Optimal Metabolism

So many women feel broken, exhausted, and out of alignment with their bodies—and their faith. In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Austin Lake, Christian functional medicine practitioner and founder of Wholly Health, to explore the deeper root causes of hormone imbalance, infertility, adrenal dysfunction, and weight gain through a biblical lens. Dr. Lake shares how disrupted circadian rhythm, chronic stress, nutrient depletion, and over-medicalization are keeping women stuck—and how true healing begins by returning to God’s design. What We Discuss in This Episode: Why hormone issues like infertility, PCOS, and fatigue are often misunderstood The dangerous over-reliance on birth control and hormone replacement How circadian rhythm, light exposure, and rest impact female hormones The spiritual consequences of idolizing productivity over healing The importance of restoring biblical identity in the healing journey Why women must return to foundational health—before reaching for hormones 🌟 AND… something big is coming: I’m hosting a FREE LIVE webinar on Wednesday, Sept 10 I’ll teach you all about GLP-1 hormone, GLP-1 agonist meds, how to come off these meds if that's your goal, and natural alternatives to cholesterol and weight loss meds. 👉 Save your seat now: shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/webinar/ Whether it’s your circadian rhythm, adrenals, gut, or insulin resistance—you’ll leave with clarity on what your body truly needs to heal. You don’t want to miss this!

Episode Summary: Summer may have been fun, but if your energy, weight, or motivation feel off, you’re not alone. This solo episode is your permission slip to stop the extremes and start fresh—with a metabolism reset grounded in balance, not burnout. Shana walks you through why so many women feel worse after summer, and what to do now to feel amazing again—without restrictive dieting or relying on medications like Ozempic, metformin, or statins. If you're feeling puffy, tired, or stuck, this episode will show you how to gently reset your metabolism, support your hormones, and finally feel great again.  🔑 What You’ll Learn: The real reason summer throws off your hormones and blood sugar Why cortisol, GLP-1, and insulin are the key players in weight gain and cravings What NOT to do in September (hint: it’s not more fasting or keto) What the Feel Great System is—and why it works 3 simple strategies to reset this week Sneak peek of Shana’s upcoming free webinar on weaning off GLP-1 meds naturally 🔗 Links Mentioned: 🎓 Register for the Free Webinar (Sept 10 @ 12PM CT) 🌿 Learn More About the Feel Great System 💻 Shana’s Courses & Programs 📱 Follow Shana on Instagram 🎙 More Podcast Episodes

In this powerful episode of Hormones, Metabolism & You!, board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with nutrition pioneer Shana Hussin, RDN, for an open-hearted conversation about why the health trends we follow can sometimes backfire—especially when stress and burnout are involved. What You’ll Hear: How fasting backfired during a season of high stress and adrenal exhaustion. The role of hormones like leptin and cortisol in regulating appetite, sleep, and metabolic balance. Why one-size-fits-all health plans fail, especially around hormone and gut health. Shana’s personal pivot—from rigid fasting to listening to her body and honoring circadian rhythms. The healing power of grounding, gut support, and restoring rhythm over restriction. 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode: ✨ Feel Great System – Clean, effective daily support for metabolic health 🎓 Courses & Programs – Including Low Insulin Academy, Cortisol Calm, and more 💬 Follow Shana on Instagram – Daily tips, truth bombs, and healing insights 🎙️ More Podcast Episodes – Optimal Metabolism podcast archive

If you’ve ever wondered what it actually feels like when your metabolism turns back on, or whether insulin resistance can creep back in after reversing it—this episode is for you. Shana Hussin, RDN, shares powerful answers to real questions from her community, including how the Feel Great system can support healthy cholesterol levels and even help some people get off statins. These bite-sized insights are perfect for anyone feeling stuck in their weight, blood sugar, or hormone healing journey. What You’ll Learn: What real metabolic healing feels like (and how to know it’s happening) Why insulin resistance can return—but how to prevent it How the Feel Great system impacts cholesterol, digestion, and medication use Tips for keeping weight off after a win 🔗 Helpful Links: 🌟 Low Insulin Academy (Signature Course): https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/low-insulin-academy-on-demand/ 🌿 Cortisol Calm: https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/cortisol-calm-signature-course/ 💛 Feel Great System: https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/feelgreat/ 📘 Feel Great Implementation Guide: https://shanahussinwellness.com/feelgreatopt-in/ 📚 ALL Free Guides + Ebooks: https://shanahussinwellness.com/additional-resources/freebies/ 🏡 Homepage: https://shanahussinwellness.com Instagram Shortcuts: DM “FEEL GREAT” to get the Feel Great System link & guide DM “FREEBIES” to grab all my free guides + ebooks 👉 Follow me here: @shana.hussin.rdn

