Functional Moms Podcast

If you're waking up at night to pee, dealing with frequent UTIs, bladder leakage, painful sex, or chronic constipation during perimenopause or menopause — this episode is for you.In Episode 92 of Functional Moms Podcast, we talk with pelvic health physical therapist Elizabeth Stryker about how hormonal changes impact your pelvic floor — and what you can do to fix it naturally.Many women are told these symptoms are “just part of aging.” They are not.You’ll learn how pelvic floor physical therapy can dramatically improve urinary health, reduce recurrent UTIs, relieve constipation, improve sexual health, and even help with jaw/TMJ symptoms.Elizabeth Stryker is a pelvic health physical therapist and founder of Pelvic Stability PT in New Jersey. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University and completed advanced training at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation specializing in pelvic floor dysfunction and neurological impairments.In this episode, we discuss:✔ Why pelvic floor dysfunction increases during perimenopause and menopause✔ Why you keep waking up at night to pee (nocturia explained)✔ How pelvic floor PT helps prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)✔ The surprising connection between TMJ and the pelvic floor✔ Pelvic floor therapy for chronic constipation✔ What to expect during a pelvic floor physical therapy session✔ How to reduce bladder leakage naturallyIf you're searching for answers about:pelvic floor therapy, menopause, how to stop waking up at night to pee, frequent UTIs in menopause, bladder leaks after 40, pelvic pain menopause, constipation, pelvic floor, painful sex menopauseThis episode will give you actionable education and hope.Connect with Elizabeth StrykerWebsite: https://www.pelvicstabilitypt.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pelvicstabilitypt/🛍 Shop Functional Moms Podcast Supplement Store (25% OFF top quality brands):https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms🎧 Follow Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify📺 Subscribe to the YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/#MenopauseHealth#PelvicFloorTherapy#FrequentUTIs#BladderLeakage#WomensHealth#Perimenopause#Nocturia#PelvicHealth#ConstipationRelief#HormoneHealthpelvic floor therapy menopause waking up at night to pee how to stop nocturia frequent UTIs menopause recurrent urinary tract infections women bladder leakage after 40 pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms pelvic health physical therapy painful sex menopause help chronic constipation pelvic floor TMJ pelvic floor connection perimenopause bladder problems women's urinary health natural UTI prevention menopause menopause podcast

How to lose fat and gain muscle after 50 is one of the biggest challenges women face during menopause and post-menopause.In this episode, Michele Folan shares exactly how women over 50 and 60 can get fit, build muscle, improve bone health, and feel strong again without extreme dieting or overtraining.If you’re confused by conflicting fitness and nutrition advice for menopause, this episode breaks it all down. We cover the best workouts for women over 50, how much protein you really need, why weight training is essential for bone density, and how to start a fitness journey at any age.Michele Folan is the host of the popular midlife podcast Asking for a Friend and a 25-year veteran in the health industry. She specializes in functional health, metabolism, muscle preservation, bone health, and aging well—no BS, no quick fixes.In this episode, you’ll learn:✔ How women over 50 can lose fat and gain muscle✔ The best workouts for menopause and post-menopause✔ Why protein intake matters more after 50✔ How to improve bone density and prevent muscle loss✔ Walking + weight training basics for women over 50✔ GLP-1 peptides: benefits, risks, and when they make sense✔ The impact of alcohol on women’s hormones and health✔ How to start getting fit in your 50s and 60s—no matter where you’re startingConnect with Michele Folan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCewzIM0PQcFS5bhMNOH_Yng Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/health-fitness-personal-growth-tips-for-women-in-midlife/id1620788625Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1gAvoLvwjsuJqeEafQ4RYVGet 25% OFF top-quality functional health brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms👉 Follow Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify👉 Subscribe on YouTube for weekly episodes on women’s health, fitness, and menopause:https://www.youtube.com/functionalmomspodcastfitness after 50women over 50 fitnessmenopause fitnesslose fat after 50gain muscle after 50menopause weight lossbest workouts for women over 50bone health after 50strength training women over 50how to get fit after 50post menopause fitnessprotein for women over 50menopause muscle lossfunctional health womenmidlife fitness podcastDr. Stacy SimsDr. Vonda Wright

