I am delighted to connect with Kim Vopni today, who is passionate about sharing information on pelvic health. She is a self-professed pelvic health evangelist known as the Vagina Coach. She is also a certified fitness professional, a published author, and the founder of Pelvienne Wellness Inc., which offers pelvic health programs, products, and coaching. In our discussion today, we dive into the role of the pelvic floor, looking at the core four and the challenge of addressing uncomfortable topics. We explain why the diaphragm is significant, and we look at the ABCs of posture. We also explore the impact of incontinence, constipation, overactive bladder, pelvic organ prolapse, and some common ideologies of pelvic floor dysfunction, including footwear, ankle positioning, and hypermobility issues. This invaluable discussion with Kim Vopni is a complementary conversation to the recent episode with Dr. Rina Malik. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why most women feel embarrassed or are secretive about having pelvic floor or genitourinary issues The role of the pelvic floor in avoiding continence and supporting the internal organs and the sexual response Why it is essential to address pelvic floor issues early  Kim explains her concept of the core four Importance of proper posture and breathing for pelvic floor health Constipation may lead to pelvic floor issues. How statistics highlight the need for more awareness about the prevalence of incontinence in older women   Benefits of pelvic floor physical therapy and biofeedback devices for managing fecal incontinence Symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse Why individuals with connective tissue disorders have an increased risk of pelvic floor dysfunction Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Kim Vopni On her website Instagram YouTube On all social media channels: @vaginacoach Kim’s book, Your Pelvic Floor, is available on Amazon and most major bookstores.

Today, I am delighted to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Natalie Jill, the founder of Natalie Jill Fitness and Midlife Conversations.  In our insightful discussion today, we tackle some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding fat loss in middle age. We dive into the power of mindset shifts, the importance of breaking free from limiting beliefs, and investigating and understanding your body, and explain the role of gut health and the impact of toxins. Natalie also shares her experience with breast implant illness, highlighting the need for honesty and authenticity, and opens up about what she does to age optimally in her early 50s.  This conversation with Natalie is invaluable, and I truly appreciate her honesty and transparency. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: The challenges of weight loss in middle age How feeling she was fraud after gaining weight in middle age led Natalie to re-evaluate her approach to health and fitness. Importance of remaining open-minded about any potential drivers of health issues How Natalie came to discover that toxins and hormones were affecting her health How her health improved significantly after Natalie had her breast implants removed  The emotional and physical challenges of having breast implants removed The importance of strength training and progressive overload for maintaining muscle mass and bone health  Natalie shares her approach to age optimization. Why being kind to yourself, recognizing your natural rhythms, managing  stress, and finding ways to relax are essential Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Natalie Jill On her website On all social media: @Natalie Jill Fit Midlife Conversations Podcast

Prepare to be enlightened by an engaging discussion with a true powerhouse in women's health! I have the pleasure of being joined once again by the esteemed Dr. Felice Gersh, a renowned physician with a cutting-edge career in obstetrics, gynecology, and integrative medicine.  In today’s episode, Dr. Gersh and I explore the intricate interplay between estrogen and immune function, delving into the impact of ovarian aging, menopause, bone health, mental cognition, sleep, and mood. We traverse the vast landscape of the gut microbiome and vascular system, unraveling the secrets of different estrogen types and receptors while addressing the crucial role of inflammation.  With a keen focus on hormone replacement therapy, Dr. Gersh also shares her invaluable insights on the critical window for intervention and her exceptional approach to caring for women in perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Felice Gersh is an invaluable resource on women’s health! Tune in for an enriching discussion that will leave you eagerly anticipating more episodes with this esteemed physician!  IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Gersh discusses hormone supplementation and menopause.  The role of estrogen in the immune system The systemic effects of estrogens How to turn off the switch to inflammation The connection between estrogen and the gut microbiome   The role of estradiol in the body Having a healthy gut will translate into a healthy liver and vice versa. The magic of phytoestrogens The perfect storm for creating breast cancer Is there a magic window of time for menopause? Estrogen receptors and the risk of blood clotting   Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Connect with Dr. Felice Gersh On her website: Integrative Medical Group of Irvine Instagram All of Dr. Gersh’s books are available on Amazon Previous Episodes Mentioned Ep. 221 Part 1- An Integrative Approach to PCOS and Menstrual Irregularities with Dr. Felice Gersh Ep. 237 Perimenopause and Menopause: What You Didn’t Know with Dr. Felice Gersh

