The Girlfriend Doctor w/ Dr. Anna Cabeca
Dr. Anna Cabeca is America's top menopause doctor. Known most widely as The Girlfriend Doctor, Dr. Anna is the first call for the woman who has questions she would only ask her best girlfriend if her girlfriend were a triple-board-certified OB-GYN. This top health podcast is all about helping women live better lives — before, during, and after menopause.
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What You’re Eating Is Making Menopause Worse | Andrea Donsky
06/04/2026
What You’re Eating Is Making Menopause Worse | Andrea Donsky
What if the brain fog, exhaustion, anxiety, bloating, hot flashes, sleep struggles, and weight gain you’re experiencing in perimenopause aren’t “just aging”… but signs your body is asking for a completely different kind of nourishment? In this empowering episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with nutritionist, menopause educator, and 7X published menopause researcher Andrea Donsky for a deeply validating conversation about the real science behind menopause symptoms—and what women can actually do to feel better. Andrea shares how her groundbreaking menopause research uncovered more than 103 symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause, with many of the most common symptoms linked to brain health, cognition, anxiety, mood, and sleep. Together, Dr. Anna and Andrea unpack why so many women feel dismissed by healthcare providers and how nutrition, digestion, blood sugar balance, sleep, stress reduction, and targeted supplementation can dramatically improve quality of life. Andrea also introduces her BALANCE Blueprint from her new book Nourishing Menopause, a practical framework for supporting hormones, metabolism, gut health, and energy through midlife and beyond. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why blood sugar balance is critical during perimenopause and menopause The surprising connection between gut health, hormones, mood, and brain fog How digestion changes in menopause—and why constipation, bloating, and inflammation increase Which foods and habits may worsen hot flashes, night sweats, and poor sleep The foundational supplements Andrea recommends for midlife women Why menopause symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissed by doctors How mindset, self-compassion, and education can transform the menopause experience If you’ve ever felt like “something is wrong” in your body but couldn’t explain it, this conversation will help you feel seen, informed, and empowered with practical tools to support your Second Spring. Key Timestamps: 00:01 – Why more women are finally talking openly about perimenopause Dr. Anna introduces the conversation around optimizing health during menopause and beyond. 01:52 – Andrea discovers there are over 100 menopause symptoms Andrea shares how her menopause research journey began and what surprised her most. 02:54 – The shocking link between menopause and mental health symptoms Discussion about anxiety, cognitive health, depression, and why women often feel “crazy” during hormonal shifts. 05:47 – What Andrea’s doctor visit survey revealed The heartbreaking reality of women being dismissed, unheard, and misdiagnosed during perimenopause. 10:56 – What women are still not being told about menopause Andrea explains why “just exercise more and lose weight” is not enough. 13:40 – The BALANCE Blueprint for nourishing menopause Andrea breaks down her nutrition framework for supporting metabolism, hormones, gut health, and energy. 16:02 – Why blood sugar balance becomes essential in menopause Discussion on insulin resistance, PCOS, metabolism, and protein needs during midlife. 20:47 – How menopause changes digestion and gut health Andrea explains bloating, constipation, food sensitivities, inflammation, and the gut-brain connection. 26:58 – Nutrition strategies for better sleep and fewer hot flashes Why late-night eating, alcohol, chocolate, and blood sugar spikes may worsen symptoms. 32:56 – Andrea’s foundational menopause supplements Magnesium, omega-3s, fiber, vitamin D, and why supplementation matters during hormonal shifts. 37:47 – Rapid-fire menopause wisdom and mindset shifts Andrea shares the habits, mindset changes, and self-care practices that transformed her own menopause journey. 42:27 – Where to find Andrea’s book, resources, and menopause research Final thoughts on empowerment, pelvic health, and changing the menopause conversation together. Memorable Quotes: “We found there are actually more than 103 symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause.” — Andrea Donsky “Nine out of the top ten menopause symptoms are brain health, cognitive health, and mental health related.” — Andrea Donsky “You are the CEO of your body.” — Anna Cabeca “We cannot do what we did before. We have to relearn how to nourish ourselves in this phase of life.” — Andrea Donsky “You can’t heal a body you hate.” — Anna Cabeca “Menopause is a time of recalibration, not failure.” — Andrea Donsky Connect With Guest: Instagram: TikTok: LinkedIn: Website: Book: Podcast: Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know:
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The Ancient Secret to Fighting Inflammation | Dr. Shivani
05/28/2026
The Ancient Secret to Fighting Inflammation | Dr. Shivani
What if the key to reducing inflammation, balancing hormones, improving digestion, and restoring your energy wasn’t another restrictive diet—but ancient wisdom backed by modern science? In this powerful episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with Ayurvedic practitioner, turmeric researcher, and inflammation expert Dr. Shivani Gupta to explore how chronic inflammation silently impacts everything from brain fog and belly fat to hormone imbalance, sleep struggles, and burnout in midlife women. With a Master’s in Ayurvedic Sciences and a PhD focused on turmeric, Dr. Shivani bridges the gap between ancient Ayurvedic practices and functional medicine in a refreshingly practical way. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Shivani dive into the daily rituals, spice-based habits, and nervous system practices that can help women feel vibrant again—without perfection or deprivation. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why inflammation is often the hidden root cause behind hormone chaos and fatigue The surprising connection between gut health, the estrobolome, and menopause symptoms How turmeric works beyond supplements—and why quality matters What “Mental Inflammation™” is and how stress fuels physical symptoms Simple Ayurvedic micro-habits that help regulate energy, digestion, mood, and sleep How women can personalize wellness through Elemental Design™ instead of one-size-fits-all health advice Dr. Shivani also shares insights from her upcoming book, The Inflammation Code (Hay House, February 2026), and explains why sustainable healing starts with small daily shifts that actually fit real life. If you’ve been feeling inflamed, exhausted, or disconnected from your body, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, hopeful, and equipped with practical tools to start healing today. Key Timestamps: 01:09 – Introduction to inflammation and the “devil’s pitchfork” Dr. Anna explains the connection between inflammation, adrenal dysfunction, and hormone imbalance. 01:10 – Dr. Shivani’s personal health journey Growing up between Houston and India, Dr. Shivani shares how antibiotics, chronic illness, and Ayurvedic remedies shaped her path. 01:14 – What Ayurveda actually is Dr. Shivani breaks down Ayurveda as a 5,000-year-old system of prevention, healing, circadian living, and gut health. 01:18 – Understanding your Ayurvedic “Elemental Design” Learn the three doshas/body types: Vata (air), Pitta (fire), and Kapha (earth/water). 01:25 – Daily detox rituals that lower inflammation Tongue scraping, oil pulling, gut-healing foods, and Ayurvedic self-care practices explained. 01:35 – Why menopause is a “Vata transition” Dr. Shivani explains how dryness, insomnia, anxiety, brain fog, and hormonal shifts align with Vata imbalance. 01:39 – Protein, healthy fats, and women’s metabolism in midlife Discussion around vegan diets, insulin resistance, muscle loss, and supporting hormones through nourishment. 01:46 – The science-backed power of turmeric Dr. Shivani shares her PhD research on turmeric’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, gut-healing, and neuroprotective effects. 01:48 – How to actually absorb turmeric properly Why black pepper and healthy fats matter for turmeric absorption and effectiveness. 01:53 – Turmeric for brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention The conversation dives into amyloid plaques, neuroinflammation, and women’s increased Alzheimer’s risk. 01:54 – Dr. Shivani’s book, supplements, and inflammation protocols Final takeaways on The Inflammation Code, Ayurvedic healing tools, and practical daily anti-inflammatory habits. Memorable Quotes: “Inflammation is the fire underneath so many of the symptoms women are struggling with today.” — Shivani Gupta “Healing doesn’t have to be extreme to be effective.” — Shivani Gupta “Your body is constantly communicating with you through symptoms.” — Anna Cabeca “Small daily rituals done consistently are more powerful than perfection.” — Shivani Gupta “Women heal best when they feel safe, supported, and connected back to themselves.” — Anna Cabeca Connect With Guest: Instagram: Facebook: YouTube: Website: The Inflammation Code Book: Fusionary Formulas: Dr. Shivani's recommended supplement line Use code DRANNA at checkout for 15% off your first order! 🔗 🎙️ Listen to Dr. Anna on Dr. Shivani's podcast, The Inflammation Code: Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know:
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The Gut-Thyroid Link Your Doctor Isn't Testing For with Dr. Izabella Wentz
05/21/2026
The Gut-Thyroid Link Your Doctor Isn't Testing For with Dr. Izabella Wentz
What if your “normal” thyroid labs aren’t telling the full story? In this eye-opening episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with renowned integrative pharmacist and thyroid expert Dr. Izabella Wentz to uncover the powerful connection between gut health, IBS, autoimmune disease, and thyroid dysfunction — especially Hashimoto’s. Dr. Wentz shares her deeply personal journey from debilitating IBS, anxiety, fatigue, and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis to healing through root-cause medicine. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Wentz explore why so many women are told their thyroid labs are “normal” while they continue struggling with weight gain, brain fog, bloating, constipation, inflammation, hormonal shifts, and exhaustion. You’ll learn why gut permeability (“leaky gut”), chronic stress, infections, food sensitivities, and microbiome imbalances may be silently driving autoimmune thyroid disease — and the practical steps you can take to begin healing. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why thyroid antibodies matter — even when TSH appears “normal” The hidden connection between IBS and Hashimoto’s How stress hormones disrupt the gut barrier and immune system Common root causes including parasites, H. pylori, SIBO, mold, and food sensitivities The truth about bloating, constipation, diarrhea, edema, and inflammation Functional medicine testing that may uncover what conventional medicine misses Nutrition, supplements, and gut-healing strategies that can support thyroid recovery If you’ve ever been told “everything looks fine” while your body says otherwise, this conversation is for you. Listen now and share this episode with someone who needs answers, healing, and hope. Key Timestamps 00:00 — Why thyroid symptoms are often missed in women 04:30 — Dr. Wentz’s personal journey with IBS and Hashimoto’s 11:15 — The gut-autoimmune-thyroid connection explained 18:40 — Post-COVID rise in autoimmune conditions and chronic fatigue 24:50 — Functional medicine testing for IBS and thyroid symptoms 33:10 — Stress, cortisol, and “leaky gut” 41:20 — How intestinal permeability triggers autoimmune disease 49:45 — Food sensitivities, bloating, edema, and inflammation 58:30 — Gut-healing protocols and favorite supplements 01:06:20 — Why women are more prone to IBS and Hashimoto’s 01:14:00 — The importance of self-advocacy and listening to your body Memorable Quotes “You may have been told your thyroid is normal, but there’s something else going on — and the biggest culprit can be in the gut.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca “Don’t let people tell you it’s all in your head.” — Dr. Izabella Wentz “There will often be a disruption of the gut barrier years before an autoimmune diagnosis appears.” — Dr. Izabella Wentz “To heal the human, we have to address the gut.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca “Stress hormones can unlock the door to intestinal permeability and chronic inflammation.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca Connect With Guest Check out Dr. Izabella’s new book: Instagram: YouTube: Facebook: Website: Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon!Be the first to know:
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Why You're Still Tired, Fat & Losing Hair (It's Your Thyroid) | Dr. Amie Hornaman
05/14/2026
Why You're Still Tired, Fat & Losing Hair (It's Your Thyroid) | Dr. Amie Hornaman
Are you doing “all the right things” but still gaining weight, losing hair, feeling exhausted, foggy, anxious, or stuck in your body? Your thyroid may be the missing piece. In this powerful episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca welcomes Dr. Amie Hornaman—also known as “The Thyroid Fixer,” founder of the Advanced Thyroid and Hormone Clinic, host of The Thyroid Fixer podcast, and author of The Thyroid Fix: The No Nonsense Guide to Fix Fatigue, Fogginess and Fat That Won’t Budge. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Amie unpack why thyroid dysfunction is so often missed in perimenopause and menopause—and why a “normal” TSH may not tell the whole story. They discuss Hashimoto’s, weight-loss resistance, hair loss, fatigue, iodine, T2, reverse T3, thyroid antibodies, hormone shifts, stress, environmental toxins, and why women must advocate for a complete thyroid panel. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why fatigue, hair loss, depression, constipation, cold intolerance, and stubborn belly fat may point to thyroid dysfunction The full thyroid panel Dr. Amie recommends beyond TSH How perimenopause and menopause can trigger or worsen Hashimoto’s Why T4-only medication may not work for every woman The role of iodine, selenium, magnesium, vitamin D, black cumin seed oil, and T2 Why thyroid optimization is a longevity strategy—not just a weight-loss conversation Dr. Amie also shares her personal journey of misdiagnosis, thyroid recovery, PCOS, and navigating endometrial cancer with courage, honesty, and functional medicine wisdom. Listen now and remember: you are your best health advocate—and there is always one next right step. Key Timestamps 00:00 — Why thyroid symptoms often show up in menopause 04:20 — The top symptoms of thyroid dysfunction 08:30 — Hashimoto’s, autoimmunity, and hormone shifts 16:40 — The full thyroid panel every woman should know 27:00 — Iodine, thyroid antibodies, and detox reactions 36:30 — Dr. Amie’s personal thyroid misdiagnosis story 46:00 — Thyroid dysfunction and weight-loss resistance 55:00 — Optimizing thyroid hormones at every age 1:04:00 — PCOS, progesterone, and endometrial cancer 1:14:00 — T2, metabolism, and mitochondrial support Memorable Quotes “From head to toe, the thyroid runs the show.” — Dr. Amie Hornaman “Women are being dismissed when it really is a thyroid problem that can be treated.” — Dr. Amie Hornaman “We don’t want normal. We want optimal.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca “The thyroid is a longevity optimizer, not just an aesthetics conversation.” — Dr. Amie Hornaman “You are your best advocate for your health.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca Connect With Dr. Amie Hornaman Book: The Thyroid Fix: Website: Supplements: Use code: DRANNA for 10% off Instagram: YouTube: Facebook: Connect With Dr. Anna Cabeca Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant, Velvé, is launching soon! Be the first to know:
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Dave Asprey: I Take Nicotine Every Day — Here's Why | The Girlfriend Doctor Show Ep. 272
05/07/2026
Dave Asprey: I Take Nicotine Every Day — Here's Why | The Girlfriend Doctor Show Ep. 272
What if everything you’ve been told about nicotine… is incomplete? In this bold, thought-provoking episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey to unpack the science, controversy, and real-world application of nicotine for brain health, longevity, and performance—and why dosage, context, and awareness matter more than ever. Dave Asprey is a 4x New York Times bestselling author, longevity expert, founder of Bulletproof Coffee, and widely recognized as the creator of the biohacking movement. After losing over 100 pounds and transforming his own health, he’s spent decades optimizing human performance and building tools that have shaped a multi-billion-dollar wellness industry. Together, Dr. Anna and Dave go deep—covering everything from microdosing nicotine and mitochondrial health to trauma healing, intuition, and the future of consciousness. In this episode, you’ll learn: The truth about nicotine vs. smoking—and why they are NOT the same How low-dose nicotine (1–5 mg) may support brain clarity, focus, and neuroprotection The risks of addiction, tolerance, and overuse (and how to avoid them) A powerful “brain rescue stack” for cognitive decline (creatine, electrolytes, ketones + more) Why women are at higher risk for Alzheimer’s—and what you can do now The role of mitochondria, trauma, and forgiveness in healing and longevity Dave’s “5 F’s framework” (fear, food, fertility, friend, forgiveness) and how it drives behavior How biohacking is evolving into consciousness and emotional resilience work ⏱️ Key Timestamps: 03:12 – Nicotine for cognitive performance: myth vs. science 10:45 – Addiction, dosing, and Dr. Anna’s personal experience 18:20 – Brain fog, menopause, and neuroprotection strategies 26:10 – The “brain stack” for dementia and cognitive decline 38:05 – Mitochondria, trauma, and the root of emotional triggers 52:30 – Forgiveness as a biological reset 1:02:15 – The future of biohacking: consciousness + longevity 💬 Memorable Quotes: “Smoking is bad for you. Nicotine is a different conversation.” – Dave Asprey “Low dose, it’s a tool. High dose, it becomes a problem.” – Dave Asprey “We can’t ignore brain health—especially as women, where risk is higher.” – Dr. Anna Cabeca “Forgiveness isn’t a thought—it’s a biological reset.” – Dave Asprey “We don’t want to be normal—we want to be optimal.” – Dr. Anna Cabeca 🔗 Connect with Dave Asprey: Website: Book: Heavily Meditated: The Fast Path to Remove Your Triggers, Dissolve Stress, and Activate Inner Peace TikTok: daveaspreyofficial Facebook: daveaspreyofficial YouTube: DaveaspreyBPR LinkedIn: asprey X: daveasprey Instagram: dave.asprey Check out Dave's products using Dr. Anna's links below: 🕶️ TrueDark (blue light blocking glasses) — truedark.com?ref=dranna ☕ Danger Coffee (mineral-rich performance coffee) — dangercoffee.com/dranna 💜 Connect with Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: 💧 BIG NEWS: Dr. Anna's own intimate lubricant is launching soon! Be the first to know: Be sure to check out Dr Anna’s new book, MenuPause. Get your sneak peek: dranna.com/gfd-sneak Order your book today: dranna.com/gfd-book Take Dr Anna’s quiz and get matched with your ideal menu: dranna.com/gfd-quiz Get your Weight Loss Checklist as well: dranna.com/gfd-checklist Try her Keto-Green Recipes for Menopause at dranna.com/gfd-recipe Sign up for her FREE masterclass today: dranna.com/gfd-diabetes -ABOUT DR. ANNA- Dr. Anna Cabeca is an Emory University trained and board certified Gynecologist and Obstetrician. In addition, she is board certified in Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and an expert in Functional Medicine and Women’s Health. She specializes in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy and natural alternatives, successful menopause and age management medicine. Dr. Anna is the best-selling author of Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16, and MenuPause. *Always seek the advice of your own physician or qualified health professional before starting any treatment or plans. Information found here and results are provided for informational purposes only and are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional and are not intended as medical advice. *
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The hormone behind grief, joy, and healing | Dr. Anna Cabeca
04/30/2026
The hormone behind grief, joy, and healing | Dr. Anna Cabeca
What if the same hormone that helps you bond, love, and feel deep joy is also the one that carries you through grief and healing? In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca—triple board-certified OB-GYN, integrative medicine expert, and bestselling author of The Hormone Fix, Keto-Green 16, and MenuPause—dives into the profound role of oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” and why it may be the most overlooked key to emotional and physical resilience. With decades of clinical experience and a deeply personal approach, Dr. Anna shares how oxytocin influences everything from your mood and relationships to inflammation, hormone balance, and even intimacy. She also connects the dots between declining hormones in midlife and changes in vaginal health, comfort, and confidence—areas often ignored but deeply tied to connection and wellbeing. In this episode, you’ll discover: How oxytocin supports both joy and grief processing The hidden impact of stress and cortisol on connection and healing Why midlife hormone shifts can affect intimacy, dryness, and discomfort Simple, daily practices to naturally boost oxytocin How supporting your body locally and systemically can restore confidence and connection This episode is your reminder that healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in connection. And your body is beautifully designed for it. Ready to feel more connected, supported, and like yourself again? Start with one small step today. Share this episode with a friend, prioritize meaningful connection, and explore supportive tools for hormone and vaginal health—like —at DrAnna.com. Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Why oxytocin is the hormone we’re not talking about enough 05:30 – The biology of connection: oxytocin vs. cortisol 12:10 – How grief and joy share the same hormonal pathway 18:45 – Midlife hormone changes and emotional + physical disconnection 24:20 – Practical ways to increase oxytocin daily 30:00 – Healing through community and intentional connection Memorable Quotes: “Oxytocin is not just the hormone of love—it’s the hormone of healing.” “We don’t heal in isolation. We heal in connection.” “The same pathway that allows you to feel deep joy is the one that carries you through grief.” “Cortisol will protect you, but oxytocin will restore you.” “Connection is medicine—and your body is designed for it.” Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Dranna.com Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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Why You Can’t Ignore Gut Health in Menopause | Cynthia Thurlow
04/23/2026
Why You Can’t Ignore Gut Health in Menopause | Cynthia Thurlow
