Why Most Diets Fail: Top Mistakes Damaging Your Gut Bacteria

Episode Description: If you’re tired of dealing with bloating, fatigue, sugar cravings, or stubborn weight gain—this episode may be your turning point. Health journalist Natalie Tysdal sits down with Anu Simh, gut health expert and author of Flourish from Within, to reveal how your gut microbiome could be the missing link in your wellness journey. You’ll discover how simple, sustainable changes to your meals—and your mindset—can rebalance your gut, reduce inflammation, and help you feel truly good in your body again. Want to jumpstart your gut healing journey? Download Natalie’s FREE Gut Reset Plan here. What You'll Learn:   Why many women overlook the gut’s role in mood, cravings, and weight gain   How processed foods quietly disrupt gut health and immunity   The power of gut diversity—and how to build it without a complicated plan   Real-life food swaps for busy women and families (even picky eaters)   Why mindset and food culture matter more than rigid rules Key Takeaways:   Gut Diversity Is Key: Restrictive diets and lack of variety damage your microbiome. A colorful, plant-rich plate helps your gut and your body thrive.   Processed Foods Are Sabotaging You: Ultra-processed foods spike cravings and disrupt your metabolism. Whole foods help restore balance.   Small Changes = Big Results: You don’t have to do it all. Start by adding more fiber, color, and protein to your meals for one week—and see the difference. Resources & Links:   Get Natalie’s FREE Gut Reset Plan   Visit Natalie’s Website   Follow Natalie on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook New Episodes Weekly: Subscribe now and join Natalie every Monday for empowering health advice designed for women like you. If you enjoyed this episode: Please rate, review, and share The Natalie Tysdal Podcast with a friend. Your support helps us reach more women with trustworthy health information. Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Natalie Tysdal is a journalist, not a licensed medical provider. Please consult your doctor before making health decisions.

Turning Hardship Into Healing: Lessons in Women’s Mental Health & Self-Compassion with Helene Beck If you’re feeling overwhelmed by life stress, hormonal changes, or hidden mental health struggles, this episode brings hope and hands-on wisdom. Health journalist Natalie Tysdal sits down with Helene Beck, mental health advocate and host of the “Coming from the Heart” podcast, who shares her raw story of overcoming a physical and emotional crisis—and how it led to a path of self-compassion, resilience, and authentic connection. Expect real talk about women’s midlife stress, the mind-body connection, and actionable strategies for bouncing back when it feels impossible. This episode proves: your lowest point can be the beginning of your greatest growth. 3 Must-Know Takeaways from This Episode:   The Mind-Body Connection is Real   Physical symptoms—like Helene’s vertigo and fatigue—are often deeply interconnected with mental and emotional health, especially in women navigating midlife changes.   You Are Not Alone: The Power of Community & Vulnerability   Healing accelerates when we allow ourselves to seek help, open up, and create supportive communities—whether through friendship, therapy, or sharing our voice publicly.   Healing is a Journey, Not a Quick Fix   From self-compassion to daily routines (like gratitude, therapy, and small self-care rituals), the road to wellness is ongoing—and every step counts. In This Conversation, We Cover:   Why women often ignore early signs of stress and overwhelm in midlife—and the hidden toll it takes   Helene’s story: How physical illness led to a mental health awakening during the pandemic   The surprising link between vertigo, perimenopause, and emotional burnout   Self-care, manifestation, and the shift to a more holistic lifestyle   The importance of letting people in—and why you don’t have to “fix it all yourself”   How to start rebuilding after a health or emotional crisis Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best. Stay Connected with Natalie:   Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com   Instagram: @ntysdal   TikTok: @ntysdal   Facebook: Natalie Tysdal New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. DISCLAIMER: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Struggling with low energy, brain fog, or changes in your skin and mood? In this episode, health journalist Natalie Tysdal sits down with functional medicine expert Nelly Gall, PA-C to break down what’s really going on with your hormones—and how you can take back your health and beauty, naturally. 