Fab Female Nutrition

Your gut doesn't just need a reset - it needs routine. In this final episode of the 4R's series, I'm talking about the Retain phase - how to keep your gut thriving long after a reset or programme ends. It's about feeding your good bacteria, maintaining balance, and creating long-term habits that keep your energy, digestion, and hormones working in harmony. I'll share why your gut health is the foundation for everything - from immune strength and brain function to mood, focus, and sleep - and how small, consistent changes make the biggest difference. You'll learn: • How to feed your microbiome with fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, and sauerkraut • The power of fibre to nourish good bacteria and stabilise blood sugar • Why plant diversity (30+ plants a week!) helps your gut stay resilient • The importance of keeping sugar, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods to a minimum • How routine - three balanced meals, hydration, movement, and sleep all keep your gut and hormones in sync I also share Sarah's story - how six months after completing the Transformation Programme she still feels fantastic by sticking to colourful, fibre-rich meals and a calm, consistent rhythm. Fab Female Gem: the secret isn't perfection — it's consistency. Feed your gut, fuel your energy, and your body will look after you. Learn more about the  28 Day Transformation Programme This episode is brought to you by Revive Active MenoActive, supporting midlife women with daily nutrition to maintain energy, focus, and hormonal balance.  

If your digestion feels sluggish, bloated, or just "off," this episode is for you. This week, I'm diving into the Replace and Repair phases of gut healing - the second and third R's in my 4R's framework, which forms the foundation of my 28-Day Transformation Programme. I'll explain why stomach acid and digestive enzymes are vital for nutrient absorption and how low stomach acid is often mistaken for reflux. We'll talk about the power of bitter foods like rocket and apple cider vinegar to wake up digestion and how simple habits - like chewing well and slowing down - can make all the difference. I'll also share the foods and nutrients that help repair your gut lining: • Zinc from mussels, nuts, and seeds • Omega-3s from oily fish and walnuts • Vitamin A from liver, eggs, and colourful veg • L-glutamine from chicken, tofu, quinoa, and greens • And, of course, bone broth for its soothing, restorative amino acids Plus, you'll hear Kate's story - how she turned around years of reflux and bloating simply by focusing on mindful eating, digestive support, and nourishing meals. ✨ Fab Female Gem: It's not just what you eat, but how well your body can use it. Nourish your gut and it will repay you with energy, balance, and clarity. This episode is brought to you by Revive Active Magnesium Complex, supporting relaxation, repair, and recovery.

Healing your gut starts with one simple step: removing the things that get in the way. In this episode, I dive into the first stage of the 4R's of Gut Health - Remove. This phase is all about creating the right environment for healing by taking out irritants that inflame your gut and disrupt your hormones. I explain how eliminating common triggers like sugar, caffeine, alcohol, gluten, and ultra-processed foods can calm inflammation, balance your gut bacteria, and give your digestive system a much-needed break. You'll also learn why balancing your microbiome is more effective than trying to "wipe out" bad bacteria - because a thriving gut pushes out the rest naturally. I also share how stress and cortisol tie into this process, especially for midlife women. Chronic inflammation and high cortisol can throw your hormones out of balance, affecting everything from digestion to mood and energy. Understanding this link helps you make smarter choices that truly support your wellbeing. Plus, I share a real success story from a client who removed caffeine and processed snacks during the 28 DayTransformation Programme - and found her energy, focus, and digestion transformed in just a few weeks. ✨ Fab Female Gem: your body can't heal if it's constantly being poked - give it space to rest and it will do the work for you. Learn more about the self-paced 28-Day Transformation Programme: www.hillstart.me.uk/transformation This episode is brought to you by Revive Active, supporting energy, focus, and immune health while your body resets. Try Zest Active at www.reviveactive.com and use code WENDY10 for 10% off at chekcout

