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***TOP 2% GLOBAL PODCAST*** The Go-to Podcast for Midlife Women Who Want To Balance Hormones Naturally Ugh. I feel so bloated. I’m retaining more water than the Hoover Dam. What? Not another pimple? It’s like puberty all over again! Sleep? What’s that like? (I forget.:<) Umm, I just turned 40….. Aren’t I too young for this?!? — Hello Friend. (Can I call you “friend”? ‘Cuz we’re already friends in my head:) Welcome to Are You There, Midlife? It’s Me, Monica. I’m Monica Lane Topete, Certified Nutrition Coach Coach, Peri+ Menopause Educator, Personal Trainer, NASM Behavior Change Specialist, and Hormone Imbalance Survivor. And I’m on a mission to help women in mid life balance their hormones naturally without drugs, doctors (or divorce!) It wasn’t too long ago when perimenopause came crashing through my door with a ton of luggage (‘cuz she was prepared to stay for A WHILE!) I remember how overwhelmed, anxious, and pretty much clueless I was about what was happening to my body…and how desperate I was for a diagnosis! But, after SEVERAL visits to my doctor who gave me a clean bill of health and lab results that came back “within normal range,” I finally decided to take my health into my own hands. I spent OVER A YEAR combing through PubMed research studies, taking online courses in naturopathy and functional medicine, and becoming my own human guinea pig to crack the hormone code and create a research-based program that really worked to balance my hormones, put the kibosh on perimenopause symptoms, and lose stubborn weight–and keep it off–for more than 10 years! And now, I want to share it with you. Join me as I demystify the hormonal transition in midlife and spill the ”tea” on what to expect when you’re expecting perimenopause…and beyond. From anxiety to insomnia, body fat to funky body odor (yeah, that’s a thing!), I’ll unpack all the ”weird stuff” going on inside our midlife bodies, plus give you the latest science and holistic solutions to balance it all. ...Are you tired of dealing with heavy, painful periods that look like a crime scene?… ...Or struggling with symptoms like chronic headaches, fatigue, or brain fog that….(What was I saying again?).... ...Are you beyond frustrated doing “all the things” to lose weight—but are still packing on the pounds faster than a sumo wrestler in training Then, girl, you’re in the right place.:) There IS a way you can balance your hormones naturally that doesn’t involve band-aid solutions like antidepressants or birth control pills (which are a BIG mistake! HUGE!)...and that only provide temporary relief without fixing the root problem. In this podcast, you’ll learn how to: - End painful periods, menstrual headaches, and PMS - Improve your sleep, reduce night sweats, and increase your overall energy - Reduce hormonal depression and anxiety–WITHOUT meds! - Alleviate symptoms of inflammation like joint pain, hair loss, gut issues, and allergies - Move the scale on stubborn weight and belly fat (and never starve yourself again!) - Talk to your partner about perimenopause (without sounding like you’re totally insane!) It’s TIME to take back control of your hormones and show ‘em who’s boss...so you can feel confident and love yourself again! ...Without ever stepping foot inside a doctor’s office or resorting to crazy hormone pellets. No need to make an appointment or even change outta your PJs. Just come as you are–wherever you are–as I discuss ALL things hormones in midlife–with a bit of saucy humor. (‘Cuz laughing is better than crying, unless it makes you pee.:) --- Next Steps: - Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment - Book a 30-minute Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/hormonecall - Become an AYTML Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/ - Record a Question to be Answered on the Pod: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife - Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements & Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741): https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance - Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com *Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.
Episodes
![32 | Six Tricks to Curb Cravings, Avoid Overeating, And Maintain Hormone Balance In Perimenopause [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Hey friend!
Do you suffer from "food guilt"? If you’ve just come back from a summer vacation where you ate, drank, and maybe indulged a little too much…and are now feeling bad about it…you’re not alone.
In fact, according to a recent survey of 2,000 men and women in the US, about 1 in 3 people eat food that makes them feel guilty and 39% of women say those guilt feelings can even ruin their day…not to mention their vacation.
While it's true what we eat in perimenopause, menopause, and even post-menopause can affect our health and hormones, when it comes to enjoying life–and that includes our summer break, we need to find the balance.
In today’s “Hot Flash Summer” podcast series episode, I’m sharing six tricks to curb unhealthy cravings, avoid overeating, and keep your hormones in check so you can live your best Hot Girl Summer.
