Ep. 396 Hormone Myths: Progesterone & More Explained, Part 1 with Dr. Devaki Lindsey Berkson

I am thrilled to reconnect with Kylie Larson today. Kylie is truly an exceptional individual. She is a Brendon Bouchard-trained coach, host of the Far from Perfect Podcast, content creator, and founder of Lift to Get Lean.  In our discussion today, we dive into the role of compassion, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, and explore the concepts of surrender and trusting your body. We discuss why women are more concerned about the number on the scale than their body composition, explain why data is simply data, and how resistance to change can affect our ability to manage perimenopause and menopause. We cover macros, misinformation, and metabolic flexibility and look into the value of maintenance and how to reverse diet. Kylie also shares some of her favorite resources, books, and tools.  I was honored to reconnect with Kylie, and I know you will love this conversation with her as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The role of compassion in perimenopause and menopause How struggling to accept body changes can lead to self-criticism and stress The benefits of resting and mindful exercising Why body composition is more important than the number on the scale Why we need to be flexible about our health goals The value of nutrient-dense foods for maintaining muscle mass  Misconceptions surrounding macros How to maintain balance in your diet and lifestyle Why getting enough sleep is essential Making informed decisions about your food choices Kylie’s favorite books and resources Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Kylie Larson On Instagram The Far from Perfect podcast Book mentioned: Think Again by Adam Grant

Today I am honored to connect with a friend and fellow nurse practitioner, Marcelle Pick! Marcelle is passionate about transforming how women experience healthcare through an integrative approach. She has successfully treated thousands of women through her unique approach to wellness. Marcelle is currently a faculty member of The Institute of Functional Medicine and has served as a Medical Advisor to Healthy Living Magazine. She has written countless articles and multiple books, including Is It Me or My Hormones? I always think of Marcelle as a pioneer in the women’s health/nurse practitioner space. In this episode, we dive into her background and the impact of the Women’s Health Initiative. We discuss the limitations of the traditional allopathic model regarding hormones, common misconceptions about adrenal health, perimenopause, and menopause, adverse childhood events and adrenal health, how lifestyle affects our sex hormones, fibroids, endometriosis, PMS, PMDD, and contraception for perimenopause. We speak about endocrine disruptors, mold, and micro toxins. We also get into ways to think about hormone replacement therapy and ways to address intimacy and low libido. I love connecting with other nurses and nurse practitioners! I hope you will love today’s conversation with Marcelle as much as I did! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Marcelle was part of the first all-women practice in the country. How the Women’s Health Initiative has impacted health care for women. The limitations of the traditional allopathic model, particularly in terms of perimenopause, menopause, and hormones. The less common labs that Marcelle likes to look at for her patients. Marcelle shares her approach to unraveling the symptoms of perimenopause. Some unique ways in which Marcelle deals with problems like fibroids and endometriosis. How childhood trauma could lead to adrenal and autoimmune issues, weight-loss resistance, and various other health problems. Many of the things Marcelle recommended for treating PMS and PMDD back in the day (1985) have now become the standard of care. Contraceptive options for women in perimenopause. The impact of stress on adrenal function during perimenopause and menopause. Marcelle dives into liver health and detoxification, chemicals and other factors that could impact our health, and changes we can make to avoid problems and feel better. What Marcelle does to help women with low libido. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Marcelle Pick On her website    On Facebook and Instagram All of Marcelle’s books are available on Amazon

I am thrilled to be doing a two-part series on progesterone with Dr. Lindsey Berkson. Dr. Berkson is a peer-reviewed researcher, bestselling author, educator, nutritional gastroenterology and hormonal thought leader, and an inventor and formulator of nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals.  In the first part of our series today, we address common misconceptions about hormones and provide an overview of the anatomy and physiology of progesterone, including lesser-known production sites outside the ovaries and adrenal glands. We examine the limitations of current medical training, the influence of the Women’s Health Initiative, and shifts in prescribing practices. We also explore the effects of chronic stress, ultra-processed foods, and toxins, discussing practical steps to mitigate exposure. You will also learn about essential cofactors for progesterone production, including zinc, iodine, magnesium, vitamin B6, and vitamin A, along with strategies for optimizing digestion. This enlightening series on progesterone with Dr. Lindsey Berkson has many valuable insights, and I know you will gain a lot from it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why progesterone is an essential hormone  How did progesterone become misunderstood?  How progesterone has contributed to human evolution Dr. Berkson debunks the common myths surrounding progesterone  How hormones function as signaling molecules The importance of progesterone receptors in the brain, heart, and lungs The role progesterone plays in protecting the lungs How modern lifestyle factors affect hormone levels Why you need to filter all your water, including shower water How eating organic foods can help reduce exposure to endocrine disruptors Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Lindsey Berkson On her website Find Dr. Berkson’s books on Amazon

