
Ep. 404 Listener Q&A: GYN Concerns and Menopause Insights with Dr. Anna Cabeca
I am delighted to have my dear friend, Dr. Anna Cabeca, joining me for the fourth time today. She was with me before on episodes 94, 202, and 317. Today, we dive into various questions from listeners about their GYN concerns, covering why suffering is optional in perimenopause and menopause and why we must refine ourselves during that life stage. We discuss the symptoms of perimenopause, explaining the best time to start using bioidentical hormones, issues with pellet therapy, especially testosterone, and various kinds of bioidentical hormones and vaginal estrogen. We also look at DHEA and testosterone therapies, symptoms to watch out for, sexual health, treatment therapy options for incontinence, and vaginal rejuvenation. I know you will love this invaluable discussion with Dr Anna Cabeca. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How to navigate perimenopause and menopause proactively rather than reactively What are the early signs of perimenopause? Dr. Anna discusses her approach to starting bioidentical hormones The importance of detoxification and gut health Various types of hormone applications, including progesterone, pregnenolone, DHEA, testosterone, and estrogen The importance of addressing the underlying cause of hormonal imbalances What role do hormonal therapies play in maintaining vaginal health? The limitations of certain incontinence medications Dr. Anna introduces her Sexual CPR program Dr. Anna shares her experience with vaginal rejuvenation procedures Why we must only use personal care products containing clean, non-toxic ingredients Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca On her website On social media: @the girlfriend doctor Previous Episode Mentioned: Ep. 94 Reclaim Your Vibrancy, Sexuality, Health and Happiness! - with Dr. Anna Cabeca Ep. 202 Dr. Anna Cabeca - Healing Your Hormones and Becoming Empowered with The Girlfriend Doctor Ep. 317 Perimenopause Wisdom: Dr. Cabeca on Ovarian Health, Menopause & More!
12 Okt 202456min

Ep. 403 Breaking Free from Toxic Diet Culture & Disordered Eating with Anna Vocino
I am thrilled to connect with the talented culinary personality and tastemaker Anna Vocino today. With her extensive experience as a bestselling cookbook author, actor, stand-up comedian, podcast host, and clean-eating expert, and her role as the founder of Eat Happy Kitchen, Anna brings her wealth of experience to the show. In our discussion, we dive into her journey with autoimmunity, exploring the role of nutrition, the effects of trauma, the importance of healthy eating, and how food can support our overall well-being. We cover her no sugar, no grains approach, especially during perimenopause and menopause, discussing insulin resistance and why we need to set healthy boundaries. We also get into the connection between food choices and mood, the harmful effects of the toxic diet culture, disordered eating, and fears of consuming carbohydrates, highlighting the significance of evaluating food labels, food manufacturing practices, and high-quality ingredients. Lastly, we touch on her latest book, Eat Happy Italian. I am confident you will enjoy this conversation with Anna Vocino as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How her struggle with autoimmune conditions led Anna to shift to a gluten-free lifestyle Anna discusses her recent surgical menopause How maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle helps manage the symptoms of menopause The connection between nutrition and mental health Why should we personalize our dietary choices and not feel guilty about enjoying an occasional treat? Why we must read food labels carefully The problem with becoming too rigid about your food choices Anna shares how she creates her food products using only high-quality ingredients How the recipes Anna creates are adaptable to different dietary restrictions and preferences Ways to navigate the best options in grocery stores and farmer's markets Bio: Anna Vocino Anna Vocino is a comic, culinary tastemaker, clean-eating expert, and founder of the premium natural food company Eat Happy Kitchen. After being diagnosed with celiac disease, she has authored hundreds of gluten-free, low-carb recipes in her bestselling cookbooks Eat Happy, Eat Happy Too, and the upcoming Eat Happy Italian. As a respected voice within the clean-eating community, Anna can deftly transform almost any recipe into a low-carb version of the dish without sacrificing taste. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Anna Vocino On her website Eat Happy Kitchen Substack newsletter The Fitness Confidential podcast The Bedside Matters podcast
9 Okt 20241h 4min