Join me as we discuss:
- Color Psychology and Which Color Stimulates Hunger the Most (and Least)
- The Best Thing to Do When You Get A Craving For Something Sugary
- The Two Hundred (Unconscious) Decisions We Make About Food Every Day
- What’s Makes a Food A "Trigger" Food…and How To Determine Your’s
- The One Simple Hack That Can Reduce Impulsive Eating & Overeating By Up To 15%
If you’re worried about overdoing it on your vacation…or you want to get your unhealthy snacking–and hormones–under control, this episode is for you.
—
Next Steps:
EP 30 | 8 Healthy Drinking Hacks To Reduce The Effects of Alcohol On Your Perimenopause or Menopause Symptoms (Pt. 2) [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/25b045
EP 29 | Is Summer Drinking Sabotaging Your Hormones? 8 Signs Alcohol Is Impacting Your Perimenopause or Menopause Symptoms [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/25891c
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.

Thursday Aug 08, 2024
Thursday Aug 08, 2024
Hey friend!
Welcome to “Are You There, Midlife? It’s me, Monica.” Hi, I’m Monica and I’m super excited to bring you this week’s episode of “Hormone Hot Topics.” Every other Thursday, now through the end of summer, I’m bringing you the juicy scoop on the perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause stories making the news.
In today’s episode, I’ll sound off on the following headlines:
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Hormonal Depression: Why women in PERIMENOPAUSE are at a higher risk of developing depression than at any other stage in life
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Afraid to drive? Google searches for “Menopause driving anxiety” skyrocketed by 200% last year!
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The surprising new study that links menopause with an INCREASE in estrogen receptor density…and what this MIGHT mean for dementia prevention in women over 40
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Is perimenopause or menopause stalling your career? The prevailing stigma that women in mid-life are “less productive or emotionally stable” may be costing you that promotion
I can’t wait to give you my hot take on these Hot Hormone Topics and more! So grab a spoon as we stir the (iced) tea on today’s episode.
—
Next Steps:
27 | SAD In Summer? 3 Ways To Stop Perimenopausal Mood Swings, Anxiety, or Depression From Ruining Your Vacation [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/255c11
1 | How Do I Know If I'm In Perimenopause?: https://pod.fo/e/2297e9
Take My FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Give Me Your Hot Take On Today’s Episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.
![30 | 8 Healthy Drinking Hacks To Reduce The Effects of Alcohol On Your Perimenopause or Menopause Symptoms (Pt. 2) [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Hey friend!
Did you know today is officially the halfway point of summer? Yep! 47 days down and 47 days to go of sun, fun, and celebrating. (And by “celebrating,” I mean drinking.)
If you’re a woman in perimenopause or menopause and you feel like drinking this summer is hitting you a little differently, you may be right.
Research shows that hormonal shifts in mid life can affect the way our body metabolizes alcohol which can decrease our alcohol tolerance, increase our hangover severity, and exacerbate our perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms.
And if we’re not careful, all of that summer “celebrating” can push us right into a hormonal apocalypse come this Fall!
Today, I’m continuing my “Hot Flash Summer” podcast series and sharing 8 ways to reduce the effects of alcohol and keep your hormones in check so you can live your best Hot Girl Summer.
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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Mocktails and the sober curious movement–Is it an option for you?
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The best low-sugar wine for your hormones
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How to time your drinking to prevent problems sleeping
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The 3 best supplements to prevent dehydration symptoms and detoxify the liver
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Which exercise helps balance blood sugar levels
If you’re someone who enjoys her summer cocktails…but not the weight gain, insomnia, or hot flashes it can trigger, this episode is for you.
—
Next Steps:
EP 29 | Is Summer Drinking Sabotaging Your Hormones? 8 Signs Alcohol Is Impacting Your Perimenopause or Menopause Symptoms [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/25891c
EP 26 | Sleepless in Summer: Why You Can't Sleep & 4 Natural Sleep Aids for Better ZZZ’s in Menopause [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/2530cf
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.
![29 | Is Summer Drinking Sabotaging Your Hormones? 8 Signs Alcohol Is Impacting Your Perimenopause or Menopause Symptoms (Part 1) [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Hey friend!