Your gut is at the heart of everything - from your energy and hormones to your mood, digestion, and immunity. In this new series, I'm diving into one of my favourite topics: gut health - and the 4R's framework that underpins my self-paced 28-Day Transformation Programme. In this first episode, I explain why gut health truly is the foundation of wellbeing, especially for midlife women, and how following a clear, structured reset can help you feel more like yourself again. You'll learn: • How the 4R's - Remove, Replace, Repair and Retain - can transform your digestion and energy • Why 70% of messages between the brain and gut travel from the gut to the brain • How symptoms like bloating, brain fog, and low mood often start with what's happening in your microbiome • Why giving your digestive system a short "holiday" can help it heal and reset I also share real success stories from women who've reduced joint pain, improved energy, and regained their sparkle after completing the programme - proof that healing your gut can transform so much more than your digestion. ✨ Fab Female Gem: your gut is the foundation of everything — support it, and the rest of your health will follow.   Learn more about the self-paced 28-Day Transformation Programme: www.hillstart.me.uk/transformation This episode is brought to you by Revive Active, supporting gut, brain, and immune health with clean, active nutrition. Try Revive Active's Zest Active with code WENDY10 for 10% off: reviveactive.com  

Sleep really is your body's superpower, yet it's often one of the first things to suffer when we hit perimenopause or menopause. I know this one personally. When my anxiety was high and my sleep was poor, everything felt harder, I was more emotional, more tired, and constantly running on empty. What I didn't realise at the time was how much poor sleep was affecting not just my energy, but my hormones, my appetite, and even my digestion. Here's the truth: if you don't sleep well, you can eat around 300–400 extra calories a day without even realising it. Your brain drives you to look for quick energy, and that usually means sugar and caffeine. In this episode, I'll share: • Why sleep is essential for hormone balance, energy, and emotional wellbeing • How your digestion and gut repair themselves overnight • The role of sleep in laying down memory and improving focus • Simple, practical ways to improve sleep quality in midlife - from evening routines to nutrition and calming habits Sleep isn't a luxury, it's your most powerful reset. Support your body with good sleep, and everything else feels easier. 👉 Resources & Links Download my free handout 5 Secrets to a Healthy Menopause: hillstart.me.uk/5-secrets Explore my 28-Day Transformation Programme Glucose monitor - find if your sleep is affected by what you eat - link This episode is brought to you by Revive Active's Sleep Complex — formulated with nutrients and botanicals to support relaxation and quality rest. Use code Wendy10 for 10% off at checout      

We can't avoid all toxins, but we can reduce our exposure to the ones that interfere with our hormones and overall wellbeing. During menopause, our bodies are already working hard to rebalance. Add in the extra load from plastics, cleaning products, skincare, and environmental chemicals, and it can tip things in the wrong direction. The good news? Small, consistent changes really do make a difference. In this episode, I'll share: • Where hormone-disrupting chemicals show up in everyday life (and how to spot them) • Simple swaps for home, body, and kitchen that reduce your exposure • How to support your body's natural detox pathways through food and lifestyle Fab Female Gem: focus on small swaps, not perfection, every little reduction lightens your body's load and helps your hormones find balance. Resources & Links: Download my free handout 5 Secrets to a Healthy Menopause: hillstart.me.uk/5-secrets Explore my 28-Day Transformation Programme: hillstart.me.uk/transformation Yuka App - scan products to find cleaner options - apple link Tropic - clean beauty products - my link   Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Revive Active's MenoActive - formulated with nutrients and botanicals to support women through this stage of life.

When we think about health, we often focus on exercise, but in menopause, it's how you move your body every day that really counts. At this stage of life, long hours of high-intensity training can sometimes do more harm than good, raising stress hormones and leaving you feeling depleted. What your body needs is a balanced approach: daily movement to keep joints supple and energy flowing, combined with the right type of exercise to protect bone, heart, and muscle health. In this episode, I'll share: • Why daily movement is just as important as formal exercise in menopause • The types of activity that help balance hormones and reduce stress • How I shifted from punishing workouts to movement that feels nourishing and sustainable • Practical ways to build more movement into your everyday life, without needing hours in the gym ✨ Fab Female Gem: focus on adding small movements throughout your day, adding calming movement as well as cardio and weight bearing exercise - this is the gem for mid-life   Download my free handout 5 Secrets to a Healthy Menopause: hillstart.me.uk/5-secrets This episode is brought to you by Revive Active's MenoActive — formulated with nutrients and botanicals to support women during this stage of life. www.reviveactive.com  