In this powerful episode, Shana Hussin sits down with fellow registered dietitian Shannon Davis to unpack her personal and professional journey through infertility, insulin resistance, and metabolic disease. Shannon shares how shifting to a low-carb lifestyle—and later discovering the Feel Great System—transformed her health, helped her conquer intense sugar cravings, and brought her cholesterol and triglycerides back into balance. You’ll hear how Shannon now uses these same strategies to help her clients reverse type 2 diabetes and regain control over their blood sugar, cravings, and energy. ✨ SPECIAL EVENT ALERT: On August 13th, join Shana and Shannon LIVE on YouTube for the Metabolic Marathon, a powerful day of collaboration between dietitians and doctors with the American Diabetes Society. Sessions run from 12–6 p.m. CT — don’t miss it! 🛒 Explore the Feel Great System: https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/feelgreat/ 🔗 Links Mentioned in This Episode: Home: https://shanahussinwellness.com Feel Great System: https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/feelgreat/ Metabolic Marathon (August 13):  🔑 What We Cover: Shannon’s personal story of overcoming infertility and insulin resistance How going low-carb shifted everything What makes the Feel Great System so effective (Yerba mate + fiber blend) The impact of metabolic health on cravings and cholesterol Shannon’s client results: weight loss, blood sugar stability, and diabetes reversal Why this system makes intermittent fasting easier—and sustainable Upcoming Metabolic Marathon collaboration on August 13

Episode Description: In today’s episode (originally recorded as an Instagram Live), I’m answering some of your most pressing questions about insulin resistance and the buzz around GLP-1 medications—through the lens of real healing, root cause solutions, and God’s design for the body. We’re talking about: Why you might still have insulin resistance even if your labs look “normal” What actually happens when insulin is high—even if your blood sugar isn’t How long it takes to reverse insulin resistance (and what most people get wrong) Why some people struggle with insulin resistance even when they’re not overweight What GLP-1 is, and why it affects hunger and fat loss How to naturally support GLP-1 function without meds What happens when you stop taking medications like Ozempic or Mounjaro And the truth about whether GLP-1 meds fix root issues or just mask symptoms Plus: I’m sharing the exact free resources and tools I use with clients to naturally support insulin, blood sugar, and hormone balance—without gimmicks or restriction. 🧰 Free Resources Mentioned: Browse all my freebies here: https://shanahussinwellness.com/#freebies Insulin Resistance Starting Guide – DM or comment “GUIDE” Circadian Reset Foundations Guide – DM or comment “FOUNDATIONS” 3AM Wake-Up Fix – DM or comment “3AM” Hormone-Friendly Fasting Guide – DM or comment “SAFEFAST” 🛍️ Product Recommendations & Tools I Trust: My curated favorites for metabolic and hormone support: 👉 https://shanahussinwellness.com/products 💛 The Feel Great System (Unicity): Want to try the system I personally use and recommend to clients to support insulin balance, blood sugar stability, and energy? Start here 👉 https://ufeelgreat.com/c/SHANAH Don’t forget to use code SHANAH at checkout!

