
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

Aug 28, 2024 • 56min
Ancestral Wisdom Meets Modern Wellness with Jeff Krasno
In this engaging discussion, Jeff Krasno, co-founder and CEO of Commune, shares his personal journey from battling borderline diabetes to reclaiming vitality at 50 through lifestyle changes. He highlights the concept of "good stress" as a surprising ally for women over 40, explaining how ancestral challenges can enhance both mental and cellular health. Jeff emphasizes the power of small, consistent changes and explores holistic wellness strategies that unite modern practices with ancestral wisdom for lasting well-being.

Aug 25, 2024 • 28min
9 Natural Appetite Suppressants Better Than Ozempic
Discover nine natural appetite suppressants that can help manage cravings without expensive treatments. Learn how protein and fiber play crucial roles in keeping you satisfied. Explore effective strategies for hydration and meal planning to boost gut health and stabilize blood sugar. Dive into the benefits of natural alternatives like alulose and exercise in promoting metabolic well-being. A free 7-Day Challenge offers practical tips for incorporating these methods into your routine for effortless weight management.

Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 3min
Boost Your Brainpower with Jim Kwik
Jim Kwik, a renowned brain performance coach and author of 'Limitless,' shares his inspiring journey from facing a childhood brain injury to becoming an expert in brain health. He stresses that it's never too late to enhance cognitive abilities, especially for women over 40. Jim reveals his top 10 keys to brain health, including the importance of novelty, nutrition, and effective sleep. He introduces mnemonic techniques for remembering brain-boosting foods and discusses personalized learning strategies through his brain type assessment.

Aug 18, 2024 • 20min
Intermittent Fasting Mistakes That Make You GAIN WEIGHT
In today's episode, we explore common mistakes that can hinder your intermittent fasting success. Tune in to hear the common pitfalls I see all the time that can sabotage your fat loss and make you gain weight instead. Learn about simple but crucial changes to boost your metabolism and address insulin sensitivity issues. We'll discuss research on meal timing and its impact on your body's natural rhythms, and I'll share insights on optimizing eating schedules for better health outcomes. One major pitfall we'll address is how you approach your feeding windows. We'll delve into the importance of balanced eating and avoiding extreme behaviors that can sabotage your efforts. Discover strategies for maximizing the benefits of intermittent fasting, including its effects on cellular processes and hormone regulation. I'll also reveal my personal approach to managing hunger and maintaining muscle mass during fasting periods. Another crucial aspect we cover is the role of nutrition and hydration in your fasting routine. Learn why the quality of your food choices matters and how proper hydration can impact your results. I'll offer practical tips for staying on track and explain why consistency in your fasting schedule is essential for long-term success. Finally, we’ll discuss the importance of micronutrients and how to ensure you meet your body’s needs. Join me as we uncover these essential insights and actionable tips to make your intermittent fasting journey successful and sustainable! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/fastingmistakes 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Sugar Impact Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sugar-impact-diet-paperback-book Study: Beneficial Effects of Early Time-Restricted Feeding on Metabolic Diseases: Importance of Aligning Food Habits with the Circadian Clock: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/5/1405 Study: Health Benefits of Fasting and Caloric Restriction: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11892-017-0951-7 Study: Synergistic effects of caloric restriction with maintained protein intake on skeletal muscle performance in 21-month-old rats: a mitochondria-mediated pathway: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17142793/ Study: Brain–Gut–Microbiome Interactions and Intermittent Fasting in Obesity: https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7916460/ Study: 10-Hour Eating Window Boosts Mood and Energy: https://neurosciencenews.com/intermittent-fasting-mood-25207/ Study: Assessment of water consumption during Ramadan intermittent fasting: Result from Indonesian cross-sectional study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35958263/ Study: Intermittent fasting 5:2 diet: What is the macronutrient and micronutrient intake and composition?: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32199696/ 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

Aug 14, 2024 • 49min
Unlocking the Secrets of Liver Health with Kristin Kirkpatrick
Kristen Kirkpatrick, a distinguished Registered Dietitian and bestselling author, dives into the overlooked epidemic of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). She discusses how this condition can impact metabolic health, especially for women over 40. Kristen shares her insights from her new book, emphasizing that even without visible symptoms, liver dysfunction can occur. Discover the four metabolic types, actionable steps for liver care, and the importance of dietary choices, including foods that support liver regeneration and detoxification.