Lets be real - stress isn't something we can avoid, but how we respond to it can make or break our menopause journey. When I hit perimenopause at 40, anxiety and overthinking became part of my daily life. I didn't recognise it at the time, but my nervous system was in overdrive. Once I learned how to manage my stress more effectively - through nutrition, lifestyle shifts, and self awareness,  everything started to feel lighter and more manageable. In this episode, I'll share: • How stress hormones like cortisol affect your weight, sleep, and mood in midlife • Why perimenopause makes your nervous system more sensitive to stress • Practical, realistic ways to bring calm back into your day, even when life is busy ✨ Fab Female Gem: you don't need to eliminate stress, instead focus on adding in small, calming practices that change how your body responds to it. 👉 Resources & Links • Download my free handout 5 Secrets to a Healthy Menopause:  • Explore my 28-Day Transformation Programme Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Revive Active's MenoActive - formulated with nutrients and botanicals to support women through this stage of life.

This is the final episode in my special anniversary series - where I've been sharing what I've learned as a woman, a nutritionist, and the host of the Fab Female Nutrition podcast for the past 6 years. In this episode, I'm talking all about testing - and what I've discovered about my own health through tools like genetics, gut testing, and omega-3 analysis. Some of the results surprised me (yes, even as a nutritional therapist!) But they've helped me support myself more effectively, and better understand the women I work with. This episode is all about clarity, compassion, and cutting through the noise. Because understanding your body is powerful. I'll cover: • Why testing isn't a quick fix - but can offer game-changing insights • What I've learned about my stress response, histamine, detox and nutrient needs • How magnesium, omega-3, and B vitamins became key to feeling better • Why food first always wins - but personalisation helps it work 💛 Listener action: If you're ready to start uncovering what your body needs, my 28-Day Transformation Programme is the perfect place to begin. Start anytime at www.hillstart.me.uk/transformation – just £89 with 50 days' access. 🎙 Huge thanks to our sponsor Revive Active — I now take their Magnesium daily and love it for stress, sleep, and nervous system support.

In your 20s and 30s, movement is often about keeping going - more cardio, more effort, more pushing through. But in this episode, I'm sharing how everything changed when I slowed down, tuned in, and started listening to what my body actually needed. I'll tell you how qualifying as a yoga teacher at 51 reshaped my mindset, why mindful movement supports hormones and nervous system balance, and how walking, paddleboarding, and even open water swimming now bring me more joy (and better results) than punishing workouts ever did. Whether you're feeling stiff, burnt out or just disconnected, this episode is your permission slip to move in a way that feels good - and still gets results. 🎙 Huge thanks to our sponsor Revive Active - I love their Joint Complex for supporting joint comfort and mobility. With 5g of collagen, it's become one of my essentials. Remember to use codde Wendy10 to get 10% off at checkout.

In this episode, I'm reflecting on how my relationship with food has changed over the years - from piling up toast and pasta just to feel full, to learning how to fuel myself properly for energy, mood, and hormone health. You'll hear how my training in my 40s changed everything, how I approach food with joy (not guilt), and why eating well means you don't need to snack your way through the day. I'll also share how a simple test revealed my omega-3 levels were way too low - and what I did about it. 💛 My 28-Day Transformation Programme is now live! It's been refined after guiding over 100 women through the process, and it's available for just £89 until the end of the year. Fab Female Members get a discount! Learn more  Curious about your own omega-3 levels? The Omega Balance Test is now available: hillstart.me.uk/product/omega-balance-test 🎙 Thanks to our sponsor Revive Active – I now take their Omega-3 daily and wouldn't be without it.