f you're stuck in a cycle of poor sleep, cravings, fatigue, and stubborn weight gain, this episode is for you. I sat down with Jill McRae, co-founder of Inactive Co., to dive into the often-overlooked link between sleep and insulin resistance—especially for midlife women battling hormone chaos. We explore how modern life disrupts your natural sleep-wake rhythms and what it really takes to restore deep, healing rest without pills or complex protocols. Jill shares powerful insights from the Sleep 7 Playbook, a faith-rooted and biology-based approach to resetting your nervous system and supporting your metabolism through rest. Whether you’re dealing with adrenal fatigue, high cortisol, or a constant “wired but tired” feeling—this episode will bring clarity and practical tools for transformation. Use code SLEEP25 for 25% off your sleep mask and free shipping! 🔗 Links + Resources Mentioned: 🛏️ Grab the Sleep 7 Playbook from Inactive Co.: inactiveco.com/sleep-7-playbook 🧠 Book your GET UNSTUCK Wellness Audit  🌐 Visit Shana's Programs + Courses: shanahussinwellness.com 📝 What We Cover in This Episode: Jill’s personal story of sleep struggles and transformation Why poor sleep is a root cause of insulin resistance and weight gain How circadian rhythm disruption leads to hormone chaos The difference between “active body” and “active mind” sleep problems The impact of artificial light, evening stress, and overstimulation The 7 core foundations of sleep from the Sleep 7 Playbook How to honor rest as a spiritual and biological necessity Simple shifts you can make tonight to sleep deeper and wake up more energized

🔎 Episode Summary: Are your high blood sugar readings truly coming from what you're eating—or is your nervous system the real culprit? In this solo episode (taken from Instagram LIVE), Shana unpacks the hidden connection between cortisol and glucose, sharing her personal journey of dealing with high morning blood sugars, plus how to identify whether you’re dealing with insulin resistance or a stress response. She explains how to test and interpret both cortisol and blood sugar levels, and how to know whether Cortisol Calm, Low Insulin Academy, or the new Get Unstuck Audit is the right next step for you. Shana also answers powerful listener-submitted questions about fasting patterns, morning glucose spikes, and how to approach healing when clean eating alone isn’t cutting it. 🧠 Topics Covered: Cortisol-driven vs food-driven blood sugar spikes The truth about high morning glucose and Dawn Phenomenon When stress—not sugar—is the problem Cortisol and blood sugar testing 101 Personal story: How I solved my high AM blood sugars How to choose between Cortisol Calm and Low Insulin Academy Who should consider the new Get Unstuck Audit Listener Q&A on CGMs, stress, fasting, and insulin resistance 📌 LINKS & RESOURCES: 💻 Get the “Get Unstuck” Wellness Audit – use code AUDIT47 to save $47! 🎓 Low Insulin Academy 🧘‍♀️ Cortisol Calm Course 🏡 Home Page 📲 Message “AUDIT” on Instagram to get your discount!

We’ve been told cancer is genetic… or just bad luck. But what if that’s not the whole story? In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, I share the journey of my mom—a nurse, a night-shift worker, and a fighter who passed away just 7 months after her pancreatic and liver cancer diagnosis. For well over a decade, she was told to "watch" elevated liver enzymes while living in a circadian storm of artificial light, disrupted sleep, and minimal sun exposure. Her story—combined with the latest research—is a powerful case study for rethinking cancer as a metabolic disease rooted in mitochondrial dysfunction, circadian disruption, and environmental chaos. Inside this episode: Why blue light and lack of infrared may be more dangerous than we think How 90% of melatonin is made inside your cells—and why that matters The truth about seed oils, vitamin D, and sun exposure The lifestyle “storm” that quietly builds cancer risk What you can do NOW to reset your light, rhythm, and repair systems 📩 Get my FREE Circadian Reset Guide by commenting or DMing FOUNDATIONS on Instagram. 🎧 Resources & Mentions: The Light Doctor by Dr. Martin Moore-Ede Circadian light hygiene and red light therapy product recommendations MyCircadian app by Sarah Kleiner Wellness Cortisol Calm and Low Insulin Academy courses to overcome metabolic dysfunction  