Aging is the leading risk factor for cognitive decline, and projected statistics show that the number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s will reach 8.5 million by 2030 and 11.2 million by 2040.  Today, I am thrilled to connect with Dr. Heather Sandison, a naturopathic doctor and the founder and medical director of Solcere Health, a San Diego-based brain optimization clinic, and Marama, the first residential memory care facility that aims to return its residents to independent living. Dr. Sandison is also the New York Times bestselling author of Reversing Alzheimer's.  In our conversation today, Dr. Sandison and I explored the most common signs of early cognitive decline, looking at ways to differentiate dementia from formal Alzheimer's disease. We dive into the causes of dementia and Alzheimer's, examining six key imbalances that can affect ApoE status and tackle the limitations of current approaches to Alzheimer's research. We also share information on current drug modalities and touch on the importance of brain-nurturing environments and helpful activities for maintaining cognitive status as we age.  I look forward to having Dr. Sandison back for a second conversation, where we will dive deeper into practical ways to support and improve brain health. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Some early signs of neurocognitive decline Barriers to care for those with dementia or Alzheimer’s What differentiates dementia from Alzheimer's? Various factors that could cause Alzheimer's The role ApoE genetics play in Alzheimer's risk How addressing lifestyle factors can help prevent cognitive decline. The limitations of current Alzheimer's treatments How the results of clinical trials on the Bredesen intervention have shown significant improvements in cognitive function Why individualized treatments are essential for managing Alzheimer's and dementia Making healthy choices accessible and creating environments that support cognitive function The benefits of making positive changes in your daily life and taking small steps to enhance brain health  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Heather Sandison On her website Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube

Today, I am delighted to connect with a personal friend and colleague, Todd Durkin. Todd is the CEO and Co-founder of Impact-X Performance, a fitness and coaching franchise featuring faith, fitness, recovery, and life coaching, and he motivates and inspires people daily through his inspirational keynote speeches, books, podcasts, and franchise.  Todd and I went to middle school together, so our conversation today is personal in addition to being inspirational. We explore the role of faith and family, looking at the benefits of sports, the importance of vision boards, the value of motivation, and transforming passion into purpose. Todd also discusses his philosophy, which centers on mindset, habits, and routine, shares his evening and morning routines, offers his take on big, hairy, audacious goals, and explains why challenges and adversity are crucial for growth.  Todd is one of the most inspiring, thoughtful, and intentional voices on social media today, and I have no doubt you will find this conversation as valuable as I did. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Being raised in a blue-collar town shaped Todd's values. Significance of having a strong sense of family and community The challenges Todd faced led to his personal growth Role of faith and divine guidance in overcoming challenges Morning and nighttime routines, quiet time, journaling, and prayer  Addressing mental health issues and supporting others who are struggling How coaches and mentors help people grow and achieve their goals Why we must set big, bold, and exciting goals and continuously challenge ourselves Todd shares his philosophy on winning each day and overcoming personal struggles How champions get made during tough times  Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Todd Durkin On his website Instagram and other social media: @ToddDurkin

This podcast is the first episode in a series featuring companies I am eager to explore and share with my community. Today, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Andrew Salzman, a Harvard-trained medical doctor, pioneering scientist, and esteemed inventor. Dr. Salzman is the Chief Medical Officer at Wonderfeel, where he applies over three decades of medical innovation. His research into DNA repair with NAD-activated enzymes led the way for a groundbreaking treatment for BRCA-related breast and ovarian cancers, which he licensed to Genentech. Dr. Salzman was among the first researchers to publish papers on the gut microbiome and leaky gut syndrome in the 1980s, and he has published over 170 peer-reviewed papers and holds more than 50 patents. In our conversation today, we dive into what NAD is, its significance, why it matters, and how it impacts fertility, menopause, and sexual health. Dr. Salzman walks us through the symptoms of NAD deficiency and explains how an enzyme called CD38 can emerge when NAD levels are low, triggering inflammation and oxidative stress. We explore the difference between pharmaceutical agents and nutraceuticals, examining why oral NMN is preferable and how sleep and alcohol can influence NAD levels. We cover the risk factors for breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers, looking at what we can do to reduce them, and we also talk about Wonderfeel and how their supplements and botanicals enhance wellness for women.  This is an invaluable discussion with Dr. Salzman, so you will likely want to listen to it more than once. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: How our NAD levels change as we get older The role of NAD in energy production  How oxidative stress and inflammation affect NAD levels in the ovaries Why NAD is essential for sexual health Lifestyle choices that could affect NAD levels How inflammation can increase CD 38 levels and deplete NAD Why oral administration of NMN or NR is the most practical and effective method for maintaining NAD levels How alcohol affects NAD levels and increases the risk of cancer How, with Dr. Salzman's input, Wonderfeel developed a product combining NMN with botanicals to enhance NAD levels Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Andrew Salzman On the Wonderfeel website .

