Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Health, and Science for Women 35+

I am happy to connect with Coach Bronson Dant today. He has spent over a decade guiding and training people in health and fitness. He discovered the benefits of a whole-food, animal-based ketogenic diet for optimizing metabolic health and performance, and wrote The Ultimate Ketogenic Fitness Book. In our discussion today, we dive into the powerful story of Coach Bronson’s pain-to-purpose journey. We explore the value of mindset and examine how age-related changes impact muscle, inflammation, and metabolic flexibility. He shares his three pillars of muscle health related to nutrient density, bioavailability, and satiety, and we examine the importance of sleep, the impact of extremes in exercise, and the value of stress management. We also unravel the complexities of weight loss resistance, and Coach Bronson discusses his research from the Journal of Nutrition Metabolism and Health Science, sharing his perspective on macros and functional movement in menopausal women. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Coach Bronson shares his three pillars for nutrition The limitations of basing nutrition on calories alone How the hormone piece impacts effective weight management How to avoid physical deterioration through fitness and nutrition Why Coach Bronson advocates for living life to the fullest and dying quickly How does muscle mass impact metabolic health? The importance of taking a balanced approach to weight loss How sleep aids muscle recovery and growth  Stress management, nutrition, and fitness for overall well-being How alcohol affects our health and fitness The benefits of combining functional movement training and proper nutrition for older adults  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠ Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Bronson Dant On his ⁠website⁠  ⁠YouTube⁠ and ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠The Ultimate Ketogenic Fitness Bundle⁠

Today, I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Austin Perlmutter, a board-certified internal medicine physician, New York Times bestselling author, researcher, educator, podcaster, and entrepreneur. He is on a mission to help people get their brains unstuck for better mental and cognitive health.  In our conversation today, we explore brain inflammation and its connection to longevity, the differences between acute and chronic inflammation, the influence of environmental factors, and how exposure to negative news and biases can elevate stress and affect our brain health. We examine how consumer culture promotes stress and disconnection, and we unpack the immune-metabolic effects of estrogen and its impact on neuroplasticity and our ability to learn. We also focus on the role of nutrition and nutraceuticals, and we discuss the relationship between the brain, gut, and the vagus nerve. This discussion with Dr. Austin Perlmutter is rich and insightful, and I look forward to welcoming him back for further exploration into the science and research. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why brain inflammation becomes an issue for many women as they navigate middle age and beyond How inflammation leads to constant changes in our cognitive and mental state Various environmental factors and other inputs that could influence brain inflammation Some easy ways to positively impact your brain health and cognition How chronic stress affects the brain How the gut microbiome and the gut immune system influence cognitive and mental health The long-term health benefits of avoiding processed foods and following a Mediterranean diet  The importance of being conscientious and purposeful about the quality of the foods you eat Dr. Perlmutter shares easy and cost-effective ways to improve your cognitive, mental, and overall health Bio: Dr. Austin Perlmutter is a board-certified internal medicine physician, New York Times bestselling author, published researcher, and a leading expert on how lifestyle and environmental factors impact mental health. His mission is to help people reclaim their mental and physical health by addressing the biological basis of “stuckness” that disrupts brain function and emotional balance. He is a co-producer of the Alzheimer’s: The Science of Prevention series and the host of the Better Brain Blueprint series, where he provides actionable strategies to support brain resilience. Dr. Perlmutter currently serves as the Managing Director at Big Bold Health, a food-as-medicine company focused on helping people rejuvenate health through better immune function, where he has published a pioneering study exploring the effects of plant nutrients on human aging through epigenetics. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Austin Perlmutter On his website On social media: @draustinperlmutter Find out more about the research on immuno-metabolism pathways  Big Bold Health on social media: @bigboldhealth

