The mindbodygreen Podcast

Wendy Troxel, a licensed clinical psychologist and behavioral sleep medicine specialist, shares insights on the crucial role sleep plays in relationships and overall health. She highlights how poor sleep can impact sexual health and emotional connections in couples. The discussion includes coping strategies for sleep disturbances during menopause, the significance of sleep etiquette, and the need for better school start times for teens. Troxel also touches on the benefits of wearables in tracking sleep quality, emphasizing the connection between sleep and emotional well-being.

Sara Reardon, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and a board-certified pelvic floor specialist, aims to demystify pelvic floor health. She discusses common misconceptions women face, emphasizing that many symptoms are not just normal. The conversation includes the truth about Kegels, the balance between strengthening and relaxation, and the significance of breath in pelvic health. Reardon also highlights pelvic floor care across different decades and the critical role of hormone replacement therapy, advocating for better awareness and education in women's health.

Colleen Cutcliffe, Ph.D., a biochemist, microbiologist, and co-founder of Pendulum Therapeutics, discusses how improving your gut microbiome can enhance metabolism. She explains the importance of Akkermansia, a beneficial bacterium, in boosting GLP-1 levels naturally. Listeners learn about gut-supporting foods, the impact of diet on microbial diversity, and the consequences of antibiotics on gut health. Cutcliffe also touches on the future of microbiome science, including exciting advancements like next-generation probiotics and fecal transplants.

In this engaging conversation, Steve Magness, a best-selling author and performance coach for elite athletes, delves into the synergy between excellence and fulfillment. He discusses how meaning in life and resilient connections pave the way for true success. Steve offers insights on channeling obsession without burnout and highlights lessons from elite athletes. He advocates for authentic connection as a path to reducing fear and emphasizes the importance of role modeling in raising resilient kids. Dive into a rich exploration of personal growth and well-being!

Andy Galpin, Ph.D., a kinesiology professor and executive director at Parker University, dives deep into the world of VO2 max, emphasizing it's the top predictor of lifespan. He shares how to quickly improve this vital health metric through tailored workouts. Alongside other experts, they explore heart rate zones versus perceived effort, the impact of sprint interval training, and the surprising benefits of brief, high-intensity workouts. Listeners receive actionable tips for training effectively while avoiding injuries, all aimed at promoting longevity.

Amy Shah, M.D., a double board-certified physician and bestselling author, shares her expertise on nutrition and integrative medicine. She discusses the surprising benefits of superfoods like kiwi and saffron for mood and hormones. Learn about the impact of cocoa flavanols on heart health, the distinctions between hunger and cravings, and how to enhance sleep quality. Shah also emphasizes the importance of movement—particularly walking—and practical tips for staying satiated and healthy through mindful eating.

Delve into the transformative potential of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women and its profound impact on long-term health. Learn about the flawed study that shaped public perception and why it's time to rethink HRT. Experts discuss the different types of hormone therapies, the benefits they offer, and even touch on testosterone replacement for men. The conversation highlights the importance of proactive health management and empowers listeners to advocate for their personal health choices.

Jason Karp, Founder & CEO of HumanCo and Hu Kitchen, shares his journey towards simplifying health in a world that complicates it. He emphasizes the transformative power of real food and the benefits of slowing down. Karp discusses the fertility crisis and the often-overlooked impact of stress and connection on well-being. He sheds light on food dyes and seed oils, advocating for a shift in our food systems. Join him in exploring how common sense and intuition can guide healthier eating choices.

Gabrielle Lyon, a functional medicine physician, emphasizes the necessity of muscle for women's health. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon, challenges traditional views of being 'toned' and advocates for heavier lifting. Bill Campbell discusses the ideal frequency of workouts for optimal muscle growth, while Don Layman provides insights on daily protein needs for muscle maintenance. The experts foster a mindset shift from fat loss to muscle building, highlighting the broader benefits of strength training, especially for women in midlife.

Kevin Tracey, M.D., a renowned neurosurgeon and scientist, dives into the fascinating world of the vagus nerve. He discusses its critical role in regulating inflammation and its connection to heart health. Tracey explains how technologies like vagus nerve implants could revolutionize treatment for conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. He also shares insights on lifestyle practices to enhance vagal tone, including the surprising benefits of cold plunges. Get ready to rethink your approach to healing and wellness!