BONUS: Optimal Protein, Red Light Therapy and Biohacking with Vanessa Spina

Today, I have the honor of interviewing Dr. Doris Day, a board-certified dermatologist who specializes in cosmetic and longevity dermatology. She is also a clinical professor of dermatology at NYU, recognized for her dedication and excellence in teaching, and is widely regarded as a leader in the aesthetic dermatology field. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Day is a medical journalist and a prominent media figure. In our discussion, we examine the basics of perimenopause and menopause from a pathophysiology perspective, including the 30% decline in collagen synthesis that occurs during the first five years of menopause. We explore the skin microbiome, inflammation, and inflammaging, and why hydration, electrolytes, reducing processed sugars, and eating a nutrient-dense diet can have such a visible impact on skin health. Dr. Day also explains her approach to facial balancing and how our bones, fascia, muscles, and fat pads age. We discuss topical agents, advanced interventions including lasers, microneedling, PRF, PRP, stem cells, and growth factors, and even touch on emerging research suggesting that certain laser treatments may help reduce the risk of skin cancer. Throughout the conversation, I also openly shared what I have done to support my skin. Stay tuned for today’s fascinating conversation about menopause, skin health, collagen loss, and the evolving science behind modern aesthetic dermatology. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The sudden skin changes many women experience during early perimenopause Dr. Day explains how she personalizes skincare routines for each patient How collagen synthesis rapidly declines during the menopause transition How hydration, sleep, and nutrition can visibly improve skin tone and puffiness How inflammation, blood sugar issues, and poor metabolic health contribute to inflammaging and visible skin aging Why facial balance is more important than trying to erase every wrinkle or line Dr. Day shares how she combines lasers, topicals, and recovery protocols to support skin healing and collagen production How fillers and other cosmetic procedures can create an unnatural appearance when used incorrectly Bio: Dr. Doris Day, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic and longevity dermatology. She is a Clinical Professor of Dermatology at NYU Langone Health, where she has been recognized with the Award for Dedication and Excellence in the Teaching of Dermatology. Her leadership in aesthetic dermatology has earned her the AAD Presidential Citation and the American Skin Association Award for leadership in dermatology. Ranked #3 in the United States and #1 in New York by Newsweek as a Top Cosmetic Dermatologist, Dr. Day is a recognized authority in her field. Her work has been cited in leading publications, including The New York Times and Castle Connolly’s NY Magazine Top Doctors listings, for over 20 consecutive years. Dr. Day is also a medical journalist and a prominent media figure, providing expert commentary on major television programs and podcasts. Her insights are regularly featured in top magazines, and she is a sought-after speaker, delivering numerous lectures every year on cutting-edge aesthetic techniques at both national and international conferences. Dr. Day has over 100 publications in the medical literature, and she has written four best-selling books: "Rebooting the Biome" (2023), "Beyond Beautiful" (2018), "Forget the Facelift," and "100 Questions and Answers about Acne." She also hosts a popular dermatology show on SiriusXM’s Doctor Radio, a platform where she has been educating the public for over 15 years, earning the AAD’s Golden Triangle Award for Media Excellence. Her professional affiliations include the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, where she has served on the board of directors; the American Academy of Dermatology, where she was recently elected to the nominating committee; the New York State Dermatology Society; and the American Honors Society of Dental and Facial Aesthetics. Dr. Day earned her BA in English from Columbia University, an MA in Journalism and Science Writing/Medical Reporting from New York University, and her MD from SUNY Downstate College of Medicine. She completed her dermatology residency at Cornell University College of Medicine, where she served as Chief Resident. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to [email protected]  Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Doris Day On her website Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Welcome to the latest Midlife Minute. This week, we have a data-rich, sleep-focused masterclass episode for middle-aged women. Drawing on research, physiology, and my own perspective, I connect the dots between hormones, circadian rhythm, and lifestyle habits, highlighting the areas you need to pay attention to. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How sleep actively supports growth, immune function, and skeletal and muscular performance Why people who don’t sleep well tend to be more emotionally charged How, second to hot flashes, insomnia is one of the most commonly reported symptoms of perimenopause and menopause How REM sleep differs from non-REM sleep Why sleep is essential for brain detoxification How the suprachiasmatic nucleus controls circadian rhythm Why sleep quality tends to decline in midlife How poor sleep disrupts metabolic health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

