The Flipping 50 Show

Hearing about meditation every direction you turn? Meditation in menopause can be a simple, free, and almost effortless tool for supporting your nervous system.  If your rest and digest part of life needs to flex and be able to squelch your fight or flight, aka your watch says RELAX REMINDER more than you’d like… this is your episode. My Guest: Kelly Smith is a global yoga and meditation teacher, author, E-RYT 500/ YACEP, founder of Yoga For You and the host of the iTunes chart topping podcasts Mindful in Minutes and Meditation Mama. Kelly believes that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to yoga and meditation and encourages her students to find their own personal practice, listen to their bodies, and find inner joy by accessing their most authentic selves. Kelly is best known for her guided meditation, yoga nidra, and restorative yoga practices that she has been sharing since 2016 on her podcasts and books.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:15:49] How can meditation help support menopause and perimenopause? [00:14:46] Why should you start meditating at this age if you haven't before? [00:18:36] How can meditation help support your nervous system? What is Meditation? Meditation is strength and resistance training for the brain. Not a religious practice, but it’s up to you what your intention is and if you want to align it to what you believe in. Benefits of Meditation Reducing anxiety and depression Helps with sleep and brain fog Helps balance cortisol Helps aging of the brain Boosts focus and concentration Teaches you how to sit with what is happening in your life Eight minutes a day is enough to get the physical, mental, emotional benefits of meditation. Know Yourself and What You’re Yearning for Through Meditation in Menopause Connect with Kelly: Kelly’s website - Yoga For You Instagram - @yogaforyouonline Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Protein for Menopause Hormone Support Next Episode - Exercise and Hot Flashes and Other Menopause Symptoms More Like This - Why I Meditate and My Recent (2nd) Weeklong Meditation Experience More Like This - Strategies for Higher Revenue as a Fitness Professional   Resources: Flip the switch on your midlife metabolism with the Metabolism Makeover 2.0. Short & Easy Exercise videos in this 5 Day Flip Challenge.

Let’s unpack something most midlife women are totally missing – protein for Menopause Hormone Support. Are you feeling moody, low-energy, or constantly craving carbs in midlife? It might not just be your hormones—it could be your protein intake… and its effect on your hormones.  In today’s episode, know how protein connects hormones and why your daily meals might be the hormonal tune-up you didn’t know you needed. Cortisol & Protein: The Stress-Balance Dance Cortisol levels increase in response to low blood sugar or stress, which are common when meals are high-carb and low-protein. A high-protein diet blunts cortisol spikes post-meal and improves the body’s stress response.   Insulin: Protein’s Role in Glucose Control Protein stimulates insulin—but in a modulated way that helps with blood sugar stability, not spikes. In midlife and beyond, protein helps preserve insulin sensitivity, especially when combined with resistance training.   Ghrelin & Leptin: Protein vs. Cravings Ghrelin = your hunger hormone. Protein is the most effective macronutrient at suppressing ghrelin. Leptin = satiety hormone. Protein helps regulate leptin sensitivity over time. The Protein theory goes that if the body doesn’t get enough protein it will message you it wants more. The problem is the message is not clear. It’s just a hunger signal. You’re left to figure it out or deal with the tempting cookies, cakes, and chocolate hidden in the icebox.    Estrogen: From Muscle Protector to MIA Estrogen is an anabolic hormone—it supports muscle maintenance, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic efficiency. As estrogen declines in perimenopause and menopause, its natural support of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) disappears. With estrogen no longer stimulating MPS, women must now rely on two primary tools to stimulate it: Resistance training Adequate high-quality protein (especially leucine-rich) “Estrogen enhances the anabolic response of skeletal muscle to both feeding and resistance exercise, and its loss results in anabolic resistance.”   More Truths About Protein for Menopause Hormone Support Muscle Protein Synthesis declines with age—and even more so without estrogen.  This is why RDA-level protein (0.8g/kg) is not sufficient in midlife - a statement agreed on by Registered Dietitians, longevity and geriatric experts alike.  Experts (ISSN) recommend ≥1.6–2.2g/kg of body weight for active women in midlife to maintain muscle, metabolism, and hormonal resilience.   The Anabolic vs. Catabolic Hormone Framework Anabolic Hormones = Build & Repair These are hormones that stimulate tissue growth and regeneration: Testosterone – promotes muscle growth, strength, libido Growth Hormone (GH) – supports repair, recovery, and fat metabolism Estrogen – helps preserve lean mass, regulates insulin sensitivity Insulin – can be anabolic by shuttling nutrients into cells, especially post-exercise Protein intake supports all of these by providing the amino acid building blocks needed for anabolic activity. Catabolic Hormones = Break DownThese are hormones that promote the breakdown of muscle, tissue, and energy stores: Cortisol – breaks down muscle for glucose during stress Epinephrine/Norepinephrine – mobilize energy in fight-or-flight Chronically elevated catabolic hormones + low protein = muscle loss, cravings, fatigue. Fat Storage Insulin isn’t actually a catabolic hormone but it does increase fat storage. You can’t be burning fat if insulin is high, as is true for many women. Focusing on boosting the anabolic hormones is the game-changer.    Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Can We Just Stop the Self Sabotage to Feel Your Best Ever  Next Episode - How and Why to Consider Meditation in Menopause More Like This - Where Protein Recommendations for Women Come From?   Resources:  This episode is brought to you by Flipping 50 Longevity Pro Protein & Fiber, the simplest ingredient, cleanest, third-party-tested protein powder formulated specifically for midlife metabolism. No bloat, no fillers, just functional fuel. Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off at checkout.   References:  Lemmens SG, Born JM, Martens EA, Martens MJ, Westerterp-Plantenga MS. PLoS One. 2011 Feb 3;6(2):e16826. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0016826. PMID: 21304815; PMCID: PMC3033415. Layman et al., 2008 reported that diets with higher protein and lower carbs improved insulin sensitivity in adults. DOI: 10.1093/jn/138.3.514 Leidy HJ, Ortinau LC, Douglas SM, Hoertel HA. Am J Clin Nutr. 2013 Apr;97(4):677-88. doi: 10.3945/ajcn.112.053116. Epub 2013 Feb 27. PMID: 23446906; PMCID: PMC3718776. Tang JE, Moore DR, Kujbida GW, Tarnopolsky MA, Phillips SM. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2009 Sep;107(3):987-92. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00076.2009. Epub 2009 Jul 9. PMID: 19589961.  

Junie Moon, CEO of Midlife Love Out Loud and a Global Love Mentor, shares her inspiring journey of shedding 200 pounds through self-love rather than just dieting. She delves into the painful reality of self-sabotage affecting women, especially over 40, and reveals how emotional barriers and shadow work can unlock personal empowerment. Junie emphasizes the transformative power of self-compassion and awareness in overcoming obstacles in health and relationships, highlighting that true wellness goes beyond weight loss.

If you are considering BHRT, this is for you. Even if you’re currently on BHRT, you’ll learn or confirm something here. If you’ve got daughters or DIL, in my case, there’s something here for you on that front too. If you’ve wondered why does cholesterol go up for so many women or why do autoimmune numbers increase in midlife? There’s a reason to be considering BHRT, and our guest explains why.    My Guest: Dr. Shilpa Sayana, MD is a Triple Board Certified in Internal, Obesity Medicine and Functional Medicine. She is recognized by her peers by receiving the “Most Humanistic Intern and Resident” award in all three years of her Internal Medicine Residency and celebrated by her patients by being presented the Best Doctors Women’s Choice Award. She treats women in perimenopause and menopause, optimising their hormones, energy and weight, especially if they have been previously told that their labs are normal.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:07:54] What are natural ways to improve your hormones above 45? [00:14:27] What tests do you recommend to a woman considering hormones? [00:22:30] Do you have a unique opinion on starting both progesterone and estrogen at the same time or layer in one?  [00:26:06] Do you advocate for women taking testosterone and what are the benefits and side effects of using TRT? [00:30:21] Why do autoimmune markers increase in perimenopause and menopause? and what to do about it? [00:32:04] What can help cholesterol and blood sugar levels?  #1 Longevity Hormone Panel  Purpose: To get a baseline of all key hormone levels Includes: Morning cortisol (before 10am) DHEAS (hormone that makes cortisol) TSH (thyroid) Free T4  Autoimmune Reverse  T4 (Hashimoto’s) Reverse T3  Estrogen, Progesteron, Testosterone Total Testosterone Free Testosterone Sex Binding Hormone Globulin  ANA (antinuclear antibody or autoimmune antibody) ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate to check inflammation rate for autoimmune) CRP (C-reactive protein) Ferritin  Genetics Vitamin B12  Vitamin D   More Tests to Truly Know If You’re Ready Before Considering BHRT   #2 Gut Test Purpose: To assess inflammation, microbiome health, and how well your body can process and eliminate hormones   #3 Toxin/Environmental Load Testing Purpose: To detect environmental toxins that may be disrupting hormone production or metabolism   Track Your Hormones Functional vs. Conventional medicine’s approach to lab results: Functional Medicine Focuses on what’s optimal, not just normal. Listens to the whole person (hormone networks), not just the labs. Conventional Medicine Labs are often labeled "normal" if they fall within the wide reference range. No action is taken unless results are severely out of range.   Connect with Shilpa: Website - Sayana Medical  Instagram - @sayanamedical YouTube - @SayanaMedical Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Smart Movement for Aging Better with Lara Heimann Next Episode - Can We Just Stop the Self Sabotage to Feel Your Best Ever More Like This - Restore Hormones to Factory Settings? More Science for bHRT More Like This - How to Have and Still Thrive with Autoimmunity in Menopause Resources: Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra. Join the Flipping50 Insiders Facebook Group and connect with Debra and the community.  