I am delighted to have the amazing Dr. Shannon Ritchey joining me today. She is a doctor of physical therapy, a fitness trainer, and the founder of Evlo Fitness. In this insightful conversation, we explore the complex landscape of social media and its influence on our perceptions of health and fitness, unpacking myths, stigmas, and societal conditioning. We dive into body recomposition, looking at the compare and despair trap of social media, the effects of fitness challenges, and the science behind muscle soreness and eccentric exercises. Dr. Ritchey explains how to measure body composition requirements accurately, how muscle supports metabolic health, and the results of different types of muscle fiber stimulation, and she also shares her thoughts on Zone 2 cardio, Pilates, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), nutrition, and more.  This discussion with Dr. Ritchey offers a wealth of information, and I look forward to welcoming her back for another conversation later this year. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Navigating the noise around fitness on social media Benefits of GLP-1s and some common misconceptions around GLP-1 use Why we need to find credible sources when looking for health advice Why it is crucial to start building muscle early to prevent future health issues Over-exercising affects your overall health Role of nutrition in body composition How social media can lead to unrealistic expectations around body image Is protein essential for muscle-building? How creatine supports muscle growth and cognitive health Some common micronutrient deficiencies, including magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 Why testing to determine specific needs for micronutrient deficiencies is important  Bio: Shannon Ritchey Dr. Shannon Ritchey is a former physical therapist, a fitness trainer with over 15 years of experience, and the founder of Evlo Fitness. She educates on the science of exercise, specifically teaching women how to build muscle with less wear and tear on their bodies. Residing in Austin, Texas, but originally from Kansas, Shannon is a wife and mom to a daughter (and pregnant with a second!). Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Shannon Ritchey On the Evlo Fitness website The Dr. Shannon Show Podcast Instagram and TikTok

We have a mashup episode today, with several experts diving into the critical role of the microbiomes in our bodies. In this episode, Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe explains why fiber is essential for gut health and the challenges of cultivating anaerobic probiotics outside the body. Dr. Elisa Song discusses the impact of antibiotics on children’s gut and mental health. Dr. William Li highlights how plant-based foods nourish gut bacteria, metabolism, and mental well-being. Dr. Nathan Bryan dives into the role of the oral microbiome in nitric oxide production, and Dr. Vincent Pedre explains how glyphosate contributes to leaky gut and health issues and examines how alcohol and environmental toxins impact weight management.  Join us for today’s in-depth exploration of how our microbiomes impact digestion, health, and overall well-being. Ep. 346 Gut Health: Unveiling the Science of the Microbiome with Dr. Colleen Cutcliffe [00:02:18]- [00:25:22] Dr. Cutcliffe highlights the importance of dietary fiber for supporting gut microbes, metabolism, and overall health and explains the challenges of growing anaerobic probiotics like Akkermansia outside the body.  Ep. 360 Raising Resilient Kids: Insights from Holistic Pediatrician Dr. Elisa Song [00:12:17] - [00:24:28] Dr. Song highlights the often overlooked effects of antibiotics on gut and mental health, emphasizing the importance of educating preteens, teens, and young adults about how their daily choices impact their microbiome, brain function, and long-term health.  [31:30]- [00:43:01] Why it is essential to understand how antibiotics and birth control impact the gut microbiomes of children and the importance of nurturing their resilience and restoring balance in their microbiomes over time. Ep. 354 Metabolism Myths Debunked: Weight Gain Insights with Dr. William Li [00:01:46] - [00:24:29] Dr. William William Li clarifies how bioactive compounds in plant-based foods feed gut bacteria, benefiting metabolism and mental well-being. He also highlights the importance of a healthy diet for gut health and explains how colonoscopy prep temporarily alters the gut microbiome. Ep. 379 Understanding Nitric Oxide and Its Impact on Our Health with Dr. Nathan Bryan [00:13:46]- [00:21:51] Dr. Nathan Bryan explores the crucial role of the oral microbiome in nitric oxide production and how mouthwash or fluoride products can disrupt that process, leading to higher blood pressure and reduced cardiovascular protection. [00:35:04]- [00:37:17] How, even though antibiotics and antiseptic mouthwash can disrupt the oral microbiome, the microbial communities can recover when given proper care and nutrition. Ep. 296 Secrets of Gut Microbiome and Glyphosate with Vincent Pedre [1:56-27:39] Dr. Vincent Pedre highlights how glyphosate disrupts the gut microbiome due to its mineral-binding and antimicrobial properties, leading to imbalances, leaky gut, and numerous health issues. [48:00- 1:02:15] The role alcohol, gut bacteria, and environmental exposure play in weight management and gut health, and how certain bacteria may lead to increased caloric extraction from food. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected]