This month marks 6 years of the Fab Female Nutrition podcast, and I'm kicking off a special series by sharing what I wish I'd known in my 20s and 30s (and even 40's) about hormones, energy, and how to actually feel good in your body. Back then, I was powering through life on a contraceptive implant, ignoring my cycle, dealing with bloating and fatigue, and assuming it was all just part of being a woman. But through training, testing, and years of working with clients, I've learned so much about how we can support our bodies - and how important it is to tune in, not shut down. In this episode, I'm sharing: • Why ignoring your cycle might be costing you energy and clarity • How your symptoms are messages - not annoyances • What I'd say to my 30-year-old self (and what I want you to hear too) • Gentle steps to start reconnecting with your health today My Fab Female Membership is just £69/year and includes 200+ recipes, meal plans, coaching, members-only clinics and more. It's incredible value, and where I share all my knowledge to support you in your journey - join us at www.fabfemale.co.uk With thanks to our amazing sponsor Revive Active — nutritional support for women at every stage. Use code Wendy10 for 10% off a checkout www.reviveactive.com

Is brain fog in menopause just "part of getting older" - or something you should worry about? In this episode of Fab Female Nutrition (part 4 of our menopause symptoms series), I'm tackling one of the most unsettling midlife complaints: brain fog, memory lapses, and the fear it could be something more serious. You'll discover: • Why brain fog is such a common menopause symptom, and why it usually lifts • How fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone affect memory and focus • Why panic makes brain fog worse, and the importance of self-compassion • Dr Dale Bredesen's "leaky roof" theory, and how plugging multiple lifestyle gaps may reduce dementia risk • What we can learn from Michael Mosley's Secrets of the Super Agers TV series about supporting lifelong brain health ✨ Resources mentioned in this episode: 📖 The End of Alzheimer's by Dale Bredesen 📺 Michael Mosley: Secrets of the Super Agers – Episode 1 (Brain) 💬 Want more support like this? Join my free community here: 👉 Fab Female Nutrition Facebook Group 🙏 A huge thank you to my sponsor Revive Active — their Meno Active formula contains B vitamins, magnesium, and botanicals that support mental clarity, focus, and overall wellbeing during midlife. Use code Wendy10 for 10% off.

Frustrated by weight gain in menopause — especially around the middle? You're not alone. It's one of the most common questions my clients ask me, and I know how frustrating it can feel when your usual diet or exercise just doesn't seem to work anymore. But here's the good news: while these changes are common, they're not inevitable. On this episode (part 3 of my 4-part menopause series), I share my expertise as a nutritional therapist to help you understand what's really going on, and what you can do to support your body through this transition. And remember, your body isn't working against you. She's always trying to protect you, these changes are part of a clever hormonal shift, not a personal failing. With the right support, you can work with your body rather than fighting against it. You'll learn: • Why your body may store fat around the middle - and how it's actually trying to protect you • The role of oestrogen, insulin, and cortisol in menopausal weight changes • Why declining muscle mass makes a difference to metabolism, and how strength training can help • How regular, balanced meals create safety signals for your body and support hormone balance I'll also share practical strategies you can start today to support your metabolism, protect your bones, and feel more in control of your weight during this transition. 🙏 Special thanks to our sponsor Revive Active  their Meno Active formula contains a blend of botanicals, B vitamins, magnesium, and more to support women through perimenopause and menopause. Use code Wendy10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase.

Fed up with waking up in a sweat or feeling like you're overheating for no reason? In this episode, I dive into what is happeningand, when your internal thermostat malfunctions. I share some real-world strategies to help you restore balance and calm. We'll cover: • What's happening hormonally when hot flushes and night sweats kick in • The lifestyle "triggers" you might not have spotted yet • Practical tools and tips that can help You can also download my free Perimenopause Symptom Tracker from this blog post: A Guide to Perimenopause & Menopause Special thanks to our sponsor Revive Active — their Meno Active formula is packed with botanicals, B vitamins, magnesium, and more to support your energy, mood, and temperature regulation during midlife transitions. Use code Wendy10 at checkout for 10% off your purchase.