Aug 11, 2024 • 20min
How To Build Muscle Almost 2x Faster (NEW RESEARCH)
In this episode, we're diving deep into the science of building muscle and speeding up those gains! If you're tired of feeling like progress is at a snail's pace, I've got three proven strategies that will help you see results faster. First up, we're talking nutrition and the critical role of protein in muscle synthesis. Discover how optimal protein intake, especially the right amount of leucine, can trigger muscle growth. Plus, I've got a free 7-day protein challenge waiting for you at jjvirgin.com/7day to kickstart your journey. Next, we'll explore the power of pre-workout carbs and their surprising benefits. A 2016 study revealed that carbs before exercise can boost performance, reduce fatigue, and even enhance brain function during workouts. I'll share my personal experiments with fasted versus non-fasted workouts and why timing your carbs and protein around your exercise sessions is crucial for maximizing muscle gains. Supplements can make a significant difference, and I'll highlight the heavy hitters like creatine, vitamin D, and fish oil. Learn which supplemennt can supercharge your energy during high-intensity workouts, why vitamin D is essential for muscle function, and the muscle-building benefits of omega-3s from fish oil. Plus, I'll introduce you to a supplement that enhances mitochondrial health for better endurance and recovery. Finally, we'll touch on the importance of hormones like thyroid and estrogen in muscle building. Balancing these hormones can significantly impact your strength and muscle growth. I'll also share practical tips for incorporating recovery techniques such as sauna sessions, red light therapy, and massages into your routine to optimize muscle repair and growth. Don't miss out on these game-changing tips! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/buildmuscle2024 Use my Eat Protein First Calculator: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Epsom Salt: https://amzn.to/3IxgmMm Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Foam Roller: https://amzn.to/3PlAGE3 Kooru Cold Plunge: https://www.koorucoldplunges.com/ and use code JJVIP500 for $500 off. Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A): https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Sunlighten Sauna: https://get.sunlighten.com/JJVirgin use promo code JJVIRGIN when requesting pricing information for $600 off. Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Therasage saunas & red light therapy: https://therasage.com/discount/VIRGIN20?rfsn=7719794.ae138d&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=7719794.ae138d use code VIRGIN20 for 20% off Study: Effect of Carbohydrate Intake on Maximal Power Output and Cognitive Performances: https://consensus.app/papers/carbohydrate-intake-maximal-power-output-cognitive-pomportes/687ae139a6255636ab549f00de5ed80b/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Creatine Supplementation and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism for Building Muscle Mass- Review of the Potential Mechanisms of Action: https://consensus.app/papers/creatine-supplementation-skeletal-muscle-metabolism-farshidfar/818dd4ef9aa85e1c98179306d1259491/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Changes in pro-inflammatory markers and leucine concentrations in response to Nordic Walking training combined with vitamin D supplementation in elderly women: https://consensus.app/papers/changes-proinflammatory-markers-leucine-concentrations-gmiat/498e3f96124d5e3183e554e3042209df/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Fish oil increases muscle protein mass and modulates Akt/FOXO, TLR4, and NOD signaling in weanling piglets after lipopolysaccharide challenge: https://consensus.app/papers/increases-muscle-mass-modulates-aktfoxo-tlr4-signaling-liu/b643eda9cd955f3a896224cda5a710a2/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Role of thyroid hormone in skeletal muscle physiology: https://consensus.app/papers/role-thyroid-hormone-muscle-physiology-bloise/7e60a07344355ccb920ad732999b043a/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: The Influence of Estrogen on Skeletal Muscle: https://consensus.app/papers/influence-estrogen-skeletal-muscle-enns/a09639083d7b5a0c8342fb88cb735309/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Impact of Cortisol on Reduction in Muscle Strength and Mass: A Mendelian Randomization Study: https://consensus.app/papers/impact-cortisol-reduction-muscle-strength-mass-mendelian-katsuhara/90d796b0f5a055218acfb81b6d1dc716/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: A post-exercise infrared sauna session improves recovery of neuromuscular performance and muscle soreness after resistance exercise training: https://consensus.app/papers/postexercise-infrared-session-improves-recovery-ahokas/c114553985dd5522a0ee8994d2a0ec48/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Low-level laser (light) therapy increases mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP synthesis in C2C12 myotubes with a peak response at 3-6 hours: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4355185/ Study: Enhanced skeletal muscle regrowth and remodeling in massaged and contralateral non‐massaged hindlimb: https://consensus.app/papers/enhanced-muscle-regrowth-remodelling-massaged-hindlimb-miller/2336402483345dcf984c34764d57ddb0/?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

10 snips
Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 4min
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 • 15min
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 • 56min
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 • 18min
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