We have the second episode in a series of conversations with Dr. Thomas Dayspring today.  The esteemed Dr. Dayspring is an expert on internal medicine and clinical lipidology. In this episode, we continue with our last conversation, diving into Lp(a) and the influences of gender, race, and menopause. We explain how estrogen is a PCSK9 inhibitor and explore the significance of brain health and risks for dementia. We tackle cholesterol synthesis and discuss the side effects of statins, clarifying who is most susceptible to their impact on the brain. We also examine the significance of the desmosterol biomarker, highlighting the level to aim for, especially when making decisions regarding cholesterol medications, and we answer one question from a listener.  You may want to listen to this insightful conversation with the renowned Dr. Dayspring more than once. He has graciously agreed to return and film additional episodes, where we will dive into more questions from listeners.  IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why Lp(a) is like a wolf in sheep's clothing for many individuals How Lp(a) levels are higher in African Americans and women, especially after menopause  Dr. Dayspring highlights that Lp(a) particles are even more pro-inflammatory than LDL particles How PCSK9 inhibitors are the only drugs that significantly reduce Lp(a) Why do women have a higher risk of dementia than men? Dr. Dayspring explains ApoE as the key lipoprotein for brain cholesterol transport. How statins cross the blood-brain barrier to lower brain cholesterol Why desmosterol levels matter New therapies that can lower ApoB and Lp(a) Why imaging is essential for menopausal women with elevated ApoB and Lp(a) Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring On X (@Drlipid) On LinkedIn Journal Article: Atherosclerosis: Non-genetic influences on lipoprotein(a) concentrations  Journal of the American Heart Association: Trajectories of Blood Lipid Profiles in Midlife Women: Does Menopause Matter?

We have another episode in our series of sponsored podcasts today, with brands I like, know, and trust. I am delighted to reconnect with Angelo Keely, the founder and CEO of Kion, a supplement company that focuses on helping people look good, feel young, and be strong. In our discussion today, Angelo explains essential aminos, highlighting their importance and clarifying how to differentiate between various protein powders and other forms of protein. We explore the significance of bioavailability, anabolic resistance, and changes in body composition, discussing how protein needs increase with age and how dieting and caloric restriction can augment our protein requirements. We also cover the results of intermittent fasting, examining how sleep, stress, and lifestyle requirements can change with menopause. I regularly take Kion essential amino acids. They have generously offered a discount for our community. Use the link in the show notes to get 20% off your next Kion purchase. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The importance of eating sufficient protein as you age How various protein sources, such as animal protein, plant protein, whey protein, and essential amino acids, differ Strategies to buffer your protein intake and support your body as you navigate middle age and beyond Why Leucine is vital for muscle protein synthesis Why you should only source your amino acid supplements from trusted brands that follow the science How much protein do you need to maintain your body composition as you age? Why sleep is crucial for muscle protein synthesis How supplementing with essential amino acids helps you maintain your muscle mass throughout your life   The benefits of body scans for a better understanding of your body composition Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Angelo Keely Get a 20% discount on Kion products

I am deeply honored to reconnect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring, who joined me in 2024 for an immensely popular five-part series. Dr. Dayspring is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology. He is a distinguished fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association.  Today, we have the first episode in a new series of conversations with Dr. Dayspring, in which he will share more of his perspective and answer more questions from listeners. In our discussion, we review the basics about cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoproteins, exploring the factors that contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease, the significance of ApoB and Lp(a), and the risk factors for younger women. We also dive into the limitations of traditional allopathic medicines, and Dr. Dayspring shares his views on lipids, lipid changes in menopause, specific ways to address ApoB, some of the challenges associated with statin therapy, and more.  Dr. Dayspring brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this discussion, and you are sure to find this series as invaluable as the last. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Dayspring revisits the differences between cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipoproteins What atherosclerosis is, and why it is concerning Dr. Dayspring explains the structure and function of lipoproteins The role of ApoB in lipoprotein particles and its significance in atherosclerosis Some of the risk factors for lipid abnormalities in younger women Lipid changes that occur as women transition from perimenopause to menopause  Dr. Dayspring shares his take on statin therapy Ways to address high ApoB Dr. Dayspring’s suggested goals for ApoB therapy Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on ⁠X⁠, ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠ Submit your questions to ⁠support@cynthiathurlow.com⁠ Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring On⁠ X⁠ (@Drlipid) On⁠ LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Journal Article: Atherosclerosis: Non-genetic influences on lipoprotein(a) concentrations⁠  ⁠Journal of the American Heart Association: Trajectories of Blood Lipid Profiles in Midlife Women: Does Menopause Matter?⁠  