Have you been “celebrating” a lot this summer? (And by “celebrating” I mean drinking.)
“Celebrating” is synonymous with summer. From commemorating summer holidays like Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Father’s Day, and Labor Day weekend–to celebrating kids graduating from high school and college–to weddings, vacations and so much more.
…Many of us have been in “party” mode for the last 3 months!
And there’s nothing wrong with that…UNLESS all that celebrating has taken a toll on your hormones.
Today, I’m continuing my “Hot Flash Summer” podcast series on how to beat the heat and keep your hormones in check so you can live your best “Hot Girl Summer.”
In the Hot Seat today: Summer drinking, and how alcohol can affect and even exacerbate a hormonal imbalance
Alcohol can affect our hormones any time of year, but when we combine the heat and humidity of the summer along with the frequency in which we drink, it can really kick our perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms into overdrive.
In today’s episode, we will unpack:
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How alcohol causes vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and headaches
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The dehydrating affects of alcohol on your skin, sleep, and energy
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The connection between alcohol, uterine fibroids, and Estrogen Dominance
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How alcohol causes your libido and serotonin to plummet!
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Plus, three reasons why alcohol may be contributing to your summer weight gain
If you’re feeling more hot, tired, or hormotional lately or you’re perpetually living in PMS hell, this episode is for you!
—
Next Steps:
EP 23 | Help! I'm Melting!: Six Tips to Beat the Summer Heat and Cool Menopausal Hot Flashes. [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/24e160
EP 26 | Sleepless in Summer: Why You Can't Sleep & 4 Natural Sleep Aids for Better ZZZ’s in Menopause [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/2530cf
EP 27 | SAD In Summer? 3 Ways To Stop Perimenopausal Mood Swings, Anxiety, or Depression From Ruining Your Vacation [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/255c11
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Become A Podcast Insider:https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.

Thursday Jul 25, 2024
Thursday Jul 25, 2024
Hey friend!
Welcome to “Are You There, Midlife? It’s me, Monica.” Hi, I’m Monica and I’m super excited to bring to you the second episode of a brand NEW summer series of the podcast called, “Hormone Hot Topics.” Every other Thursday, now through the end of summer, I’m going to bring you the juicy scoop on the perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause stories making the news.
In today’s episode, I’ll sound off on the following headlines:
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Can a sleep divorce save your marriage? If you’re one of half of all women aged 40–65 dealing with insomnia or problems sleeping, sleeping separately might be the key to finally getting a good night’s rest.
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Mid life eating disorders: The shocking–and dangerous–trend that’s re-emerging in perimenopause
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I get hot flashes; What’s your superpower? Whoopi Goldberg’s hilarious comic book puts a heroic spin on “The Change” and embraces the power of menopause
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The results of Bonafide’s 4th Annual Women’s Health study are in: What do they reveal about how much we know–and don’t know–about the menopausal transition (and how it could affect the 2024 presidential election)
I can’t wait to give you my hot take on these Hot Hormone Topics and more! So grab a spoon as we stir the (iced) tea on today’s episode.
—
Next Steps:
26 | Sleepless in Summer: Why You Can't Sleep & 4 Natural Sleep Aids for Better ZZZ’s in Menopause [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/2530cf
22 | Weight Gain, Belly Fat, and What To Expect In Menopause: BONUS EPISODE https://pod.fo/e/24c740
Take My FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Give Me Your Hot Take On Today’s Episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Shop My Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More On Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.
![27 | SAD In Summer? 3 Ways To Stop Perimenopausal Mood Swings, Anxiety, or Depression From Ruining Your Vacation [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
Tuesday Jul 23, 2024
Hey friend!
Have you ever heard of “summertime sadness?” No, not the Lana Del Rey song…although that is a catchy tune!
I’m talking about seasonal depression, irritability, and even anxiety that can occur during the summer…. especially in women with a hormonal imbalance.
Yes! This is a thing! And it affects more of us ladies in perimenopause through post-menopause than you’d think.
So if you’ve been feeling a little “off” since summer started… this episode is for you!
Today, I’m continuing my “Hot Flash Summer” podcast series on how to beat the heat and keep your hormones in check so you can live your best “Hot Girl Summer.”
