The Hormone Balance Solution Podcast

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Think your gut is healthy because you don't have bloating, constipation or indigestion? Think again. In this episode, Tara explains why you can have significant gut dysbiosis without a single digestive symptom—and why that matters if you're taking HRT.

Your gut plays a critical role in how your body metabolises and eliminates estrogen. Tara unpacks the connection between the microbiome, liver detoxification, the estrobolome, and beta-glucuronidase, and explains why simply taking supplements like DIM or calcium D-glucarate isn't addressing the root cause.

Whether you're on HRT or supporting your hormones naturally, this episode will help you understand why a healthy gut is essential for healthy hormone metabolism—and why optimising your gut may be one of the most important steps you can take, even if your digestion feels perfectly normal. In this episode:

How hormones are metabolised through the liver and gut
Why you can have significant gut dysfunction without digestive symptoms
Why Tara no longer recommends DIM (and rarely uses milk thistle)
The estrobolome explained: your gut's role in estrogen metabolism
Why calcium D-glucarate isn't the answer
The real cause of elevated beta-glucuronidase
Why adjusting your HRT dose may not solve the real problem

Mentioned in this episode:

PIQUE TEA - These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

You may also enjoy the following episodes:

EPS 84: The Invisible Benefits of HRT (HRT is important even if you have NO symptoms!).

EPS 86: You can't HRT your way out of a crappy diet or poor lifestyle habits.

EPS 139: Not "everything" is solved with HRT. It's not a magic bullet.

EPS 112: Gold Nuggets About HRT with Sarah Daccarett, MD

Gut Relief Package Promotion What's Included:

2 deep-dive private 1:1 consultations with me personally.
Functional testing: I'll guide you on which tests are right for YOUR body so you're not wasting money on tests you don't need
I interpret all your results and create fully personalised, custom protocols built around your body and your life.
Video reviews of your test results so you understand exactly what we're seeing and why
A results review call where we'll go through everything together
A fully customised health plan including professional supplements - all tailored to you, your body, and your test results
3 months of unlimited private messaging support with me; this is HUGE. I am by your side, holding your hand, available at any time. This is the key piece of the plan that gets you results. Pivoting and adjusting as your body responds is critical, because healing isn't linear.
Options to continue working together and retest after your 3 months - I won't leave you high and dry.

Grab your Gut Relief Package HERE.

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Leaky gut has become one of the most talked about topics in the wellness world, but how much of what you've heard is actually true?

In this episode, Tara separates the science from the social media myths surrounding intestinal permeability (commonly called "leaky gut"). She explains why having some intestinal permeability is completely normal, who is actually at risk of developing excessive permeability, and why telling everyone they have a leaky gut can lead to unnecessary fear, supplements, and expense.

You'll also learn what really damages the gut lining, why common tests like zonulin may not be giving you reliable answers, the gold-standard test used in research, and the evidence-based strategies that genuinely help support and repair the gut barrier.

If you've ever been told you have leaky gut—or you've wondered whether you do—this episode will help you understand what the research actually says.

In this episode: * What "leaky gut" really is (and why everyone has some intestinal permeability) * Why not everyone has leaky gut—even with autoimmune disease * The biggest myths circulating online * The lifestyle, medications and gut conditions that genuinely increase intestinal permeability * Why zonulin testing isn't as reliable as many practitioners believe * The gold-standard test for assessing intestinal permeability * Evidence-based supplements that actually support the gut lining * Why hormones, especially progesterone, play a bigger role than most people realise

Gut Relief Package Promotion What's Included:

2 deep-dive private 1:1 consultations with me personally.
Functional testing: I'll guide you on which tests are right for YOUR body so you're not wasting money on tests you don't need
I interpret all your results and create fully personalised, custom protocols built around your body and your life.
Video reviews of your test results so you understand exactly what we're seeing and why
A results review call where we'll go through everything together
A fully customised health plan including professional supplements - all tailored to you, your body, and your test results
3 months of unlimited private messaging support with me; this is HUGE. I am by your side, holding your hand, available at any time. This is the key piece of the plan that gets you results. Pivoting and adjusting as your body responds is critical, because healing isn't linear.
Options to continue working together and retest after your 3 months - I won't leave you high and dry.

Grab A Gut Relief Package HERE.

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Walk into any health food store or spend five minutes on social media and you'll be told you "need" a long list of supplements for your gut.

Bitters. Berberine. Greens powders. Probiotics. TUDCA. Ox bile.

But are they actually helping your microbiome... or could they be making things worse?

In this episode, Tara shares her honest, research-backed opinion on the gut supplements she believes are worth considering, which ones are overhyped, which should only ever be used with the right testing, and the supplements she believes most people should avoid altogether.

Drawing on more than a decade of clinical experience and her training as a Certified Microbiome Analyst, Tara explains why the right supplement depends entirely on what's happening inside your gut, and why guessing can sometimes do more harm than good.

If you've ever wondered which supplements are actually worth your money, this episode is for you. Covered in this episode:

The supplements I genuinely recommend and why
Which ones are mostly hype
Why strain matters when it comes to probiotics
Why prebiotics are one of the most underused tools in gut health
The supplements I only use with proper testing
Why I no longer use berberine or oil of oregano in my clinical practice
The biggest mistake I see women making when buying supplements online

Mentioned in this episode: HERBATONIN - Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

July LIVE Gut Fix Hangout Stop Blaming the Food. The Real Reason You've Still Got Bloating and Pooping Problems, and How to Fix Your Gut for Good.

Join us on July 16th at 8pm EST / 5pm PST which is 10am AEST on July 17th. Save your spot HERE.

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If you're struggling with constipation and bloating no matter how much water you drink or fiber you eat, methane overgrowth in your gut could be the real problem.

The episode focuses on methane overgrowth in the gut, highlighting how methanogens produce methane, which can slow digestion and exacerbate symptoms. Tara explains the importance of proper testing, both for methane and thyroid issues, to identify the real cause of gut discomfort.

The discussion explores why standard stool tests often miss methane overgrowth and shared practical steps for effective diagnosis and symptom relief.

In this episode:

What methane overgrowth actually is and why it causes constipation
The difference between methane in the colon and methane-dominant SIBO
Why so many women are never tested properly
Why bloating patterns can give us clues about what's really going on
Why fibre isn't the problem (even if it currently makes you feel worse)
The connection I often see between sluggish thyroid function and methane overgrowth

July LIVE Gut Fix Hangout Stop Blaming the Food. The Real Reason You've Still Got Bloating and Pooping Problems, and How to Fix Your Gut for Good.

Join us on July 16th at 8pm EST / 5pm PST which is 10am AEST on July 17th. Save your spot HERE.

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So many of us assume that fatigue, brain fog, and other midlife symptoms are caused solely by hormones or that HRT alone is the solution. But our latest episode of The Tara Thorne Wellness podcast dives into why your gut health may be playing a much bigger role than you think.