If there is a way to enhance movement for aging better - whether we’re already exercising or we’re in need of getting started - we’re in!  If you’ve ever said or felt, “every time I start to exercise I get hurt,” this is for you. This episode will also hit you right where you love to exercise.  We know exercise has a major impact on the brain. It’s a dose of clarity, problem solving, creativity. There’s no lack of science to prove the mind-body-and spirit can no longer be separated. They’re an integrated part of all components of wellness. Feeling a little stiff? You may feel better by the end. Know the smart movement for aging better!   My Guest: Lara Heimann is an internationally recognized yoga pioneer, Physical Therapist, and founder of the revolutionary LYT Method®—an evidence-based approach to movement that combines the principles of yoga, physical therapy, and functional movement. Lara’s passion lies in empowering people of all ages to move better, live pain-free, and optimize their physical and mental well-being. Her work has reached thousands of students and teachers across more than 50 countries, transforming lives with her innovative blend of movement science and spiritual connection. She holds a BA in Biological Anthropology and Anatomy and an MS in Physical Therapy from Duke University, along with a Neurodevelopmental Training Certification through Stanford University.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:28:13] Why is moving well so important for aging?  [00:30:28] What are common misconceptions people have about aging and exercise?  [00:18:44] [00:31:10] What role does neuroplasticity play in aging?  [00:21:28] How can people optimize longevity and vitality?   Neuroplasticity & Movement Neuroplasticity is your brain's ability to grow and change Movement “rewires” the brain - you grow your brain from movement. Use developmental movement patterns to re-educate the nervous system. Your brain craves novelty.   Your Guide to Movement for Aging Better The Myth of ‘Aging = Body Decline’ Move more with age, not less. Joint mobility and strength are important as we age. Incorporate movement into daily routines (e.g. cleaning your house, climbing stairs). If you look at people who live long and live well, the one common thing is they're active and stay active. If you're in the middle part of your life and you haven't been active, it's never too late.   Pain & Movement Inefficient movement creates and sustains pain. Move in a smarter way but don’t stop moving.    Key Takeaways Movement rewires the brain. It’s not just about fitness—movement helps with cognition, mood, and longevity. Neuroplasticity isn’t age-limited. You can retrain your brain and body at any age. Already active? You can get even better. Advanced movers have more potential for growth when incorporating neuro-focused training. Repetition isn’t always progress. Novelty challenges your brain and creates stronger, smarter movement patterns. Pain is information, not a stop sign. Pain (not injuries) often lingers due to patterns. New movement can break that cycle. Aging isn’t a reason to scale back, but a cue to level up.   Connect with Lara: Try LYT Yoga: A physical therapy yoga to promote functional movement Link: https://flippingfifty.com/lytyoga Code: Movebetter What’s in it for you? Try it out for $5 for 5 weeks Instagram - @lara.heimann and @lytmethod Facebook - Lara Heimann and The LYT Yoga Method   Other Episodes You Might Like: Next Episode - Is Your Liver Preventing Muscle Growth in Menopause?  More Like This – Yoga Booty, Yoga Belly, and Now Yoga Brain: Better with Yoga   Resources: Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra Join the Flipping50 Insiders Facebook Group and connect with Debra and the community. Get the Flipping 50 STRONGER 12-week program for your at-home safe, sane, simple exercises.    

