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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
![24 | Can't Poop? 5 Tips To Relieve Constipation (And Balance Hormones) While Traveling [SUMMER SERIES]](https://pbcdn1.podbean.com/imglogo/image-logo/18165573/areyourtheremidlife_300x300.jpg)
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Tuesday Jul 09, 2024
Hey friend!
How was your 4th of July? Did you enjoy your four days off?
Whether you took a road trip out of state to visit family or friends, jumped into your RV to go camping at the beach, or flew to the nearest all-inclusive resort for some respite, travel causes a shift in 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 live your best “Hot Girl Summer.”
In the Hot Seat for this week’s episode: Constipation while traveling.
Constipation is common among women. (In fact, women get constipated 1.5 times more than men!) And while it isn’t an actual medical disorder, constipation is a symptom that can often indicate or contribute to an underlying hormonal imbalance. (Not to mention the fact it can really mess with your vacation!)
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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Common causes of constipation
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Chronic constipation symptoms
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How constipation impacts hormonal imbalance
Plus, I’ll share my 5 favorite tips for constipation relief including magnesium citrate and other natural laxatives, the best probiotic for women, gut health foods, and how much water you should drink a day to avoid dehydration.
So join me in today’s episode as we stir the tea and “get to the bottom” of what causes travel constipation… (Ok I couldn’t resist.:)
—
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
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: 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.

Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Tuesday Jul 02, 2024
Hey friend,
Can you believe summer is officially here?!?
To me, summer means long walks on the beach with my furry rescues, Sadie and Elle Woods. Outdoor barbecues, concerts, and lazy days by the pool. And, of course, summer vacation!!!
But if you’re in perimenopause, menopause, or even post-menopause, the changing weather can also cause a shift in your hormones....not to mention a change in your day-to-day routine that can wind up turning your dream summer vacation into a hormonal nightmare!
…Today, I’m kicking off a brand-new series of the podcast called, “Hot Flash Summer” and it's all about how to beat the heat and balance your hormones to live your best “Hot Girl Summer.”
Hot flashes are the most common hormonal symptom among women in all phases of menopause, with 75% - 85% percent of ALL women experiencing them. So if you haven’t had one yet...you will.…
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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What exactly is a hot flash?
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When (and why) do hot flashes occur?
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What are hot flash causes?
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What are hot flash symptoms?
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What does a hot flash feel like?
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Why are hot flashes worse in summer?
Plus, I'm sharing 3 of my favorite hot flash natural remedies for fast hot flash relief to balance your hormones just in time for summer!
It’s not too late to save your summer (and your vacation selfies) from turning into a sweaty mess! If you’re looking for ways to stay cool–and beat the heat naturally–this episode is for you!
—
Next Steps:
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
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/
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
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 Jun 27, 2024
22 | Weight Gain, Belly Fat, and What To Expect In Menopause: BONUS EPISODE
Thursday Jun 27, 2024
Thursday Jun 27, 2024
Hey friend, Today, I’m super excited to share this bonus episode about weight gain, belly fat, and what to expect in menopause. It’s from a recent discussion I had with Robin Rhine McDonald, host of the Vision Driven Health podcast, for a 6-week series on healthy hormones. This juicy episode is jam-packed with answers to the questions I get asked most about menopause and hormonal changes…including the million-dollar question:
Plus, I’ll share some of the biggest dial movers to lose stubborn weight–and keep it off–in midlife. So, grab a pen, a notebook, and your favorite cup ‘cuz we’re about to stir the tea on all things menopause. — Next Steps:
Vision Driven Health Podcast:
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
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741): 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. |

Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
21 | Metabolism, Blood Sugar And The Sneaky Saboteur of Weight Loss After 40
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Tuesday Jun 25, 2024
Hey friend,
For the last 6 weeks, I’ve been discussing the 7 most common hormonal imbalances that cause weight gain in perimenopause and beyond.
Today, I want to share one last sneaky saboteur of weight loss–especially in women over 40–that has a little to do with hormones and a lot to do with metabolic function.
Age-Related Insulin Resistance often occurs in menopause and post-menopause due to something called hormone dysregulation–a natural shift in hormone production that makes women over 40 more susceptible to blood sugar imbalance.
If you’re gaining weight like crazy, no matter how little you eat or how much exercise you do, age-related insulin resistance may be to blame.
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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What is age-related insulin resistance and are hormonal fluctuations in menopause the only cause?
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The connection between high blood sugar, glucose, and insulin resistance
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Surprising insulin resistance symptoms that go beyond cravings for sweets (Spoiler alert: Frequent yeast infections and tingling in fingers are a couple)
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Does age-related insulin resistance cause weight gain? (Or does weight gain cause insulin resistance?)
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And can you reverse insulin resistance? And if so, what does insulin resistance treatment look like?
Plus, I’ll share 3 quick tips to balance your blood sugar levels, boost your metabolism, and prevent metabolic syndrome, naturally.
So grab your notebook and a quick snack…preferably something high in protein (I’ll explain why later:)–as we stir the tea on all age-related things insulin resistance.
—
Next Steps:
EP 20 | Belly Fat, Insulin Resistance, and Hormonal Weight Gain: Do You Have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? https://pod.fo/e/248b3b
EP 18 | Belly Fat, Insulin Resistance, and Hormonal Weight Gain: Do You Have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome? https://pod.fo/e/246681
EP 17 | The Hidden Cause of Hormonal Weight Gain in Women Over 40: Adrenal Fatigue: https://pod.fo/e/243891
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
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/
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
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.

Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Tuesday Jun 18, 2024
Hey friend,
Today, I’m concluding my “6 Weeks To Summer” podcast series where I unpack the 7 most common hormonal imbalances in perimenopause and menopause and how they contribute to hormonal weight gain.
Are you OVER trying to do “all the things” to lose weight while the scale keeps going up and up...and up?
Do you REFUSE to shop for bigger clothes and just want to fit back into your favorite LBD?
Are you tired of feeling a lack of energy and tired ALL the time?... while missing out on enjoying quality time with your family and just living life?
In today’s episode, we are going to unpack Low Estrogen–the #1 hormonal imbalance affecting women in menopause and postmenopause.
Specifically, we’re going to discuss:
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What are the causes of low estrogen and how does menopause change where estrogen is produced?
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What are low estrogen symptoms?
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How does low estrogen cause menopause weight gain?
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What is the connection between low estrogen and belly fat?
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HRT therapy for low estrogen: Benefits vs risks
Plus, I'll share some tips on how to increase estrogen naturally including metabolism boosting foods, Vitamin D3 benefits, and the best exercises to increase estrogen…just in time for summer!
If you’re experiencing stubborn weight gain, problems sleeping, fatigue, and belly fat–especially in your stomach (hello, Menopause belly), then this episode is for you!
—
Next Steps:
EP 18 | Belly Fat, Insulin Resistance, and Hormonal Weight Gain: Do You Have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome?
EP 17 | The Hidden Cause of Hormonal Weight Gain in Women Over 40: Adrenal Fatigue
EP 15 | Hypothyroidism And Weight Gain: 3 Healthy Hacks To Help Shed Those Extra Pounds
https://pod.fo/e/240c5f
EP 14 | Is Estrogen Dominance Causing Your Hormonal Weight Gain? 3 Quick Tips To Move The Scale
https://pod.fo/e/23e32f
EP 3 | What Are The Pros & Cons of Hormone Pellets?
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
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
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 Jun 13, 2024
Thursday Jun 13, 2024
Hey friend,
Happy National Sex Day!!! Did you celebrate it?
In case the date completely slipped your mind (blame it on perimenopause brain fog)...Or, like me, you never knew the day existed (and to be honest, do we really need the extra pressure of a NATIONAL sex day???....)
National Sex Day was observed on June 9th to commemorate the importance of sexual intimacy in relationships.
But for couples struggling with low libido, mismatched sex drives, or sexual anxiety, this day can bring a lot of undue stress.
On today’s episode, I’m joined by my husband, Rick, as we continue our special “Love & Hormones” Spring Series.
Warning: This episode features a candid discussion about sex and intimacy and may include explicit content not suitable for children.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into Part 2 of our episode on the biggest causes of low libido in women–and men–in midlife:
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Medication side effects
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Unhealthy diet effects
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Hormone fluctuations and hormone imbalance
Plus, we’ll share some fast fixes for these low libido causes, including antidepressant alternatives, low glycemic foods, and tips on balancing hormones naturally.
So grab some water, tea, or red wine–all of which can help give you a boost in the bedroom!--as WE stir the tea on all things libido!
—
Next Steps:
16 | Can We Just Cuddle?: 3 Ways to Boost Low Libido in Women Over 40 (And Men!) Naturally (Part 1)
10 | "Why Do I Hate My Husband?"--Relationship Advice for Couples Navigating Hormonal Imbalance
https://pod.fo/e/237f2e
8 | Do Hormone Balancing Supplements Work? (Part 1)
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/hormonecall
Become an AYTML 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.

Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
Tuesday Jun 11, 2024
Hey friend,
Today, I’m continuing my “6 Weeks To Summer” podcast series where I unpack the 7 most common hormonal imbalances in perimenopause and menopause and how they contribute to weight loss resistance.
If you’ve never heard of PCOS or thought it was only something that affects women in their 20s or 30s, think again! It is this and other myths about PCOS that have earned it the nickname, “the silent disorder.”
PCOS affects an estimated 1 in 10 of every woman of reproductive age in the U.S., but the numbers are, in actuality, much, much higher, as 70% of all cases go undiagnosed! (More about that on today’s podcast.:)
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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What exactly is polycystic ovary syndrome?
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What causes polycystic ovary syndrome?
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What are PCOS symptoms?
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What causes polycystic weight gain?
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What is the connection between PCOS and insulin resistance?
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Why are so many women not getting a proper PCOS diagnosis?
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What is traditional medicine's PCOS treatment vs holistic treatment?
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Can polycystic ovary syndrome be cured?
Plus, I share 3 of my favorite tips to balance your hormones just in time for summer!
If you’re experiencing symptoms like abnormally heavy, short, or long periods without birth control along with oily skin or acne, hair loss, and unexplained weight gain–especially in your stomach (hello, PCOS belly), then this episode is for you!
—
Next Steps:
EP 17 | The Hidden Cause of Hormonal Weight Gain in Women Over 40: Adrenal Fatigue
EP 15 | Hypothyroidism And Weight Gain: 3 Healthy Hacks To Help Shed Those Extra Pounds
https://pod.fo/e/240c5f
EP 14 | Is Estrogen Dominance Causing Your Hormonal Weight Gain? 3 Quick Tips To Move The Scale
https://pod.fo/e/23e32f
EP 12 | Perimenopause Weight Gain: Are Your Hormones To Blame?
https://pod.fo/e/23bc62
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
Record a Question to be Answered on the Podcast: https://www.speakpipe.com/AreYouThereMidlife
Get The Inside Scoop on The Podcast & Never Miss A Single Episode: 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.

Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
17 | The Hidden Cause of Hormonal Weight Gain in Women Over 40: Adrenal Fatigue
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Tuesday Jun 04, 2024
Hey friend,
Today, I’m continuing my “6 Weeks To Summer” podcast series where I unpack the 7 most common hormonal imbalances in perimenopause and menopause and how they contribute to weight loss resistance.
In today’s episode, I take a deep dive into High Cortisol and Adrenal Fatigue. While many functional medicine practitioners consider adrenal fatigue to be the most common hormonal imbalance for women in midlife, it's not without controversy. In fact, most traditional medicine doctors don’t even recognize adrenal fatigue exists! (More about that on today’s podcast.:)
In today’s episode, you will learn:
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Where is the adrenal gland situated and what does it do?
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What is the function of adrenal gland hormones?
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Cortisol: What does it do and how does cortisol function contribute to adrenal stress?
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What's the difference between high cortisol and adrenal fatigue?
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What causes cortisol levels to be too high or too low?
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What are some elevated cortisol symptoms? Adrenal fatigue symptoms?
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What kind of cortisol test is best?: Cortisol blood test vs cortisol saliva test
Plus, I share 3 of my favorite fast fixes to balance cortisol levels just in time for summer!
If you’re experiencing symptoms like chronic fatigue, difficulty sleeping, uncontrollable salt or sugar cravings, and unexplained weight gain–all while feeling tired AND wired–then this episode is for you!
—
Next Steps:
EP 15 | Hypothyroidism And Weight Gain: 3 Healthy Hacks To Help Shed Those Extra Pounds
https://pod.fo/e/240c5f
EP 14 | Is Estrogen Dominance Causing Your Hormonal Weight Gain? 3 Quick Tips To Move The Scale
https://pod.fo/e/23e32f
EP 12 | Perimenopause Weight Gain: Are Your Hormones To Blame?
https://pod.fo/e/23bc62
EP 5 | Can I Check My Hormone Levels Without A Doctor?
https://pod.fo/e/22fc41
EP 2 | Why Does My Blood Test For Hormones Keep Coming Back “Normal?”
https://pod.fo/e/2297e8
Take my FREE Hormone Quiz: https://bit.ly/HormoneSelfAssessment
Shop my Favorite Hormone Balancing Supplements And Save 5% or More on Every Order (Enter promo code EUQ1741):
https://www.iherb.com/me/HormoneBalance
Book a FREE Hormone Clarity Call: https://bit.ly/HCprecall
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.