In this episode:

Don't Blame Hormones for Everything: Many symptoms often attributed to perimenopause or hormonal imbalance—like fatigue and brain fog—can actually be driven by gut health issues, especially dysbiosis and inflammation.
Understand the Gut-Hormone Connection: A healthy gut is critical for metabolizing estrogen and maintaining proper hormone balance. Overlooking this can lead to persistent symptoms even if you're addressing hormones.
Testing and Assessing Gut-Related Contributors to Symptoms:Standard approaches and generic supplements often miss core issues like high LPS (a major driver of inflammation and fatigue) and slow gut transit time. Targeted testing is essential for real results.

Don't miss Tara's upcoming GUT FIX HANGOUT - Stop Blaming the Food. The Real Reason You've Still Got Bloating and Pooping Problems, and How to Fix Your Gut for Good.

Join us on July 16th at 8pm EST / 5pm PST which is 10am AEST on July 17th.

Save your spot HERE.

Got questions? Connect with Tara on Instagram, at @TaraThorneWellness

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In this episode, Tara breaks down the most common root causes of SIBO, including impaired gut motility, previous antibiotic use, food poisoning, digestive issues, low stomach acid, medications, thyroid problems, structural issues, and chronic stress.

She also explains why proper testing matters, why guessing your way through SIBO treatment can leave you stuck in a cycle of temporary improvement followed by relapse, and what questions your practitioner should be asking before creating a treatment plan.

If you've been told you have SIBO, treated it, and found yourself right back where you started, this episode will help you understand what may have been missed.

In this episode, I'm breaking down:

The classic symptoms of SIBO and what they can look like beyond bloating
Why motility is one of the biggest pieces of the puzzle
How antibiotics, food poisoning, medications, and stress can contribute
Why low stomach acid may actually be part of the problem
The questions your practitioner should be asking before treating your SIBO
Why clearing SIBO is only half the job if you want lasting results

June Gut Relief Package SALE And if you're struggling with persistent gut symptoms and want support figuring out what's actually happening, grab a spot to work with me this June, HERE. Spots are limited and once they're gone, they're gone. Got questions? Connect with Tara on Instagram, at @TaraThorneWellness

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After decades of chronic constipation, going as long as six weeks without a bowel movement, and living with severe bloating that left her looking "like she'd swallowed an elephant," Wendy had tried everything… or so she thought.

Laxatives. Supplements. Restrictive diets. Wellness practitioners. Expensive protocols. Yet nothing truly worked because nobody had properly investigated what was actually happening in her gut.

In this deeply personal conversation, Wendy joins Tara to share how comprehensive microbiome testing finally uncovered the root causes behind her lifelong gut struggles and how, within weeks of targeted support, everything changed.

This episode explores the emotional and physical toll chronic constipation can have on women, why symptom suppression isn't the same as healing, and how proper testing can completely transform the way we approach gut health.

In this episode, you'll hear us chat about:

How easy it is to get stuck in "try this, try that" cycles without ever finding real answers
The power of proper gut testing and an individualized approach
Why surface solutions (like supplements or meds "just in case") can miss the mark
How healing your gut impacts your ENTIRE well-being: energy, skin, sleep, mental clarity
What's truly possible when you find the root cause instead of just masking symptoms

I hope Wendy's story inspires you to believe that things can change, no matter how long you've been struggling. Mother's Day Gut Relief Package Applications are now open now through May 27th at midnight PST! Here's what's inside my Mother's Day Gut Relief Package:

2 deep-dive private 1:1 consultations with me personally.
Functional testing: I'll guide you on which tests are right for YOUR body so you're not wasting money on tests you don't need
I interpret all your results and create fully personalised, custom protocols built around your body and your life.
Video reviews of your test results so you understand exactly what we're seeing and why
A results review call where we'll go through everything together
A fully customised health plan including professional supplements - all tailored to you, your body, and your test results
3 months of unlimited private messaging support with me; this is HUGE. I am by your side, holding your hand, available at any time. This is the key piece of the plan that gets you results. Pivoting and adjusting as your body responds is critical, because healing isn't linear.
Options to continue working together and retest after your 3 months - I won't leave you high and dry.

🎁 BONUS (and this one really matters for gut health):

A FREE HTMA test + full protocol and interpretation, worth hundreds on its own.

SUBMIT AN APPLICATION HERE Spots are limited.

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In this episode, Tara dives into one of the most important — and often overlooked — players in metabolic and gut health: Akkermansia muciniphila.

She explains how this keystone bacteria influences weight regulation, inflammation, blood sugar balance, and gut integrity, and why both low and elevated levels can signal deeper issues in the body.

Tara also breaks down the common misconceptions around weight loss, the role of the microbiome in supporting metabolic health, and why diet alone is often not enough to optimize gut function.

You'll learn practical strategies to support Akkermansia naturally, when supplementation may or may not be helpful, and why proper testing is essential for understanding your unique gut environment.

We cover:

What Akkermansia is and why it's considered a "keystone" bacteria
How it influences weight, metabolism, and inflammation
Why both low and high levels can be a problem
The truth about Akkermansia supplements (and why I don't rely on them)
The exact foods and strategies that support healthy levels
Why gut testing is essential if you actually want answers

Attend My Brand New Masterclass on May 7th at 8pm EST / 5pm PST! The Gut Fix Masterclass: Stop Blaming Food! The Real Reason You've Still Got Bloating and Pooping Problems & How to Fix Your Gut for Good Save Your Spot HERE

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In this episode, Tara breaks down the true impact antibiotics can have on the gut, far beyond the short-term effects most people are told about.

She explains how even a single course can disrupt the microbiome for years, contributing to inflammation, immune dysregulation, and a wide range of ongoing symptoms.

Tara also shares her clinical perspective on why many gut healing approaches fall short, and outlines a practical protocol to protect and support the microbiome before, during, and after antibiotic use.

We cover:

What actually happens in the gut after a course of antibiotics
Why the effects can last up to four years (or longer)
The link between antibiotics, inflammation, and chronic symptoms
Why most "gut healing" approaches miss the mark
My gut protection protocol (what I do in practice to minimize damage)

Attend My Brand New Masterclass on May 7th at 8pm EST / 5pm PST! The Gut Fix Masterclass: Stop Blaming Food! The Real Reason You've Still Got Bloating and Pooping Problems & How to Fix Your Gut for Good Save Your Spot HERE

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You're eating well. You've cut out the "trigger foods." You've tried the probiotics, the gut protocols, the supplements.

And yet… you're still bloated. Still uncomfortable. Still dealing with unpredictable digestion.

In this episode, Tara breaks down the real reasons so many women stay stuck with gut issues, despite doing everything they've been told is "right."

From poor testing and misguided protocols to overlooked root causes, this is the conversation that fills in the gaps most practitioners are missing.

If your gut still isn't right, this episode will help you understand why—and what actually needs to change.

In this episode we talk about:

The biggest mistakes in gut protocols
Why most stool tests miss what matters
Probiotics vs prebiotics — the real story
Why restrictive diets don't fix your gut
What actually needs to happen for lasting change

And if you're ready to stop figuring this out alone my April Perimenopause Gut Relief packages are still open. Proper testing, root cause focus, and a plan built around your body so you're not back at square one in six months. If you've been sitting on the fence, this is your nudge. Grab a spot here.