What if your brain fog, stubborn weight gain, mood swings, and fatigue in menopause aren’t just “hormones”… but your gut asking for help? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Cynthia Thurlow, NP—a globally recognized expert in women’s health, intermittent fasting, and host of the Everyday Wellness Podcast—to unpack the critical connection between your gut and your hormones. And just in time, Cynthia is releasing her brand-new book, The Menopause Gut, a must-read guide to understanding how your microbiome shapes everything from metabolism to mood. Because here’s the truth: you cannot heal your hormones without healing your gut. With over 25 years of clinical experience, Cynthia brings both science and strategy to this conversation—helping you understand what’s really happening in your body and how to take your power back. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why your gut microbiome acts as your body’s estrogen control center (the “estrobolome”) How inflammation and poor gut health drive weight gain, brain fog, and hormone imbalance The connection between leaky gut, autoimmunity, and menopause symptoms Why your metabolism shifts in midlife—and what actually works to reset it How chronic stress and past trauma (ACES) rewire your gut and hormones The truth about fiber, protein, and lifestyle strategies for gut repair Why hormone therapy alone isn’t enough without addressing the gut Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast 02:30 – Why gut health is the foundation of hormone balance 06:45 – The estrobolome: your gut’s role in estrogen detox 12:10 – Leaky gut, inflammation, and menopause symptoms 18:20 – Why weight gain happens (even when nothing changes) 24:50 – Stress, cortisol, and the gut-hormone connection 31:15 – FSH, inflammation, and what your labs are really telling you 38:40 – Trauma, ACES, and long-term hormone disruption 45:10 – Practical strategies to heal your gut in midlife 52:00 – Cynthia’s top daily habits for hormone and gut health
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The power of intermittent fasting | Jason Fung
04/16/2026
The power of intermittent fasting | Jason Fung
What if the key to reversing stubborn weight gain, balancing hormones, and even preventing chronic disease isn’t more food… but strategically less? In this powerful episode, I sit down with Jason Fung to unpack the science—and the simplicity—behind intermittent fasting. Dr. Fung is a world-renowned nephrologist, New York Times bestselling author of The Obesity Code, and a pioneer in using fasting as a therapeutic tool to reverse type 2 diabetes and metabolic disease. After witnessing firsthand how conventional treatments often worsened his patients’ health, he developed a groundbreaking approach focused on lowering insulin and restoring metabolic balance. Together, we explore how intermittent fasting works with your body—not against it—and why it’s especially powerful for women navigating hormonal shifts. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why insulin—not calories—is the key driver of weight gain and metabolic dysfunction How intermittent fasting supports fat burning, hormone balance, and cellular repair The biggest myths about fasting (especially for women!)—and what actually works How fasting impacts menopause, cravings, and energy levels Simple, sustainable ways to begin fasting safely and effectively This conversation is both empowering and practical—giving you tools to take control of your metabolism, your hormones, and your long-term health. Ready to reset your metabolism and feel like yourself again? Listen now and share this episode with a girlfriend who needs to hear it. Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Why “eat less, move more” is failing women today 02:15 – Meet Jason Fung: From kidney disease to metabolic breakthrough 05:40 – The real root of weight gain: understanding insulin resistance 09:10 – Why calorie counting doesn’t work (and what does) 13:25 – Intermittent fasting explained: how and why it works 18:50 – Fasting and hormones: what women must know 24:15 – Menopause, metabolism, and stubborn weight gain 29:40 – The truth about hunger: it’s hormonal, not willpower 34:05 – How fasting resets your body’s natural fat-burning ability 39:20 – Common fasting mistakes (and how to avoid them) 44:10 – How to safely start intermittent fasting today 48:30 – Final thoughts: reclaiming metabolic health for life Memorable Quotes: “Fasting isn’t about deprivation—it’s about giving your body the time it needs to heal.” — Jason Fung “When you lower insulin, your body finally gets access to its fat stores. That’s when real change happens.” — Jason Fung “Hunger is not a failure of willpower—it’s a hormonal signal. And we can work with it.” — Jason Fung “You don’t need to eat less. You need to eat less often.” — Jason Fung “For many women, especially in menopause, fasting can be the missing piece to restoring metabolic flexibility.” — Dr. Anna Cabeca “Your body is designed to burn fat—it just needs the right hormonal environment to do it.” — Jason Fung Connect With Guest: Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: P.S. Healing doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens in connection. If this episode resonated, come join our community and take your next step with support, science, and sisterhood 💜
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Can Menopause Cause UTIs? | Dr. Anna Cabeca
04/09/2026
Can Menopause Cause UTIs? | Dr. Anna Cabeca
If you’ve ever wondered why UTIs, vaginal infections, or bladder issues seem to suddenly appear in midlife—you are not alone… and you are not imagining it. In this powerful solo episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca breaks down the real root causes behind recurrent UTIs and vaginal health issues during perimenopause and menopause—and why conventional approaches often miss the mark. As a triple board-certified OB-GYN and integrative medicine expert, Dr. Anna brings both clinical insight and heartfelt guidance to a topic many women are too embarrassed to talk about—but desperately need to understand. Drawing from decades of experience and emerging microbiome science, she reveals how hormonal shifts, vaginal pH changes, and microbiome imbalances create the perfect storm for recurring infections—and what you can do about it. In this episode, you’ll discover: • Why declining estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA directly impact bladder and vaginal health • The critical role of the vaginal microbiome (and why diversity is not always a good thing here) • How pH shifts make you more vulnerable to UTIs, BV, and yeast infections • The surprising link between UTIs and cognitive symptoms like brain fog • Why antibiotics alone may be making the problem worse • The foundational steps to restore balance, resilience, and intimacy This episode is both a wake-up call and a roadmap—because your body was designed to thrive at every age. Your next step: If this resonates, don’t ignore it. Share this episode with a friend, subscribe to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, and start implementing one small change today to support your vaginal and urinary health. Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & why this topic matters now 01:01 – The hidden impact of UTIs and infections on aging and cognition 03:00 – Hormonal decline and structural changes in the vaginal/urethral tissue 07:00 – The vaginal microbiome explained simply 11:00 – Why pH balance is your first line of defense 15:00 – The antibiotic trap + root cause approach 20:00 – Practical solutions: hormones, probiotics, and lifestyle Memorable Quotes: • “The vagina is essential for life—and we have to start treating it that way.” • “An imbalanced microbiome is often the root cause—not just the infection.” • “If it hurts every time, why would you want to? Healing restores desire.” • “Your body should be inhospitable to disease—and that starts at the cellular level.” Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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The truth about cancer tests | Jeffrey Gladden
04/02/2026
The truth about cancer tests | Jeffrey Gladden
What if aging isn’t inevitable… but optional? What if you could feel 30 at 100—with energy, clarity, purpose, and vitality? In this powerful and expansive conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned cardiologist and longevity pioneer Dr. Jeffrey Gladden to challenge everything we’ve been told about aging. From his own health collapse in his 50s to reversing biological decline and redefining what’s possible, Dr. Gladden reveals how we can stop managing disease—and start optimizing life. Dr. Gladden brings decades of cutting-edge experience to share a bold new framework: aging is exponential—and requires exponential solutions. Together, we explore the intersection of science, spirituality, cellular health, and human potential, uncovering what it truly means to “play the symphony of longevity.” In this episode, you’ll discover: Why traditional medicine misses the root cause of aging The powerful role of hormones, mitochondria, and detoxification in longevity How your nervous system (stress vs. healing) determines your health outcomes The surprising connection between meditation, oxytocin, and regeneration The 7 essential pillars of true rejuvenation (before ANY advanced therapy) Why mindset, purpose, and “asking better questions” may be your greatest longevity tools This conversation will stretch your thinking, inspire your future, and empower your next step. Your takeaway: You don’t need to do everything—but you do need to start somewhere. CTA: ✨ What is ONE step you can take today to optimize your health and longevity? Share this episode with a friend, revisit it, and begin designing your future—on your terms. Key Timestamps: 00:01:00 – Dr. Anna’s longevity reflection & framing the conversation 00:03:00 – Dr. Gladden’s personal health crisis & turning point 00:08:30 – “How good can I be?” – the question that changed everything 00:11:00 – Meditation, nervous system, and true healing 00:18:00 – The 7 keys to regeneration explained 00:25:00 – Detox, inflammation, and preparing the body for healing 00:29:00 – Mitochondria, peptides, and advanced therapies 00:33:00 – Inside Gladden Longevity clinic (tour + technologies) 00:40:00 – Autoimmunity, precision medicine, and real patient results 00:42:00 – Final takeaways: define your longevity vision Memorable Quotes: Dr. Gladden: “You only get the answers to the questions you’re asking.” Dr. Gladden: “When I’m 100, I want a 30-year-old body and a 300-year-old mind.” Dr. Anna: “We don’t want to treat disease—we want to prevent it.” Dr. Gladden: “Healing happens when the nervous system is calm—everything else builds on that.” Dr. Anna: “There is always one next great step you can take for your health.” Connect With Guest: Book: 100 is the New 30 (Available on Amazon & Audible) Podcast: Website: Instagram Handle: Facebook Page: Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Dranna.com Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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The Natural GLP-1 Secret | Ashley Koff
03/26/2026
The Natural GLP-1 Secret | Ashley Koff
GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and tirzepatide are dominating headlines—but what if the real breakthrough isn’t just the shot, but understanding the body’s own weight-health hormones? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca—triple board-certified OB-GYN and The Girlfriend Doctor—sits down with renowned dietitian and personalized nutrition pioneer Ashley Koff, RD, to unpack the science behind GLP-1, the deeper root causes of metabolic dysfunction, and how we can activate the body’s natural appetite-regulating hormones. Together they explore why weight health is about far more than calories or willpower. Ashley shares her personal journey into functional nutrition, the hidden hormonal ecosystem behind appetite and metabolism, and how digestion, gut health, and lifestyle choices influence the hormones that regulate cravings, satiety, inflammation, and metabolic balance. Ashley also introduces the framework from her new book Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health—GLP-1 Shot or Not, revealing why sustainable health comes from personalized strategies—not quick fixes. If you’ve wondered whether GLP-1 medications are right for you—or how to support your metabolism naturally—this conversation is packed with practical, empowering insights. Ashley Koff, RD is the founder of The Better Nutrition Program, Nutrition Course Director for the UC Irvine Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute’s Integrative and Functional Medicine Fellowship, and faculty at the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy. A practitioner for more than 25 years, she is recognized as one of CNN’s Top 100 Health Makers and has been called “Hollywood’s Leading Dietitian” by InStyle. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • What GLP-1, GIP, PYY, and CCK actually do in the body • Why weight health is an ecosystem—not just calories in vs. calories out • The hidden role of gut health and digestion in appetite hormones • The “Pizza Framework” for building metabolic health foundations • How lifestyle, timing of meals, and microbiome health influence metabolism • When GLP-1 medications may help—and when foundational health must come first • Practical strategies to quiet “food noise” and improve satiety naturally Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Show 01:00 – Why GLP-1 medications are changing the conversation about metabolism 03:00 – Ashley’s personal story and turning point in nutrition science 09:30 – The gut, trauma, and the origins of metabolic dysfunction 13:00 – What GLP-1 and other weight-health hormones actually do in the body 20:00 – Why digestion and gut health drive hormone balance 23:40 – The “Pizza Framework” for metabolic health foundations 28:00 – How meal timing affects hormones and metabolism 32:00 – Supplements and microbiome strategies that support GLP-1 naturally 36:00 – Ashley’s book Your Best Shot and how to personalize your approach Memorable Quotes 1. Ashley Koff: “Weight health isn’t about willpower—it’s about physiology. When the body has what it needs, the system works the way it was designed to.” 2. Ashley Koff: “There is no one ingredient in the recipe that makes metabolic health work. It’s about finding the right recipe for your body.” 3. Dr. Anna Cabeca: “We don’t just want weight loss—we want weight health: strong, confident, vibrant women living in bodies that feel good.” 4. Ashley Koff: “Your digestion is the crust of the pizza. If the crust isn’t right, nothing you put on top will work the way it should.” 5. Dr. Anna Cabeca: “Willpower is physiologic. When you support your body’s metabolism and hormones, your ability to make healthy choices comes back.” Connect With Guest Ashley Koff Instagram: Website: Book: Your Best Shot: The Personalized System for Optimal Weight Health – GLP-1 Shot or Not: Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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How Accurate Are DEXA Scans? | Dr. Susan Brown
03/19/2026
How Accurate Are DEXA Scans? | Dr. Susan Brown
Are DEXA scans really the gold standard for measuring bone health—or could they be misleading you? In this eye-opening episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with medical anthropologist and certified clinical nutritionist Dr. Susan Brown to unpack the truth about bone density testing, osteoporosis fear, and what truly supports lifelong bone strength. Many women are told their bones are deteriorating based on a single scan—but according to Dr. Brown, the story is often much more complex. Together, Dr. Anna and Dr. Brown explore the limitations of DEXA scans, why results can vary widely depending on calibration and technique, and how women can take a more comprehensive, natural approach to protecting their bones. Dr. Brown shares insights from decades of research on alkaline nutrition, mineral balance, movement, and whole-body health, revealing why bone health is about far more than calcium alone. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • Why DEXA scans can have significant margins of error and how calibration affects results • The biggest misconceptions about osteoporosis and bone density testing • How pH balance and an alkaline-supportive diet influence bone health • The critical role of muscle mass, movement, and weight-bearing exercise in building stronger bones • Why 20 essential nutrients—not just calcium—are required for optimal bone strength • Practical ways to support bone regeneration naturally during perimenopause and menopause Dr. Brown’s pioneering work has helped thousands of women move beyond fear-based bone diagnoses and take a proactive, science-based approach to building stronger bones for life. If you’ve ever been confused—or worried—about your bone density results, this conversation will empower you with a deeper understanding of what your bones truly need.
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The link between epigenetics and disease | Fab Mancini
03/12/2026
The link between epigenetics and disease | Fab Mancini
What if your diagnosis wasn’t your destiny? What if your genes weren’t your fate—but your choices were? In this powerful and eye-opening episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned holistic health expert Dr. Fab Mancini to explore the science and hope behind epigenetics, self-healing, and reversing chronic disease. After nearly four decades in natural health, Dr. Fab shares why less than 10% of disease is genetic—and how your daily habits, stress, environment, and mindset determine whether disease-promoting genes are activated or silenced. Dr. Fab Mancini is an internationally recognized Doctor of Chiropractic, bestselling author of The Power of Self-Healing and Self Health, and former President of Parker University. He has appeared on Dr. Phil, CNN, FOX News, and Univision, and has inspired millions worldwide to reclaim their health and unlock their full potential. In this conversation, you’ll discover: Why your body is designed to heal—and what blocks it The truth about epigenetics and activating or reversing disease How stress, toxins, and lifestyle choices influence your genes Why your diagnosis is not a life sentence The #1 mindset shift to reclaim your health and vitality How small daily choices can reverse chronic disease pathways Dr. Fab reminds us that healing doesn’t begin with prescriptions—it begins with awareness, empowerment, and action. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to take ownership of their health and discover the profound power within their body to heal. Share this episode with someone who needs hope—and take your next step toward self-healing. Key Timestamps 00:01 – Why managing symptoms doesn’t create true healing 03:20 – The biggest myth in modern healthcare 04:47 – The body’s innate intelligence and ability to heal 08:11 – Hidden toxins affecting your health today 10:36 – Stress, mental health, and disease activation 12:55 – Dr. Fab’s near-death experience that shaped his mission 15:45 – Regenerating your body, mind, and vitality at any age 25:04 – Why health must become your top priority 29:13 – Epigenetics explained: why genes are not your destiny 31:39 – How simple choices can reverse chronic disease 33:14 – Why your diagnosis is not a life sentence 36:53 – Free tools and resources to support your healing Memorable Quotes Dr. Fab Mancini: “Managing our symptoms has never truly helped the body heal. What really heals us is identifying and addressing the root cause.” “Less than 10% of chronic disease is genetic. The rest is driven by epigenetics—our lifestyle choices activate or deactivate those genes.” “Your diagnosis is not a life sentence. No one determines your destiny except you.” “You can either live in survival, thinking only about your needs—or live in service, supporting others. That’s where the true magic happens.” “One better choice today can begin moving you away from chronic disease and toward self-healing.” Dr. Anna Cabeca: “We are the CEO of our body. Our choices are ours to make.” “One next right step at a time—every day we get to choose again.” “We have within us our innate ability to heal and to thrive.” Connect With Guest: Dr. Fab Mancini Website: Instagram: Connect With Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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How to fortify your body against environmental toxins | Ali Miller
03/05/2026
How to fortify your body against environmental toxins | Ali Miller
Are environmental toxins silently disrupting your hormones, mood, and metabolism? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with functional medicine dietitian Ali Miller to reveal how everyday exposures—from microplastics to processed foods—may be driving anxiety, hormonal imbalance, and chronic disease. More importantly, they share how to fight back using targeted nutrition and practical lifestyle strategies. Ali Miller, RD, CDE, brings over a decade of clinical experience using food-as-medicine protocols to restore neurotransmitter balance, support detox pathways, and optimize metabolic and mental health. Together, she and Dr. Anna explore the profound connection between protein intake, gut health, neurotransmitters, and resilience in today’s toxic world. As Ali explains, “Going backwards to whole real foods is one of the most powerful ways to support detoxification and resilience in our industrialized world.” You’ll walk away with simple, empowering tools to protect your body, nourish your brain, and reclaim your metabolic and emotional strength. You Will Learn: How environmental toxins like microplastics disrupt hormones and increase inflammation Why protein is essential for neurotransmitter production, mood stability, and anxiety prevention The powerful role of probiotics and phytonutrients in detoxification and cellular protection Specific foods that naturally increase dopamine, serotonin, and calm your nervous system Why glycine-rich foods like bone broth help reduce stress and support gut repair Practical swaps to reduce toxin exposure in your kitchen, clothing, and daily routines How breathwork, vagus nerve activation, and nutrition work together to reduce anxiety Key Timestamps: 00:00 – Post-pandemic health changes and rising anxiety 05:00 – Protein’s role in neurotransmitters and mental health 15:00 – Microplastics and endocrine disruption explained 22:00 – Natural tools to calm anxiety and support detox 26:30 – Best foods for dopamine, serotonin, and nervous system balance 34:00 – Family meals, rituals, and stress resilience 43:00 – Fermented foods and gut healing strategies 46:00 – Top supplements for anxiety and toxin protection Memorable Quotes: “Protein provides the amino acid building blocks for neurotransmitters that regulate mood, cravings, and mental health.” “Microplastics can disrupt hormone pathways and increase inflammation—but nutrition can help offset that damage.” “Going backwards is often the answer—returning to whole real foods is how we build resilience.” Connect With Guest: Website: Instagram: Facebook: Podcast: Naturally Nourished Podcast YouTube: Naturally Nourished Channel Connect With Dr. Anna: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: Listener Call-to-Action: If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend who needs support in navigating toxins, anxiety, or hormone health. Subscribe to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast and tag @thegirlfrienddoctor to share your biggest takeaway. Remember: your body was designed to heal when you give it the right tools.