BONUS: Lipid Masterclass: An Introduction to Lipids and Cholesterol with Dr. Thomas Dayspring
Today, I am excited to share the first class in a series of lipid masterclasses with the amazing Dr. Thomas Dayspring! Dr. Dayspring is certified in internal medicine and clinical epidemiology and is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association. He was previously the Educational Director of a nonprofit organization and has served as the Chief Academic Advisor for two major cardiovascular labs. Due to the in-depth nature of my discussions with Dr. Dayspring over several sessions, each lasting nearly six hours, it seemed logical to present these masterclasses in segmented chunks to make them easier to understand. In our first class today, we dive into the fundamentals, exploring what lipids are and how lipids and fatty acids are classified. We cover the physiology and transportation of cholesterol and the role of apoptosis, apo-proteins, and apo-lipoproteins, unravel the differences between HDL, LDL, IDL, and VLDL, and explain how to calculate LDLs and triglycerides for assessing metabolic health. Dr. Dayspring also shares his preferences regarding lab values and the indicators that provide information to help him determine the early risk of cardiovascular disease. We get into some detailed aspects of physical chemistry in this episode, so I highlight the main clinical points throughout our conversation to make it more understandable. Be sure to join Dr. Dayspring and me for our next episode in the lipid masterclass series. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What are lipids, and why are they important? Dr. Dayspring explains what triglycerides are. How lipids get absorbed and transported throughout the body What lipoproteins are, and how they get classified How cholesterols get calculated The impact of triglycerides on cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health How high triglyceride levels can indicate early insulin resistance or increased ASCVD risk What is the role of HDL particles? How metabolic syndrome impacts cardiovascular health Bio: Thomas Dayspring MD is a Fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the National Lipid Association and is certified in internal medicine and clinical lipidology. After practicing in New Jersey for 37 years, in 2012, he moved to Virginia. He served as an educational director for a nonprofit cardiovascular foundation and until mid-2019 as a Chief Academic Advisor for two major CV laboratories. Since then, he has served as a virtual cardiovascular / lipidology educator. Career-wise he has given over 4000 domestic (in all 50 states) and several international lectures, including over 600 CME programs on atherothrombosis, lipids/lipoproteins (and their treatment), vascular biology, biomarker testing, and women’s cardiovascular issues. He has authored several manuscripts and lipid textbook chapters and performed several podcasts. For several years he was an Associate Editor of the Journal of Clinical Lipidology. He was the recipient of the 2011 National Lipid Association’s Presidents Award for services to clinical lipidology and the 2023 Foundation of NLA Clinician/Educator Award. He has over 34K followers on his educational Twitter (X) feed (@Drlipid). He has Gold Heart Member status as a professional member of the American Heart Association and serves as a Social Media Ambassador for the European Atherosclerosis Society and the National Lipid Association. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Thomas Dayspring Twitter (@DrLipid) LinkedIn
7 Okt 202445min