I am excited to have Siim Land on the show with me for the third time today.  Siim is a bestselling author, anthropologist, keynote speaker, and longevity enthusiast who is exceptionally bright and knows how to simplify complex research into actionable insights.  In our discussion today, we explore his latest book, The Longevity Leap, and dive into mTOR, how to activate and decrease it, and the physical consequences of an mTOR imbalance. We look into NAD, supplementation, frailty, and the critical role of exercise, discussing VO2 Max, heart rate variability, and the advantages of saunas and cold therapy. We also share strategies for optimizing sleep, cover how sleep impacts aging, and discuss biomarkers for longevity, why normal is not always optimal, melatonin, and the effects of shift work and jet lag.  I am confident you will find this conversation with Siim Land as enlightening as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What mTOR does in the body Why maintaining mTOR balance is crucial for longevity Lifestyle factors and supplements to support mTOR  The significance of NAD for energy production Why circadian rhythm alignment is vital for energy production and longevity The benefits of melatonin supplementation How artificial light impacts sleep, and why we need regular sleep patterns How regular exercise can extend health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases What heart rate variability is, and how to improve it biomarkers for health and longevity  Bio:  Siim Land is an eight-time best-selling author, keynote speaker, and anthropologist from Estonia. He is the author of several landmark books, such as Metabolic Autophagy, Stronger by Stress, The Immunity Fix, The Mineral Fix, WIN, The Collagen Cure, The Blood Sugar Fix, and The Obesity Fix. Siim has a bachelor's degree in anthropology. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Siim Land On his website  On Instagram and YouTube The Longevity Leap is available on Amazon

Step into the world of metabolic health and fasting as we embark on a captivating journey with the renowned Canadian clinical educator Megan Ramos! In an era when chronic illness and obesity have become alarmingly prevalent, and dieting has become a lifelong struggle for many, Megan is on a mission to revolutionize our understanding of metabolic health. Known for her expertise in therapeutic fasting and low-carb diets, she co-founded the revolutionary Fasting Method alongside the renowned Dr. Jason Fung and co-authored the bestselling book Life in the Fasting Lane. Now, she returns with her latest work, delving into the untold stories of women and fasting.  In today’s captivating discussion, Megan and I explore the staggering statistics that reveal a nation plagued by chronic illness and weight issues, where even the average person has tried 126 diets in their lifetime. Megan shares her groundbreaking insights on women and fasting, unveiling the truth behind misdiagnosis, the myths surrounding intermittent fasting, the role of macros and insulin secretion, and the profound impact of the pandemic on our hormones, sleep, and stress levels.  Prepare yourself for a thought-provoking episode as we tackle pressing questions from listeners, covering the dawn effect, gout, insomnia, and invaluable strategies for achieving fasting success! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: My journey with PCOS Why does body composition matter so much? PCOS, the number one endocrine disorder in Westernized countries Common myths about intermittent fasting The fertility aspect of postmenopausal women The slippery slope of perimenopause Is fasting just an extreme form of calorie restriction? The impact of sleep and stress on glucose and insulin levels How to integrate intermittent fasting into your lifestyle Magnesium supplementation for insulin resistance How to deal with gout Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Megan Ramos The Fasting Method Find Megan on social media @Megan J. Ramos Purchase a copy of Life in the Fasting Lane  Purchase a copy of The Essential Guide to Intermittent Fasting For Women Previous Episodes Featuring Megan Ep. 116 – Using Intermittent Fasting to Reverse Chronic Illnesses – with Megan Ramos Ep. 188 – Troubleshooting Your Fasting Method with Megan Ramos