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In this episode, Tara breaks down what loose stools actually mean, why they're not something to ignore, and the key root causes she sees most often in practice. From gut infections and dysbiosis to bile flow issues and poor digestion, she explains how to connect the dots between your symptoms and what's really going on underneath.

She also walks through the common mistakes people make when trying to fix gut issues—like guessing with supplements or following generic protocols—and why these approaches can often make things worse.

If you're dealing with loose stools, urgency, or inconsistent digestion, this episode will help you understand what your body is signaling and how to approach it properly.

In this episode we talk about:

Why gut issues often show up as fatigue, anxiety, weight gain (not just digestive issues)
How to tell if it's SIBO or a colon issue
The role of digestion, bile, and transit time (this is huge)
Why probiotics alone aren't the solution
What proper stool testing looks like
The red flags to watch for when choosing a practitioner

If you feel like you've tried all the things and nothing's working, or you're just OVER not feeling your best, seriously, give this one a listen.

Reach out Tara on Instagram anytime, HERE.

And if you're ready to stop figuring this out alone my April Perimenopause Gut Relief packages are open. Proper testing, root cause focus, and a plan built around your body so you're not back at square one in six months. Spots are limited and the fast action $300 discount is going away on the 22nd. CLICK HERE to grab a package. [BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Constipation isn't just uncomfortable. It's not a minor inconvenience to manage around with a magnesium supplement and a prayer. When your bowels aren't clearing properly, your body is holding onto things it needs to let go of; waste, toxins, and used-up hormones like estrogen that, when reabsorbed, start creating problems far beyond your digestive system.

This is why I take it seriously in practice. And why I recorded this episode.

Because most of the advice out there is either incomplete or quietly making things worse.

In this episode I walk you through what actually matters:

Why constipation is a whole-body issue, not just a gut one
The link between sluggish bowels, estrogen recycling, and long-term health risk
What it means if fibre makes your symptoms worse (this is important)
Why methane overgrowth is one of the most missed drivers of constipation
What most women are overlooking when nothing seems to work

If you're ready to stop figuring this out alone my April Perimenopause Gut Relief packages are open. Proper testing, root cause focus, and a plan built around your body so you're not back at square one in six months. Spots are limited and the fast action $300 discount is going away on the 22nd. CLICK HERE to grab a package.

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Bloated by evening but fine all morning? That points somewhere specific. Puffing up within minutes of eating? That points somewhere else entirely. And those two things call for completely different approaches. In under 15 minutes, I cover: — The two main types of bloating and how to tell which one you have — Why self-treating your gut often makes things worse, not better — The difference between SIBO and colonic dysbiosis — Why proper testing is non-negotiable if you actually want this resolved — The most common mistakes I see women make when trying to fix their gut This isn't about cutting more foods or adding more supplements. It's about finally understanding what your body is telling you so you can fix it at the root and stop feeling uncomfortable in your own skin. And if you're ready to stop figuring this out alone my April Perimenopause Gut Relief packages are open. Proper testing, root cause focus, and a plan built around your body so you're not back at square one in six months. Spots are limited and the fast action $300 discount is going away on the 22nd. CLICK HERE to grab a package.

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In this episode, Tara breaks down the essentials of gut health, highlighting the importance of accurate testing, why stool tests are critical, and common mistakes women make in trying to fix their gut on their own.

She strips it all back and walk you through what actually matters when it comes to your gut… and what is quietly making things worse.

In this episode we cover:

• Why gut health impacts far more than digestion (think mood, metabolism, hormones, skin, brain health) • The biggest mistakes I see with SIBO treatment (and why retesting is non-negotiable) • What antibiotics are really doing to your microbiome (even after one round) • Why restrictive diets, low FODMAP, and food sensitivity tests are not the answer • The truth about probiotics vs prebiotics (and what actually improves your gut) • Red flags to watch for when choosing a practitioner or stool test

If you're dealing with GI issues and would like my expert help with, as a Certified Microbiome Analyst, grab one of my April Perimenopause Gut Relief packages, before spots are gone. Currently I'm offering them at a $300 fast action discount (but that's only for a short time). 👉 VIEW APRIL GUT RELIEF PACKAGES --------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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A decline in progesterone in our 40s can show up as PMS, anxiety, insomnia, and heavy periods. In addition to being uncomfortable these changes can signal deeper shifts affecting brain, bone, and cardiovascular health.

In this episode, Tara Thorne explains the crucial role of progesterone in perimenopause, why some women struggle to tolerate it, and how gut health, delivery method, and proper dosing can make all the difference. She breaks down common reactions to oral progesterone, advocates for alternative application routes, and shares practical protocols for challenging symptoms like heavy periods and PMDD.

Whether you're navigating progesterone intolerance or simply curious about midlife hormone changes, this episode offers validation and expert strategies. Tara empowers women to advocate for themselves, providing guidance on when and how to replace progesterone for a healthier and calmer transition through perimenopause.

In this episode of The Perimenopause Solution Podcast, you'll learn: * Understanding Progesterone for Midlife Health * Understanding Progesterone's Effects & Symptoms * Candida's Impact on Progesterone Deficiency * Finding the Right Progesterone Dose * Managing Hormonal Health with Progesterone

WATCH ON YOUTUBE Mentioned in this episode: HERBATONIN - Save 10% when you shop HERE and use Tara's code: Tara10

EQUIP - Click HERE to grab yours and use Tara's code: TARA to get 15% off When you sign up for a subscription via Tara's link, you'll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

PIQUE TEA - These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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In Part 1, I shared how my own bloodwork forced me to question everything I thought I knew about cholesterol.

In this episode, we go deeper — into the markers that actually predict cardiovascular risk and why so many women are being reassured by tests that don't tell the full story.

Because a "normal" cholesterol panel doesn't mean your risk is low. It often just means the most important markers were never measured.

I walk you through the two advanced markers that can completely change how we understand heart disease risk — especially when genetics are involved — and why these tests are essential if you want a clear, accurate picture of your cardiovascular health.

We also have an honest conversation about cholesterol-lowering medications: what they do, when they make sense, and why modern medicine can be protective when used thoughtfully and strategically.

This isn't about fear. It's about clarity. It's about having the full picture so you can make informed decisions about your health and your future.

In this episode of The Perimenopause Solution Podcast, you'll learn: • Why a standard cholesterol panel often misses true cardiovascular risk • What Lipoprotein(a) is and why genetics play a major role • Why ApoB is one of the strongest predictors of heart disease • How advanced markers change risk assessment — even when traditional labs look "normal" • The truth about cholesterol-lowering medications and how they work in the body • When lifestyle is enough — and when additional support may be protective • How to advocate for the testing and information you deserve

If you've ever been told your cholesterol looks "fine," this episode will help you understand what may still be missing — and why that matters.

WATCH ON YOUTUBE -------------------------------------------

HANGOUT WITH TARA ON FEBRUARY 24TH My Perimenopause Hangout is happening on February 24th and there's still time to join HERE.

This isn't a fluffy webinar. It's a no-BS sit-down chat where I'll hand you a real-life roadmap for navigating midlife hormones + metabolism, so you finally know what to focus on (and what to stop wasting money on).

You'll leave with strategies you can use the very next day. No starving yourself, no supplement graveyard.