Today, I’m delighted to reconnect with nutritionist, Andrea Donsky. Andrea is a well-respected media personality, speaker, author, researcher, and host of the Menopause Reimagined podcast, on which I have been a guest twice. In our conversation, we discuss her new book and speak at length about her motivation for writing about nourishment for mind, body, and spirit. We explore why food suddenly feels like it’s working against you, and why our nutrition truly needs to change in midlife. We cover symptom-specific nutrition, including a detailed discussion of hot flashes, the importance of fiber, and navigating weight-loss resistance as a Gen X-er. We also talk about the weight and shame imprinting that many of our generation experienced, followed by a rapid-fire conversation around magnesium, protein, alcohol, and more. Join us for today’s transparent, honest, and real conversation with Andrea Donsky.  Andrea’s book, Nourishing Menopause: Powerful Nutrition and Lifestyle Strategies to Feel Your Best, will be published in May. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why Andrea took a mind, body, and spirit approach to nourishment in her book Andrea shares her experience of gaining and losing weight in midlife, despite making no changes to her diet or exercise routine How perimenopause can go unrecognized for years—even for a nutritionist Why what worked before may no longer work in midlife, and how Andrea had to relearn how to eat, exercise, and think  The lack of education and stigma that shaped the Gen X menopause experience Why balancing blood sugar becomes foundational in midlife The link between insulin resistance and factors like stress, poor sleep, diet, visceral fat, and hormonal changes  How undereating can worsen weight-loss resistance Andrea shares her “balance blueprint” for blood sugar in midlife Bio: Andrea Donsky Andrea Donsky is a nutritionist, 7X Published Menopause Researcher & Entrepreneur with 26 years of experience in health and wellness. She is a respected multi-award-winning influencer, media personality, speaker, and author. Andrea hosts the podcast “Menopause Reimagined,” and she is the co-founder of www.wearemorphus.com, a company that empowers women to feel heard and supported as they go through perimenopause and menopause. Her book, Nourishing Menopause: Powerful Nutrition and Lifestyle Strategies to Feel Your Best, published by Simon and Schuster, is out now. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Andrea Donsky On her website Order Andrea’s new book, Nourishing Menopause. On TikTok and Instagram We Are Morphus on Instagram

I am honored and delighted to have Vanessa Spina join me on the podcast today!  Vanessa is the best-selling author of Keto Essentials and a sports nutrition specialist whose expertise on the ketogenic diet has left a lasting impact on countless lives! With a background in biomedical science and a multifaceted career as an international stockbroker, she has pioneered a journey in the health and wellness industry that is nothing short of remarkable!  In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating realm of nutrition, from unraveling the mysteries of protein-recommended daily allowances and the leucine threshold to exploring the pivotal role of strength training in metabolic health. We dispel common misconceptions about the ketogenic diet, debunk the deceptive nature of the scale, and unveil the significance of DEXA scans in understanding changes in body composition. Vanessa also sheds light on the crucial importance of mitochondrial health and shares invaluable insights on various methods, including red light therapy, cold thermogenesis, micronutrients, and structured supplementation, to support our cellular powerhouses.  Join Vanessa and me on a knowledge-rich journey to uncover the keys to optimal health and well-being! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Common misconceptions about ketogenic diets Why a traditional ketogenic diet is not for everyone Why macronutrients are essential Misinformation regarding the recommended daily allowance for protein How to build muscle The relationship between metabolic health and muscle health The importance of DEXA scans for understanding body composition Why resistance training is a priority How to support the mitochondria The benefits of red light therapy and cold therapy Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community (The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow)  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause supplement line Connect with Vanessa Spina On her ⁠website⁠ (ketogenicgirl.com) ⁠The Optimal Protein Podcast⁠ Vanessa’s Book ⁠Keto Essentials: 150 Ketogenic Recipes to Revitalize, Heal, and Shed Weight ⁠ Resource: Use Code CYNTHIA for $20 OFF any of the Tone ⁠LUX devices⁠.