Today, I am honored to connect with Kevin Ellis, the Bone Coach. Kevin Ellis, better known as Bone Coach™, is a certified Integrative Nutrition health coach, podcaster, Youtuber, bone health advocate, and the founder of BoneCoach.com. After an osteoporosis diagnosis in his early 30s, he realized just how challenging it can be for the average person to make sense of what needs to be done to improve and how to move forward confidently with a stronger bone plan. So many women struggle with osteopenia and osteoporosis throughout their lifetimes. In this episode, Kevin and I dive into his background and interest in osteoporosis and celiac disease. We discuss bone health, osteopenia, osteoporosis, and the various contributors to bone health. We get into conventional treatments for osteoporosis, explain why they are problematic, and discuss proactive ways to address osteoporosis. We also speak about the role of the gut microbiome in bone health, a study on how blood pressure accelerates bone aging, and the impact of insulin resistance.  I hope you will enjoy listening to today’s discussion as much as I did recording it! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Kevin’s background Osteopenia vs. osteoporosis. Do you have osteoporosis? How to find out if you are actively losing bone. Lifestyle factors negatively impacting bone health Causes of bone loss and osteoporosis in men and younger women How sugar damages bone Problems with the conventional approach to osteopenia and osteoporosis Addressing osteoporosis proactively Looking at diet and nutrition before considering supplements How melatonin promotes bone health. Chronic stress and its negative impact on bone health Connection between gut health and bone health Kevin’s top three recommendations for bone health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on X Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website  Connect with Kevin Ellis On his website Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn Kevin’s free Stronger Bones Masterclass

Today, I am excited to connect with Dr. Daved Rosensweet, the founder of The Institute of BioIdentical Medicine and The Menopause Method, a leading expert in andropause and menopause treatment, and an internationally recognized lecturer and presenter with over 30 years of experience. Dr. Rosensweet has written three books, including his latest, Happy Healthy Hormones.  In our discussion today, we dive into factors that influence long-term health and cognitive function during menopause, exploring strategies to help you avoid becoming a nursing home patient. We look at the role of hormone replacement therapy, the neurocognitive shifts that occur in perimenopause and menopause, why pellet therapy may not be the best choice for most women, and the impact of the Women’s Health Initiative. Dr. Rosensweet also shares valuable insights on the differences between compounded and synthetic HRT, the importance of testing, and the best routes of administration, and we examine what happens to hormone receptors more than a decade into menopause and how to support brain health by maintaining optimal estrogen levels.  This insightful conversation with Dr. Rosensweet is invaluable, so you may want to listen to it more than once. IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Why hormones, exercise, and protein are crucial for maintaining muscle mass and overall health as women age Why testosterone is essential for muscle mass maintenance, mood, and cognitive function The role of estrogen in maintaining cognitive function and potentially reversing dementia in women Dr. Rosensweet shares his concerns about pellet therapy The benefits of using bioidentical hormones  Some alternative forms of HRT Why patients and clinicians must share decision-making   How long-term hormone deficiency affects women's health  Why it is essential to monitor hormone levels  The benefits of addressing progesterone deficiency early  Bio: Dr. Daved Rosensweet Daved Rosensweet, MD, is the Founder of The Institute of BioIdentical Medicine and The Menopause Method, as well as the author of three books on the subject, including his latest "Happy Healthy Hormones". With over 30 years of experience specializing in andropause and menopause treatment, Dr. Rosensweet is an internationally known lecturer and presenter. Early in his career, he trained the first nurse practitioners in the United States and was in charge of health promotion for the State of New Mexico. Currently, Dr.Rosensweet spends the majority of his time as the Medical Director of The Institute of BioIdentical Medicine, where he trains medical practitioners to specialize in menopause and andropause medicine. Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to [email protected] Connect with Dr. Daved Rosensweet The Institute of BioIdentical Medicine Connect with Dr. Rosensweet’s training program at Brite or the Institute of BioIdentical Medicine   Download a free PDF copy of Dr. Rosensweet’s book, Happy, Healthy Hormones