Show up live and you'll also get my best bonuses that only my clients typically get:

Ultimate Midlife Blood Work Guide: The Tests Your Doctor Skips + Ranges That Actually Mean Something, (Not Just "You're Alive")
Hormone Decoder Cheat Sheet: How To Talk To Your Doctor About the Right Hormones, Right Doses, Right Delivery, Even If Round 1 Failed
Protein Made Simple Cheat Sheet: Help Figuring Out Your Daily Target + Meal Ideas & Easy Ways To Hit Your Protein Goals.
The Magnesium Decoder Cheat Sheet: Which Form Does What + Electrolytes I Recommend.

Save your free spot here!

Mentioned in this episode: HERBATONIN - Save 10% when you shop HERE and use Tara's code: Tara10

EQUIP - Click HERE to grab yours and use Tara's code: TARA to get 15% off When you sign up for a subscription via Tara's link, you'll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

PIQUE TEA - These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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For years, women have been told cholesterol doesn't really matter — or that as long as you're "metabolically healthy," you don't need to worry.

In this episode, Tara shares why she no longer believes that… and how her own bloodwork forced her to rethink everything she once taught.

Despite being fit, metabolically healthy, and doing "all the right things," Tara discovered she has genetically driven high cholesterol — something lifestyle alone couldn't fix. She explains why common tests like a coronary calcium score can give a false sense of security, and why genetics play a much bigger role in heart disease risk than the wellness industry admits.

This episode challenges the oversimplified, feel-good cholesterol messaging online and replaces it with nuance, evidence, and real-life experience.

In Part 1, you'll learn:

Why "high cholesterol doesn't matter" is misleading
How Tara discovered her cholesterol issue was genetic
Why being fit does not guarantee low cardiovascular risk
The problem with relying only on standard heart scans
The difference between lifestyle-driven and genetically driven cholesterol

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

HANGOUT WITH TARA ON FEBRUARY 24TH My Perimenopause Hangout is happening on February 24th and there's still time to join HERE.

This isn't a fluffy webinar. It's a no-BS sit-down chat where I'll hand you a real-life roadmap for navigating midlife hormones + metabolism, so you finally know what to focus on (and what to stop wasting money on).

You'll leave with strategies you can use the very next day. No starving yourself, no supplement graveyard.

Show up live and you'll also get my best bonuses that only my clients typically get:

Ultimate Midlife Blood Work Guide: The Tests Your Doctor Skips + Ranges That Actually Mean Something, (Not Just "You're Alive")
Hormone Decoder Cheat Sheet: How To Talk To Your Doctor About the Right Hormones, Right Doses, Right Delivery, Even If Round 1 Failed
Protein Made Simple Cheat Sheet: Help Figuring Out Your Daily Target + Meal Ideas & Easy Ways To Hit Your Protein Goals.
The Magnesium Decoder Cheat Sheet: Which Form Does What + Electrolytes I Recommend.

Save your free spot here!

Mentioned in this episode: MEGASPORE - Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

BON CHARGE - Save 15% when you when you shop HERE and use Tara's code: THORNE15

PALEOVALLEY - Get an automatic 15% discount applied when you click here to purchase.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Is everyone really low in vitamin D? Or have we been sold a narrative that doesn't hold up under scrutiny?

In this mind-blowing episode, Tara sits down with Regina and Kristin, the investigative duo behind the Normal Curves podcast, to explore the truth behind the so-called "vitamin D deficiency epidemic." Spoiler: it may have been manufactured by outdated, flawed science—and driven by people with major conflicts of interest.

This is a must-listen for anyone taking vitamin D or worried about their levels. If you've been told your D is "low," this episode might change everything.

In this episode we cover: * How the original vitamin D reference ranges were set (and how they were quietly reversed in 2024) * Why testing vitamin D routinely may be doing more harm than good * The role of conflicts of interest in shaping clinical guidelines * What the latest randomized controlled trials (RCTs) actually show about supplementing vitamin D for disease prevention * Why observational data can mislead us, and how low D might be the consequence—not the cause—of illness * How much sun you actually need to make enough vitamin D (hint: it's a lot less than you think) * Why the "low D" narrative stuck around even after the science was overturned

If you're thinking about taking D, already taking D, or have been told your vitamin D is "low" (it likely isn't) then this one is for you.

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE -https://www.youtube.com/@TaraThorne

Regina Nuzzo is a Gallaudet professor, award-winning science journalist, and co-host of the Normal Curves podcast. She brings statistics to life for students and audiences worldwide, often using sex-science examples to keep things lively. Her writing has appeared in Nature, The New York Times, Scientific American, and the Los Angeles Times, where she wrote a column on the science of sex and relationships. Alongside co-host Kristin Sainani, she penned a long-running statistics column for Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and now teaches a Stanford summer course on statistics for clinical informatics. Regina's work earned the American Statistical Association's Excellence in Statistical Reporting Award.

Kristin Cobb Sainani is a Stanford professor, science journalist, and co-host of the Normal Curves podcast. She brings statistics and scientific writing to students and audiences around the world. She also works as a statistician on sports medicine projects. Kristin has written widely about health, science, and statistics for both academic and popular audiences. She was a health columnist for Allure magazine for ten years and, alongside co-host Regina Nuzzo, penned a long-running statistics column for the journal Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. In 2018, she received Stanford's Biosciences Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching. Known for her statistical sleuthing and ability to cut through academic jargon, Kristin champions clear language and rigorous methods in science.

Mentioned in this episode: Normal Curves Podcast

https://www.normalcurves.com/vitamin-d-part-1-is-the-deficiency-epidemic-real/ https://www.normalcurves.com/vitamin-d-part-2-good-for-more-than-just-your-bones/ Normal Curves Website: https://www.normalcurves.com/ EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you'll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

Purchase Herbatonin here to get 15% automatically applied to your cart: https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/Tara

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Today is the Part 2 re-run of the vitamin D series, Tara moves beyond basic lab values and takes a closer look at what can happen when vitamin D supplementation goes too far — and why more is not always better.

She explains how today's standard reference ranges are built on shaky assumptions, how high-dose vitamin D can create real imbalances in the body, and why symptoms like mood changes, calcium shifts, mitochondrial stress, and even worsening autoimmune issues can sometimes be linked to over-supplementation.

Most importantly, Tara shares a smarter, root-cause approach to supporting healthy vitamin D levels without relying on megadoses that may do more harm than good.

In Part 2, Tara covers:

• Why common vitamin D reference ranges may be misleading • Signs and symptoms of vitamin D overload • Why a "just take more" approach misses the bigger picture • The key cofactors your body needs to properly use vitamin D

If you've ever been told to simply increase your vitamin D without deeper investigation, this episode will help you ask better questions and take a more balanced, informed approach to your health.

Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE

Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations:

Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15
Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Today's episode is a rerun of one of the most important conversations I've ever shared on the podcast, all about vitamin D. As the podcast library grows, some truly foundational episodes can get buried, and this is information that's simply too important to lose. This is part one of a two-part series, and if you've never listened (or even if you have), it's well worth revisiting. Is your vitamin D "deficiency" actually a misdiagnosis? In this eye-opening episode, Tara dives into one of the most misunderstood nutrients in functional medicine: vitamin D.