Ep. 402 Menopausal Gut Health: Latest Research and Insights with Dr. Tim Spector
I am thrilled to have the opportunity to connect with Dr. Tim Spector today. He is a professor of genetic epidemiology at King's College, the director of the Twins UK study, a scientific cofounder at Zoe, and a leading researcher. He is also trained in rheumatology and epidemiology and is the author of Food for Life, his most recent book on nutrition and health. In our conversation today, we unpack the new science on the role of the microbiome, the benefits of diverse food choices, and why Dr. Spector does not support superfoods. We dive into plant-material diversity, fiber, polyphenol-rich foods, fermented foods, and protein, and explore and explore issues surrounding bio-individuality specific to fiber, the impact of antibiotics, the Predict study, the Zoe program, and research on menopausal gut microbiomes. Dr. Spector explains why he does not believe in snacking, the value of digestive rest and intermittent fasting, and why lifestyle is a critical factor in menopause and beyond. We also get into some fascinating upcoming research. I know you will love this insightful discussion with Dr. Spector. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: What defines a healthy gut microbiome? Dr. Spector explains the concept of the microbiome as a virtual organ Why dietary diversity is essential How fermented foods and plant-based proteins improve gut health Some interesting research on research on how menopause affects the gut microbiome Dr. Spector describes the holistic approach of the ZOE program Why most snacks are unhealthy, and how extending the time between meals can improve gut health Using intermittent fasting to rest the gut and improve overall health How a poor night of sleep can alter food choices the following day The interplay between exercise and gut health Dr. Spector shares some ongoing research on the impact of coffee on the gut microbiome Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Tim Spector On Zoe Instagram ZOE Science & Nutrition podcast
5 Okt 202451min

Ep. 401 Understanding Fatty Liver: Causes and Risk Factors with Kristin Kirkpatrick, RD
I am honored to have Kristin Kirkpatrick joining me today. She is a registered dietitian, bestselling author, presenter, and dietitian with the Department of Wellness and Preventative Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic. The fatty liver epidemic now affects one in four people globally. In our discussion today, we explore who is most at risk, the essential functions of the liver, and how factors like COVID, stress, overeating, and alcohol contribute to the problem. We dive into the role of visceral fat, and Kristin shares her go-to labs and tests for assessing metabolic health. We break down why SECO is outdated, why sugar is particularly harmful to the body, and the effects of andropause, menopause, and other hormonal changes. We also tackle the toxic diet culture, under-eating, alcohol, poor sleep, exercise, carb restriction, beneficial supplements, and how nutrigenomics can guide us in navigating bio-individuality. I know you will love this eye-opening conversation with Kristin Kirkpatrick. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why fatty liver is a silent epidemic The connection between fatty liver, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance How the COVID-19 infection impacts the liver How non-alcoholic fatty liver gets diagnosed What are the primary functions of the liver? How ultra-processed foods contribute to sugar intake and impact metabolic health Why we must nourish the body with nutrient-dense foods instead of focusing on calorie restriction How does aging affect metabolic health? Why it is essential to maintain muscle mass during menopause The role of exercise in maintaining metabolic health How nutrigenomics helps in understanding genetic influences Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Kristin Kirkpatrick On her website On social media: @fuelwellwithkrissy
2 Okt 202454min

BONUS: Understanding Menopause: Hormonal Shifts in Women's Brains with Dr. Lisa Mosconi
I am delighted and honored today to interview Dr. Lisa Mosconi. She is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience in neurology and radiology at Cornell Medicine and Director of the Women's BRAIN Initiative and the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital. She is also a globally acclaimed neuroscientist with a Ph.D. in neuroscience and nuclear medicine and the author of the New York Times bestseller The XX Brain and, more recently, The Menopause Brain. In our conversation, we discuss how women’s brains change during perimenopause and menopause, looking at the significance of puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause, as well as the lack of medical research on women and medical gaslighting. We explore the concept of bikini medicine and its misconceptions regarding women's health and hormones alongside the crucial roles of hormones like estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone in our neuroendocrine system. Dr. Mosconi also provides insights into evolving menopausal treatments, including lifestyle interventions. Dr. Mosconi is an esteemed figure in neuroscience and a prominent voice in women's health. I am confident you will gain valuable insights and perspectives from my discussion with her today. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How women's brains change during perimenopause and menopause How the lack of information for young girls can lead to medical gaslighting and confusion during perimenopause Dr. Mosconi explains how a simple sugar is used as a tracer to track glucose metabolism in the brain during perimenopause Why brain changes during menopause may lead to mental fatigue and brain fog How the lack of training and research on menopause in medical residency programs leads to a poor understanding among clinicians Why women need to consider their brain and metabolic health during perimenopause Why estrogen is essential after menopause The benefits of HRT for menopausal women How stress impacts hormone production Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Lisa Mosconi On her website On Instagram
30 Sep 202459min

