Leaky Gut, Brain Fog & Autoimmune Risk in Menopause with Cynthia Thurlow

Leaky Gut, Brain Fog & Autoimmune Risk in Menopause with Cynthia Thurlow

What if the missing piece to your menopause symptoms isn't your hormones—but your gut? If you've been struggling with bloating, brain fog, fatigue, anxiety, constipation, inflammation, weight changes, or food sensitivities during perimenopause or menopause, this episode will completely change the way you think about women's health. Brigid sits down with nurse practitioner, bestselling author, and host of the Everyday Wellness Podcast, Cynthia Thurlow, to explore why the gut microbiome may be one of the most overlooked drivers of hormonal health. Together they unpack how declining estrogen affects your gut, why chronic stress and modern lifestyles can worsen inflammation, and the simple nutrition and lifestyle strategies that help support your microbiome through every stage of midlife. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply want to protect your long-term health, this conversation is packed with practical, science-backed insights rooted in functional nutrition and the belief that food truly is medicine. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: * Why gut health becomes increasingly important during perimenopause and menopause * How estrogen influences the gut microbiome * What the estrobolome is and why it matters for hormone health * The connection between leaky gut, inflammation, and autoimmune disease * Why gut health affects mood, anxiety, brain fog, and cognitive function * How the vagus nerve connects your gut and brain * Why blood sugar balance supports both gut and hormone health * Foods and lifestyle habits that damage the microbiome * How fiber, polyphenols, and plant diversity improve gut health * Why protein alone isn't enough for healthy aging * Practical strategies for reducing toxin exposure * The role of gluten, alcohol, stress, and sleep in chronic inflammation * Simple daily habits to improve gut health and support longevity Timestamps: * 00:00 Introduction to Cynthia Thurlow and the focus on women's gut health * 01:25 Why gut health is crucial during menopause * 02:25 Hormonal changes and their impact on the microbiome * 04:03 Effects of antibiotics and toxins on gut health * 06:23 Blood sugar, inflammation, and gut health * 09:15 Gut-brain connection and neurological symptoms * 12:30 Leaky gut and its role in autoimmune disease * 16:14 Autoimmune conditions and microbiome health * 17:42 Lifestyle factors affecting gut health in midlife women * 21:03 Changing lifestyle and diet as hormones decline * 23:19 Estrobilum and estrogen detoxification * 27:16 Toxin exposure and microbiome health * 34:27 Supporting microbiome diversity during menopause * 38:22 The importance of fiber and plant diversity * 43:15 Supplements and practical tips for gut health * 47:06 Foods to avoid and inflammatory triggers * 50:38 The impact of gluten and leaky gut * 55:25 Stress management and vagus nerve stimulation * 58:36 Reflections on lifestyle changes and menopause * 01:00:17 Resources and ways to connect with Cynthia Thurlow Resources & Links: + Watch the full episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/At1oG_-T9Zo] + Cynthia’s Website [https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/] + Cynthia’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_/?hl=en] + Cynthia’s Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/CHTWellness] + Cynthia’s Twitter/X [https://x.com/_CynthiaThurlow] + Cynthia’s Youtube [https://www.youtube.com/cynthiathurlow] + Cynthia’s Podcast [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-wellness-midlife-hormones-menopause-and/id1435214303] + Cynthia’s Substack [https://cynthiathurlownp.substack.com/] + Join The Being Collective [https://beingbrigid.com/the-being-collective] + Brigid’s Website [https://beingbrigid.com/] + Brigid’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/beingbrigid/] If this episode helped you better understand the powerful connection between your gut and your hormones, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share this conversation with a woman who deserves to feel her best. Every review helps us reach more women with science-backed strategies rooted in functional nutrition and food as medicine.

Hills I’ll Die On As a Dietitian When It Comes to Losing Weight & Belly Fat in Midlife