While most practitioners rush to prescribe high doses of vitamin D based on a single lab marker (25(OH)D), Tara challenges the status quo and breaks down why this approach can be both misleading and harmful, especially for women in perimenopause.

She explains the critical difference between 25(OH)D and 1,25(OH)₂D, why elevated active vitamin D (1,25) often goes unnoticed, and how it can actually suppress your vitamin D storage while driving up inflammation, calcium loss, and even contributing to autoimmune conditions and bone loss.

This episode is a must-listen if you've ever felt confused about whether to supplement or if you've been taking vitamin D long-term without fully understanding how it works in your body.

In this episode we cover: * The difference between storage vs. active vitamin D (and why you must always test both but your practitioner likely hasn't) * The issues with vitamin D testing that scientists are hotly debating (can you even trust your lab result?) * What is the optimal reference range for vitamin D? And why ranges are terribly inflated and many are not to be trusted. * What really drives down vitamin D in the body and how to come at this from a root-cause perspective instead of drowning yourself in vitamin D supplements

If you're thinking about taking D, already taking D, or have been told your vitamin D is "low" (it likely isn't) then this one is for you.

Mentioned in this episode: 🔍 Formula to convert your 25,OH,D leve from ng/dL to nmol/L: 25(OH)D in nmol/L = 25(OH)D in ng/dL X 25

EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA20 to get 20% off

Purchase Herbatonin here and use Tara's discount code for 15% off, which is Tara15: https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/TaraHerbatonin

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Heavy periods are one of the most common, and most disruptive symptoms women experience as they move through perimenopause. Flooding, clots, changing tampons constantly, disrupted sleep, rising anxiety… these changes often show up together, and they're not random.

In this episode, Tara breaks down what's actually happening hormonally in midlife and why low progesterone is so often at the root of heavy periods.

She explains the critical differences between natural bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins, and why progestins (like those found in birth control or IUDs) are not the solution many women are led to believe they are.

In this episode:

Why heavy periods are often a progesterone problem in perimenopause
Why natural bioidentical progesterone is the solution - not herbs, not wild yam cream, not "wait and see"
Why progestins (birth control, Mirena, Slinda, etc.) are not the same thing and can actually make symptoms worse
Why many doctors underdose progesterone (or pull it away too quickly) because they aren't trained in HRT
How adequate progesterone can lighten periods, improve sleep, reduce anxiety, calm the nervous system, and protect your brain, bones, breasts, and heart

IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE, LISTEN TO THESE NEXT:

EPS 99: Everything you need to know about progesterone & replacing it, with Carol Petersen

EPS 113: Welcoming back Carol Petersen, RPh, CNP! She's answering all your progesterone questions!

EPS 127: Are you taking a fake, potentially harmful progestin (fake progesterone?). Find out in this episode & what to do instead.

Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Weight loss in midlife has become so confusing, emotional, and frankly? Full of misinformation and trends that do more harm than good. Women are being told calories don't matter, fat can't make you gain weight, or that low sex hormones, low thyroid function, insulin resistance or cortisol issues are the culprit and that fixing hormones will magically melt fat away. NONE of this is true! In this episode, Tara strips away the noise and talk honestly about what actually drives fat loss in perimenopause. This isn't about shame, extremes, or quick fixes. It's about clarity, realism, and understanding how your body works at this stage of life so you can stop spinning your wheels. Here's what is covered: • Why weight loss really is simple (but absolutely not easy) • The role calories play, whether we like it or not • Why hormones don't magically make you gain fat, but do affect how and where you store it • The two biggest mistakes I see women making when trying to lose weight • Why tracking can feel hard; and why that doesn't mean you're failing • How tools like GLP-1 medications and fasting may have a time and place • Why building muscle is non-negotiable for long-term health and staying at a healthy weight Enrollment in The Perimenopause Solution™ is open until January 13th - Join now to get $700 OFF Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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As we enter a new year, Tara Thorne encourages listeners to focus on foundational health to set themselves up for a vibrant 2026.

She emphasizes that true wellness begins with the basics; supporting the body with quality nutrition, stress management, restorative sleep, and balanced movement.

Tara shares candid stories from her practice, highlighting how simple shifts, like increasing protein intake or prioritizing sleep, can lead to transformative results for women in perimenopause.

In This Episode, Tara Covers: 1. Why Foundations Matter

The Truth About Popular Diets
How to Supplement Smartly
The Real Story on Hormone Testing & HRT
What to Avoid in 2026

You're Invited to Hangout with Tara: If you're ready for more clarity—and less confusion—in 2026, You're invited to join Tara for her upcoming free Hangout. She'll share exactly what matters, what you can safely ignore, and how to move forward, even if you're feeling lost. Save your seat HERE!

Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you'll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

HERBATONIN - Click HERE to visit the shop. Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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In today's episode, I'm opening up about something I've never fully shared before — my own thyroid journey. Even as a practitioner, I'm not immune to the hormonal shifts, viral triggers, and autoimmune quirks that so many midlife women face. My goal with this episode is to pull back the curtain, remove the shame, and give you a deeper understanding of what can really drive thyroid issues in perimenopause and menopause.

I walk you through the symptoms I experienced, what my lab work revealed, how my antibodies suddenly spiked, and the surprising reason why (hint: it wasn't gluten or leaky gut). I also share how I'm supporting my thyroid now, including why I chose Low Dose Naltrexone (LDN) and how modern medicine + holistic strategies can work beautifully together.

Whether you've been diagnosed with Hashimoto's, you suspect thyroid changes, or you've simply "never felt the same" since getting sick — this episode will give you clarity, validation, and a roadmap for next steps.

In This Episode, We Cover: 1. Practitioners Aren't Superhuman (and Why I'm Sharing My Story)

My Personal Symptoms
The Rollercoaster of Thyroid Health
What Actually Triggered My Antibodies
How I'm Addressing Thyroid Autoimmunity
Hashimoto's vs. Hypothyroidism – Clearing Up the Confusion
Genetics, Gut Health & The Importance of Testing
When & Why To Check Your Thyroid

Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you'll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

HERBATONIN - Click HERE to visit the shop. Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara's favourite teas! They're crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They're made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Fatigue in midlife isn't just about needing more sleep — it's often a sign that something deeper is out of balance.

In this episode, Tara shares her clinical approach to fatigue, including how hormones, minerals, iron status, thyroid function, inflammation, gut health, and stress all impact your energy. She explains why basic labs don't always tell the full story and what to look for when fatigue doesn't improve with rest or supplements alone.

You'll walk away with a clearer understanding of why you feel tired and what steps actually move the needle — plus how personalized testing and guidance can help you get your energy back for good.