Struggling with yo-yo dieting, binge eating, or emotional eating sabotage? This episode uncovers the real reason weight loss feels impossible for so many women.Emotional eating expert and TEDx speaker Tricia Nelson (over 2M views) joins us to explain why diets fail, how sugar and processed carbs hijack the brain, and what’s actually driving cravings, overeating, and self-sabotage.If you’ve ever eaten “perfectly” all day—only to binge at night—this conversation will hit home. We learn:Why yo-yo dieting is rooted in emotional eatingHow stress, pain, and overthinking trigger food cravingsThe PEP Formula: Painkiller, Escape, PunishmentWhy sugar is addictive and fuels compulsive eatingHow morning rituals reduce cravings and stressWhy kindness + community matter more than disciplineTricia shares how she lost 50 pounds—not by dieting harder, but by healing her relationship with food.Tricia Nelson is an internationally acclaimed emotional eating expert, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker. After decades of food obsession and sugar addiction, she uncovered the hidden emotional roots of overeating and transformed her health and life.TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVSe2vaxXXMPodcast: https://healyourhunger.com/tricias-podcast/Heal Your Hunger Book Buy Heal Your Hunger Book on AmazonFunctional Moms Supplement Store 25% OFF top-quality brands https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms⁠FOLLOW Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/4iYrNkAQMwzcX5FRJH5aEW?si=be43e3c4af72492aSUBSCRIBE on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/Tags:the reason you can't lose weight, emotional eating weight loss, why can't some people can't lose weight, weight and emotional eating, why obese people can't lose weight, the #1 reason why you go off track losing weight, why can't i lose weight, obese people can’t lose weight, how can you stop eating emotionally, why cant i lose weight, why is it hard to lose weight, why is it so hard to lose weight, how to stop emotional eating on your own, top reasons can't lose weight, why you're not losing weight Tricia Nelson TEDx Talk

Can’t get glowing skin after 40? You’re not alone — and Botox isn’t the only option. In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we dive into natural, holistic facial techniques that help women in their 40s and 50s achieve radiant, youthful skin without Botox or fillers.Holistic facialist Adi Kaplan, founder of Facial Healing by Adi, explains how the face is a map of the body and how techniques like gua sha, lymphatic drainage, facial cupping, reflexology, and beauty taping can transform your skin naturally.If you’re dealing with wrinkles, puffiness, dull skin, dark spots, or eye bags after 40, this episode will give you practical tools you can start using today.In this episode, we cover:✅ Why aging skin after 40 needs a different approach✅ How holistic facials differ from traditional facials✅ Facial reflexology as a natural first-aid tool✅ How gua sha and lymphatic drainage support glowing skin✅ Natural alternatives to Botox and fillers✅ How facial techniques reflect internal organ healthThis episode is perfect for women who want to age naturally, feel confident, and glow from the inside out.Connect with Adi Kaplan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/facialhealing/Website: https://www.fhbyadi.com/Shop Functional Moms Podcast Supplement Store – 25% OFFhttps://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-mom⭐️ Follow Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast#GlowingSkinAfter40 #AgingSkin #HolisticFacial #NaturalAntiAging

If you’re struggling to lose weight after 40 or 50, this episode breaks down the exact priorities midlife women need to focus on when nothing seems to work. Hormones, muscle loss, and stress change the rules—and this episode explains how to adapt.In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we talk with nutrition and fitness coach Adriana Mastronardi about sustainable weight loss strategies for women in their 40s and 50s. Perimenopause and menopause can make weight gain easier and fat loss harder, but focusing on the right habits—not restriction—can make a real difference.Adriana shares her “big rocks” approach, helping busy midlife women break free from fad diets and build strength, confidence, and consistency through smart nutrition and strength training. We learn:Why weight loss after 40 feels harder than beforeWhat to prioritize when dieting and exercise aren’t workingHow protein supports metabolism and muscle in midlifeWhy strength training is essential for fat loss after 40How small, consistent habits create long-term resultsHow to manage emotional cravings for sweets or alcoholSupplements that may support midlife health (collagen, creatine, vitamin D, magnesium)🔗 Connect with Adriana Mastronardi:https://www.instagram.com/cup.of.dri/https://www.cupofdri.com/https://creators.spotify.com/pod/profile/acupofdri/🛒 Shop Functional Moms Podcast Supplement Store (25% OFF):https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms⁠🎧 FOLLOW Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify▶️ Subscribe on YouTube! https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/#weight loss after 40#weight loss after 50#women over 40 weight loss#midlife weight loss#why weight loss stops after 40#menopause weight gain#perimenopause weight loss#fat loss after 40#strength training for women over 40#protein for women over 40#hormonal weight gain#functional nutrition for women#metabolism after 40