Ep. 400 Proven Health Secrets from a Top Longevity Doctor with Dr. Darshan Shah
I am delighted to connect with Dr. Darshan Shah today. He is a health and wellness specialist, a board-certified surgeon, a published author, an entrepreneur, and the founder of Next Health, the world's first and largest health optimization clinic. In our discussion today, we dive into the current state of U.S. healthcare, contrasting how the traditional allopathic model focuses on acute care and disease treatment with a preventative approach. We cover the health of children and teens, mitochondrial dysfunction, the impact of shift work on circadian rhythms, hormonal regulation through HRT and lifestyle changes, looking at Akkermansia, gut physiology, and the implications of ultra-processed foods. We also explore cutting-edge therapies like IV NAD and exosome treatments. I am sure you will love this enlightening and informative conversation with Dr. Darshan Shah as much as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The present state of healthcare in the United States Why we need to be personally responsible for our health How modern lifestyles impact mitochondrial health The impact of shift work on healthcare providers The interplay between gut health and hormonal changes Why it is essential to address gut health and hormone deficiencies concurrently The health implications of eating ultra-processed foods Why do we need to track biomarkers regularly? The benefits of novel therapies like IV NAD and exosome therapy Some tips for making simple and nutrient-dense meals Bio: Dr. Drashan Shah Dr. Shah graduated from the accelerated 6-year MD/BS program at the University of Missouri, Kansas City, and earned his medical degree at the age of 21, becoming one of the youngest physicians in the country. He then continued his training in general surgery and trauma in Kern County, California where he performed over 10,000 operations on all body systems. From trauma surgery to reconstructive surgery, Dr. Shah has seen and done it all. He was also prolific in writing many articles published in dozens of academic journals, started a surgical education website, and was an outstanding teacher of fellow medical students and residents. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Darshan Shah Next Health On Instagram
28 Sep 20241h 2min

Ep. 399 Alkaline Living: How Spirulina & Chlorella Transform Health with Dr. Catharine Arnston
I am delighted to reconnect with Dr. Catharine Arnston today. She is the founder, CEO, and Chief Scientific Officer of ENERGYbits. She last joined me on Episode 226 of the podcast. In our conversation, we dive into the importance of an alkaline lifestyle, looking at how our modern-day lifestyles expose us to toxins while contributing to soil depletion and poor-quality food. We discuss the benefits of spirulina, the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction in perimenopause and menopause, the role of free radicals and antioxidants, and the research currently being done on Me Screen, spirulina, and chlorella. We cover the differences between chlorella and spirulina, explaining how chlorella impacts the immune system and gut microbiome and how it is beneficial for cleansing, toning, healing, and overcoming hangovers. We explain how algae can help us reverse our biological or chronologic age, Catharine shares some tips for aging gracefully, and we also create a mini-course on algae. I know you will love and appreciate today’s invaluable conversation with Dr. Catharine Arnston. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The health benefits of an alkaline lifestyle and how algae helps in maintaining blood PH levels How soil degradation and over-processing impact the quality of our food Why algae farming is sustainable and beneficial for the environment The nutritional benefits of spirulina and chlorella compared to those of collagen. How the non-stimulant effects of spirulina assist in ATP generation Why mitochondrial health is crucial How aging impacts ATP production How chlorella aids the detoxification process How combining spirulina with chlorella leads to optimum health Catharine shares lifestyle hacks for aging gracefully Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Connect with Dr. Catharine Arnston ENERGYbits - Use the code CYNTHIATHURLOW for a 20% discount on all ENERGYbits products On Instagram and Facebook Previous Episode Mentioned: Ep. 226 The Incredible Benefits of Algae, Chlorella, and Spirulina with Dr. Catharine Arnston
25 Sep 202458min