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What men are really thinking after intimacy | Mat Boggs
02/26/2026
What men are really thinking after intimacy | Mat Boggs
Love isn’t just chemistry—it’s communication, polarity, self-worth, and the courage to show up authentically. In this deeply insightful and empowering conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with world-renowned dating and relationship expert Mat Boggs, bestselling author of Project Everlasting and his newest book, Cracking the Man Code, to uncover the real dynamics behind attraction, commitment, and lasting intimacy. Together, they explore what truly makes a man fall in love—and what makes love last. Whether you're navigating midlife dating, healing after heartbreak, or rekindling passion in a long-term relationship, this episode will transform how you understand masculine and feminine energy, emotional connection, and your own magnetic power. Dr. Anna brings her expertise in hormones, oxytocin, and female physiology to the conversation—revealing how our biology, nervous system, and self-worth shape our relationships more than we realize. You’ll learn how to communicate your needs without losing your independence, stop over-functioning in masculine energy, and step into your feminine strength in a way that inspires devotion, partnership, and emotional safety. This is a must-listen episode for any woman ready to attract—or reignite—a passionate, deeply connected relationship. What You’ll Learn in This Episode ● Why masculine and feminine polarity drives attraction—and how to use it consciously ● How over-functioning in masculine energy can unintentionally repel the partner you desire ● The surprising hormonal and emotional effects of intimacy before commitment ● How oxytocin, dopamine, and bonding hormones shape attachment ● The difference between chasing and inviting pursuit ● Why friendship and shared adventure are essential for lifelong passion ● How to communicate your needs in a way that deepens connection instead of creating conflict ● The foundational role of self-love in becoming magnetic ● Daily practices to increase self-worth, confidence, and relational success Why This Matters—Especially in Midlife As women step into midlife, many have spent decades leading—in careers, families, and businesses. But this leadership strength can sometimes make it difficult to shift into receptive feminine energy in relationships. Dr. Anna and Mat explore how to create balance without sacrificing independence—and how understanding your biology, nervous system, and emotional patterns can help you attract the love you truly deserve. Because thriving relationships aren’t about losing power. They’re about aligning with your authentic energy. Memorable Quotes "Femininity is not passive, submissive, or weak. It is proactive, powerful, and magnetic." — Mat Boggs "Half of manifesting your partner faster is getting rid of the wrong partners sooner." — Mat Boggs "Partnership doesn’t start outside of you. It starts with loving yourself first." — Dr. Anna Cabeca Key Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:03:09] Lifelong love and relationships. [00:06:00] Ego and love in relationships. [00:08:42] Communicating needs in relationships. [00:12:57] Compromise in relationships. [00:14:51] Masculine and feminine energy dynamics. [00:19:02] Masculine vs. feminine energy in dating. [00:21:34] Masculine vs. feminine attributes. [00:29:13] Attraction and pursuit dynamics. [00:32:29] Commitment and sexual interaction. [00:36:18] Friendship and adventure in relationships. [00:40:16] Self-worth in relationships. [00:44:08] The journey to self-love. [00:46:16] Daily practices on self-love. [00:51:06] Partnership starts from within. Connect with Mat Boggs Website: https://www.bravethinkinginstitute.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mathewboggs/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/matboggs Pre-order his new book: Cracking the Man Code Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca Website: https://drannacabeca.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor Call to Action If this episode spoke to you, share it with a girlfriend, daughter, or partner who needs to hear it. Because the most powerful relationships don’t happen by accident. They happen when you understand yourself first.
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Are Mammograms Safe? | Dr. Jenn Simmons
02/19/2026
Are Mammograms Safe? | Dr. Jenn Simmons
Are mammograms truly protecting women — or is it time to rethink how we approach breast health? In this powerful and deeply nuanced conversation, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with former fellowship-trained breast surgeon turned integrative oncologist Dr. Jenn Simmons to unpack one of the most important questions in women’s health today: Are mammograms safe — and are they enough? Together, they explore how conventional breast cancer screening became the standard, what the research actually says about radiation exposure and screening frequency, and why early detection is not the same as prevention. Dr. Simmons shares her personal turning point — from 17 years at the forefront of breast oncology to leaving conventional medicine and founding Real Health MD after her own health crisis. What she discovered changed everything: inflammation, toxicity, hormone disruption, and metabolic dysfunction matter far more than women are being told. This episode goes beyond mammograms. It dives into: • Radiation risks and over-screening • Alternative imaging options including thermography, ultrasound, and emerging technologies • Hormones and breast cancer — clearing the misinformation • Why anti-estrogen messaging can be harmful and incomplete • Bioidentical progesterone and protective mechanisms • Birth control pills and breast development risk • The power of metabolic health, fasting windows, detoxification, and terrain theory Most importantly, this conversation restores agency. You are not powerless when it comes to breast health. Knowledge is evolving. Screening is evolving. Hormone science is evolving. And you deserve the full picture. –––––––––––––––––– KEY TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Reimagining breast health and questioning the narrative 01:23 Introducing Dr. Jenn Simmons and her paradigm shift 09:47 From breast surgeon to integrative oncologist: her turning point 12:28 Functional medicine approach: “What caused the cancer?” 27:19 Mammography myths and reviewing the research 33:01 Radiation exposure: known carcinogen discussion 35:31 Biopsy concerns and imaging alternatives 42:07 Medical board pressures and guideline rigidity 53:04 “Anti-estrogen talk is misogynistic” 01:04:10 Birth control pills, teens, and breast cancer risk –––––––––––––––––– MEMORABLE QUOTES Dr. Jenn Simmons: “Radiation is a known carcinogen.” “Any anti-estrogen talk is misogynistic.” Dr. Anna Cabeca: “What caused your cancer to begin with?” “It takes more than hormones to fix our hormones.” “There’s always one next right step we can take to advocate for our health.” –––––––––––––––––– CONNECT WITH DR. JENN SIMMONS Website: Instagram: @drjennsimmons YouTube: @dr.jennsimmons Book: The Smart Woman’s Guide to Breast Cancer –––––––––––––––––– CONNECT WITH DR. ANNA CABECA Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: –––––––––––––––––– If this episode spoke to you, share it with a girlfriend, your daughters, your mother — every woman deserves this conversation. You are seen. You are informed. You are empowered. 🌹
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Unbelievable Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts | Dr. Jed Fahey
02/13/2026
Unbelievable Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts | Dr. Jed Fahey
What if one of the most powerful tools for detoxification, brain health, hormone balance, and healthy aging was something you could grow in your kitchen? In this science-packed episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with renowned nutritional biochemist Dr. Jed W. Fahey — the pioneering researcher behind the discovery of the extraordinary chemoprotective power of broccoli sprouts. After 27 years at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where he directed the Cullman Chemoprotection Center, Dr. Fahey explains why sulforaphane — derived from glucoraphanin found abundantly in broccoli sprouts — activates your body’s own protective systems at the cellular level. Dr. Anna shares her personal clinical experiences using sulforaphane-rich compounds to support detoxification pathways, immune resilience, abnormal Pap smears, skin health, neurocognitive protection, and hormone balance — especially in midlife women. In this episode, you’ll learn: What sulforaphane actually is (and why it matters) How it activates phase II detoxification pathways Why broccoli sprouts are more potent than mature broccoli Neuroprotective and brain benefits Research around skin and melanoma protection Dosage guidance for sprouts vs. supplements How to safely incorporate them into your daily routine This isn’t about trendy superfoods. It’s about turning on your body’s built-in defense systems. Small daily choices. Powerful cellular protection. Key Timestamps 00:01 – Welcome & why broccoli sprouts matter 03:14 – Broccoli sprouts vs. mature broccoli: what’s the difference? 06:21 – What exactly is sulforaphane? 09:24 – Phase II detoxification explained simply 15:23 – Dr. Anna’s powerful clinical case using sulforaphane 17:31 – Brain health & neurocognitive benefits 24:43 – How much should you take daily? 31:24 – Skin health & melanoma research 33:35 – Food vs. supplement: dosage considerations 42:13 – One big takeaway for healthy aging Memorable Quotes “This isn’t about complicated science. It’s about small daily choices that protect your cells.” “Sulforaphane switches on your body’s own protective systems.” “Broccoli sprouts are foundational — not optional — for longevity.” “We want to help and do no harm.” “You were made for vitality.” Connect With Our Guest Dr. Jed W. Fahey 🌱 Website: Dr. Fahey serves as scientific advisor to several companies utilizing glucoraphanin, sulforaphane, and broccoli sprouts: Brassica Protection Products LLC Food Nerd The Sprouting Company PhytoSmart Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Dranna.com Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook: ✨ Stay nourished. Stay connected. And remember — you were made for vitality.