If you’re a woman struggling with migraines, this episode is for you. Migraines affect women far more than men—especially during perimenopause and menopause—yet most women are never told why. In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we’re joined by Diane Ducarme, host of the Migraine Heroes Podcast and Founder & CEO of the Migraine Heroes app, to uncover the hidden migraine triggers women experience and how to address them at the root.Diane explains why migraines are not a random neurological problem, but a meaningful signal from your body, often tied to hormones, stress, nervous system overload, and metabolic imbalances that uniquely affect women.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Why migraines are more common in women than men✅ What happens in the body during perimenopause and menopause that triggers migraines✅ The hidden causes most women (and doctors) miss✅ How to approach migraine relief naturally and sustainablyIf you’re tired of pushing through pain or relying only on medication, this conversation will help you understand your migraines—and your body—on a deeper level. About Our Guest: Diane Ducarme is the Founder & CEO of the Migraine Heroes App and host of the Migraine Heroes Podcast. With a background in neuroscience training from HarvardX and a Harvard Business School education, Diane blends Eastern medicine, engineering, and modern science to help women reduce migraines by addressing root causes.Connect with Diane:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/migraine-heroes-chronic-migraine-hemiplegic-migraine/id1701796800https://www.instagram.com/migraineheroes/https://www.youtube.com/@migraineheroeshttps://migraineheroes.com/Functional Moms Podcast Supplement Store: 25% OFF top-quality brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-momsPlease FOLLOW Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts & Spotify and SUBSCRIBE on YouTube to support women’s health conversations.https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/https://open.spotify.com/show/4iYrNkAQMwzcX5FRJH5aEW?si=e1dd9390c601498https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/functional-moms-podcast/id1686808485#migrainesinwomen#womenshealth#hormonalhealth#perimenopause#menopause#hormonalmigraines#headacherelief#migraineawareness#womenover35

This episode is for you if you’re trying to lose fat and gain muscle in your 40s, 50s or 60s. This is part 2 of one of Functional Moms Podcast most popular episodes ever!In episode 50 titled “Fit after 40: Top 3 Tips” we brought you our biggest takeaways from interviewing top weight loss and fitness experts like Dr. Stacy Sims. Today we’re going to give you our biggest learnings from Functional Moms Podcast season 3 setting you up for FAT BURNING AND MUSCLE BUILDING success in 2026.If you try any of these tips, SHARE in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!Episode #50: The Best 3 Strategies for Women after 40: Fat Loss & Muscle Gain (our second most popular episode EVER!)https://open.spotify.com/episode/4LwRWLMlIr8gMb4TrMTp7d?si=e57012927e894361SIT Training DEMO:https://youtube.com/shorts/7IdEowvBiH8?si=_g1KAotqZiIuwu8ZShop Functional Moms Supplement Store, 25 PERCENT OFF top quality brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms/store-startShop ProLon Fasting Mimicking Diet:https://prolonlife.com/FMOTHER FAT LOSS/MUSCLE GAIN EPISODES MENTIONED:https://open.spotify.com/episode/56tcvFlUJhVRG0aWQImEFZ?si=feG8XHFyRna0KUVIV2Wpxwhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/4R4YaToKrJFWqxUVPDRvsT?si=xstfqS7cRQmlkyTKFF6KqQhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7nl39YC6NJKUzCDFgLe0RH?si=sRmJbBA0Q2qALsdm0wW5NQhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/0b8QoC6kYnRoc4OPtnekBk?si=X60guH-HQcCpvq5yppSnSAhttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7sKMwC1OqTYmeZbr2AtH0K?si=44-RjWDXTYiflpeDWVIGdghttps://open.spotify.com/episode/6C35P5xf3eDjJjA6nlDXgt?si=c7ab9f71748a4d27#WeightLossOver40 #FatLossAfter40 #BuildMuscleAfter40 #MenopauseWeightLoss #MidlifeFitness #WomenOver40 #HormoneHealth #FunctionalMomsPodcast #PerimenopauseFitness #HealthyAging #MuscleBuilding #FatBurningTips