In this episode, we answer the questions you might have about common and lesser-known autoimmune diseases: whether you are more prone during menopause, how hormonal changes may impact autoimmunity, some of the easiest lifestyle changes you can implement starting today, and perhaps most importantly that you are not alone.  My guest today will share his unique experience with both arthritis and something I’ve dealt with in clients, spondyloarthritis. As a physician and a patient of arthritis, he has a very unique perspective on autoimmunity in menopause.   My Guest: Dr. Micah Yu is an integrative rheumatologist who incorporates complementary medicine with traditional rheumatology. He is triple board-certified in Rheumatology, Internal Medicine and Lifestyle Medicine. He obtained his MD from Chicago Medical School and holds a Masters in Healthcare Administration and Biomedical sciences. He completed his internal medicine residency and rheumatology fellowship at Loma Linda University in Southern California. He is a graduate of the Andrew Weil Integrative Medicine Fellowship at the University of Arizona. In addition, he is certified in functional medicine through the Institute of Functional Medicine. He is able to understand his patient’s medical problems from a patient perspective. The foundation of his practice is to combine allopathic medicine with complementary medicine. He works with his patients to come up with a treatment plan that not only fights the disease but also is aligned with his patient’s goals.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:05:16] What is rheumatoid arthritis vs other types of arthritis? [00:16:00] How can people use integrative medicine to help with their autoimmunity? [00:18:21] Do people have to go on medications when they get diagnosed with a rheumatic disease? [00:26:01] Is there any connection whatsoever with post -exercise soreness and autoimmune response? [00:27:24] How will a plant-based diet sustain muscle? Don’t Let Autoimmunity in Menopause Hold You Back What are the different Arthritis Disease? Gout NOT an autoimmune arthritis and NOT wear and tear. It’s an arthritis that’s inflammatory that’s caused by uric acid deposition in the joints. Usually comes out as a single joint (e.g. big toe, knee) and get repeated over time. Rheumatoid Arthritis IS an autoimmune arthritis. Can attack multiple joints (e.g. fingers, toes, shoulders, elbows, knee) Usually come up with swelling, retinas, stiffness of the joints. Predominant in females Spondyloarthritis Overall arching term of different arthritis (e.g. psoriatic arthritis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis) Usually comes out in fingers, TMJ (temporomandibular joints), elbows, shoulders, knees, feet, ankles.   What is the medication for autoimmune disease? Depends on the background, beliefs, and severity of the disease. Some may use medications, others may use alternative medicines, supplements and therapists.   What is a Whole Food Plant Based Diet (WFPB)? Helped Dr. Micah with pain remission after 2 months Whole foods include beans, organic tofu, edamame, fruits and vegetables. No highly processed vegan protein, soy protein. Soy is included in WFPB Has phytonutrients Decreases breast cancers Use clean unprocessed soy (e.g. organic tofu, edamame) Does not include processed vegan meat Some people may be sensitive to soy.   What are Inflammatory Foods? Ultra-processed foods (e.g. fast food, chips, cookies, cakes, ham, pepperoni). Food with high salt. WHO says that diet must be up to two grams of salt. Seed oils can be inflammatory when used for cooking.   The 2 times in a woman life with more risk of getting autoimmune disease: After giving birth When they go into menopause   Connect with Dr. Micah for the Summit: Join Dr. Micah’s FREE summit on May 12–18, 2025: The Rheumatoid Arthritis and Autoimmunity Symposium Facebook - MYAutoimmuneMD Instagram - @MYAutoimmuneMD Youtube - @MYAutoimmuneMD   Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Is Your Liver Preventing Muscle Growth in Menopause? Next Episode - Smart Movement for Aging Better with Lara Heimann More Like This - Prevent or Reverse Autoimmune Conditions   Resources: Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra.