Could the invisible waves around us be damaging our children’s brains, hormones, and fertility? In this critical episode, Shana Hussin, RDN, interviews Arthur de Calenge, founder of HAVN (Havnwear), about the powerful yet often overlooked effects of EMF (electromagnetic field) exposure on human health. Arthur breaks down what EMFs really are, how they affect our biology—especially in children and reproductive health—and why 5G presents new concerns. They also explore how silver-lined clothing can serve as a powerful shield, and how you can take simple, meaningful steps to protect your home and family. If you’re struggling with fatigue, hormonal imbalance, fertility challenges, or raising children in a tech-heavy world—this episode is for you. Links Mentioned: 🛡️ HAVN EMF-Blocking Apparel: havnwear.com Use code OPTIMAL for 10% off your order 🧠 Learn More About Shana’s Courses: Low Insulin Academy Cortisol Calm What You’ll Learn: What EMFs actually are and where they come from Why children are more sensitive to EMF exposure Symptoms of EMF overload most people ignore The link between EMFs, fertility, and hormone disruption What changed when we went from 4G to 5G How HAVN’s silver-lined apparel blocks over 99% of EMFs Simple steps to protect your family—without going off-grid

If you’ve ever wondered why you feel great one minute—and crash the next—or why your weight won’t budge despite healthy eating, it might be time to try a CGM. In this solo episode, Shana Hussin, RDN, breaks down what a Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is, why it’s one of the most powerful tools in metabolic healing, and how to use it effectively. Whether you’re managing insulin resistance, adrenal fatigue, or just curious about your patterns—this is the clarity you need. You’ll learn: How CGMs work and why real-time glucose data matters What to look for in your daily glucose curve How to get your own CGM  When elevated blood sugar is caused by food vs cortisol How to use your data to build a healing plan 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode Stelo CGMs – https://www.stelo.com Lingo CGMs- https://www.hellolingo.com/ Low Insulin Academy – https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/low-insulin-academy-on-demand/ Cortisol Calms Program – https://shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/cortisol-calm-signature-course/ ✅ Key Topics Covered What is a CGM and how does it differ from traditional glucose testing The importance of timing, meal tracking, and lifestyle logging Benefits of using a CGM platform How CGM trends reveal insulin resistance and cortisol issues Actionable tips for interpreting your data and creating lasting change 🎓 Ready to make sense of your glucose patterns? ➡️ Enroll in Low Insulin Academy to understand insulin resistance from the inside out 🌙 Struggling with morning highs? Get to the root with Cortisol Calm

In this raw and deeply personal episode of Optimal Metabolism, I’m opening up about something far beyond food, fasting, or hormones: my spiritual transformation. Over the past several years, I’ve experienced tremendous success—and tremendous loss. What started as a nutrition therapy business rooted in service began to feel more like striving. I found myself chasing downloads, metrics, and content calendars… and losing sight of who I was really called to be. ✨ In this episode, I share: Why I stepped away from social media and podcasting for a season How I realized I was idolizing my business The power of obedience and stillness when life feels out of control What God is showing me about rest, identity, and true healing How I’m rebuilding my work around Him—not around hustle This is a heartfelt invitation to pause, reflect, and consider whether you’re prioritizing spiritual health as much as physical. ✅ Key Topics Covered The unspoken pressure behind business success in the health world Recognizing when social media becomes spiritual distraction How stepping away brought clarity to your faith and family What it means to trust God with your business and your purpose Encouragement for others stuck in the cycle of “doing more” Want to connect with me personally or share your story? Message me on Instagram: @shana.hussin.rdn