In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we learn quick stress-busting strategies to put ourselves first and set boundaries without guilt.Guest Diane Lang is a certified positive psychology coach, speaker, educator and author of 4 books. Her most recent book, Worthy, explores the hidden causes of unworthiness, its deeper implications, and its connection to perfectionism and control.We learn:Women over 40 face unique stressors due to hormonal changes and caregiving responsibilitiesMany women experience an identity crisis in midlife, questioning their life choicesSetting boundaries is essential for mental health, yet often comes with guiltSelf-care is not selfish, it is necessary for overall well-beingTrue self-care involves meeting basic needs like sleep, nutrition and exerciseRoutines are vital for maintaining balance and health in daily lifeHow finding purpose in midlife is crucial for fulfillmentConnect with Diane Lang:https://www.instagram.com/dianelangcoaching/https://www.linkedin.com/in/dlcounselingShop Functional Moms Supplement Store, 25 PERCENT OFF top quality brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms⁠Thank you for listening, please FOLLOW the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. SUBSCRIBE to your YouTube channel:⁠https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/#StressAfter40 #WomenOver40 #BurnoutRecovery #PeoplePleasing #MidlifeWellness #MentalHealthForWomen #SelfCareIsNotSelfish #BoundarySetting #FunctionalMomsPodcast #HealthyAging #HormoneHealth #MidlifeReset #EmotionalWellness #2026Wellness

Are you struggling with stubborn belly fat after 40? In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we sit down with Blair Critch, health coach and cancer survivor, to uncover how women can lose menopause belly fat, balance hormones, and thrive in midlife. Blair shares how her journey through ovarian cancer led her to discover powerful tools like GLP-1s, peptides, nervous system regulation, and plant-based living. Whether you're navigating perimenopause or menopause, this conversation will give you real strategies to reduce inflammation, boost your metabolism, and feel amazing again.What You’ll Learn:✅ How to shrink menopause belly fat naturally✅ What foods to eat and avoid in midlife✅ How biohacking supports longevity✅ Why women feel tired and stressed during menopause✅ Blair’s top 2 tips to lose belly fat fastConnect with Blair on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blaircritch2/We need your help! Please FOLLOW Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify so we can keep bringing new episodes your way! #MenopauseBellyFat #WeightLossOver40 #MenopauseHealth #MidlifeWellness #HormoneHealth #BellyFatLoss #WomenOver40 #ThriveAfter40 #HealthyAging #MenopauseSupport #MidlifeReset #Perimenopause #MenopauseTips #Peptides #GLP1 #HormoneBalance #2026Wellness #BellyFatSolutions #Biohacking #FunctionalHealth

This episode is for you if you're struggling with weight gain and tummy fat after 40. We are going to learn how the kidneys play a real role in how we age. Dr. Neetu Sharma, otherwise known as the kidney whisperer, helps patients shed unwanted belly fat and unravel their metabolic dysfunction. She is a board certified physician in internal medicine and nephrology as well as functional and metabolic medicine. She is the founder of Zeal Vitality, which empowers patients to reverse disease and extend longevity.We learn:✅Kidneys play a crucial role in detoxification and weight management✅GFR is a key indicator of kidney health and why you should pay attention to this on your annual labs✅Belly fat is linked to kidney function and metabolic health✅Hydration is essential for optimal kidney function✅Cranberry juice can help prevent urinary tract infections, but use sugar-free versions✅Electrolyte balance is important, especially for active individuals, but not everyone needs to supplement electrolytes✅Dark urine can indicate dehydration and kidney stress✅Protein intake is safe for healthy kidneys but should be monitored✅Phytonutrients from colorful vegetables support kidney health✅Regular check-ups are vital for monitoring kidney functionConnect with the Kidney Whisperer:https://www.instagram.com/thekidneywhisperer/Zeal Vitality YouTubeZeal Vitality FacebookShop Functional Moms Supplement Store, 25 PERCENT OFF top quality brands:https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/functional-moms⁠Thank you for listening, please FOLLOW the show on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. SUBSCRIBE to your YouTube channel:⁠https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast/#kidneyhealth #bellyfat #GFR #metabolichealth #menopause #functionalmedicine