Think menopause is all about hot flushes and missed periods? Not quite. In this episode, I'm breaking down the real early signs of perimenopause, which are often the ones many women aren't warned about. We'll cover: Why anxiety, low mood, and poor sleep often show up first How fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone impact your brain and nervous system Why focusing on your health is vital at this transitional time Natural strategies to feel more like you again If you've been feeling "off" but your cycle's still regular, this one's for you. Download my free symptom tracker to help you understand if you are experiencing perimenopause:  Perimenopause Symptom Checker PDF A big thank you to our sponsor Revive Active, whose Meno Active formula includes magnesium, B vitamins, and targeted botanicals to support your body and mind during early hormone shifts.  

Wondering whether you actually need a protein powder? Or if it's all just a bit too gym bro for midlife women who simply want to feel energised and supported? In this episode of Fab Female Nutrition, I unpack everything you need to know about protein and protein powders: ✔️ Why protein matters more as we age – especially for metabolism, hormones and muscle health ✔️ How much you actually need (spoiler: probably more than you think) ✔️ How to get enough from food – and when a shake might be a good idea ✔️ What to look for in a clean, effective protein supplement ✔️ My honest take on when and why I use protein powders myself This isn't about extremes – it's about practical, balanced choices that actually work in real life. 🙏 Huge thanks to our podcast sponsor Revive Active – their Joint and Beauty formulas contain quality collagen protein alongside a smart blend of supportive nutrients. 💬 And if you've got questions or want to join the conversation, come join my free community: Fab Female Nutrition on Facebook

Multivitamins are one of the most popular supplements out there - but are they actually doing anything? Or are you just paying for expensive wee?  This week I'm diving into the real pros and cons of multivitamins - and whether they're actually worth your time and money. We'll cover: – What makes a good multivitamin (hint: they're not all created equal) – Why your lifestyle, stress levels, and diet affect how well you absorb nutrients – When a multi might be genuinely helpful - and when it might not be needed – And the key nutrients midlife women often don't get enough of from food alone 🎧 If you've ever stood in front of the supplement shelf confused (or overwhelmed by influencer hype), this one's for you. 🙏 A big thank you to our sponsor Revive Active — their advanced formulas include absorbable nutrients in meaningful doses, including vitamin D3, K2, B vitamins, and more. It's one of the few multinutrient blends I truly rate and recommend!  

Think you're getting enough vitamin D just because the sun's out? You might want to think again.  This week we're diving into the sunshine vitamin - what it does, why it's vital for your health,  and how to know if you're running low.  In this episode, I'll explain: – Why vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption and immune support – The seasonal drop in levels and why we make none in winter – How low levels can affect your mood, metabolism, and hormone balance – Why I always recommend combining vitamin D with vitamin K2 – How to top up safely with food, sunlight, and high-quality supplements Whether you've had a recent blood test and want to understand the results, or just want to feel more energised and resilient, this one's worth a listen. 🙏 A huge thank you to our podcast sponsors, Revive Active, whose supplements include a well-absorbed, maintenance dose of vitamin D3 + K2 - one of the reasons their range is my go-to for foundational support in midlife and beyond.

Often feeling on edge? Struggling to switch off or stay asleep? You're not alone, and magnesium might just be the missing piece. In this episode of Fab Female Nutrition, Wendy explores the powerful link between magnesium and stress, and why this often-overlooked mineral is so vital when life feels relentless. Discover: 💥 Why stress burns through magnesium faster 🧘‍♀️ How magnesium helps calm your nervous system and support better sleep 🍫 Why cravings (especially for chocolate!) might be your body asking for more 💊 Whether you should supplement — and which forms are best absorbed Wendy also shares practical, food-first tips for increasing your intake and explains when a supplement might be helpful. Huge thanks to our sponsor Revive Active for their brilliant Magnesium Complex — packed with bioavailable forms to support calm, clarity and energy. (use code Wendy10 at checkout to get 10% off) Come and join the conversation in Wendy's free community: Fab Female Nutrition Facebook Group - for more support, expert tips and real talk about hormone health, energy and stress.