I am thrilled to have the amazing Kiran Krishnan joining me on the podcast today. Kiran is a research microbiologist and health and wellness expert who aims to make complex information understandable for everyone. He has founded several successful health and supplement companies over the last 20 years, including Microbiome Labs, the preeminent microbiome therapeutics-focused brand amongst healthcare professionals. Kiran has also conducted many research studies and published chapters in scientific textbooks. He has global patents and has become a sought-after speaker on human health and the microbiome. In our discussion, we dive into leaky gut, its contributing factors, and the roles of endotoxins and lipopolysaccharides. We clarify postprandial endotoxemia, exploring how perimenopause and menopause affect the microbiome and the impact of oral contraceptives and synthetic hormones. We highlight common symptoms of gastrointestinal issues, including problems associated with bloating, and explain how the immune system- innate and adaptive, impacts gut health. We also discuss the significance of keystone species like akkermansia, the importance of diversity, the role of stool testing, and the value of fiber, touching on the polarizing nature of dietary dogma and improving gut health through supplementation and lifestyle changes.  This conversation is the first in a series on the gut microbiome, and I am confident you will enjoy it. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why leaky gut has specific significance for women in perimenopause and menopause Why it is essential to understand and address a leaky gut How intestinal permeability lies at the root of most chronic diseases The factors that contribute to a leaky gut What postprandial endotoxemia is  The symptoms of a leaky gut The difference between innate and adaptive immune responses How chronic conditions like diabetes and obesity impact the immune system  The role of the microbiome in disease susceptibility Bacterial that are beneficial for gut health Why it is essential to have a diverse diet comprised of whole foods Supplements and lifestyle practices that support gut health BIO: Kiran is a research microbiologist and a health and wellness expert who aims to make complex information understandable to all. He has founded a number of successful health and supplement companies over the last 20 years including co-founding and leading Microbiome Labs, the preeminent, microbiome therapeutics-focused brand among healthcare professionals. He is currently a co-founder and partner in 3other companies that aim to revolutionize wellness care. He has conducted and published several research studies in scientific journals, has published chapters in scientific textbooks/reference books, has global patents, and is a sought-after speaker on human health and the microbiome Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Kiran Krishnan On Instagram Facebook

Today, we have AMA number 10. In this session, I answer many of your questions regarding the supplements I travel with and those I recommend. I dive into the benefits of Vitamin B12 and adaptogenic herbs, looking at ways to support low cortisol and PMS and various supplements that support sleep, brain fog, joint pain, and aching muscles.  My team and I love receiving your questions and offering all the support you require. Please continue submitting your questions, and consider joining the supportive community on my free and gimmick-free Facebook group, where I answer questions several times each week.  Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: My favorite supplements to use when traveling How to get back on track after overindulging The supplements I recommend for improving brain health and cognition The importance of fresh fruits and vegetables Which supplements are best for teenagers? What I recommend for removing toxins from the body The best supplements to use during perimenopause Some natural ways to support low cortisol levels How to support PMS naturally Supplements for supporting menopause symptoms, hormone balance, inflammation, sleep, and brain fog The benefits of HRT for joint pain and muscle cramps in postmenopausal women Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Join my free Facebook group

I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Jason Fung today. We last connected in October 2020 for Episode 121.  Dr. Fung is a nephrologist and a prominent figure in the intermittent fasting and low-carb space. He has made significant contributions as a founding member of The Fasting Method with his evidence-based guidance on weight loss and blood glucose management through low-carb diets and intermittent fasting. He has written several books, including The Obesity Code, The Complete Guide to Fasting, The Diabetes Code, and The Cancer Code.  In our discussion today, we look at the forecast for metabolic health in 2024, exploring how the growth of the diabetes population relates to the effects of the pandemic and addressing the conflict of interest with organizations like the ADA and registered dieticians. Dr. Fung shares some of his biggest frustrations, including the shallow and myopic thinking amongst those focusing on calories in and calories out, and we get into various facets of metabolic health, from the nuanced influences of gender, puberty, perimenopause, and menopause to hedonistic eating, sarcopenia, bio-individuality, and therapeutic fasting. Dr. Fung also shares his perspective on GLP-1s, shiftwork, supplements, and more. Join us for valuable insights on various aspects of metabolic health and how they impact our well-being. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN How the influence of food companies has led dieticians and diabetes associations to focus on moderation instead of a balanced diet Dr. Fung shares his frustration with the lack of progress in addressing the diabetes issue How hormones impact weight gain and hunger Why does focusing on calories in and out not provide the solution to weight loss? How intermittent fasting can help to control hormonal issues How middle-aged women need to find balance when fasting to maintain muscle mass and avoid sarcopenia How intermittent fasting can lead to increased strength despite losing muscle mass  What causes shift workers to gain weight? The potential drawbacks of using GLP-1 drugs for weight loss Why magnesium deficiency is a common problem in modern society Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Jason Fung Website Twitter and YouTube The Fasting Method Dr. Fung's books Previous Episode Featuring Dr. Jason Fung Ep. 121 – The Truth About Diabetes, Kidney Disease and Insulin Resistance with Dr. Jason Fung