Here's what you'll discover in this episode:

Why "just getting older" isn't a reason to accept low energy Tara Thorne shares her refreshing perspective on why we shouldn't expect our bodies to bounce back like they did in our twenties, and how you can actually regain your spark at any age.
The importance of digging into your blood work Learn what labs to ask for (and why most doctors miss critical markers)—including a full-thyroid panel, specific immune markers, iron panels, and even markers for viral and bacterial infections.
How mineral imbalances could be sabotaging your energy Tara Thorne walks through the magic of HTMA tests and why simply popping magnesium or iron might not help (and could even make things worse!).
The gut-fatigue connection Surprise! You might not have GI symptoms and still have serious gut-driven exhaustion. Tara Thorne unpacks how gut health, inflammation, and "leaky gut" can zap your vitality.
The critical (but often overlooked) role of hormones and stress From optimizing your hormones with bioidentical HRT to managing stress and dialing in quality sleep, you'll get actionable advice to support your energy on every level.

Other episodes of interest: EPS 114: Thyroid health in midlife: post-illness autoimmunity/hypothyroidism, why TSH will rise with iodine & this is OK, progesterone & thyroid health & more!

EPS 129: Hypothyroidism goes undiagnosed all the time in midlife. This episode: everything you need to know to ensure this doesn't happen to you.

EPS 123: Caution should be taken when supplementing vitamin D, iron & selenium. Do not DIY these supplements!

EPS 130: Do not take oral / IV iron until you've listened to this.

EPS 5: Copper Toxicity: How it may be driving your PMS, estrogen issues, OCD, anxiety & more.

EPS 121: All-things-cortisol in perimenopause. Are levels usually high or low? Should we test cortisol? If so, how? Everything you need to know!

Mentioned in this episode: HERBATONIN – Click HERE to visit the shop. Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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If you've ever found yourself walking into a room and forgetting why you're there, struggling to find words in a meeting, or just feeling that ever-present mental cloud—this week's episode is for you.

Discover the real causes of midlife brain fog and memory issues and learn how Tara Thorne helps clients overcome them through thyroid support, hormone balance, gut health, blood sugar stabilization, and targeted nutrients. A clear, practical roadmap for women in perimenopause and menopause.

Here's What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Why Your Thyroid Might Be the Culprit Discover how thyroid issues can slow everything down (including your brain!) and what you need to know about proper thyroid testing.
The Role of Estrogen in Mental Clarity Is your estrogen low? I'll explain why you can't always trust hormone tests during perimenopause and how to tune into the right clues.
Gut Health and That Pesky Brain Fog Find out why your gut is the last place you'd think to look for answers—and why it shouldn't be.
Nutrients Your Brain is Begging For Learn about the essential nutrients, including minerals and amino acids, that could turn your brain from foggy to focused.
Blood Sugar Balance for a Sharper Mind It's all about the protein! I'll share how getting enough protein (and balancing minerals) is a real game changer for mood and brain function.

BLACK FRIDAY SALE Save up to $400 on a TPS Quick Start testing package. (Our lowest prices ever offered outside of TPS!)

Click HERE to learn more.

Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Let's talk about that mysterious, relentless bloating that seems to appear (or worsen) as we step into midlife. If you feel like your jeans fit differently by the end of the day, or you're suddenly experiencing tummy troubles you never had before, you're not alone – and you're not imagining things.

Hormonal shifts during perimenopause don't just mess with our moods or energy levels—they can have a huge impact on our gut. Our estrogen, progesterone, and even thyroid hormones all play critical roles in gut function. When those hormones start to fluctuate, the gut can become more sensitive, digestion can slow down, and inflammation levels can rise.

Bloating is your body's way of asking for detective work. Maybe it's a case of poor transit time, low stomach acid, SIBO, or certain bacteria (hello methane or hydrogen sulfide producers!) making themselves at home. That's why it's so important to get personalized testing and work with someone who truly understands the microbiome—not one-size-fits-all protocols or quick fixes that can do more harm than good. In this episode:

How Your Hormones Mess With Your Gut: Learn how shifts in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and thyroid can trigger bloating and impact digestion.
Transit Time Matters: Find out why pooping daily isn't enough—you need to understand your transit time for true gut health.
Thyroid's Surprising Role: Get the scoop on how sluggish thyroid function can slow things down and lead to major bloating (and exactly which labs to ask your doctor for!).
Enzyme & Stomach Acid Secrets: Discover Tara's favorite enzyme supplement, plus the critical role of stomach acid (and how to spot signs of deficiency).
Testing, Not Guessing: Why stool testing is THE gold standard for uncovering the real root of your bloating—and how to choose the right practitioner.

Watch on Youtube HERE.

BLACK FRIDAY SALE

Save up to $400 on a TPS Quick Start testing package. (Our lowest prices ever offered outside of TPS!)Click HERE to learn more.

You may also want to check out these episodes:

EPS 111: Gut health IS health. How many approach gut health incorrectly & why the right testing matters with Dr. Jason Hawrelak.

EPS 112: Why we stopped using the GI MAP in my practice & how we are approaching gut testing these days

Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don't need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Here’s the truth — if you’re not having a healthy bowel movement every single day, your body is holding onto more than just waste. You’re also holding onto excess estrogen and toxins, which can fuel symptoms like:

bloating and discomfort
stubborn weight gain
mood swings and anxiety
hormone imbalances
and even higher risk for disease over time

In this week’s episode, I explain why constipation is so much more than an inconvenience — and how resolving it can transform your energy, hormones, and long-term health.

We’ll cover:

Why constipation is not something we should ignore (and what it signals about your health)
The connection between constipation, estrogen dominance, and disease risk
Practical, natural strategies to get your gut moving again — without relying on laxatives
How supporting digestion also helps balance hormones, energy, mood, and metabolism

If you’ve been struggling silently or just thought “that’s how my body works,” please don’t ignore this. Your gut is sending you a message — and it’s one you want to pay attention to.

Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Perimenopause brings a lot of changes but there is good news! You see, when you understand what’s actually happening in your body, you can take back control. In this week’s episode of The Perimenopause Solution, I sit down with Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN to unpack the critical metabolic and biological shifts that happen during perimenopause, and what you can do right now to support your body, energy, and long-term health. In the episode, we cover: * The surprising connection between your hormones, muscle, and metabolism * How to spot the early signs of imbalance before they spiral out of control * When HRT makes sense vs. when it might not * What you can start doing today to support your energy, mood, and longevity

Midlife isn’t a downhill slide but an invitation to approach your health in a whole new way. You have options, and this episode will help you understand them. Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN Jill Chmielewski, RN, BSN, is a Registered Nurse, Health Coach, Menopause Educator, and Women’s Health Advocate with over 30 years of experience in healthcare. She is a bold voice in the midlife health movement, calling out the outdated belief that it’s all downhill after 40—and replacing it with something far more powerful: the truth that a woman’s next chapter can be her strongest, healthiest, and most vibrant yet.

Jill holds a Master of Jurisprudence in Health Law and is a certified health coach from the Institute for Integrative Nutrition (IIN). She has completed advanced training through the School of Applied Functional Medicine and the Institute of Bioidentical Medicine, with deep expertise in menopause, hormones, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

As Education Lead at Respin Health, founded by Halle Berry, Jill combines science-based education with deep compassion and clinical insight, helping women understand their bodies, advocate for their health, and make informed, confident decisions. Her work is rooted in the belief that decline is not inevitable—it’s simply what happens when we fail to adapt to our bodies' needs in midlife and as we age.