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Don’t Let Atrophy “Down There” Steal Your Right to Pleasure | Dr. Maria Sophocles
02/06/2026
Don’t Let Atrophy “Down There” Steal Your Right to Pleasure | Dr. Maria Sophocles
In this empowering episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca, The Girlfriend Doctor, sits down with internationally respected gynecologist and menopause expert Dr. Maria Sophocles to break the silence around vaginal and vulvar atrophy, hormonal shifts, and declining intimacy in midlife. They explore why pain, dryness, and loss of desire are often normalized—and how this fuels what Dr. Sophocles calls “The Bedroom Gap.” You’ll learn how hormones, anatomy, stress, and communication impact pleasure, plus evidence-based strategies to restore comfort, confidence, and connection at any age. Menopause is natural. Suffering is optional—and pleasure is your birthright. ⏱️ Key Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Show 01:45 – Why sexual medicine is missing from OB-GYN training 04:20 – What The Bedroom Gap really means 07:15 – Why women’s sexual pain is often normalized 10:00 – The ABCs of sexual health: Acceptance, Being present, Communication 19:25 – Hormones, dryness, pain & loss of desire in midlife 23:10 – Vulvar anatomy & early signs women shouldn’t ignore 28:15 – DHEA, estrogen & testosterone for tissue health 42:30 – Practical strategies to close the bedroom gap 58:00 – Reclaiming intimacy, confidence & pleasure at any age 💬 Memorable Quotes “You cannot heal a body you hate.” “Menopause is natural. Suffering is optional.” “If it hurts every time you do something, why would your body want it?” “Normalizing the problem is what keeps women stuck.” “Intimacy isn’t just physical—it’s communication, confidence, and connection.” 🔗 Connect With Dr. Maria Sophocles Website: https://www.mariasophoclesmd.com Virtual Practice: The Thinking Woman Book: The Bedroom Gap (available on Amazon & major booksellers) TED Talk & media features including Oprah Daily Founder, Women’s Healthcare of Princeton 🔗 Connect With Dr. Anna Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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Women’s Biohacking and Longevity Secrets | Dr. Kathleen O’Neil
01/20/2026
Women’s Biohacking and Longevity Secrets | Dr. Kathleen O’Neil
What if the future of women’s longevity wasn’t about fighting aging—but teaching the body how to adapt, regenerate, and thrive? In this deeply insightful episode of The Girlfriend Doctor Show, Dr. Anna Cabeca sits down with renowned longevity and regenerative medicine expert Dr. Kathleen O’Neil to unpack the cutting-edge science—and timeless fundamentals—behind women’s biohacking, immune resilience, and healthy aging. Dr. O’Neil shares her extraordinary journey from pathology and the morgue to elite performance medicine, explaining how understanding why people die transformed how she helps patients live longer, stronger lives. Together, they explore immune modulation, peptides, GLP-1s, light and dark therapy, bone regeneration, adrenal health, energy medicine, and why balance—not extremes—is the true secret to longevity. From menopause and bone loss to hyperbaric oxygen therapy, peptides like oxytocin and thymosin, and the power of adaptability, this episode is a masterclass in personalized, ethical, regenerative medicine for women at every stage of life. If you’re curious about biohacking beyond the hype—and want grounded, science-backed strategies that actually work—this conversation is for you. Key Timestamps 00:01:00 – Welcome & introduction to longevity and regenerative medicine 04:05 – Dr. O’Neill’s time in the morgue and what it taught her about immunity, aging, and silent disease 08:15 – The immune system explained: friend vs. foe, gut training, adaptability, and immune modulation 12:18 – Light, dark, melatonin, oxytocin & why darkness is essential for regeneration 13:19 – Feasting, fasting, and the paradoxes that build resilience and adaptability 16:04 – GLP-1s, peptides, and why dosage variability matters for long-term results 21:14 – Energy medicine, biochargers, frequency, vibration & photobiomodulation 24:10 – Adrenal burnout, cortisol dysregulation, and immune collapse 28:17 – Bone loss, ovarian aging clocks, and why prevention must start earlier 30:04 – Bone health, muscle, oxytocin & rebuilding resilience after menopause 36:17 – Regenerative medicine, stem cells, and ethical innovation in longevity care 40:41 – Inside a cutting-edge regenerative medicine clinic 41:02 – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy, lymphatic drainage & advanced recovery tools 45:18 – Personalized medicine, foundations first, adaptability & final takeaways Memorable Quotes “Longevity is really gerotherapeutics—preventing aging by teaching the body how to regenerate.” – Dr. Kathleen O’Neil “You can’t hack your life without doing the fundamentals.” – Dr. Kathleen O’Neil “Balance—light and dark, stress and recovery—is what creates adaptability.” – Dr. Kathleen O’Neil “The immune system is a living medication inside us.” – Dr. Kathleen O’Neil “Everything I do today is serving the version of myself I’ll be in the future.” – Dr. Anna Cabeca Connect With Guest Dr. Kathleen O’Neil, MD Website: treatwellness.boston Instagram: @treatwellness_ About Dr. O’Neil: Dr. Kathleen O’Neil earned her M.D. from Boston University School of Medicine (Magna Cum Laude) and trained at Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women’s Hospital. She is a global expert in regenerative and longevity medicine, peptide therapy, GLP-1s, and exosomes, working with elite athletes and professional teams. She is a founding board member of the International Peptide Society and the American Academy of Stem Cell Physicians and previously served as Medical Director of Tom Brady’s TB12 Wellness Center. Connect With Dr. Anna Cabeca 🎁 Exclusive Listener Gifts: 👉 dranna.com/tribe 📲 Follow Dr. Anna: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Facebook:
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HRT in the Blue Zones and How to Solve the Adrenal Crisis | Dr. Sangeeta Pati
01/02/2026
HRT in the Blue Zones and How to Solve the Adrenal Crisis | Dr. Sangeeta Pati
Midlife has a way of getting your attention, especially when your body starts changing in ways no one really prepared you for, and menopause is often right at the center of it. In this conversation, we talk honestly about what’s really happening during this season and what women can do to feel more like themselves again. You’ll hear how small, intentional shifts can lead to more energy, clarity, and resilience over time. This episode is about moving from just getting through midlife to actually feeling good in it. I sat down with Dr. Sangeeta Pati, MD, FACOG, ABOIM, a Board-Certified OB/GYN and Integrative Medicine Physician with over 30 years of experience, and the Founder of MD Prescriptives and the SaJune Institute. We break down her simple but powerful five-point model covering hormones, nutrition, detoxification, mind-heart balance, and the physical body. She also shares how lessons from the Blue Zones apply to women’s health, especially during menopause. Everything we discuss is practical, doable, and rooted in real science. Dr. Sangeeta opens up about how her global work in maternal health and her own healing journey completely changed how she approaches women’s care. We talk about stress, the nervous system, burnout, and why so many women feel overwhelmed in midlife. This episode connects the dots between everyday habits and the body’s natural ability to heal. If you’re craving a grounded, reassuring conversation about menopause, longevity, and whole-body wellness, you’ll feel right at home here. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:04:17] Modern health care needs a radical shift. [00:06:52] Expanding the medical toolbox. [00:10:04] Oxytocin increasing behaviors. [00:12:27] What living in a blue zone teaches you. [00:15:17] Supporting the adrenals using the 3-step process. [00:28:06] Empowering the body to heal. [00:32:12] Gut health protocol. [00:37:12] Hormone optimization for longevity. [00:44:13] Joyful purpose, healing, and health. [00:45:47] Healing with the gifts of earth. Memorable Quotes: "I consider modern life to be man's greatest disease." [00:12:56] – Dr. Sangeeta Pati "It is the way that we take the journey that determines the destination. It's not the destination that determines the result. It is literally how we take the journey." [00:45:05] – Dr. Sangeeta Pati Connect with Dr. Sangeeta Pati: Website: Instagram: & Facebook: & LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast Best of 2025
12/26/2025
The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast Best of 2025
As we look back on 2025, one thing became clear. The episodes that resonated most were not about quick fixes. They were about helping women finally understand their bodies. This year, you leaned into conversations that offered clarity instead of confusion, compassion instead of restriction, and real explanations for why your body responds the way it does. In this special Best of 2025 episode, we are revisiting the moments that moved you most. You will hear powerful clips on gut health, hormones, burnout, mitochondria, intimacy, alcohol, oral and eye health, and the nervous system. Again and again, the message was the same. Your symptoms are not random, your body is not broken, and everything is connected. When we support digestion, calm the nervous system, and honor female physiology, healing becomes possible and sustainable. If these conversations reflect what you are craving right now, I invite you to join the Keto-Green 16 Challenge. This is not just about healthy eating. It is about challenging what has been holding you back. For 16 days, you will replenish your body, boost your energy, and reconnect to your highest self with daily support from me, a private community, proven meal plans and recipes, intermittent fasting protocols designed for women, and real results like weight loss, mental clarity, and lasting energy. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor Podcast. [00:02:57] The Gut-Hormone Link You Need to Know with Steven Wright [00:05:06] HRT: Compounding Hormones & Customization with Sahar Swidan [00:07:16] Histamine & Burnout: The Connection with Will Cole [00:10:33] Rethinking Your Relationship with Alcohol with Olivia Farrelly [00:14:40] Repair Your Mitochondria, Heal Your Body [00:18:07] Empowering Women: Beyond the Estrogen Window [00:00:25] The Deadly Secrets in Your Smile Part 1 [00:23:06] Reclaiming Sacred Sexuality [00:26:44] New Year Q&A Special: Heartfelt Stories, Hair Loss & Hormonal Insights [00:30:24] Eye Health & Migraine Relief (Live Community Call) Dr. Rani Banik Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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How to Increase Libido After Menopause Naturally | Gabriella Espinosa
12/12/2025
How to Increase Libido After Menopause Naturally | Gabriella Espinosa
So many women hit midlife and suddenly find themselves whispering about things they never thought they’d struggle with, like desire, dryness, disconnection, or feeling like a stranger in their own body. That quiet discomfort adds up, and it can take a real toll on intimacy and self-confidence. In this episode, we start talking about what’s actually going on with your hormones, your libido, and your relationships, so you can finally get clarity instead of guessing. Gabriella Espinosa, a Menopause Advocate, Women’s Health and Sexual Wellness Coach, and Host of Pleasure in the Pause, joins me and immediately brings this grounded mix of wisdom, humor, and real-life experience. She opens up about her own perimenopause journey and why understanding your anatomy, pleasure points, and changing hormones is a total game-changer. We talk about how to speak up with your partner and your doctor in a way that feels honest and not awkward. You’ll hear simple, practical ways to reconnect with your body, rebuild desire, and shift the narrative around menopause from “something to survive” into something that actually expands your confidence. Gabriella shares how this stage of life can sharpen your wisdom, deepen your pleasure, and even make you feel sexier than you expected. If you’ve been craving a more open, empowering take on sexual wellness in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, this conversation is for you. And before you go, grab my Free Holiday Recipe Guide, 29 pages of hormone-friendly Keto-Green dishes that help you enjoy every festive bite without the crash, bloat, or guilt, available at . Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:01:54] Cost of silence in intimacy. [00:06:48] Midlife sexuality and pleasure. [00:09:40] Self-discovery through sexual anatomy. [00:12:11] Bodily awareness and sexual desire. [00:16:35] Intimacy and pleasure anatomy. [00:22:14] Pleasure exploration in midlife. [00:26:49] Menopause as an invitation. [00:30:06] Sexual awakening in later life. [00:32:10] Redefining midlife women's roles. [00:35:52] Healing a body you hate. [00:39:30] Unsilencing women's conversations. Memorable Quotes: "I discovered that midlife isn't the end. It isn't the end of pleasure. It's really a new, exciting chapter." [00:10:30] – Gabriella Espinosa "Your pleasure isn't lost. It may be buried under layers of stress, shame, or disconnection, but it's not gone." [00:33:19] – Gabriella Espinosa Links Mentioned: Free Holiday Recipe Guide: Connect with Gabriella Espinosa: Website: Instagram: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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How to Increase Oxytocin levels + Why You Need To | Dr. Tyna Moore