🎁 Free Gut Reset Plan → https://www.natalietysdal.com/gutreset 📩Get my weekly wellness newsletter → https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter 🎧More episodes + show notes → https://www.natalietysdal.com/podcast   In this empowering conversation, you’ll learn:   ✅ The bloodwork and hormone panels women over 40 really need   ✅ How to partner with your provider and advocate for yourself   ✅ The surprising role of testosterone in women’s beauty and mood   ✅ Functional medicine strategies to thrive in your 40s, 50s, and beyond   ✅ Natural tools—from mushrooms to facial massage—for energy and radiance   ✅ How hormone health impacts skin, hair, nails, and bone structure   ✅ When to consider (or skip) treatments like Botox or HRT   “When you understand your body and take charge, small changes can make a huge impact.” — Nelly Gall   🔗 Connect with Nelly Gall: • Website: Live Vibrant Wellness & Aesthetics • Instagram: @nellygallwellness   📌 More from Natalie: • Instagram: @ntysdal • TikTok: @ntysdal • Facebook: Natalie Tysdal • Website: www.natalietysdal.com • Podcast: Listen on Apple • YouTube: Watch full episodes   📅 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom.   DISCLAIMER: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Have you ever Googled a health question late at night and ended up more confused than when you started? In this solo episode, veteran health journalist Natalie Tysdal takes you behind the headlines to uncover how health misinformation spreads—and how to protect yourself from it. From detox teas to hormone hacks, Natalie explains how to identify what’s real, what’s hype, and how to confidently navigate wellness information online. Expect myth-busting journalism, science-backed tools, and empowering strategies that help you take charge of your health without falling for viral quick fixes. ✨ 3 Must-Know Takeaways from This Episode:   🚩 How Health Misinformation Spreads Online: Learn why viral health trends go mainstream so quickly—and how infodemics can cloud your judgment.   🧐 Red Flags & Fact-Checking Secrets from a Journalist: Natalie’s step-by-step method for cross-checking sources, evaluating claims, and asking the right questions.   🛡️ Real, Sustainable Health Solutions: Why true wellness isn’t found in fads—but in food, sleep, movement, and asking better questions. 🎧 In This Conversation, We Cover:   The most common types of health misinformation (detoxes, hormone myths, miracle supplements)   Why your liver and kidneys are your real detox superheroes   How to spot persuasive marketing vs. real medical advice   Natalie’s Health Misinformation Checklist for smarter decision-making   Why social media shouldn’t replace your healthcare provider 🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward informed, empowered health decisions. ✨ Stay Connected with Natalie:   Website   @ntysdal on Instagram   @ntysdal on TikTok   Facebook 📅 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Feeling exhausted, foggy, or stuck in midlife weight gain—despite doing “all the right things”? You’re not alone. In this episode, health journalist Natalie Tysdal sits down with Ashley Fillmore, founder of Metabolic Fix, to bust the most common hormone myths and share what actually works for women 40+. Learn how to stop spinning your wheels and start taking science-backed steps toward sustainable energy, better sleep, and lasting weight loss—without crash diets or guilt. 🎁 Subscribe + Get the Free Gut Reset Plan: natalietysdal.com/gutreset ✨ What You’ll Learn: Why clean eating and under-eating can backfire after 40 How to spot sneaky sugar traps (even in “healthy” meals) Why cardio isn’t the answer—and what workouts actually support your metabolism What you need to know about GLP-1 meds and hormone confusion The power of protein, strength training, sleep, and self-compassion 💡 3 Takeaways from Ashley Fillmore: Personalized nutrition beats diet culture Strength training supports metabolism better than cardio Protein, rest, and self-kindness are your midlife superpowers 🔗 Resources & Links: Free Gut Reset Plan Health Misinformation Checklist Ashley’s Website – Metabolic Fix Follow Ashley on Instagram 📲 More from Natalie: Website Instagram TikTok Facebook Pinterest YouTube Sign Up for My Newsletter Disclaimer: Natalie is a health journalist, not a medical provider. This episode is for informational purposes only and not medical advice.  