Jill is the co-creator of two personalized Menopause Health & Hormone Optimization programs, the creator of The Beginner’s Guide to Hormone Replacement Therapy, and a trusted clinician known for making complex topics clear, approachable, and actionable.

Most recently, Jill was featured in the groundbreaking menopause docuseries "Four Days," created by filmmaker Charles Mattocks and a passionate team of experts and women willing to share their stories. The series was born from a quiet question: What if we finally changed the conversation, and turned into a movement? Because the silence around menopause has gone on too long. And because women deserve to be seen, heard, and supported in this next chapter of life. The docuseries is expected to air in late fall 2025.

Jill's Links: * Website * Instagram * Respin Health * HRT Telehealth Programs for women in the following states: California, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Arizona, Illinois, and Ohio

Watch on Youtube HERE. Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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We live in a world where convenience rules and quick fixes are everywhere-whether it’s for pain, sleep, or anxiety. But when it comes to HRT, I urge you to slow down.

The truth? Many women expect instant results from HRT, but that’s rarely the case.

The dosage might need tweaking.Your body might react unpredictably at first. And sometimes, what looks like a hormone issue is rooted elsewhere entirely. In this episode:

Why HRT Isn’t a Magic Bullet: Get the lowdown on why leaning solely on HRT for symptoms like fatigue, sleep problems, or mood swings often leads to disappointment—and even more questions!
The Power of Foundations: Discover the critical role that sleep, movement, diet, and stress management play—before, during, and after starting HRT.
Trial and Error with HRT: Hear real talk about how finding the right hormone dose is a process, and why side effects are common if foundational health isn’t sorted out.
Don’t Get Trapped by “Single Solution” Thinking: Learn the pitfalls of following experts who only talk about one thing (whether that’s HRT, gut health, or protein). Diversity in your approach is key!
Gut Health’s Surprising Role: Uncover stories showing how gut health—not always hormones—is sometimes the secret culprit behind night-time bathroom trips, brain fog, and even fatigue.

Mentioned in this episode: Purchase Herbatonin here - Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE

Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations:

Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15
Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Many people assume that gut problems always show up as bloating, pain, or digestive distress — but that’s far from the truth. In this episode, Tara explains why everyone who cares about their long-term health and longevity should be paying attention to their gut… even if they think their digestion is just fine.

From fatigue and brain fog to anxiety, weight gain, autoimmune issues, and even fertility challenges — the gut often plays a bigger role than you might realize. Tara shares a real-life client case: a woman with zero gut symptoms whose stool test revealed significant bacterial imbalances that were quietly driving inflammation and impacting her health.

You’ll learn why markers like LPS (lipopolysaccharides) and butyrate are so important, how they connect to inflammation throughout the body, and why a truly comprehensive stool test is non-negotiable if you want real answers.

Tara also explains why not all tests — and not all practitioners — are created equal, and how to ensure you’re working with someone who understands the full complexity of the microbiome.

Whether you’re chasing down stubborn symptoms or simply want to stay vibrant and healthy for years to come, this episode will inspire you to make your gut a top priority.

Tara explains that:

Comprehensive stool testing is essential for everyone, not just those with digestive symptoms. This helps identify issues that may be quietly driving systemic inflammation.
Markers like LPS (lipopolysaccharides) and butyrate on stool tests provide vital insights into the inflammatory state of your gut—and, by extension, your whole body. If your test doesn’t measure these, you’re missing valuable information.
Imbalances (dysbiosis) can exist without gut symptoms and still drive conditions like fatigue, autoimmunity, and infertility. Understanding your unique microbiome can be truly game-changing for your health path.

Watch on Youtube. Mentioned in this episode: HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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This week on the podcast, I’m joined by my friend and fellow practitioner Esther Blum; integrative dietitian, best-selling author, and someone who knows what it actually takes to feel better in perimenopause. We get real about all of it - from postpartum hormone shifts, to the mental weight of motherhood, navigating HRT, and why women are done with being dismissed. Esther shares what helped her reclaim her energy and identity (hint: it wasn’t just supplements or sleep hygiene), and we talk through the deep nervous system shifts that so many women don’t even realize are affecting their hormones. Here’s a peek at what we get into: * How postpartum depletion can carry into your 40s * The shame women feel around burnout and needing help * How libido, confidence, and self-trust are all connected * The difference between “doing all the right things” vs. actually feeling better * Why midlife women need to be informed about perimenopause and HRT

Esther Blum: Esther Blum is a Menopause Dietitian and Keynote Speaker. In the past 27+ years she has helped thousands of women master menopause through nutrition, hormones and self-advocacy.

Esther is the bestselling author of See ya later, Ovulator, Cavewomen Don't Get Fat, Eat, Drink and Be Gorgeous, Secrets of Gorgeous, and The Eat, Drink, and Be Gorgeous Project.

Known as Gwyneth Paltrow's menopause mentor, Esther has appeared on the Today Show, ABC-TV, and Good Day NY and is frequently quoted in Forbes, goop, Well + Good, Ben Greenfield Life, Time Magazine, and The New York Post.

Esther received a Bachelor of Science in Clinical Nutrition from Simmons College in Boston and is a graduate of New York University, where she received her Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition. Esther is credentialed as a registered dietitian, a certified dietitian-nutritionist and a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS), the certification from the Board for Certification of Nutrition Specialists (BCNS).

Esther lives in CT with her family where she can be seen fixing a mocktail, taking long walks, and singing karaoke by the fire pit.

Instagram: @gorgeousesther Website: https://estherblum.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/estherblum The Midlife Realignment™ Podcast: https://estherblum.com/podcast/ Make Menopause Your Bitch: https://makemenopauseyourbitch.com/ Macro Reset: https://makemenopauseyourbitch.com/join

Watch on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/C4bXjGzux9U

Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you’ll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

HERBATONIN - Click HERE to visit the shop. Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Despite common myths, soy and flax can be powerful allies for women’s health - especially during perimenopause and menopause.

In this episode, Tara sets the record straight on the hotly debated topics of soy and flax. If you’ve been hearing mixed messages online - especially about these foods being “estrogenic” or dangerous -it’s time to clear the air with research-backed facts!

In this episode you'll learn: 🔹 Soy is linked to multiple health benefits: Regular soy intake is shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer, improve cognitive function, and support heart and bone health - especially for peri- and postmenopausal women. The quality of your gut bacteria plays a key role in how well you benefit from soy.

🔹 Flax is a natural estrogen modulator: Far from being “dangerous,” flax helps balance estrogen by modulating it, not just increasing or decreasing levels - plus it supports cancer prevention, reduces inflammation, and even helps the body process estrogen down healthier pathways.

🔹 Food > Fear: If anyone tells you to avoid soy or flax without sound evidence, take pause. These are nutrient-dense, research-supported foods, not dangerous “no-nos.” Tara recommends 2 tbsp of ground flax daily, and incorporating soy foods like miso, natto, tempeh, or edamame 2–3 times a week.

Watch the podcast on Youtube

Mentioned in this episode: EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you’ll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

HERBATONIN - Click HERE to visit the shop. Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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This week on the podcast, Tara shares a story that so many of you will relate to. A woman in her early 50s came to me after spending hundreds of dollars on functional testing - the DUTCH hormone test and the GI MAP stool test - and you know what? They offered her no real answers. She was still exhausted. Still bloated. Still not sleeping. And still stuck with zero direction on what to do next. So what went wrong? In this Episode: 00:54 - Why a 51-year-old client came to Tara after getting no answers from standard functional testing (DUTCH + GI MAP).