To support muscle growth in menopause, you need to understand the critical role of liver health.  If you’re struggling with muscle loss and fat gain, your liver is an essential player in the game.  Stick with me as we uncover actionable strategies for boosting liver health and achieving muscle growth in menopause and beyond during this moment in time post pandemic.    My Guest: Sara Banta is a certified Dietary Supplement Professional, member of the National Association of Nutritional Professionals, and founder of Accelerated Health Products, recognized as the Most Innovative Supplement Company. Sara pioneers innovative solutions to support holistic well-being. She empowers others to achieve optimal health through supplements, DNA-based nutrition, and lifestyle changes.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:10:53] How is the liver related to muscle growth in menopause? [00:20:31] How can certain proteins help you reach fitness goals, while others may actually get in the way? [00:22:53] Why are essential amino acids crucial for supporting muscle building? [00:31:21] How can you take care of your liver to help with muscle gain and fat loss? [00:40:20] What are the side effects of GLP-1? [00:42:50] What are safe alternatives to ozempic?   Liver Health's Role in Menopausal Muscle Growth Roles: detox, bile production, hormone regulation, protein metabolism. Chemicals and toxins overload the liver, impairing fat and protein processing.   Protein Intake Challenges & Solutions Protein intake alone isn’t enough without liver support. Women need more protein with age, not less - 1g protein per pound of body weight. Wild animal protein, like bison and venison, are most nutrient dense. Warning against mold and hidden toxins in common protein powders.   Essential Amino Acid Supplements Key ingredients: HMB, Synactive, OKG, TMG - aimed at absorption and recovery Benefits: prevent muscle breakdown, enhance gut health, better protein absorption.   Key Takeaways for Muscle Growth in Menopause: Liver function is foundational for hormone balance, energy, and muscle development during and after menopause. Most women are under-consuming quality protein and not absorbing it effectively due to liver or gut issues. Supplements can be powerful, but they must be clean, effective, and well-formulated—many aren't. Shift your mindset: It's not about shrinking your body but about strengthening it with muscle. Bloat, brain fog, fatigue, and poor recovery may all link back to impaired liver detox and insufficient amino acids. Whole, wild animal proteins are superior due to nutrient density and bioavailability.   Connect with Sara: Get your Accelerated Health Products - Liver Care & Aminos here! Facebook - Accelerated Health Products Instagram - @acceleratedhealthproducts   Other Episodes You Might Like: To Detox and If So How to Detox: Midlife Woman to Midlife Woman Where Protein Recommendations for Women Come From?   Resources: Get your lean, clean Flipping 50 Protein Powders to maintain muscle and support metabolism. Short & Easy Exercise videos in this 5 Day Flip Challenge. Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra.

Do you have breast implants? Have you thought about getting them or do you know others with them?  The conversation about breast implants' impact on health is a real one for a lot of women. We get into all the cases: You have implants and feel fine  You have implants and are feeling symptoms you have just chalked up to menopause  Whether for yourself, or to share with a friend or daughter, this one doesn’t end with breast implants. It only starts there.  Stay all the way to the end for the no-cut facelift details!    My Guest: Dr. Robert Whitfield, MD is AMERICA’S BREAST IMPLANT ILLNESS EXPERT™ with over 25 years of experience as a plastic surgeon and more than 16 years board-certified. He specializes in Breast Implant Illness (BII), explant surgery, and advanced cosmetic procedures like his signature “No-Cut” Facelift. He is also the creator of SHARP (Strategic Holistic Accelerated Recovery Program)—a protocol designed to reduce inflammation and support both pre- and post-surgical healing. Dr. Whitfield earned his medical degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, followed by surgical training and a plastic surgery residency at Indiana University Medical Center, and a microsurgery fellowship in Nevada. He later taught at the Medical College of Wisconsin before moving to Austin in 2012. He began private practice in 2017.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:07:42] What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)? [00:08:01] What are the BII signs and symptoms? [00:08:43] Why does BII occur, and how common is it? [00:15:36] What to do if you suspect you have BII? What tests are available? Is there a holistic approach? [00:22:52] Is it covered by insurance?  [00:22:36] How is BII treated? [00:30:11] What is the No-cut Facelift?   