Join Shana Hussin, RDN for an in-depth conversation with board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Cassie Smith of Modern Endocrine. We dive into: How gut health drives hormone balance, metabolic function, and cortisol regulation Practical strategies for reducing stress, improving circadian rhythm, and restoring foundations of health The lowdown on microdosing GLP‑1 medications—safe, effective, and who may benefit Testing guidance: what labs to run for insulin resistance, cortisol, gut markers, thyroid, and circadian balance Dr. Smith brings a unique blend of conventional endocrinology and functional medicine to help listeners understand testing, define root causes, and create sustainable solutions for metabolic and hormonal wellness. 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode Dr. Cassie Smith – Modern Endocrine  Instagram @modernendocrine_ Low Insulin Academy  Cortisol Calm  Cortisol Crisis – How Did We Get Here and How to Overcome It Shana's Favorite Product Recommendations with discount codes ✅ Key Topics Covered Role of gut-health in modulating hormones, inflammation, and cortisol levels Microdosing GLP‑1s: protocols, effectiveness, and reducing side effects Strategies for supporting circadian health: sleep patterns, light exposure, cortisol rhythm Lab testing essentials: insulin, HgbA1c, cortisol panels, microbiome/gut intestinal permeability, thyroid Practical, foundational interventions for stress and metabolic optimization ➡️ If you're ready to take control of blood sugar, adrenal health, and hormone balance, check out the Low Insulin Academy and Cortisol Calm program—designed to support healing from the inside out. ➡️ Don’t forget to grab your free e-book Cortisol Crisis – How Did We Get Here and How to Overcome It and take the first step toward lasting clarity and calm. ➡️ Subscribe to Optimal Metabolism, leave a review, and share with someone who needs this episode!

Episode Summary: Most women think their high morning blood sugar is from what they ate the night before—or not fasting long enough. But after tracking her own numbers with a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), I discovered that the real culprits were much deeper. In this solo episode, I share how I brought her fasting blood sugar back to normal (hello 70s and 80s!), and what truly made the difference. This episode is for any woman who’s tried “everything” and still feels stuck with stubborn glucose spikes. Links Mentioned: 🎧 Listen to the Podcast 📝 Aligned Wellness Audit 📲 Comment the word “AUDIT” on Instagram or Facebook to get the link Cortisol Calm Course for stress and high morning blood sugars Key Topics Covered: What CGM data revealed about my blood sugar patterns Common myths about high fasting glucose in women How cortisol, anxiety, poor sleep, and over-fasting raise blood sugar What lifestyle changes brought her numbers back to normal How women in midlife can shift from stress to stability

Episode Summary: If you’re navigating midlife, battling stress, and struggling with sleep, this episode is for you. Shana welcomes Elizabeth Grosjean, founder of Baloo Living, to explore how cooling weighted blankets can naturally support nervous system regulation and sleep quality—without medications or synthetic materials. Learn how deep pressure stimulation improves HRV, calms cortisol, and why the right kind of blanket can make all the difference—especially for hot sleepers and hormonally sensitive women. Elizabeth also shares what makes her blankets different (hello, breathable cotton and glass microbeads!) and how to choose the right weight for your body. Links Mentioned: 🌿 Baloo Living Website 🧘‍♀️ Cortisol Calm Course 🏠 Visit Shana’s Website Grab your Aligned Wellness Audit and save $47 by using the code AUDIT47 at checkout Key Topics Covered: How weighted blankets activate the parasympathetic nervous system The impact on sleep, cortisol, and heart rate variability (HRV) Choosing the right weight for your body Why most blankets overheat—and how Baloo’s solves this Natural materials vs. synthetics: what to look for Why this tool is especially powerful for women 40+

Episode Summary: Are you sleeping enough but still exhausted, anxious, or gaining weight? The issue might not be how long you’re sleeping—but when. In this episode, Shana explains why the circadian timing of your sleep is critical for hormone balance, metabolism, and adrenal health. Discover how getting to bed by 10 PM supports the natural flow of cortisol, melatonin, insulin, and leptin, and why late-night sleep (even if it’s 8 hours) can disrupt your hormonal repair cycles. Links & Resources: Cortisol Calm Course – Reset your circadian hormones naturally: shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/cortisol-calm-signature-course Podcast Home: shanahussinwellness.com/podcast Free Resources + Starting Guides: shanahussinwellness.com What We Cover: The difference between circadian-aligned sleep and just “8 hours” How melatonin, cortisol, insulin, and leptin flow overnight The deep hormonal repair window between 10 PM and 2 AM What late-night sleep and blue light do to your metabolism Why getting back to God's design for rest is key for healing Steps to shift your bedtime gradually and restore true rest