Today, I’m delighted to connect with Dr. Paul Reynolds, whom I was honored to meet at an event last year. He is a professor of cell biology and physiology at Brigham Young University. In our discussion, we explore inflammation, how it changes with aging, and how muscle serves as both an endocrine and a metabolic organ. We unpack glucose physiology, how it drives inflammation in the body, and examine the effects of glycation and the changes it causes in our eyes, immune systems, nerves, skin, and bones. Dr. Reynolds explains his “rules” for glucose balancing and the benefits of micro-dosing with GLP-1s, or starting with a minimal dose and increasing it slowly. We also discuss cravings and gender differences in men and women, and share practical strategies that everyone can use. I am looking forward to recording another podcast episode with Dr. Reynolds later this year, when his new book comes out. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Chronic inflammation as the root of many modern health issues Muscle loss with aging and its link to inflammation and glycation How excess glucose fuels free radicals, glycation, and inflammation What glycation is and why it damages the body Lifestyle habits that disrupt glucose balance and drive inflammation Supporting natural GLP-1 through diet and lifestyle Fasting and smart carb intake for insulin sensitivity Menopause, autoimmunity, and chronic disease risk Long-term consequences of glycation for the eyes, skin, bones, immune system, and nerves Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Paul Reynolds On X, Instagram, and YouTube

Welcome to this week’s Midlife Minute, where we’re taking a closer look at sleep—one of the most frequently asked-about topics. Stay tuned as I walk through the science, the hormones, and the everyday habits that can make or break your sleep quality, especially in midlife. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Various risk factors for poor sleep How consistently getting less than 5 hours of sleep increases the risk of obesity What actually happens in each stage of sleep How circadian receptors throughout the body influence sleep and metabolism How eating late at night disrupts melatonin, cortisol, and digestive circadian rhythms Why melatonin is far more than just a sleep hormone Reasons why sleep becomes more challenging for women in perimenopause and menopause Lifestyle, nutrition, and supplement strategies that can improve sleep quality Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Amie Hornaman, also known as the Thyroid Fixer. She is the founder and CEO of the Advanced Thyroid and Hormone Clinic, host of the Thyroid Fixer podcast, and a sought-after speaker and author. In today’s conversation, we discuss her brand-new book, The Thyroid Fix, and explore the current thyroid-related silent epidemic. We dive into mitochondrial dysfunction, thyroid optimization, and the significance of reverse T3, also unpacking the symptoms that impact your digestion and hypothyroidism, environmental triggers, oral contraceptive use, and how it increases your susceptibility and risk for developing hypothyroidism. We also examine natural desiccated thyroid, the effects of iodine supplementation, and Dr. Hornaman shares her top three lifestyle strategies for a healthy thyroid. This is a truly insightful and helpful conversation, especially for those in my community who are struggling with an underactive thyroid- myself included. Stay tuned for more. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How women with hypothyroidism are often misdiagnosed or medically gaslit Why Dr. Hornaman believes that the actual number of Americans with hypothyroidism may be far higher than current statistics suggest What reverse T3 is and why it increases when we are stressed How thyroid function impacts the way that cells produce energy How a low-functioning thyroid can slow digestion and cause constipation Why do some women require more personalized thyroid treatment than standard T4 therapy? How environmental toxins can disrupt thyroid health Why long-term oral contraceptive use could increase the risk of hypothyroidism Some simple lifestyle habits and biohacks to improve stress resilience in women with thyroid dysfunction Bio: Dr. Amie Hornaman Dr. Amie Hornaman, known as The Thyroid Fixer, is the founder of the Advanced Thyroid and Hormone Clinic and host of the top-rated podcast The Thyroid Fixer. She is the author of the thyroid bible, The Thyroid Fix, the last thyroid book you’ll ever need to understand fatigue, fogginess, and stubborn weight. Driven by her own experience with misdiagnosis, Dr. Amie helps people optimize their thyroid, reclaim their health, and step fully into the badass humans they were meant to be. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman On her website Pre-order a copy of The Thyroid Fix

