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

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with an exceptional friend and colleague, McCall McPherson! McCall’s profound expertise in thyroid health has paved the way for a revolutionary approach to functional medicine. As the visionary behind the cutting-edge Modern Thyroid Clinic in Austin, Texas, and a former TEDx speaker, she joins me to discuss the intricate differences between Grave’s Disease and Hashimoto's. In this episode, we also delve into the unique treatment methods of the Modern Thyroid Clinic and the crucial role of comprehensive lab work support. Our conversation ventures into disordered eating, the detrimental effects of yo-yo dieting, and the starvation diet mentality, emphasizing the significance of metabolic potency. We also explore the impact of synthetic oral contraceptives, the importance of informed consent in hormone resets, and the merits of hormone replacement therapy. My discussion with McCall encompasses a wide range of strategies that include the utilization of low-dose Naltrexone, GLP-one agonists, fasting techniques, and the pervasive effects of fear-driven food restrictions and weight loss resistance. Join me as I share our enlightening conversation that promises to leave you informed and inspired!IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What is Grave’s Disease, and how is it treated? What are the symptoms of Grave’s Disease? What they do at the Modern Thyroid Clinic to reduce Grave’s antibodies. How Naltrexone acts in the body, and what it does for thyroid patients. McCall discusses the supplements she uses for thyroid and explains why she will not use compounded thyroid medication. How disordered eating has crept into the intermittent fasting space. How the hormonal shifts during perimenopause can lead to weight gain. Why is it essential to allow blood sugar to drop, retrain itself, and tap into your fat stores? McCall discusses the labs she prefers using for individuals with some degree of weight loss resistance or presumed metabolic inflexibility. What is the net impact of oral contraceptives? Some common reasons for women becoming weight loss resistant. McCall shares her perspective on iodine. About McCallMcCall McPherson is the Founder of Modern Thyroid Clinic, a thyroid-centered functional medicine practice in Austin, Texas, and the owner and Chief-Hope-Giver of Thyroid Nation. She is a physician assistant, TEDx speaker, and thyroid expert by way of being a thyroid patient. Her passion is helping women rebuild their lives from the devastating effects of thyroid and hormonal disorders. Her philosophy is simple: There is no reason to still have thyroid symptoms.Connect with Cynthia ThurlowFollow on TwitterInstagramLinkedInCheck out Cynthia’s websiteConnect with McCall McPhersonOn her websiteOn FacebookTikTokYouTubeInstagramSign up for McCall’s courses

Today, I am excited to connect with Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician certified to practice health optimization medicine. He is the COO of Troscriptions, a range of physician-formulated, pharmaceutical-grade precision-dosed supplements containing innovative ingredients like methylene blue, with various formulas for energy, focus, sleep, stress, immune support, and more.Our discussion today focuses on the GABAergic system, the parasympathetic system, and maladaptive responses to stress. We explore the importance of GABA and its interaction with progesterone, looking at the impact of stress, lifestyle, alcohol, and benzodiazepines on GABA health. Dr Sherr also explains the role of methylene blue and shares his insights on supplements that support GABA. This insightful show is the first in a series of valuable and informative podcasts with Dr. Sherr.IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Sherr describes the autonomic nervous system, highlighting the sympathetic (fight or flight) and parasympathetic (rest and digest) systems. The two major types of GABA receptors, GABA A and GABA B, and their roles in the brain How GABA calms the firing of neurons and regulates information processing The link between GABA deficiency and conditions like depression, anxiety, and insomnia How progesterone increases GABA tone and leads to better sleep Why women need to support the GABA system during perimenopause and menopause Lifestyle strategies to support the GABA system How most GABA supplements are too large to cross the blood-brain barrier Why GABA supplements can work for those who have leaky gut or brain How alcohol negatively impacts the GABA system How methylene blue enhances mitochondrial function Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Scott Sherr Dr. Scott Sherr on Instagram Home Hope Troscriptions Troscriptions on Instagram

I am thrilled today to connect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Elizabeth Chance, who is double board-certified as a facial plastic surgeon and a reconstructive surgeon. Dr. Chance has dedicated her career to the art and science of esthetic surgery. In our conversation today, we dive into skin aging and reframe the aging process. We explain how we lose 30% of our collagen in the first five years of menopause and an added 2.1% in each following year. We explore the impact of supplements and collagen peptides, looking at the listener concerns, like scar revisions, under-eye wrinkles, neck laxity, and topical skincare, and the benefits of estrogen-specific interventions like neuromodulators, hyaluronic acid biostimulants, and resurfacing lasers. You will love this enlightening conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Chance.IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Skin changes that occur during menopause Why early preventative measures are essential How genetics and ethnicity impact skin aging What are the benefits of collagen supplements? Dr. Chance outlines her approach to treating old scars and discusses the complexities of treating under-eye wrinkles How antioxidants, retinoids, and sunscreen help maintain skin quality How minimally invasive treatments improve skin laxity The importance of continuing skincare down to the neck and chest The benefits of topical estrogen in postmenopausal and perimenopausal skincare How to determine the depth and know which areas to avoid with CO2 laser treatments The importance of setting realistic expectations for treatment outcomes Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Chance  On her website Instagram