Think algae is just slimy pond scum? Think again! In this episode of The Natalie Tysdal Podcast, Natalie sits down with Catharine Arnston, founder and CEO of EnergyBits, to uncover the powerful, science-backed benefits of spirulina and chlorella. Are you struggling with fatigue, brain fog, poor sleep, hormone shifts, or gut issues? Catharine shares how these nutrient-dense microalgae support detoxification, hormonal health, mitochondrial energy, and overall wellness—especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. Drawing from her personal journey supporting her sister through cancer, Catharine explains why algae might be the missing piece in your modern self-care routine. 🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   The difference between spirulina and chlorella—and which one supports energy and detox   Why our food and supplements often fall short—and how algae fills the nutritional gaps   The connection between mitochondria, hormones, and brain fog   How superoxide dismutase (SOD) in spirulina supports menopause, cellular health, and mental clarity   Easy, stimulant-free ways to integrate microalgae into your daily routine   Why algae isn’t talked about more in Western medicine—and how to choose a clean, effective brand 🌿 Ready to take your energy, brain, and hormones to the next level using one of Earth’s oldest superfoods? This is a must-listen episode for every woman who wants real, natural support for energy, detox, and aging well. 🔗 Related Resources:   Shop EnergyBits — Get 20% off   Download the Gut Reset Plan (Free)   Seeking Health Vitamins & Supplements   Before You Go on Camera — Media Confidence Training   Podcast Launch Guide 📲 Connect with Natalie:   Website   Instagram   TikTok   Facebook   Pinterest   YouTube   Sign Up for My Newsletter 📅 New episodes drop every Monday. Be sure to follow, subscribe, and share the podcast with a friend who wants trusted, real-life health information. Disclaimer: I am a health journalist, not a doctor. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Gut Health for Women: Why Fatigue, Bloating, and Mood Swings Might Start in Your Gut Are you feeling fatigued, moody, bloated—or just not quite yourself lately? You’re not alone. And it might be your gut trying to get your attention. In this episode of The Natalie Tysdal Podcast, I open up about a deeply personal health crisis that became a turning point in my wellness journey (don't judge me for crying!). As a health journalist with over 30 years of experience interviewing doctors and wellness experts, I’ve learned that gut health plays a much bigger role in our energy, hormones, immunity, and mood than most of us realize—especially as women.   What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   The four essential things every woman needs to know about gut health   How hidden gut issues can show up as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, hormone imbalance, and more   Early warning signs your gut is out of balance—and what to do before it becomes a crisis   My step-by-step strategies for gut healing, including nutrition, supplements, and lifestyle shifts   One simple thing you can do this week to start resetting your gut health   📺 Watch This Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal   🌱 Free Resources to Support You: Download the FREE Gut Reset Plan: https://www.natalietysdal.com/gutreset Subscribe to my weekly newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Gut-Friendly Supplements I Trust: Seeking Health → https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO Before You Go on Camera (Media Confidence Training): https://www.natalietysdal.com/mediatraining   💡 Related Episodes You Might Enjoy: Hormone Harmony: Dr. Janine Bowring on Natural Solutions to Women's Wellness: https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/episode163 Why Your Weight Loss Drug Needs Doctor Supervision: https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/why-your-weight-loss-drug-needs-doctor-supervision-not-just-an-online-prescription 📬 Connect With Me: Website:https://www.natalietysdal.com Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@ntysdal Have a question or topic you’d like me to cover on the podcast? Send me a DM on Instagram or a note through my website.   If this episode resonated with you, please share it with a friend, hit follow, and leave a review. Your support helps more women get the trusted health information they deserve. 🔬 Sources & References for This Episode on Gut Health Serotonin, Inflammation, and Gut Health Grondin J., Khan W.I. (2023). Emerging Roles of Gut Serotonin in Regulation of Immune Response, Microbiota Composition and Intestinal Inflammation. Journal of the Canadian Association of Gastroenterology. 🔗  Read here Gut-Brain Axis & Mental Health Margoob M., Kouser S., Jan N. (2024). Serotonin: The Link between Gut Microbiome and Brain. IntechOpen. 🔗  Read here Gut Microbiome & Hormonal Balance (Estrobolome) Pai A.H., Wang Y.W., et al. (2023). Gut Microbiome–Estrobolome Profile in Reproductive-Age Women with Endometriosis. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 🔗  Read here Immune System and Gut Inflammation Rizzetto L., Fava F., Tuohy K., Selmi C. (2018). Connecting the Immune System, Systemic Chronic Inflammation and the Gut Microbiome: The Role of Sex. Journal of Autoimmunity. 🔗 Read here Mental Health & Microbiome Dysbiosis Wilson D., Binford L., Hickson S.V. (2023). The Gut Microbiome and Mental Health. Journal of Holistic Nursing. 🔗  Read here Disclaimer: I am a health journalist, not a doctor. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