12/05/2025
How to Increase Oxytocin levels + Why You Need To | Dr. Tyna Moore
Oxytocin might get all the hype as the “love hormone,” but the way it quietly shapes our mood, relationships, and everyday well-being is honestly pretty incredible once you understand it. In today’s episode, you’ll get a clear look at what this hormone is actually doing behind the scenes and why it plays such a big role in how connected, calm, and joyful we feel. We break down the real science in simple language and talk about the places where oxytocin shows up in your life without you even noticing. I’m sitting down with my good friend, Dr. Tyna Moore, one of the smartest and most grounded voices in regenerative medicine, and a licensed Naturopathic Physician and Chiropractor with nearly 30 years of experience. She shares how oxytocin supports immunity, emotional balance, metabolic health, and even pain resilience in ways most women never hear about. We talk through simple, doable habits that naturally lift oxytocin without feeling like another task on your list. We also open up about topics that deserve way more space, like vaginal atrophy, pelvic floor strength, intimacy changes, and how oxytocin weaves into all of it as we age. You’ll walk away with insights you can use immediately to support your body, your mood, and your relationships. And before you tune out, don’t forget to grab my Free Holiday Recipe Guide at , it’s packed with cozy, hormone-friendly Keto-Green recipes that let you enjoy the season without the crash or guilt. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:01:01] Oxytocin: The queen mother hormone. [00:04:48] Oxytocin's far-reaching benefits. [00:09:10] Oxytocin's impact on pain. [00:12:20] Boosting oxytocin for well-being. [00:16:02] Microdosing oxytocin through play. [00:21:05] Importance of community for longevity. [00:21:36] Oxytocin and stress reduction. [00:25:05] Oxytocin's role in hormones. [00:30:59] Medicalizing menopause concerns. [00:34:03] Hormones and family dynamics. [00:36:44] Physiology drives behavior transformation. [00:39:47] Oxytocin vs. Cortisol Dynamics. [00:44:05] Intimacy and stress management. [00:47:19] Vaginal health importance and microbiome. [00:56:50] Health of the vagina and intimacy. [00:59:20] Vaginal and urinary health solutions. [01:02:06] Hormonal impact on urinary health. Memorable Quotes: "It's a calming down of the nervous system enough to move through the pain is how I've tried to explain this to my patients and what I've experienced personally." [00:06:38] – Dr. Tyna Moore "The more that you nurture me, make me feel safe, make me feel beautiful, make me feel happy, the more my hormones will respond positively and you will get the beautiful, happy wife that you deserve." [00:34:22] – Dr. Tyna Moore Links Mentioned: Free Holiday Recipe Guide: Ozempic Uncovered Course: Dr. Anna's Oxytocin Quiz: Connect with Dr. Tyna Moore: Website: Instagram: YouTube: Podcast: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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Why You Probably Need to Drink Less | Dr. Brooke Scheller
11/28/2025
Why You Probably Need to Drink Less | Dr. Brooke Scheller
It’s wild how easily alcohol becomes part of our routine, especially in midlife, yet so many women quietly wonder why their sleep, mood, or hormones suddenly feel out of sync. In this episode, we get real about what alcohol is actually doing behind the scenes and how a few simple nutrition shifts can change the way you feel (and even what you crave). I’m sitting down with Dr. Brooke Scheller, a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition and Founder of Functional Sobriety, whose work is helping women rethink their drinking habits with compassion and curiosity. Dr. Brooke opens up about her own sobriety journey and the surprising link she discovered between food and alcohol cravings. We break down the myth of “healthy” drinking, talk through why midlife hormones can make alcohol hit harder, and share the small swaps that make cutting back feel a lot less intimidating. You’ll hear insights that make you feel empowered, not judged, about what’s going on in your body and why giving yourself a little more support can make a huge difference in your energy, mood, and clarity. And if you want a little extra help this season, grab my filled with cozy, hormone-friendly dishes that taste like tradition without the crash, and hop on the to be the first to know when my Black Friday deals go live. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:04:43] Alcohol consumption and the Gen Z [00:06:06] Should you really drink alcohol? [00:07:35] Alcohol's impact on midlife stress. [00:12:41] Gut health and sobriety. [00:21:11] Alcohol's impact on hormone balance. [00:23:07] Alcohol as a macronutrient. [00:28:23] Cravings and willpower connection. [00:31:41] Nutrient depletion and cravings. [00:36:31] Nutrient deficiencies and health. [00:38:50] Understanding cravings and nutrition. [00:43:33] The power of reducing alcohol. [00:47:08] Simple steps to take if you want to reduce alcohol. Memorable Quotes: "I really challenge people, and what I hope that people take away from this discussion is really just starting to think about what alcohol means to them." [00:08:46] – Dr. Brooke Scheller "It wasn't until we unlocked that alcohol piece that everything else started falling into place." [00:46:25] – Dr. Brooke Scheller Links Mentioned: Free Holiday Recipe Guide: Black Friday 2025 VIP Hot List: How to Eat to Change How You Drink Book: Connect with Dr. Brooke Scheller: Website: Instagram: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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You're Not Getting Enough Morning Sunlight | Jack Kruse
11/21/2025
You're Not Getting Enough Morning Sunlight | Jack Kruse
The fascinating intersections of circadian biology, quantum health, and women’s wellness really come alive as I sit down with Neurosurgeon-turned-Quantum-Biologist Dr. Jack Kruse. You’ll hear how simple things, like the light you see first thing in the morning, quietly shape your hormones, energy, and even how you age. Dr. Jack’s decades of surgical and biophysical knowledge make these concepts surprisingly practical for everyday health. By the end, you may find yourself rethinking your daily routines in the best way. Together, we get into why AM sunlight can make such a big difference for women going through hormonal changes, especially around menopause. Dr. Jack breaks down big ideas like heteroplasmy in simple, eye-opening terms and shows how it plays into skin health, longevity, and mitochondrial function. You’ll also hear why red light deserves a place in your wellness routine, and how blue light and non-native EMFs might be draining more than just your battery. If you’ve ever struggled with weight changes, low energy, or hormonal shifts, you’ll appreciate Dr. Jack’s explanation of the leptin-melanocortin pathway and what it means for women at every age. His own 150-pound weight-loss story adds real heart to the science and shows how much can change when your environment starts working for you instead of against you. This episode delivers a mix of empowering insights and simple shifts you can start today for better vitality. And before you go, make sure to download my Free Holiday Recipe Guide, a delicious, hormone-friendly way to enjoy festive, Keto-Green dishes all season long at . Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:04:57] Circadian biology and health optimization. [00:10:10] The importance of morning sunlight. [00:17:00] Environmental impact on women's health. [00:19:54] Blue light toxicity in eyes. [00:23:04] Impact of sunglasses on health. [00:27:52] Importance of oxytocin hormone. [00:30:30] Mitochondria and light absorption. [00:36:15] Leptin and fertility connection. [00:38:05] Importance of fat for babies. [00:43:05] Blue light’s role in hormonal balance and infertility. [00:45:36] Natural sun protection alternatives. [00:50:32] Hormonal health and technology impact. [00:53:10] Light as medicine and healing. [00:58:41] GABA and benzodiazepine addiction. [01:00:06] Relationship between light and health. [01:09:18] Deuterium's impact on health. [01:13:39] Sun exposure for sexual health. [01:20:34] Politics and health care challenges. [01:24:03] Importance of time over wealth. [01:27:29] Jet lag management strategies. Memorable Quotes: "If you're a woman who's a dried-up prune, this by definition already tells you that you don't get enough AM sunlight." [00:10:17] – Dr. Jack Kruse "Blue light is the single number one thing that destroys hormone balance." [00:43:21] – Dr. Jack Kruse Links Mentioned: Free Holiday Recipe Guide: Connect with Dr. Jack Kruse: Website: Instagram: Facebook: Patreon: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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How to Boost Fertility Naturally
11/14/2025
How to Boost Fertility Naturally
Fertility challenges are becoming all too common, and it’s not just about trying to get pregnant. It’s about the bigger picture of how our health today shapes the next generation. I sat down with my dear friend, Dr. Ann Shippy, a brilliant Functional Medicine Physician and Author of The Preconception Revolution, to talk about what’s really driving the rise in infertility and what we can do about it long before conception even happens. Dr. Ann has such a unique perspective. She started out as a chemical engineer before becoming a doctor, so she looks at the body like a system: one we can optimize, not just fix. We got into the science of epigenetics (don’t worry, we keep it real and relatable!) and how the choices we make every day, what we eat, breathe, and put on our skin, can literally change our health and our children’s future. She also shared simple, practical steps for detoxing, boosting fertility for both men and women, and building a healthier foundation overall. Whether you’re dreaming of a baby or just want to feel your best at any stage of life, this conversation will make you think differently about your health and the legacy you’re creating. And because the holidays are here, grab my Free Holiday Recipe Guide. 29 pages of delicious, hormone-friendly Keto-Green recipes that let you indulge without the crash or guilt. Get your copy at . Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:03:06] Your environment and its impact on health. [00:06:08] Chronic disease vs. acute care. [00:09:38] Fertility issues and preconception. [00:13:48] Male factor fertility issues. [00:15:45] Optimizing fertility before conception. [00:19:12] Key supplements for pregnancy preparation. [00:24:17] Where is inflammation coming from? [00:25:25] Male factor fertility supplements. [00:28:48] The Preconception Revolution. [00:30:21] Fertility and environmental toxicity. [00:33:51] Blue light and testosterone impact. Memorable Quotes: "I wrote this book because there's hope." [00:12:13] – Dr. Ann Shippy "The dedication for the book is to these precious souls that want to come in to be part of humanity, and that they want strong bodies." [00:30:22] – Dr. Ann Shippy Links Mentioned: Free Holiday Recipe Guide: The Preconception Revolution: Connect with Dr. Ann Shippy: Website: Instagram: Facebook: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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Can Trauma Cause Physical Pain?