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Nicole LePera, the Holistic Psychologist. Dr. LePera did her clinical psychology training at Cornell University. She has touched the lives of countless individuals seeking growth and transformation through her popular Instagram account and has written several self-help books, including How to Do the Work and How to Be the Love You Seek. In our discussion today, we dive into the current impact of our childhood experiences, exploring crises of faith, the dark night of the soul, inner child archetypes, and shame. Dr. LePera sheds light on the dynamics of dysfunctional patterns, triggers, and regression while also examining the role of generational and systemic beliefs, trauma, and the emerging science of heart-brain coherence and heart rate variability, sharing practical tips for cultivating presence in our bodies to assist us in processing our emotions.Dr. LePera's work has been profoundly instrumental in my personal development journey, and I know you will find our conversation enlightening and enriching. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the subconscious mind determines our habits and relationships Dr LePera explains the concept of the dark night of the soul The importance of examining your conditioned behaviors and reconnecting with your true identity  How inner child archetypes impact behavior Why is self-development essential? How our past experiences shape the way we perceive and interpret current events The benefit of embodiment practices for developing emotional tolerance How childhood trauma impacts physical and mental health The impact of intergenerational trauma on mental health How to achieve heart coherence Dr. LePera shares mindfulness practices for stress management and self-awareness Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Nicole LePera On her website How to Be The Love You Seek  On Instagram YouTube TikTok X

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Dr Amie Hornaman. She is a popular and frequent guest on the podcast. Dr. Hornaman, known as the Thyroid Fixer, helps 1000s of individuals optimize their thyroid and hormones. She joins me today for a mini thyroid master class where we discuss the miscommunication surrounding thyroid health, the role of empowerment, and the impact of hormone replacement, and we dive into the physiology of the thyroid, the effects of thyroid pause, Hashimoto’s, and autoimmune conditions. We explore labs you need, elimination diets, molecular mimicry medications, and why iodine is essential for those with thyroid health issues. We also look into various supplements, including vitamin D, magnesium, iodine, and creatine, and the research surrounding black cumin seeds and T2. Today’s discussion with Dr. Amie Hornaman is invaluable as it will set you up for 2025 with all the information you require regarding the thyroid.IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why doing due diligence and understanding your body is essential for making informed health choices How thyroid dysfunction impacts overall health Why proper thyroid hormone replacement is vital to prevent long-term health issues How hypothyroidism increases during perimenopause and menopause The importance of regular thyroid testing and proper management  The most effective tests for thyroid function The antibodies play when autoimmune conditions get diagnosed How lifestyle and diet impact thyroid health The various options available for thyroid medication and the need for personalization What are the benefits of compounded thyroid medication? Dr. Hornaman introduces her supplement line. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman On her website The Thyroid Fixer podcast Better Life Doctor.com

Since today is Christmas, I am doing a solo episode to connect with listeners and reflect on the achievements, challenges, and milestones I experienced over the past year. For many of us, 2024 has been a year of remarkable extremes. Join me as I revisit some key moments, discussing my thoughts on the books and podcasts that have inspired me. I also look ahead to 2025, sharing my intentions and recommendations for the coming year.Happy holidays!IN THIS EPISODE: My emotional highs, areas of personal growth, and professional milestones in 2024 Why the support of the podcast community truly means a lot to me How the achievements, transitions, and health challenges of my family have shaped the past year The books that have impacted me the most  over the last year My recommended podcasts for 2024 Some of the most enlightening podcast conversations we had in 2024 My intentions for 2025  How gratitude has played a central role in my personal growth and professional success Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Links to topics discussed:Stacy Sims Vonda Wright Mary Claire Haver Tim Spector Kiran Krishan Steven Gundry Lisa Mosconi Nicole LaPera Links for Books on Amazon:1. Blind Spots by Marty Makary 2. Challenger by Adam Higginbotham 3. Lisa Mosconi:      XX Brain       Menopause Brain  4. Nicole Lapera:       How to Do The Work       How to Be The Love You Seek       How to Meet Your Self 5. Food for Life by Tim Spector 6. Gut Check by Steven Gundry

This discussion dives into the frustrating experiences of women over 35 struggling with stubborn belly fat and weight loss resistance. Key insights include the significance of fasting insulin and how stress management can influence weight. Listeners learn about helpful supplements post-gallbladder removal, strategies to tackle cravings, and the impact of trauma on weight dynamics. Emphasis is placed on the importance of nutrition, physical activity, and personalized approaches to reclaiming metabolic health.