Dane Johnson shares how he went from a successful modeling career to suffering with severe ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease and how he transformed his health with a natural, root-cause approach.If you or a loved one struggles with gut issues such as Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis, IBS, bloating, pain, diarrhea, fatigue, or inflammation, this episode will give you hope and real-world strategies.We discuss:• Dane’s healing journey from severe IBD• The role of community and coaching in recovery• How to become the CEO of your own health• Why celebrating small wins matters• How nutrition drives gut healing• The liver’s role in detox and inflammation• Why opening drainage pathways is essential• How to personalize a healing protocol that worksABOUT DANE JOHNSONDane Johnson is the CEO of Crohn’s Colitis Lifestyle and has helped thousands of patients take back control of their gut health using functional medicine, nutrition, and strategic healing systems.Connect with Dane:InstagramYoutubeTikTokcrohnscolitislifestyle.com Link to journal Dane mentioned:https://healingjournal.crohnscolitislifestyle.com/OTHER INTERVIEWS WITH DANE: How Lectins Cause IBD: Dane Johnson & Dr. GundryMetabolic Freedom is the BEST Way to Boost Your Energy | Ben Azadi EP9 ‪@crohnscolitislifestyle‬SUFFERING? How I Reversed My Crohn’s, Colitis, & IBD - Dane JohnsonOn The Brink | Dane Johnson | Episode #328Thank you for listening! Please FOLLOW FUNCTIONAL MOMS PODCAST on Apple Podcasts and Spotify 🙋🏼‍♀️🙋🏻‍♀️SUBSCRIBE on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKU9wRgOdkAhSzXyrHq2AuQ#crohns #colitis #IBS #gutinflammation #guthealth #functionalmedicine

This episode is for YOU if you’re struggling with weight loss during perimenopause and postmenopause. We are going to learn a real food framework that’s helped thousands of women lose weight, balance hormones, and stop starting over!Our guest today is Courtney Kassis, a registered dietitian, twin mom and creator of the 90-30-50 Method. After struggling with Hashimoto’s and feeling stuck despite doing everything “right”, she stopped obsessing over calories and started fueling her body with nutrients that support metabolism and fat-burning. Courtney’s method helped her lose 55 pounds postpartum, put her autoimmune symptoms into remission and now she teaches thousands of women how to break free from diet culture and finally feel strong, energized and in control!We learn:The 90-30-50 method focuses on protein, fiber and healthy fatsProtein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass and metabolismBlood sugar imbalances can lead to weight gain and other health issuesFasting can be beneficial but should be approached mindfullyTracking protein and fiber intake can help achieve weight loss goalsConsistency is key in any weight loss journey, not perfectionism!Alcohol can disrupt fat burning and lead to unhealthy eating habitsConnect with Courtney on Instagram and YouTube:https://www.instagram.com/dietitianwithtwins/https://www.youtube.com/@dietitianwithtwinsYOU MAY ENJOY:Functional Moms Podcast Protein Product Review Videos:Earth Chimp Protein Powder ReviewProtein Seltzer & Bar Review#WeightLossOver40 #MenopauseWeightLoss #HormoneHealth #MidlifeWellness #FunctionalMomsPodcast