Why does belly fat suddenly become so much harder to lose—even when you're eating less and exercising more? If you've ever wondered why the strategies that worked in your 20s and 30s suddenly stop working during perimenopause or menopause, this episode is for you. Brigid breaks down the science behind insulin resistance, hormones, inflammation, and blood sugar—and explains why stubborn belly fat is about much more than calories. You'll learn the root causes behind metabolic changes as you age and the practical strategies that actually support sustainable fat loss, improved energy, and better hormone health. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: * Why insulin resistance often develops years before pre-diabetes * How estrogen impacts blood sugar and fat storage * Why eating less and exercising more can backfire * The surprising connection between cortisol, inflammation, and belly fat * Why blood sugar balance matters more than calorie counting alone * The role of muscle in improving insulin sensitivity * Research on low-fat vs. low-carbohydrate diets * Simple daily habits that support healthy metabolism * Why belly fat increases inflammation—and vice versa * How to reverse insulin resistance through Functional Nutrition Timestamps: * 00:00 Introduction to Brigid and her mission * 01:21 Why traditional weight loss advice often fails women * 02:42 The role of estrogen in insulin sensitivity * 03:40 Understanding insulin resistance and prediabetes * 05:02 Why eating less and exercising more can backfire * 07:15 Blood sugar balanced diet and its benefits * 11:22 Hormonal changes during menopause and their impact * 14:32 Visceral fat, inflammation, and metabolic risk * 16:25 The cycle of insulin resistance and belly fat * 18:19 Strategies to stabilize blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity * 20:12 Reversibility of insulin resistance and metabolic health * 22:25 Lifestyle tips: movement, sleep, and stress management * 24:13 Join the Blood Sugar Reset program * 25:08 Success stories and motivation * 26:30 Final thoughts and encouragement Resources & Links: + Watch the full episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/zt3qH0zrwfg] + Join The Summer Blood Sugar Reset [https://beingbrigid.com/blood-sugar-reset] + Join The Being Collective [https://beingbrigid.com/the-being-collective] + Brigid’s Website [https://beingbrigid.com/] + Brigid’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/beingbrigid/] If this episode helped you better understand your body, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who has been struggling with stubborn weight gain, blood sugar, or hormonal changes.

Kelly LeVeque: Blood Sugar Balance, Food Freedom, Creatine, Magnesium & Building a Wellness Empire

What if balancing your blood sugar wasn't about cutting carbs—but about finally understanding how your body actually works? In this episode, Brigid sits down with bestselling author, holistic nutritionist, and founder of Be Well by Kelly, Kelly LeVeque, for an honest conversation about the science that has transformed millions of lives. From blood sugar balance and hormone health to creatine, magnesium, protein, entrepreneurship, and raising healthy kids without diet culture, this episode is packed with practical strategies you can start using today. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: * Why blood sugar is the foundation of women's health * How balanced blood sugar supports hormones, energy, body composition, and longevity * Kelly's Fab Four method for building satisfying, blood sugar-friendly meals * The difference between cellular and processed carbohydrates * Why protein, healthy fats, fiber, and greens work together to reduce cravings * How elevated insulin impacts hunger hormones, PCOS, perimenopause, and menopause * Kelly's journey from cancer genetics to building Be Well by Kelly * The mindset shifts that helped her build a thriving wellness business * Why creatine is one of the most important supplements for women over 40 * The surprising benefits of magnesium beyond sleep * How Kelly prioritizes family while running a successful business * A sneak peek into Kelly's upcoming book, Sweet Deal Timestamps: * 00:00 Introduction to Kelly LeVeque and her work * 01:23 Kelly's journey into understanding blood sugar * 02:36 How blood sugar saved Kelly and transformed her life * 04:53 The macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates * 08:53 The impact of processed vs. whole foods on blood sugar * 12:15 The Fab Four: Building balanced meals * 15:04 Insulin, hunger hormones, and hormonal health * 16:55 The evolution of blood sugar awareness in medicine * 21:22 Kelly's early career and rapid success * 25:29 Educational journey and certifications in nutrition * 30:26 Building her brand and creating courses * 35:31 Creating high-quality supplements with integrity * 41:41 Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship * 49:10 The importance of quality in supplements * 57:21 The benefits of creatine for women * 01:03:16 Magnesium and sleep support with added ingredients * 01:06:35 Kelly's new project: a parent's guide to sugar * 01:19:30 Where to find Kelly and her resources Resources & Links: + Watch the full episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/sIxOonyIQWE] + Kelly’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bewellbykelly/] + Kelly’s Website [https://bewellbykelly.com/] + Kelly’s Blog [https://bewellbykelly.com/pages/blog?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGn9EdtU3qcoYi3Ammre7Bou536gc86eWZLe7xUtUJ0J7s1_A48UUokj2pNYqA_aem_pHwDAqrs1KhXiwhY3tLNLA] + Kelly’s Podcast [https://bewellbykelly.com/pages/be-well-by-kelly-podcast?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnHJnc_OK5roFmKCruCCrrX1zNfN1wXXbIYPGZSns3lJsK0frMC46_-mJolI8_aem_mIH-WRiXC8L56_KlEzHNew] + Join The Summer Blood Sugar Reset [https://beingbrigid.com/blood-sugar-reset] + Join The Being Collective [https://beingbrigid.com/the-being-collective] + Brigid’s Website [https://beingbrigid.com/] + Brigid’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/beingbrigid/] Blood sugar isn't just about diabetes—it influences nearly every aspect of your health, from your hormones and energy to your mood, metabolism, and healthy aging. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, trying to improve body composition, or simply looking for sustainable nutrition habits that actually fit real life, this conversation offers science-backed guidance you'll come back to again and again.