In the Hot Seat today: The Summer Blues
Did you know that a change in season and weather, even a “feel good” season like summer, can actually affect your mental health?
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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How a change in weather can impact your mood and increase anxiety and irritability
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Summer SAD Disorder: What it is, what causes it, and how does it differ from winter seasonal affective disorder?
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How to recognize the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder depression and who is most at risk
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The connection between summer SAD and hormones and the hormonal imbalance that makes you especially susceptible
Plus, I’ll share 6 drug-free tips for easing the summertime blues and alleviating seasonal anxiety so you can enjoy the rest of your summer.
So turn that frown upside down and put on a happy face, cuz’ happier days are on the way!
—
Next Steps:
EP 26 | Sleepless in Summer: Why You Can't Sleep & 4 Natural Sleep Hacks for Better ZZZ’s in Menopause [SUMMER SERIES]: https://pod.fo/e/2530cf
EP 23 | Help! I'm Melting!: Six Tips to Beat the Summer Heat and Cool Menopausal Hot Flashes: https://pod.fo/e/24e160
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Shop My Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.
![26 | Sleepless in Menopause: Why You Can't Sleep & 4 Natural Sleep Aids for Better ZZZ’s [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
Tuesday Jul 16, 2024
How’s your summer going? Are you getting ready to go on vacation? Or maybe you’re on vacation right now???
Today’s episode was actually inspired by a mini vacay I took to Palm Springs in the spring. It was hot! Not record-breaking 126-degree weather hot like it was over the Fourth of July weekend… But hot enough that I had trouble sleeping.
If you’re in menopause, postmenopause, or even perimenopause, maybe you can relate. Hormonal changes in our 40s and 50s can cause insomnia or contribute to problems sleeping by themselves. But when you add summer into the mix? Good luck catching those beauty ZZZs!
Today, I’m continuing my “Hot Flash Summer” podcast series on how to beat the heat and keep your hormones in check so you can live your best “Hot Girl Summer.”
In the Hot Seat today: How summer can sabotage our sleep
According to a study by WellFemme, up to 60% of all women experience sleep disturbances at some point during the menopausal transition. That means 1 in 6 of us have good reason to be tired, cranky, and pretty much unable to focus most of the time.:)
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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Why sleep is important for our hormones
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The connection between summer, sleep, and hormonal imbalance, specifically in menopausal and post-menopausal women
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Is your sleep position the reason you can’t sleep at night and what is the best sleep position for women in midlife?
Plus, I’ll share my 4 favorite tips for getting a good night's sleep on summer vacation….and ALL summer long.
So hold onto your melatonin, cuz’ help for better summer sleep is on the way!
—
Next Steps:
EP 23 | Help! I'm Melting!: Six Tips to Beat the Summer Heat and Cool Menopausal Hot Flashes: https://pod.fo/e/24e160
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Check Out My Favorite Sleep Mask: https://iherb.co/cjW3vEKd
What’s Your Hot Take? Share Your Question or Opinion on the Pod: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Become A Podcast Insider:https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.

Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Thursday Jul 11, 2024
Hey friend!
Welcome to “Are You There, Midlife? It’s me, Monica.” Hi, I’m Monica and I’m super excited to kick off a brand new series of the podcast today called, “Hot Hormone Topics.” Every other Thursday, now through the end of summer, I’m going to bring you the juicy scoop on perimenopause and menopause stories making the news.
In today’s episode, I’m sounding off on the following headlines:
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Should you swap your gym membership for a sauna? A new study on menopause weight gain and insulin resistance has some shocking results…
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Fart walks: The viral trend that could be the key to curing midlife gut health and digestion issues
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Is delaying menopause the key to longevity? First Lady Jill Biden thinks so, and so does Big Pharma
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Perimenopause Camps and Menopause Retreats: Are these women-only getaways worth the hype?
I can’t wait to dive in and give you my hot take on these Hot Hormone Topics! So grab a spoon and get ready to stir the (iced) tea on today’s juicy episode.
—
Next Steps:
Take My FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Become A Podcast Insider: https://areyoutheremidlife.com/
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Give Me Your Hot Take On Today’s Episode: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Shop My Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More On Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Email Me: monica@monicalanetopete.com
*Disclaimer: Information provided in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The information is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. I share the strategies that have worked for me and you are advised to do your own research and speak to your medical provider for care.