Did you know your heart rate can reveal how stressed—or how healthy—you really are?In this episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Torkil Færø, physician, author of The Pulse Cure, and HRV expert, to explore how tracking your Heart Rate Variability (HRV) can help you reduce stress, sleep better, and live longer.After losing his father at 73, Dr. Torkil transformed his own lifestyle—losing 40 pounds, optimizing sleep, and breaking daily alcohol habits. He discovered that HRV is like a speedometer for your body, showing exactly how your choices—like food timing, fasting, and alcohol—affect your nervous system.If you’re ready to take control of your stress, longevity, and sleep, this episode will teach you how to use HRV data to guide your health decisions.What You’ll Learn:What Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is and how it reveals stress levelsHow alcohol, sleep, and fasting affect HRV and recoveryWhy “alcohol is liquid stress” — and how it sabotages your healthHow to optimize your HRV for longevity and energyWhy HRV is the single best health metric to track in 2026Connect with Dr. Torkil Færø: 📖 The Pulse Cure → Buy on Amazon 🌐 Website → thepulsecure.com 📱 Instagram → @doc.torkilFOLLOW Functional Moms Podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify for more conversations on longevity, stress, and functional health.#HeartRateVariability #HRVTracking #StressManagement #Longevity #FunctionalMomsPodcast #ThePulseCure #DrTorkilFaero #WearableHealth #Biohacking #SleepOptimization #MenopauseHealth

Are your eyes feeling dry or blurry during perimenopause or menopause? You’re not alone—and this episode is for YOU.In this Episode of Functional Moms Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Neda Gioia, a nationally board-certified optometrist in both nutrition and functional medicine, to explore how hormonal changes impact women’s eye health during midlife.Dr. Neda shares game-changing insights on:--Why dry eyes, blurry vision, and macular degeneration become more common in women over 40--How menopause hormones influence eye tissue and tear production--The best nutrients and dietary strategies to support your vision--Which eye symptoms shouldn't be ignored—and when to see an eye doctor--How to prep for your next eye exam for better outcomes--Whether blue light glasses really work--Why sun exposure, diet, and lifestyle directly impact your long-term eye healthLearn how to protect your eyes naturally—through food, lifestyle, and proactive care.RECOMMENDED EYE HEALTH SUPPLEMENTS (as mentioned in the episode, always check with your doctor first before adding supplements!):1- blink NutriTears by Bausch and Lomb for dry eye support2- Nordic Naturals- Pro-Omega 2000-Great for dry eye, macular support and overall eye health3-Metagenics: PhytoMulti Multivitamin - with or without iron. Great multivitamin that includes specific carotenoids called Lutein and Zeaxanthin which are foundational for eye health!4-Vitamin D/K- dosing dependent on needs-Helps reduce systemic inflammation which is linked to ocular inflammation!5-AREDS 2 formula for macular degeneration support- various brands- this includes the foundational evidence based formula (lutein, zeaxanthin, zinc, copper, vitamin C, and vitamin E)About Our Guest:Dr. Neda Gioia is the founder of Integrative Vision, a cutting-edge optometry practice blending clinical eye care with functional medicine. She’s also the immediate past president of the Ocular Wellness and Nutrition Society.Key Takeaways from this episode:--Hormones affect your eyes more than you think--Dry eye symptoms: not just dryness—think tearing and blurriness too--Nutrients like omega-3s, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamin D are crucial for eye health--Cataracts, glaucoma, and AMD can be slowed with lifestyle strategies--Red light therapy is emerging as a promising tool for vision care--Mediterranean-style eating supports healthy aging and eye protectionConnect with Dr. Neda Gioia:Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/drnedagioia/⁠Website:https://integrativevision.com/https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast

This episode is for you if you’re having surgery or if you have a loved one undergoing surgery soon. We are going to learn how to optimize health prior to surgery for better recovery and better outcomes! Approximately 15 million Americans undergo some type of surgery each year, according to the American College of Surgeons.Rebecca Knackstedt is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in implant-based and microsurgical breast reconstruction. She is currently an Assistant Professor in Plastic and Reconstructive surgery at Duke University. Rebecca completed her MD/PhD at Medical University of South Carolina where her PhD thesis focused on Vitamin D and inflammation. She pursued an integrated plastic surgery residency and microsurgery fellowship at the Cleveland Clinic during which she also became certified in Functional Medicine. Her research interests are prehabilitation for breast cancer, particularly for women undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy.We learn:Prehabilitation is essential for optimizing health before surgerySurgeons often lack training in nutrition and pre-surgical careNutrition plays a crucial role in recovery and healing post-surgeryAlcohol consumption can negatively impact surgical outcomesProtein intake is vital for healing after surgeryPatients should be proactive in preparing for their surgical consultationsVitamin D levels are often overlooked but should be monitored carefullyMuscle strength is predictive of surgical recovery outcomesAvoid Boost as a nutrition supplement post-surgerySleep hygiene is important for overall health and recoveryConnect with Dr. Knackstedt:https://www.instagram.com/surgical_recovery/ https://www.youtube.com/@Surgical_Recovery⁠#surgeryrecovery #recovery #surgerylife #health #surgicalaftercare #rehabilitation #physiotherapy  #physicaltherapy

Struggling with weight loss even though you eat clean, track macros, and lift weights? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive deep with Kayla Neal Johnson, a fitness leader with 30+ years of experience, to uncover why traditional methods often fail for women over 40 — and how microdosing GLP-1 peptides may change the game.Kayla shares her personal journey through perimenopause, where even as a fitness professional, she faced stubborn weight gain. Together, we explore the latest science, overlooked factors like insulin resistance, and new approaches that help women finally see results.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Why eating clean and lifting weights may not be enough after 40✅ How GLP-1 microdosing supports weight loss with fewer side effects✅ Why insulin resistance keeps weight stuck, even with perfect macros✅ The truth about hormone replacement therapy and body composition✅ Why “eat less, move more” doesn’t work in midlife✅ How peptides reduce inflammation and boost energy✅ Why NAD might be the next big thing for women’s health✅ The metabolic shifts of menopause and how to adapt✅ The role of protein, nutrition, and strength training in long-term success✅ How to advocate for yourself in a system that overlooks women over 40About Kayla Neal Johnson:Kayla is the co-founder of Starcycle Santa Barbara, part of an award-winning national franchise, and a two-time Lululemon Athletica ambassador recognized for her leadership in fitness. She creates evolving, sustainable programs that help women not just lose weight, but regain energy and confidence.⭐️ If you’ve ever wondered why your body doesn’t respond the way it used to — this conversation is for you.Connect with Kayla:https://www.instagram.com/kaylajohnsonfitness/⁠⁠https://www.kaylajohnsonfitness.com/⁠Thank you for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a REVIEW. It is the number one way we can continue to grow our podcast and keep bringing new episodes your way.🙋🏼‍♀️🙋🏻‍♀️ Kristin & Raquel

This episode is for you if you want to age better than your parents and live healthier at any age! Our guest is Dr. Anand Patel, a Chicago-based longevity physician, entrepreneur, and founder of Lv8 Health (pronounced Elevate Health). Lv8 is an innovative clinic that prioritizes proactive, personalized, and preventative care, helping patients extend healthspan and optimize long-term wellness.Board-certified in internal medicine, Dr. Patel became frustrated with a system that focused on “sick-care” instead of true wellness. After witnessing burnout among colleagues and the limitations of traditional healthcare, he founded Lv8 Health to provide patients with a longevity-focused approach to living stronger, longer.We learn:--Why today’s healthcare system prioritizes sick care over true wellness--How advanced testing provides deeper insights into heart health--The role of statins in preventing heart disease and why understanding cholesterol is key--Why metabolic health is especially important for women over 40--How personalized nutrition plans can significantly impact long-term health outcomes--The power of wearables and health metrics for smarter health decisions--Innovative new cancer detection methods on the horizon--Why balance exercises are crucial as we ageConnect with Dr. Patel:https://elev8.health/online-programs/https://www.instagram.com/dranandpat84/https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcastinfo@functionalmoms.comhttps://www.instagram.com/functionalmomspodcast/