I am privileged to have Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a menopause expert and board-certified OB/GYN, join me on the podcast today. Dr. Shepherd is the author of the newly released book Generation M and has won many awards for her work as a physician and leader in women's health. In our conversation, we dive into the challenges women face in talking openly about menopause and ovarian senescence, discussing the societal perspectives that shape those attitudes and contributing factors to accelerated aging during the menopause transition. We look at the findings of the SWAN study and discuss common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, weight-loss resistance, estrogen and metabolic health, bone health, and the risks of osteoporosis and fractures. We also explore concerns around bladder health and urosepsis, the gut-brain connection, exercises for bone health, and the importance of a personalized approach to hormone replacement therapy. You will not want to miss this rich and informative discussion with Dr. Jessica Shepherd.IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How social conditioning impacts women’s perspectives on their value and worth, especially during reproductive years The benefits of weight training for maintaining ovarian health How menopause treatment and management varies for women of different ethnicities The most problematic symptoms women face during menopause How declining estrogen impacts weight gain and muscle loss How proactively addressing menopause symptoms improves the quality of life for women The benefits of hormone replacement therapy for improving bone density and reducing the risk of fractures Why estrogen is essential for bladder health The role of the gut microbiome in cognitive function Why a holistic approach to health is critical for 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. Jessica Shepherd Sanctum Med and Wellness On Instagram: Jessica Shepherd or Modern Meno Dr. Shepherd’s new book, Generation M, is available in-store or online from Barnes and Noble or on Amazon.

In this episode of the Everyday Wellness Podcast, host Cynthia Thurlow and orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Vonda Wright, delve into navigating perimenopause and menopause, emphasizing the importance of menopausal literacy, particularly for younger women, and we also discuss generational differences in understanding menopause. Andrea Donsky joins us to discuss her ongoing research on the 103 reported symptoms of menopause. I am confident you will enjoy the informative conversations with Dr. Vonda Wright and Andrea Donsky and find them as engaging as I did.Show Highlights: Importance of menopausal literacy and education for women Generational differences in understanding menopause and its implications The role of estrogen in bone health and the risks of osteoporosis during menopause Musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause and its associated symptoms Common symptoms experienced during perimenopause and menopause, such as fatigue and brain fog The significance of weight-bearing exercises for maintaining bone density The necessity of early education about menopause for younger women Addressing gaps in healthcare provider knowledge regarding menopause The impact of hormonal changes on muscle mass and insulin resistance Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Vonda Wright On her website Facebook Instagram X.com LinkedIn Leave a message on VIP Phone Number (407)-232-2334 Connect with Andrea Donsky On her website TikTok and Instagram

I am delighted to reconnect with Esther Blum today. She joined me once before for Episode 264, one of the most popular podcast episodes for 2023. Esther is the bestselling author of many books, including See You Later Ovulator. She is a registered dietitian with a thriving virtual practice specializing in helping women balance their hormones, shed stubborn body fat, and address the root causes of their health issues.Today, Esther and I discuss the state of hormones in 2024. Our conversation covers lazy medicine advocacy, meno-washing, and meno-care, and we explore uncommon symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause and methods for obtaining testing. Esther also shares her recommended supplements. You will love this engaging and insightful conversation with Esther Blum!IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How safe is hormone replacement therapy? Why hormone testing and monitoring is essential  The importance of prioritizing romance and connection in a marriage The benefits of pelvic floor therapy How working with compounding pharmacies can reduce the cost of hormone replacement therapy How to work with doctors to address hormone imbalances Some uncommon symptoms of perimenopause and menopause How dietary changes and probiotics can improve focus and brain clarity  Hormone testing and menopause management  Esther recommends supplements for adrenal support during menopause Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Esther Blum On her website Instagram Get Esther’s 14-Day Metabolic Menopausal Meal Plan  Esther’s BooksEsther’s book, See Ya Later, Ovulator!, by Esther BlumCavewomen Don’t Get Fat, by Esther BlumEat, Drink, and Be Happy, by Esther BlumPrevious Episode featuring Esther BlumEp. 264 Peri/Menopause are a Natural Function of Aging: See you later, Ovulator!