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, as well as 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 X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community (The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow)  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause supplement line Connect with Esther Blum On her ⁠website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ Get Esther’s ⁠14-Day Metabolic Menopausal Meal Plan⁠  Esther’s Books ⁠Esther’s book, See Ya Later, Ovulator!⁠, by Esther Blum ⁠Cavewomen Don’t Get Fat⁠, by Esther Blum ⁠Eat, Drink, and Be Happy⁠, by Esther Blum Previous Episode featuring Esther Blum ⁠Ep. 264 Peri/Menopause are a Natural Function of Aging: See you later, Ovulator!⁠

Welcome to today’s masterclass episode featuring metabolic health and GLP-1 experts Dr. Nick Norwitz, Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen, Dr. Alexandra Sowa, PA-C, McCall McPherson, and registered dietitian, Ashley Koff, sharing their expert perspectives. In today’s masterclass, our experts share insights into appetite regulation and satiety, the importance of digestion, the impact of statins on insulin sensitivity, and key limitations in the research. We take a closer look at GLP-1 medications, proper prescribing practices, personalized dosing, and the value of targeted, individualized nutrition strategies. We also separate fact from fiction when complications arise. Join our experts as they break down how to safely and effectively maximize the benefits of GLP-1 therapy. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: The value of combining GLP-1s with other medications and lifestyle tools for optimal results How taking time to pause helps women reconnect with their bodies and shift from mindless eating to mindful nourishment  Dr. Nick Norwitz highlights that patients are often not given the information needed for proper informed consent around statins. How statins can reduce natural GLP-1 levels and negatively impact metabolic health  How GLP-1 medications work to reduce hunger and prevent snacking between meals Common side-effects of GLP-1 medications, and how they can be mitigated How hair loss can occur with weight loss, and how that can be managed The importance of clinical guidance for monitoring the side effects of GLP-1 use  The benefits of microdosing with GLP-1s Why it’s essential for hunger not to be entirely suppressed when taking GLP-1s  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Alexandra Sowa On her website On all social media: @dralexandrasowa Purchase a copy of Dr. Sowa’s book, The Ozempic Revolution Connect with McCall McPherson Modern Thyroid Clinic On Instagram and TikTok Modern Thyroid and Wellness Podcast Thyroid Lab Guide Connect with Dr. Nick Norwitz On YouTube, X, and Instagram Substack Connect with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen On her website On social media: @drsalaswhalen Dr. Rocio’s Book, Weightless Connect with Ashley Koff The Better Nutrition Program On Instagram and Substack Social media: @Ashley Koff Podcast Links: Ep. 438 The Rise of GLP-1s: Key to Weight Loss & Metabolic Health with Dr. Alexandra Sowa Ep. 478 Thyroid Truths: Labs, Adrenals & Appetite Explained with McCall McPherson Ep. 525 We’ve Been Misled About Metabolic Health – The Shocking Truth About Cholesterol, GLP-1 & Aging with Dr. Nick Norwitz Ep. 534 The Hidden Forces Making Women Gain Weight – The Shocking Truth About Hormones, Trauma & GLP-1s with Dr. Rocio Salas-Whalen Ep. 562 “It’s Not a Willpower Problem” – Why Women’s Bodies Resist Weight Loss in Midlife with Ashley Koff, RD

Welcome to another episode in our Midlife Minute Series. Today, I’ll be exploring weight loss resistance and how you may be unknowingly disrupting your hormones during perimenopause and menopause. Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: Why  the concept of calories in, calories out is outdated How sleep, stress, and sarcopenia drive weight loss resistance in midlife Why under-eating protein and over-consuming processed carbohydrates become more problematic in middle age Why increasing your protein intake without consuming enough fiber can cause gut issues Why constant snacking and poor food quality compound metabolic dysfunction How dysbiosis adds to weight loss resistance, poor metabolic health, and sleep disruption How everyday exposure to toxins contributes to inflammation, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance, and disrupts hormone signaling Why perimenopause becomes a “litmus test” for how well we take care of ourselves Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website. Submit your questions to [email protected] Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow.  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line