In this engaging conversation, Michael Royshin Sapiro, an ordained Zen Buddhist monk and clinical psychologist, delves into the healing potential of acknowledging trauma as a disconnection from the present. He explains how chronic stress shapes the nervous system and emphasizes the importance of cultural influences on personal growth. Sapiro shares powerful practices for reconnecting with one's true self, addressing the impact of ego and utilizing psychedelic therapy for deeper healing. His insights on self-acceptance and emotional honesty resonate deeply.

I am delighted to have the privilege of reconnecting with Dr. Deb Matthew today. She joined me once before in Episode 259. She is a distinguished best-selling author, international speaker, and dedicated educator known as the Happy Hormone Doctor.  Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women in the United States, causing one of every 3.2 deaths among women annually. In our conversation today, Dr. Matthew and I delve into the realm of cardiovascular disease, exploring the benefits of hormone replacement therapy, essential laboratory testing, medications, and the neurocognitive changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause. We also focus on lifestyle, gut testing, and the all-time favorite topic of weight loss resistance.  Stay tuned for today’s engaging, enriching, and enlightening discussion with Dr. Deb Matthew. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How HRT reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease  How long-term use of estrogen can reduce the risk of heart disease over time Why should you do a hormone panel before starting HRT? How cortisol levels impact cardiovascular health How the coronary calcium score helps to predict heart attack risk Cholesterol markers and their significance in cardiovascular risk assessment Managing cholesterol levels in perimenopausal women The importance of addressing underlying hormonal imbalances in women to mitigate cognitive decline and lipid disorders The connection between gut health and brain fog How women’s testosterone levels impact their cognition and motivation Hormone imbalance and weight loss resistance in women  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on ⁠Twitter⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠. Submit your questions to ⁠support@cynthiathurlow.com⁠. Connect with Dr. Deb Matthew On her ⁠website⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Dr. Deb Mathew’s book ⁠This is Not Normal on Amazon⁠ or ⁠download the ebook⁠  Previous Episode featuring Dr. Matthew ⁠Ep. 295: HRT’s Impact on Women’s Health Through Time with Dr. Deb Matthew

Join Dr. Vonda Wright, an esteemed expert in Aging and Longevity, as she challenges common misconceptions about aging. She reveals how hormonal changes during menopause affect muscle quality and the crucial role of exercise in maintaining vitality. Discover the science behind Klotho, the longevity protein, and how active living can improve health outcomes. Dr. Wright also highlights the impact of gut health on musculoskeletal wellness and shares innovative strategies for thriving in midlife. Her insights are a game changer for anyone navigating this life stage!

We have the first episode in a series of thyroid-focused podcasts today. In this episode, Dr. Anshul Gupta, Dr. Carrie Jones, and McCall McPherson join me to explore why Hashimoto’s tends to become problematic for women during perimenopause and menopause, and the root causes that drive it. We explore molecular mimicry, the effects of heavy metals, mycotoxins, mold, and other toxins on the thyroid, and explain how perimenopause impacts thyroid gland and immune system function. We cover non-thyroidal illness syndrome and cellular hypothyroidism, also focusing on Graves’ disease, which is due to a hyperactive thyroid gland, highlighting the standard of care it receives, preferred medications, and low-dose naltrexone. Dr. Anshul Gupta explains why so many women with thyroid issues are unknowingly living with Hashimoto’s. He outlines the five root causes of Hashimoto’s, especially during perimenopause and menopause, highlighting the importance of addressing the underlying autoimmune process rather than simply replacing hormones.  Dr. Carrie Jones explains why thyroid dysfunction in women often emerges during major hormonal transitions like perimenopause. She also points out that many cases of hypothyroidism involve issues that we cannot resolve with medication alone. McCall McPherson discusses the challenges of diagnosing and treating Graves’ disease, which is often overlooked or mistaken for psychiatric issues. She explains the importance of proper testing, sharing some therapeutic approaches that can help stabilize thyroid function and calm the immune system. You will not want to miss this invaluable compilation of powerful insights from three leading thyroid health experts. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Anshul Gupta On his website YouTube and other social media (@AnshulGuptaMD) Connect with Dr. Carrie Jones On her website Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Connect with McCall McPherson Modern Thyroid Clinic On Instagram and TikTok Modern Thyroid and Wellness Podcast Thyroid Lab Guide Ep. 267 Hashimoto's: What Is It and How It Impacts Our Health with Dr. Anshul Gupta Ep 241 Mitochondria, and the impact of hormone imbalances in perimenopause and menopause with Dr. Carrie Jones Ep. 282 Thyroid Health: Hormones, Medications & Weight Loss with McCall McPherson