What is Breast Implant Illness (BII)? Chronic inflammatory response to breast implants. Implants are foreign bodies which may cause ~29% chance of bacterial contamination, not mold.   What are the Symptoms? Brain fog Fatigue and loss of motivation Gastrointestinal issues (e.g. bloating) Joint pain Hormonal imbalance Thyroid dysfunction   What to Do If You Suspect BII? Educate yourself through long-form content and patient stories Consider testing for: Detox capabilities Hormonal panels Gut health and infections Look into explant surgery with comprehensive detox and recovery (e.g. SHARP protocol)   The No-Cut Facelift Designed to lift and rejuvenate without surgery or visible scars The Procedure: Fiber optics for deep neck tightening FaceTite (radiofrequency tightening beneath the skin) Micro-coring: removes tiny pieces of skin to tighten surface without visible scars Benefits: Natural results with minimal scarring Boosts collagen production Customizable depending on the patient’s skin, hormones, and detox status   Key Takeaways BII is real and often overlooked, frequently mistaken for menopause or autoimmune disorders. Chronic inflammation and bacterial contamination (not mold) are major culprits. A new biomarker test (oxylipin 10-HOME) could soon improve diagnosis. Personal genetics, lifestyle, and environmental exposure significantly influence risk. Explant surgery should be holistic, addressing toxins, hormones, and gut health before and after. No-Cut Facelift, a minimally invasive facial rejuvenation, is a safer, scar-free alternative to traditional facelifts, emphasizing natural results.   Connect with Dr. Robert: Website of Dr. Robert Facebook - Dr. Robert Whitfield Instagram - @breastimplantillnessexpert YouTube - @breastimplantillnessexpert Podcast - Apple Podcasts - Explant Breast Surgery & Recovery   Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Is This Perimenopause or Something Else? More Like This - Younger for Life with America’s Holistic Plastic Surgeon®   Resources: Short & Easy Exercise videos in this 5 Day Flip Challenge. Get the planner to track your menopause health habits with the 90 Day Planner: Tracking the Flip. Get ready to lift, tone, and turn heads with the The Ultimate Glute Challenge. Flip the switch on your midlife metabolism with the Metabolism Makeover 2.0.  

Do you wonder “Is this perimenopause?” Do you wonder what it looks and feels like? Get information on how to adjust and alter your exercise when you are.   My Guest: Abby Chitty, a single mom with 5 kids between 15 and 24. She owns her own business as a realtor. We met on Instagram and I invited her to be a guest in this unique episode where we’re doing a coaching call and you get to listen over the fence.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:05:15] What does perimenopause look like for asymptomatic women over 50?  [00:20:00] What changes do we need to make to our workout routine?  [00:25:00] If asymptomatic, how do we know if we’re moving through the stages and how then do we judge what changes to make?   What’s Showing Up for Abby? Gaining 20 lbs slowly post-kids, despite a healthy lifestyle. Feeling frustrated when traditional diet and exercise weren’t effective anymore. Friends telling you might be “doing too much” in terms of fitness. 5 days/week strength training Seasonal long-distance running (up to 30K) Uses YouTube programs with fast-paced, minimal-rest formats Occasional yoga/mobility work Exercises to failure, prefers lifting heavy   Time to Flip the Switch with Abby: Overtraining & Recovery Benefit from less frequent but heavier strength sessions Incorporating rest + slower tempo lifting could help. Recovery may be insufficient—without it, muscle building stalls. Running & Cortisol Long runs + strength + possible fasting = cortisol overload. Midlife women are more vulnerable to stress and hormonal shifts. Lower estrogen increases cortisol response, impacting body composition. Sleep & Metabolism Sleep deprivation is linked to stubborn weight and reduced muscle recovery. Abby averages 5.5–6.5 hours of sleep, with limited REM/deep sleep. Need more sleep to trigger growth hormone/testosterone release. Supplements Try specific forms (glycinate or L-threonate) and gradually increase the dose. Abby uses magnesium oil and a multivitamin with magnesium. Nutrition A little caloric deficit is okay, but eat enough. Not doing it too long creates stress. Reintroduce sweet potatoes. Carbs with high fiber at night will help us sleep better.   Key Takeaways to Know Is This Perimenopause? You might be in perimenopause without classic symptoms: Weight gain and sleep disruption can be early signs. More isn’t always better in midlife exercise: Volume should decrease, intensity (with recovery) can rise. Muscle preservation is crucial: It drives metabolism and health outcomes more than weight alone. Sleep matters just as much as workouts: It affects hormonal balance, recovery, and fat loss. Cortisol and insulin sensitivity shift in midlife: Long-distance cardio and fasting a tricky combo. Smart scale stats are more telling than BMI: Body composition paints a clearer health picture. Personalized magnesium dosing: May improve sleep and aid recovery in midlife.   