This episode is for you if you’re a menopausal woman and want to know what is important when it comes to heart and cardiovascular health to AGE STRONG! Menopausal women are at a higher risk of developing heart disease compared to men. This is primarily due to the decline in estrogen levels that occurs during menopause.Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj is an Interventional Cardiologist and Certified Practitioner of the Institute for Functional Medicine. We were lucky enough to interview him at the 2025 Annual International Conference in San Diego, California.Dr. Bhojraj also known as “the curious cardiologist” has a passion for integrating cutting-edge research with holistic health approaches. He helps patients achieve optimal well-being by addressing the root cause of disease! He is founder of Well12, a transformative 12-week wellness program that empowers individuals to reclaim their health through lifestyle changes.We learn:Why women often experience poor cardiovascular health as they age and how menopause plays a roleWhy you may need an advanced cholesterol panel to determine whether you’re at risk for heart attack and strokeHow to know if you’re a candidate for statinsHow cardiovascular disease has evolved over the years to be more metabolically drivenHow toxic chemicals in our environment weaken cardiometabolic healthHow direct-to-consumer lab testing like Function Health can help you determine your risksConnect with Dr. Sanjay:https://www.youtube.com/@doctorsanjaymdhttps://www.instagram.com/doctorsanjaymd/https://www.sanjaybhojraj.us/Home

This episode is for you if you’d like to learn how trackers like Apple Watches, Oura Rings, Fitbits, Whoops, the Lumen and continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can support your behavioral choices & help you lose weight, sleep better, eat better and exercise more consistently. Dr. Lara Zakaria is a pharmacist and nutritionist with a focus on implementing solutions for functional medicine and personalized nutrition. Dr. Zakaria works one-on-one with patients helping them with behavioral change.We learn:How trackers like Oura ring, Apple Watch, Whoop, FitBit, Lumen and continuous glucose monitors help you change body compositionHow body composition scales can help track muscle and bone densityMany people say they thrive under stress and get caught up in constant “fight or flight”High cortisol levels can eventually lead to burnout and a lack of cortisolHow to check in with your body while using trackersMuscle building is key in midlife; lifting heavy is necessaryThe better you can maintain your muscle, the longer you can maintain your heart, your brain and your boneIf you wake up at 3 am to pee, it could be your blood sugar crashing; using a continuous glucose monitor could track thisIf you’re not going to use the data from trackers to make changes, maybe you don’t need oneHow Lumen tells you if you’re burning fat or glucose helping you become more metabolically flexible*This episode was recorded at the 2025 Institute for Functional Medicine annual international conference (AIC) in San Diego, California.*Connect with Dr. Zakaria:https://www.instagram.com/foodiefarmacist/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-zakaria/https://www.tiktok.com/@foodiefarmacist/https://www.facebook.com/foodiefarmacist/https://larazakaria.com/https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcasthttps://www.instagram.com/functionalmomspodcastinfo@functionalmoms.com

This episode is for you if you’re a woman over 40 looking to prevent and treat osteoporosis and arthritis. We learn how perimenopause and menopause impact our bones and joints.Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein is an orthopedic surgeon specialized in sports medicine and associate professor of orthopaedic surgery at Duke University School of Medicine.Dr. Wittstein is co-investigator with Dr. Anne Ford of Duke Women’s Health for the Duke Musculoskeletal Systems of Menopause Registry. She is president of the Forum: Women in Sports Medicine, co-author of The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan and a mom of 5! Her husband is also an orthopaedic surgeon.We learn:How perimenopause and menopause impact bone and joint healthMenopause leads to a decline in estrogen, impacting bone densityWomen lose bone density at an accelerated rate post-menopauseResistance training is crucial for maintaining bone healthHormone therapy can help reduce joint pain and improve bone densityFrozen shoulder is more common in women during menopauseNutrition plays a significant role in bone health; limit red meatSupplements like vitamin D and magnesium can support bone healthGLP-1 agonists may have protective effects on bones and jointsIt’s never too late to strength train for bone healthA DEXA scan can provide valuable information about bone densityConnect with Dr. Wittstein:https://www.instagram.com/jocelyn_wittstein_md/The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan Book:https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Bone-Joint-Health-Plan/dp/1682689417https://www.instagram.com/functionalmomspodcast/https://functionalmoms.com/https://www.youtube.com/@functionalmomspodcast