Today, we have another episode in our series of thoughtfully curated companies. This episode is sponsored by OneSkin, a company founded and led by an all-female team of PhD-level scientists. OneSkin is redefining how we think about aging, starting with the skin, our largest organ. I am delighted to introduce Dr. Alessandra Zonari as our guest today. Dr. Zonari is far from your typical scientist. She is a true visionary with a passion for longevity, skin regeneration, and an occasional karaoke jam. With degrees in biology and stem cell biology and a doctorate in skin regeneration and tissue engineering, Dr. Zonari brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to our conversation today. Join us to learn more about OneSkin and how their products can reverse the effects of biological aging, helping your skin become stronger and more resilient as you age. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Zonari shares her mission to understand how skin can age healthier and stronger and reduce the risk of inflammation and diseases.  How the female-led research team at OneSkin brings a unique perspective to skincare How the OneSkin peptide can reverse 2.5 years of biological aging in just five days The unique way in which they test their products and measure biological aging at OneSkin  How estradiol loss during menopause exacerbates the accumulation of senescent cells and causes inflammation Some common misconceptions about skincare for women in perimenopause and menopause How lifestyle choices influence the aging process of the skin  Why we must protect the skin from environmental stressors to slow the aging process  How your skin cells can get reprogrammed to return to a youthful state How OneSkin developed a hair care line to address hair loss and thinning The importance of self-love and nourishing your body  ABOUT OneSkin:  Founded and led by an all-woman team of PhD-level scientists, OneSkin is transforming the way we think about aging, starting with the body’s largest organ, the skin. Our proprietary OS-01 (oh ess one) peptide is the first ingredient to reverse the biological age of skin by targeting cellular senescence, a key driver of aging. By targeting cellular senescence, the OS-01 peptide switches off the damaged cells that contribute to lines, wrinkles, and sagging skin. The result? Skin that looks and behaves younger. Our products are designed for young and mature skin, because it is never too early or too late to invest in your skin health! We create next-level skin care. BIO: Alessandra Zonari, PhD, OneSkin Co-Founder & CSO Alessandra is not your typical scientist. She is a visionary with a passion for longevity, skin regeneration, and the occasional karaoke jam. Growing up in a close-knit family in Brazil, Alessandra saw her grandparents struggle with age-related diseases, and she soon became fascinated by the possibility of using stem cells to redefine the aging process. After earning degrees in biology and stem cell biology and a doctorate in skin regeneration and tissue engineering, Alessandra joined OneSkin in 2017 as a founding member and Chief Scientific Officer. Her contributions include 20+ papers, three patents, and the development of their proprietary OS-01 peptide. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on ⁠X⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ & ⁠LinkedIn⁠ Check out Cynthia’s ⁠website⁠ Submit your questions to ⁠support@cynthiathurlow.com⁠ Connect with Dr. Alessandra Zonari On the ONESKIN⁠ website⁠ ONESKIN on⁠ Instagram⁠ Interested in trying OneSkin for yourself? Visit⁠ oneskin.co/CYNTHIA⁠ and use code CYNTHIA for 15% off your first purchase!