Connect with Abby: Instagram - @abbysmarket   Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Energy Crashes & Stubborn Belly Fat After 40 (and what to do about it) Next Episode - Breast Implants and No-Cut Facelifts - the Surgeon with Answers More Like This – Weight Gain in Perimenopause and Menopause   Resources: Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra Join the Flipping50 Insiders Facebook Group and connect with Debra and the community. Understand how sleep relates to your hormones, muscle mass and weight loss with Flipping 50 Sleep Yourself Skinny   

Dealing with stubborn belly fat after 40 is reality for many women. It may happen in your 40s, 50’s, 60s or even 70s. And no one… not even an 87 yo likes it.  My guest reminded me there is no “pre” … there is diabetes.  So let that be a wake up call. We can’t control aging. We can over control carbs to the point blood sugar levels spike. You heard that right. We can fast so long blood sugar levels spike.  Learn more surprising insight inside this episode. Stay to the end for an invite to a free summit coming up regarding blood sugar levels too.    My Guest: Dr. Nana Ama Quansah is a Root Cause Care Practitioner, Pharmacist, and Blood Sugar Optimization Expert dedicated to helping high-achievers reclaim their energy, focus, and health. As the founder of Ditch Diabetes Academy, she empowers individuals to stabilize blood sugar and put type 2 diabetes in remission without restrictive diets or overwhelm through her international online programs. With a Doctor of Pharmacy degree and experience spanning Fortune 500 healthcare companies, hospitals, and personalized coaching, Dr. Nana bridges the gap between conventional medicine and root-cause healing. She’s been featured on global podcasts and international TV, sharing insights on reversing blood sugar imbalances naturally.   Questions We Answer in This Episode: [00:05:22] Why does blood sugar matter (even if you’re not diabetic)? [00:08:55] What are the hidden signs of blood sugar imbalance women should watch for? [00:12:42] What are some so-called 'healthy habits' that backfire and make blood sugar issues worse? [00:16:20] What’s going on under the surface?  [00:21:49] Why do we need to go deeper with comprehensive functional testing? [00:26:39] What are the simple shifts for better blood sugar balance to help them now if they feel stuck.   Unlocking the Blood Sugar Connection to Stubborn Belly Fat After 40 Blood sugar affects every system in the body—brain function, muscle energy, mood, and sleep.  Daily spikes in blood sugar can cause fatigue, cravings, and brain fog—even in "healthy eaters."   Common Hidden Signs of Blood Sugar Imbalance Afternoon energy crashes Cravings Brain fog Poor sleep Mood swings Hormonal shifts (especially around menopause or PCOS) These symptoms are the body’s “whispers” that something’s off.   Healthy Habits That Might Be Hurting You Skipping meals or prolonged fasting can worsen hormonal imbalance. Drinking coffee without food increases cortisol and leads to crashes later. Low-carb diets can backfire by raising stress and depriving your gut of fiber-rich, insulin-balancing foods. Eliminating carbs without strategy = increased cravings, mood issues, and stalled fat loss.   What Actually Helps Stabilize Blood Sugar Eat a protein-rich breakfast—especially before coffee. Focus on fiber-rich carbs like veggies, nuts, chia, and flax instead of slashing carbs. Don’t ignore stress and sleep—they’re as important as food. Aim for balance, not restriction.   Key Takeaways: Blood sugar imbalance is common and sneaky—even in women without diabetes. Listening to your body is the first test—trust what it tells you. Insulin resistance is the doorway to metabolic issues—even if you're just in the “pre-diabetic” zone. Blood sugar dysfunction affects belly fat, energy, brain clarity, and long-term health. Connect with Dr. Nana: Join the Redefining Diabetes Summit on April 21-29th 2025. Register here: https://ditchdiabetesacademy.com/flipping50 Facebook - Ditch Diabetes Academy Instagram - @dr.nanapharmd YouTube - @dr.nanapharmd TikTok - @dr.nanapharmd   Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Whole Body Vibration for Women over 50 Next Episode - Is This Perimenopause or Something Else? More Like This - Walking Off Weight in Menopause | Controlling Blood Sugar   Resources: Join the Flipping50 Membership for evidence-based workout programs. Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra. Grab the FREE GUIDE to know the root causes of sugar cravings and Type 2 Diabetes with strategies to improve your health.