Episode Summary: Are carbs really the enemy? Not when they’re eaten in sync with seasons, hormones, and metabolic rhythms. In this episode, Shana breaks down why many women feel worse—not better—after long-term low-carb or keto, and how reintroducing seasonal, local carbohydrates can actually improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and energy. You'll learn how to shift from fear and restriction to trust and flexibility—rooted in both biology and God's design. Links & Resources: Join Low Insulin Academy (On SALE the first week of June!): shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/low-insulin-academy-on-demand Free Fasting Guide + Starting Resources: shanahussinwellness.com Podcast Home: shanahussinwellness.com/podcast Shana's Carb Quiz: http://subscribepage.io/carbquiz What We Cover: Why going too low carb long term can sabotage hormones What seasonal eating really looked like for our ancestors How to reintroduce carbs safely without wrecking blood sugar Signs your body is asking for more carbs The difference between “low carb” and metabolically flexible Reconnecting to God’s food design through local, seasonal eating

Episode Summary: In this eye-opening interview, Dr. Peter Martone reveals how the structure of your cervical spine could be the hidden culprit behind your blood sugar instability, adrenal fatigue, and infertility. We explore how modern posture—from phone use to poor sleep position—disrupts the central nervous system and hormonal balance. Dr. Martone also shares how his Neck Nest sleep pillow is helping people improve HRV, sleep quality, and overall nervous system health—without supplements or complex protocols. This episode is a must-listen if you’ve been doing “everything right” and still feel stuck, tired, or inflamed. Links & Resources: Shop the Neck Nest and save 10% with code SHANAH10: drsleepright.com/neck-nest Join the Low Insulin Academy: shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/low-insulin-academy-on-demand Explore Cortisol Calm: shanahussinwellness.com/programs-courses/cortisol-calm-signature-course Visit the Podcast Home: shanahussinwellness.com/podcast What We Covered: How modern lifestyle collapses the cervical spine The surprising link between neck alignment and blood sugar crashes Why poor spinal structure disrupts cortisol and adrenal function How the central nervous system impacts digestion, immunity, and fertility Using HRV to measure recovery—and how the Neck Nest supports it Dr. Martone’s personal journey and what led him to create this unique sleep tool

📝 Episode Summary: Exhausted. Wired. Bloated. Belly fat. Stuck in survival mode. If you're nodding along, this episode is your invitation to pause, breathe, and believe that healing is not only possible—it's how your body was designed. In this deeply personal episode I share my own burnout story and walk you through the rhythms and rituals that brought me back to energy, clarity, and peace. You’ll learn how to rebuild your cortisol curve naturally—without pills, caffeine, or extreme protocols. Plus, I introduce the Cortisol Calm course, now open with a special Mother’s Day offer. Use code MOTHER100 at checkout to save $100! 🔗 Helpful Links: 💐 Cortisol Calm Course – Mother’s Day Special 💤 Free 3 AM Wake-Up Guide 🏡 Homepage 🎧 Listen to More Episodes 🧠 Topics We Cover: The real root of burnout in women over 40 My story of collapse and recovery How circadian rhythm—not supplements—restores cortisol The LIGHT → RHYTHM → REST → FAITH framework Gentle steps to reconnect with God’s healing design What’s inside the Cortisol Calm course—and why it works

📝 Episode Summary: Are your adrenals "tired" or “shot”—or is your body just out of rhythm? In this episode I explain the critical differences between adrenal fatigue and circadian dysfunction, and why so many women are misled by quick-fix solutions that don’t address the root cause. If you’re waking at 3 AM, crashing by 2 PM, or feeling wired and tired all day… this is for you! You’ll learn how light, timing, and God’s natural rhythm are the missing pieces in true hormone healing—and why Cortisol Calm is designed to help you reset naturally. 🔗 Helpful Links: 💐 Cortisol Calm Course – Mother’s Day Special 💤 Free 3 AM Wake-Up Guide 🏡 Homepage 🧠 Topics We Cover: Why “adrenal fatigue” is often a misdiagnosis How to know if your cortisol is out of sync with light Common patterns of circadian disruption (especially in midlife women) Top burnout triggers and how to avoid them First steps to heal naturally—without relying on pills or caffeine Why God’s design for daily rhythm is the key to restoration