In today’s episode of the Natalie Tysdal Podcast, we’re talking about one of the most requested and hottest topics in women’s health: weight loss, hormones, and the latest breakthroughs in obesity medicine. Natalie is joined by Dr. Megan Garcia-Webb—primary care physician, board-certified in obesity and lifestyle medicine, and life coach—to demystify weight loss medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, and others that are making waves. You’ll discover what makes these new GLP-1 injectable drugs so revolutionary, why they work so well for weight loss (especially for women over 40 dealing with hormonal changes), and the crucial role of mindset and coaching in sustainable results. Dr. Garcia-Webb explains why medical supervision is non-negotiable, how to safely manage side effects, and the red flags to watch out for when considering medication from less familiar sources. You’ll learn: The science behind GLP-1 medications and how they help with significant weight loss   Why mindset, goal-setting, and self-compassion are key for lasting change   The most common side effects and how to avoid serious risks with proper management   Why you shouldn’t go it alone: the importance of finding a qualified medical professional   How these medications might be useful in the future for issues beyond weight, like addiction and inflammation   The right way to combine healthy habits, nutrition, exercise, and listening to your body, with medication for best results If you’re considering weight loss meds, want clarity about side effects and insurance coverage, or just need inspiration to start your health journey over 40, this episode will give you the inside scoop you need to make smart, empowered decisions. The FREE Gut Reset Plan: https://www.natalietysdal.com/GutReset Seeking Health Vitamins and Supplements: https://crrnt.app/SEEK/NgmAZXqO 👉 Connect with Natalie! Website: https://https://www.natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/ntysdal/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ntysdal Sign Up for Natalie’s Newsletter: https://page.natalietysdal.com/newsletter Dr. Megan Garcia-Webb website: Dr. Megan's Youtube channel:  

Are your gut and your mood more connected than you think? Absolutely—and today we’re unpacking why. In this empowering episode of the Natalie Tysdal Podcast, I’m joined by Sylvia Hall, founder of Lifted Naturals, who shares her personal journey of postpartum mood swings, digestive struggles, and the surprising healing power of gut health.   Together, we explore the science-backed links between the gut and brain—and how you can harness that knowledge to boost your mood, resilience, and energy naturally. What You’ll Learn: The science behind the gut-brain connection—and why over 90% of serotonin is made in your gut   How stress, poor sleep, and even pesticides disrupt your microbiome and mental health   Easy, everyday habits to support your gut and emotional well-being (think: sunlight, routine, and nutrition)   Why not all probiotics are created equal—and how to choose the right strains for mood support   Family-friendly tips for improving kids’ gut health and emotional balance   Plus, Sylvia shares real-life stories from the Lifted Naturals community—and a powerful reminder that self-awareness is the first step toward healing.   Whether you're navigating anxiety, burnout, or just want to feel like yourself again, this episode gives you real tools—not trends—for mind-body wellness.   Free Resource: Download my FREE Gut Reset Plan – A simple, science-backed 5-day reset to support digestion, reduce bloat, and improve energy.   Connect with Sylvia Hall & Lifted Naturals: Website: liftednaturals.com Instagram: @liftednaturals Facebook: Lifted Naturals   Stay Connected with Natalie: Website: natalietysdal.com Newsletter: Sign Up Here Instagram: @ntysdal Facebook: Natalie Tysdal YouTube: Watch Interviews Pinterest: Natalie Tysdal TikTok: @ntysdal   If you loved this episode, don’t forget to rate and review the podcast—it helps others find trusted health content without the fluff.

In this eye-opening episode of the Natalie Tysdal Podcast, host Natalie dives into the intricacies of weight management, self-compassion, and the challenges of modern dieting with Dr. Yasmeen Elamir, a triple board-certified endocrinologist and obesity specialist. Dr. Yasmeen shares her personal journey with weight struggles and uncovers the delicate, stigma-free approach she uses to help patients achieve their health goals. Explore the distinct dietary habits across cultures and how the American diet stands apart due to heavily processed foods and varied water quality. Discover the factors contributing to weight gain, from mindset and stress to genetics, and learn that by 2030, nearly 50% of Americans are predicted to be obese. While many seek a quick fix, Dr. Yasmeen emphasizes the importance of personalized care and understanding a patient’s lifestyle and values. Get ready to dive into topics like keto, plant-based diets, and how sleep and hydration are often overlooked as critical components in weight management. Dr. Yasmeen provides tangible advice on taking nutritional inventory, switching to clean water, and setting achievable health goals. If you're eager to understand the real factors affecting weight and receive actionable steps to start your health journey, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to elevate your wellness routine today! Connect with Natalie: Subscribe for more insightful episodes on your favorite podcast platforms Follow Natalie on Instagram Visit Natalie’s website for additional resources Resources: Dr. Yasmeen Elamir's  Instagram   Dr. Yasmeen Elamir's website