02:11 - Why DUTCH testing can fall flat when hormone production has already declined - and why it’s not useful for many women in menopause.

04:06 - The limits of the GI MAP when gut dysfunction is mild or metabolic - and why gut symptoms don’t always mean gut damage.

05:22 - How this client’s low energy, low mood, and low motivation pointed to hormone and thyroid depletion - not just gut dysfunction.

11:32 - Tara’s approach: rebuilding from the bottom of the pyramid up - focusing first on nutrition, minerals, hormone/thyroid support.

14:10 - Final thoughts on test interpretation, why you don’t always need more data, and how to assess your next steps strategically.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy: EPS 45: My thoughts on the DUTCH test

EPS 91: Debunking common arguments for needing to run the DUTCH test

EPS 102: Why we don't test hormones in perimenopause

EPS 112: Why we stopped using the GI MAP in my practice & how we are approaching gut testing these days

EPS 131: Should we be concerned about estrogen metabolites?

Mentioned in this episode: Purchase Herbatonin here - Save 10% when you use Tara's code: Tara10

MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE

Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations:

Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15
Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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Is everyone really low in vitamin D? Or have we been sold a narrative that doesn’t hold up under scrutiny?

In this mind-blowing episode, Tara sits down with Regina and Kristin, the investigative duo behind the Normal Curves podcast, to explore the truth behind the so-called "vitamin D deficiency epidemic." Spoiler: it may have been manufactured by outdated, flawed science—and driven by people with major conflicts of interest.

This is a must-listen for anyone taking vitamin D or worried about their levels. If you’ve been told your D is “low,” this episode might change everything.

In this episode we cover: * How the original vitamin D reference ranges were set (and how they were quietly reversed in 2024) * Why testing vitamin D routinely may be doing more harm than good * The role of conflicts of interest in shaping clinical guidelines * What the latest randomized controlled trials (RCTs) actually show about supplementing vitamin D for disease prevention * Why observational data can mislead us, and how low D might be the consequence—not the cause—of illness * How much sun you actually need to make enough vitamin D (hint: it’s a lot less than you think) * Why the “low D” narrative stuck around even after the science was overturned

If you're thinking about taking D, already taking D, or have been told your vitamin D is "low" (it likely isn't) then this one is for you.

WATCH THIS EPISODE ON YOUTUBE -https://www.youtube.com/@TaraThorne

Regina Nuzzo is a Gallaudet professor, award-winning science journalist, and co-host of the Normal Curves podcast. She brings statistics to life for students and audiences worldwide, often using sex-science examples to keep things lively. Her writing has appeared in Nature, The New York Times, Scientific American, and the Los Angeles Times, where she wrote a column on the science of sex and relationships. Alongside co-host Kristin Sainani, she penned a long-running statistics column for Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and now teaches a Stanford summer course on statistics for clinical informatics. Regina's work earned the American Statistical Association's Excellence in Statistical Reporting Award.

Kristin Cobb Sainani is a Stanford professor, science journalist, and co-host of the Normal Curves podcast. She brings statistics and scientific writing to students and audiences around the world. She also works as a statistician on sports medicine projects. Kristin has written widely about health, science, and statistics for both academic and popular audiences. She was a health columnist for Allure magazine for ten years and, alongside co-host Regina Nuzzo, penned a long-running statistics column for the journal Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. In 2018, she received Stanford's Biosciences Award for Excellence in Graduate Teaching. Known for her statistical sleuthing and ability to cut through academic jargon, Kristin champions clear language and rigorous methods in science.

Mentioned in this episode: Normal Curves Podcast

https://www.normalcurves.com/vitamin-d-part-1-is-the-deficiency-epidemic-real/ https://www.normalcurves.com/vitamin-d-part-2-good-for-more-than-just-your-bones/ Normal Curves Website: https://www.normalcurves.com/ EQUIP PRIME PROTEIN – Click HERE to grab yours and use my code: TARA to get 15% off. When you sign up for a subscription via my link, you’ll save 30% on the first month & 15% on any subsequent months!

Purchase Herbatonin here to get 15% automatically applied to your cart: https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/Tara

PIQUE TEA – These are some of Tara’s favourite teas! They’re crystal form, which makes them super unique and easy to transport in your purse, (they come in single use satchels!) and higher in polyphenols. They’re made from high quality ingredients with triple toxin screening, (super important when it comes to your tea). Click HERE to visit the shop.

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

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In Part 2 of Tara’s vitamin D series, we move beyond lab values and dig into the real-world consequences of high-dose vitamin D supplementation and what to do instead.

Tara details how today’s standard reference ranges may be misleading, why more is not always better, and how excessive vitamin D can lead to calcium loss, mitochondrial damage, mood symptoms, and even worsen autoimmune conditions.

More importantly, she shares a root-cause approach to supporting vitamin D naturally without megadosing and creating imbalance.

💡 In Part 2, Tara explains:

Why conventional vitamin D reference ranges are based on flawed assumptions
The symptoms of vitamin D overload
How to treat low D from a root cause approach instead of a conventional "pill for your ill" approach, (which allopathic and functional practitioners are both doing!)
The co-factors you need to support D properly

If you’ve ever been told to “just take more D,” this episode is your permission slip to ask better questions and approach your health with nuance and strategy.

Mentioned in this episode: MegaSporeBiotic – Click HERE to grab this probiotic and use my practitioner code, which also gets you 10% off: TaraMegaSpore

Paleovalley – Grab your goodies as mentioned in this episode, HERE

Blue Light Blocking Glasses Recommendations:

Baxter Blue (Australian site) Save 15% when you use Tara's code: Tara15
Bon Charge Save 15% when you use Tara's code: TARA15

HRT Made Simple™ - Learn how to confidently speak to your doctor about the benefits of hormone replacement therapy so you can set yourself up for symptom-free, unmedicated years to come without feeling confused, dismissed, or leaving the medical office minus your HRT script.

Hair Loss Solutions Made Simple™ – This course will teach you the best natural, highly effective, and safe solutions for your hair loss so you can stop it, reverse it, and regrow healthy hair without turning to medications.

The Perimenopause Solution™ – My signature 6-month comprehensive hormonal health program for women in midlife who want to get solid answers to their hormonal health issues once and for all so they can kick the weight gain, moodiness, gut problems, skin issues, period problems, fatigue, overwhelm, insomnia, hair/eyebrow loss, and other symptoms in order to get back to the woman they once were.

[FREE] The Ultimate Midlife Perimenopause Handbook - Grab my free guide and RECLAIM your confidence, your mood, your waistline and energy without turning to medications or restrictive diets (or spending a fortune on testing you don’t need!).

[BOOK A 30-MINUTE SESSION WITH TARA HERE]

View Details

Is your vitamin D "deficiency" actually a misdiagnosis? In this eye-opening episode, Tara dives into one of the most misunderstood nutrients in functional medicine: vitamin D.