behind your energy roller coaster and those nagging mood swings? We’re uncovering how this sweet stuff can wreak havoc on your body’s energy balance, and what you can do about it. You’ll learn about the science behind sugar addiction and its surprising effects on brain chemistry, cravings, and your body’s ability to burn fat. We’re breaking down how excess sugar leads to insulin resistance, making weight loss feel impossible despite your best efforts. Plus, we’ll explore the troubling link between sugar and mood disorders, acne, aging skin, and even your immune system’s ability to fight off colds and infections. Join me as I share a personal story that really hits home, involving my son and a pound of M&Ms—trust me, it's a lesson every parent needs to hear! Whether you’re dealing with persistent cravings, energy crashes, or just can’t seem to lose that stubborn belly fat, this episode is packed with insights that could change the way you think about sugar. Don’t miss out—tune in to find out how to kick the sugar habit for good and start seeing the results you deserve. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/sugaroverload Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Sugar Impact Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sugar-impact-diet-paperback-book Study: Effects of free access to sugar solutions on the control of energy intake: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/87559129.2016.1149863 Study: Evidence for sugar addiction: Behavioral and neurochemical effects of intermittent, excessive sugar intake: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2235907/ Study: Today's obesity epidemic may have been caused by childhood sugar intake decades ago: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190923164534.htm Study: Sugar intake from sweet food and beverages, common mental disorder and depression: prospective findings from the Whitehall II study: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-05649-7 Study: Association Between Adult Acne and Dietary Behaviors: Findings From the NutriNet-Santé Prospective Cohort Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32520303/ Study: Sugar-sweetened beverage consumption is associated with abdominal fat partitioning in healthy adults: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24944282/ Study: Doctors warn that sugar can temporarily weaken your immune system: https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/sugar-can-lower-your-immune-system/ 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

Sep 4, 2024 • 1h 6min
Clearing Out the Cellular Clutter: with Dr. Gregory Kelly
Dr. Gregory Kelly, a healthcare expert on cellular health and aging, discusses the significant impact of senescent or 'zombie cells' on our vitality. He reveals how these lingering cells contribute to aging-related issues. Excitingly, he explains the role of senolytics—compounds that help clear out these cells—offering hope for healthier aging. Practical tips include exercise and intermittent dosing strategies to rejuvenate cellular function, making this conversation crucial for those looking to enhance their well-being in later years.

Sep 1, 2024 • 24min
TOP 6 Foods That DESTROY Your Health (Avoid These!)
Discover the shocking truth behind everyday foods that could be harming your health. Explore hidden sugars in popular breakfast items and snacks that seem nutritious but aren't. Uncover the sweet deception of sugar-laden coffee drinks and their impact on your body. Get tasty alternatives to satisfy cravings without the downsides. Learn to decode food labels and make informed choices about what goes on your plate. This enlightening discussion is your guide to a healthier pantry!