The Blood Sugar Reset: What to Expect and How to Prep

Can balancing your blood sugar really help you feel better in just a few days? If you've been eating "healthy" but still struggle with cravings, fatigue, stubborn weight, inflammation, or hormone changes, this episode explains why healthy eating alone may not be enough. Brigid is joined by Functional Medicine Registered Dietitian Christina Palmasano for an in-depth conversation about the science behind the Blood Sugar Reset, how insulin resistance develops, and why thousands of women have experienced improvements in energy, mood, sleep, cravings, and overall health after following this simple, structured approach. Whether you're preparing to join the Blood Sugar Reset or simply want to understand how functional nutrition supports long-term health, this episode gives you practical strategies you can start applying today. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: * Why eating "healthy" doesn't always mean optimal nutrition * What insulin resistance is and why it's so common in women * How blood sugar impacts hormones, inflammation and energy * Why blood sugar balance becomes even more important during perimenopause and menopause * Why participants often notice improvements in just a few days * The nutrition framework behind the Blood Sugar Reset meal plan * How to prepare before starting the program * Protein powder recommendations and kitchen tools that make success easier * Costco shopping tips that save time and money * Restaurant strategies that keep blood sugar stable * Easy swaps for common food allergies and dietary preferences Timestamps: * 00:00 Introduction to Functional Nutrition and the Blood Sugar Reset * 03:05 Transformations and Community in the Blood Sugar Reset * 05:50 Understanding Insulin Resistance and Its Impact * 08:59 The Importance of Meal Structure and Planning * 11:52 Reversibility of Insulin Resistance and Health Conditions * 14:46 The Blood Sugar Reset: A Lifestyle Approach * 17:48 Quick Benefits of the Blood Sugar Reset * 20:55 Action Steps for Success in the Blood Sugar Reset * 23:52 Key Components of the Blood Sugar Reset Meal Plan * 26:54 Family-Friendly Meals and Involvement * 30:07 Next Steps After Signing Up for the Blood Sugar Reset * 34:40 Preparing for the Blood Sugar Reset * 38:02 The Importance of Protein Powder * 42:58 Essential Kitchen Equipment for Meal Prep * 48:56 Costco: A Smart Shopping Strategy * 54:04 Ingredient Swaps for Dietary Needs * 57:08 Modifications for Active Lifestyles * 01:01:03 Dining Out: Making Smart Choices * 01:03:55 Joining the Blood Sugar Reset Program Resources & Links: + Watch the full episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/cDK6jP0g5ug] + Join The Summer Blood Sugar Reset [https://beingbrigid.com/blood-sugar-reset] + Be Well by Kelly [https://go.shopmy.us/p-49400731] Protein Powder + Just Ingredients [https://justingredients.com/BEINGBRIGID] Protein Powder + Join The Being Collective [https://beingbrigid.com/the-being-collective] + Brigid’s Website [https://beingbrigid.com/] + Brigid’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/beingbrigid/]

How She Lost 90 Lbs and Reduced Inflammation Without a GLP-1

Could balancing your blood sugar change everything? After decades of yo-yo dieting, calorie restriction, and believing weight loss meant willpower, Kimberlie was exhausted, inflamed, and convinced her body was working against her. Today, she's nearly 60 years old, has lost over 90 pounds, dramatically lowered her inflammation and fasting blood sugar, improved her menopausal symptoms, and—perhaps most importantly—finally feels at peace with food. In this inspiring episode, Brigid sits down with Kimberlie to unpack the mindset shifts, nutrition strategies, and consistent habits that transformed her health for good. What You’ll Learn In This Episode: * Why decades of dieting never solved Kimberlie’s health struggles * The connection between blood sugar balance, inflammation, and weight loss * How menopause symptoms improved through nutrition—not restriction * Why sustainable habits outperform crash diets every time * The role of functional nutrition in improving metabolic health * Why consistency beats perfection for lasting results * How community and accountability can transform your health journey * The mindset shifts that helped Kimberlie lose over 90 pounds without feeling like she was dieting * Why it's never too late to improve your health and thrive through aging Timestamps: * 00:00 Introduction to Functional Nutrition and Health Journeys * 01:25 Kimberlie’s Early Struggles with Weight and Body Image * 06:13 The Impact of Dieting and Weight Loss Cycles * 10:27 Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Help * 12:42 The Blood Sugar Reset Experience * 19:29 Sustainable Weight Loss and Health Improvements * 22:07 Tracking Progress and Understanding Health Markers * 26:57 Consistency Over Perfection: A New Mindset * 29:58 Advice for Those Struggling with Weight and Health * 31:21 Embracing Aging and Building Healthy Habits * 34:46 Commitment to Daily Improvement and Community Support Resources & Links: + Watch the full episode on YouTube [https://youtu.be/i3lsmT_n2-A] + Join The Summer Blood Sugar Reset [https://beingbrigid.com/blood-sugar-reset] + Join The Being Collective [https://beingbrigid.com/the-being-collective] + Brigid’s Website [https://beingbrigid.com/] + Brigid’s Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/beingbrigid/]