I have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Suzanne Fenske today. She is an integrative gynecologist, double-board certified in obstetrics, gynecology, and integrative medicine, and fellowship-trained in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and functional medicine. She established her practice, Tara MD, to empower women to take charge of their health and well-being by combining modern and integrative medicine to offer enhanced care, more time, and improved services. In our discussion today, we explore menopausal advocacy, addressing the lesser-known symptoms of perimenopause and menopause and medical gaslighting. We discuss detoxification, looking at the significance of the vaginal, uterine, and urinary tract microbiome and factors that could negatively impact it. We also cover the critical role of the estrobolome, the importance of nourishing the body during perimenopause and menopause, and common reasons for weight loss resistance.  I am confident you will find this conversation with Dr. Suzanne Fenske as insightful and enjoyable as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Some of the less common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause and how they affect the lives of women   How estrogen metabolism can impact gut health  Identifying and addressing underlying causes of inflammation How inflammation and food intolerances can lead to weight gain Modern lifestyles practices that can disrupt the vaginal microbiome Dietary recommendations for improving hormone metabolism Why women should focus on nourishing their bodies instead of following trendy diets The benefits of tracking macros to identify areas for improvement How cortisol imbalances in perimenopausal women can lead to cravings and fatigue How alcohol impacts sleep quality The benefits and risks of testosterone for women Bio: Dr. Suzanne Fenske is an integrative gynecologist. She is double board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as integrative medicine. She is also fellowship-trained in minimally invasive gynecologic surgery and functional medicine. Dr. Fenske is also a certified menopause provider through the menopause society. Dr. Fenske founded Tara MD in 2021 to help women take control of their health and well-being by blending the best of modern and integrative medicine through more care, time, and services. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Suzanne Fenske On the Tara MD website On Instagram

I am delighted to reconnect with my good friend, Vinnie Tortorich, today, who was a guest on episodes 133 and 191. For those who may not be familiar with Vinnie, he is a truth-teller and disrupter who prompts people to think outside of their comfort zones in an easy and non-confrontational way. He is host of the Fitness Confidential Podcast, author of Fitness Confidential, and documentary film expert. His most recent documentary is Dirty Keto. In our conversation today, Vinnie and I dive into the impact of the processed food industry on metabolic health, looking at the issue with net carbs, the dangers of sugar and artificial sweeteners, and their role in the ongoing metabolic health crisis. We discuss the consequences of instant gratification, sedentary lifestyles, and the addictive nature of processed sugars and grains, also exploring various medical therapies, including GLP-1s.  I am confident you will enjoy this discussion with Vinnie Tortorich as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How the processed food industry created the term net carbs to make processed foods appear healthier The importance of addressing sugar addiction The lack of discussion around the health risks associated with society celebrating obesity How instant gratification has impacted people’s food choices and health The importance of recognizing true hunger versus boredom or stress-induced cravings How uncomfortable feelings can lead to food addiction Why it is essential to make exercise a daily habit Why it is crucial to avoid non-vegetable carbohydrates for metabolic health A strategy for enjoying sweet treats while maintaining a ketogenic diet How food influences metabolism and brain function Weighing up the risks and benefits of GLP-1 therapies for metabolic health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Vinnie Tortorich On his website Instagram and Twitter (@vinnietortorich) Vinnie’s documentaries on Amazon (Not Dirty Keto) Previous Episode Mentioned Ep. 191 Benefits of an Animal-Based Diet vs a Plant-Based Diet with Vinnie Tortorich