11/07/2025
Can Trauma Cause Physical Pain?
You know that feeling when your body’s tired but your heart’s carrying the real weight? Yeah… that’s not just stress. It’s your body holding onto stories it never got to finish, the unprocessed stuff we call trauma. In this powerful and personal conversation, Dr. Shiroko Sokitch and I get into how emotional wounds can quietly shape your physical health, and how real healing starts when you finally listen to what your body’s been trying to say. Dr. Shiroko spent years in emergency medicine before following her intuition into acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine, blending Western science with deep emotional and spiritual healing. She shares incredible stories of patients who’ve transformed their lives by healing the emotions behind their symptoms. You’ll learn how simple practices like visualization, acupuncture, and genuine self-compassion can help you reconnect with your body in ways that feel surprisingly doable. If you’ve ever wondered why your shoulders ache when life feels heavy, or why your energy crashes after emotional stress, this episode is going to hit home. It’s full of heart, hope, and hands-on healing wisdom you can actually use — no fluff, just real talk about what it means to feel whole again. P.S. Before you dive into holiday chaos, a quick love note from me: don’t forget to take care of you. My Black Friday + Cyber Monday deals are live soon, and it’s the best time to stock up on my favorites like Mighty Maca and Keto-Green essentials that keep your body steady (even when life isn’t). Pop over to to get early VIP access, because you deserve to feel amazing through all the merry madness. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:02:22] Body holds on to trauma. [00:03:14] Incorporation of Eastern medicine with Western medicine. [00:06:13] The science behind acupuncture. [00:10:12] Healing emotional & spiritual trauma through acupuncture. [00:16:08] Surgery preparation and success. [00:20:15] Love as a healing force. [00:23:32] Body love and healing journey. [00:29:22] The body as a teacher. [00:31:34] Healing without prejudice. Memorable Quotes: "I always talk about love as the most powerful healing force." [00:20:17] – Dr. Shiroko Sokitch "If you are willing to love and recognize your body as your friend, then you can start to learn what you need to learn from these experiences." [00:29:39] – Dr. Shiroko Sokitch Links Mentioned: Holiday Deals: Healing When It Seems Impossible by Dr. Shiroko Sokitch: Connect with Dr. Shiroko Sokitch: Website: Instagram: Facebook: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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The Truth About Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
10/31/2025
The Truth About Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
Strong bones do more than prevent fractures; they help you stay active, confident, and energized no matter your age. I caught up with Kevin Ellis, aka the Bone Coach, a Forbes-featured integrative health coach who’s helped thousands of people worldwide improve their bone health through his Stronger Bones Solution. We talk about what your bone density scores really mean, the difference between bone quality and bone density, and practical steps you can take today to strengthen your bones. Kevin also shares simple nutrition tips, supplements like vitamin D3, K2, and collagen, plus safe exercises that fit your lifestyle. If you’ve ever worried about osteopenia or osteoporosis, Kevin’s personal story and guidance make it feel manageable and even empowering. From resistance training to balance exercises, he explains small, actionable ways to protect your bones while setting up a healthy foundation for future generations. And while you’re taking care of your bones, don’t forget your daily boost with , packed with 30+ superfoods that even my three-year-old loves. For women wanting to feel vibrant and confident, Julva cream is a gentle, natural way to support intimate wellness. Visit to try them today. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:01:01] Bone health and osteoporosis. [00:06:32] Osteopenia: precursor to osteoporosis. [00:08:49] Bone density and quality assessment. [00:11:12] Advice for osteopenia and osteoporosis. [00:16:15] Nutrients for bone health. [00:18:26] Bisphosphonates and bone health. [00:23:09] Bone turnover markers importance and testing. [00:34:34] High bone turnover osteoporosis. [00:35:58] Hormones and bone health markers. [00:40:01] Importance of resistance training. [00:44:38] Young male osteoporosis experience. [00:46:04] Osteoporosis and bone health solutions. [00:49:17] Health advocacy and personal growth. Memorable Quotes: "Bone density shows you the past. Bone turnover shows you the future." [00:23:48] – Kevin Ellis "I feel like we're in a position where we can really move this space forward in a positive direction and help people be a little bit more predictive than reactive." [00:31:04] – Kevin Ellis Links Mentioned: Mighty Maca Plus: Julva Cream: Bone Coach (Use code DRANNA): Healthy Bones Co. (Use code DRANNA): Osteo IQ (Use code DRANNA): Connect with Kevin Ellis: Website: Instagram: Facebook: LinkedIn: TikTok: YouTube: Pinterest: Podcast: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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Beyond Menopause: Reclaiming Health and Vitality with Functional Medicine
10/24/2025
Beyond Menopause: Reclaiming Health and Vitality with Functional Medicine
The transition through midlife can feel like stepping into unknown territory, your body changes, your moods shift, and suddenly what used to work no longer does. But what if understanding your hormones was the key to feeling like yourself again? In today’s conversation, Dr. Cheryl Burdette, Director of Education at Progressive Medical Center and Co-Founder of Precision Point Diagnostics, breaks down what’s really happening inside your body during this season of change. She shares how functional testing and targeted lifestyle shifts can restore energy, balance, and clarity at any age. Dr. Cheryl‘s work spans everything from hormone testing to gut health and detoxification, and she has a way of making complicated topics feel doable. We talk about the truth behind those midlife changes no one really prepares us for, why they happen, what your labs might be telling you, and simple steps to start balancing your hormones naturally. It’s the kind of honest, empowering conversation every woman deserves when navigating this season of life. If you’ve been feeling “off” and can’t quite put your finger on why, this episode is your invitation to pause, learn, and take your power back. You’ll walk away with practical ways to support your hormones, boost your energy, and feel at home in your body again because midlife isn’t the end of your vitality, it’s the beginning of understanding it. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Welcome to The Girlfriend Doctor [00:04:38] The lack of support and feeling lost during menopause. [00:11:10] Exponential problem of hormonal problems for women today. [00:14:17] Basic testing recommendations and challenges. [00:19:44] Hormone detoxification pathways. [00:27:58] Hormone transition and health. [00:29:13] Stages of feminine transition. [00:30:59] Hot flashes, endocrine disruptors, and inflammation. [00:36:59] Hormone receptor site damage. [00:41:04] High hormone levels and health concerns. [00:44:08] Hormonal balance in women. [00:46:32] Gut hormonal connection. [00:49:33] Gut-based work as anti-inflammatory. [00:50:45] Rapid fire questions for Dr. Cheryl Burdette. [00:56:21] Omega-3 fatty acids and oxidative stress. [01:00:07] Hormonal health insights. Memorable Quotes: "We have an ability to shift our genetics, to move them in a healthy direction, even if we were dealt a bit of an unfair hand." [00:23:05] – Dr. Cheryl Burdette "If gut's going to govern whole person inflammation, then that's probably the thing that gives us the most information about the gut." [00:51:33] – Dr. Cheryl Burdette Connect with Dr. Cheryl Burdette: Instagram: LinkedIn: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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The Perimenopause Revolution: Your Roadmap to Vitality
10/17/2025
The Perimenopause Revolution: Your Roadmap to Vitality
If you’ve ever wondered why your body suddenly feels like it’s changing the rules, hot flashes, mood swings, brain fog, and all, this one’s for you. Perimenopause can feel confusing and even a little isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I’m sitting down with my dear friend and hormone expert Dr. Mariza Snyder, who’s helping women everywhere see this season of life in a whole new light. She’s breaking down what’s actually happening in our bodies and how we can work with those changes instead of fighting against them. Dr. Mariza has spent nearly two decades helping women understand their hormones, and she has such a beautiful way of making it all make sense. We talk through the stages of perimenopause, the shifts that happen along the way, and what your body’s trying to tell you through all of it. She also shares her top go-to practices, simple, doable things that make a real difference when it comes to energy, mood, and metabolism. Your body isn’t broken; it’s evolving. Tune in for a heartfelt and empowering talk with Dr. Mariza, plus a peek into her upcoming book, The Perimenopause Revolution (coming October 2025). You’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and ready to take charge of your health with a little more grace and a lot more confidence. Key Timestamps: [00:00:00] Introduction. [00:02:54] Perimenopause as a transition. [00:04:31] Perimenopause as a window of opportunity. [00:08:43] Late reproductive stage transitions. [00:10:59] Hormonal changes in perimenopause. [00:15:51] Adrenal fatigue and lifestyle changes. [00:18:02] Metabolic health during perimenopause. [00:21:28] Healing mindset and self-care. [00:25:45] Vagal tone and parasympathetic regulation. [00:28:30] Embracing perimenopause as opportunity. [00:34:56] Wisdom for your journey. Memorable Quotes: "The more that we understand and we can connect the dots between our symptoms and this being a profound shift, we can enable ourselves to move through this without suffering, with feeling more empowered." [00:06:34] – Dr. Mariza Snyder "Decide that you are worthy of healing. It is a mindset shift that you deserve it." [00:21:28] – Dr. Mariza Snyder Links Mentioned: The Perimenopause Revolution Book: Book Bonus Page with a Perimenopause Toolkit ($500 value): Thriving In Perimenopause Survival Guide: Connect with Dr. Mariza Snyder: Instagram: Facebook: Twitter/X: YouTube: Pinterest: Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca: Website: Instagram: YouTube: TikTok: Produced by Evolved Podcasting:
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