
Hosted by JJ Virgin · EN

Today, I dive deep into the fascinating world of stress-fighting foods that can naturally lower your cortisol levels. As women navigating midlife, managing stress becomes increasingly crucial for our overall well-being and weight management goals. I’ll share my personal strategies for incorporating these powerful foods into daily life, from my morning ritual with dark chocolate (yes, chocolate can be healthy!) to simple ways to sneak stress-busting greens into your meals. You’ll discover how specific nutrients work to calm your body’s stress response and learn practical tips for making these foods a regular part of your routine. Whether you’re facing midlife hormonal changes, career pressures, or family responsibilities, these natural solutions can help you find more balance and peace in your busy life. What you'll learn: The surprising connection between specific foods and cortisol reduction Which everyday snacks can actually help calm your nervous system How to properly use dark chocolate as a stress-management tool The vital role of specific nutrients in supporting adrenal health Simple ways to incorporate stress-reducing foods into your daily routine Why gut health is crucial for managing your stress response Key evening rituals that combine nutrition and relaxation FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/lowercortisol Living Ratio chocolate: https://livingratio.com/?sca_ref=2747593.vgty26M7uP&utm_source=2747593&utm_medium=jj-virgin&utm_campaign=4533 Reignite Wellness™ ElectroReplenish: https://reignitewellness.com/products/electroreplenish Reignite Wellness™ Amino Power Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/amino-power-powder Reignite Wellness™ SHEatine: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sheatine-capsules Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Omega Plus: https://reignitewellness.com/products/omega-plus Reignite Wellness™ Collagen Peptides Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/all-systems-glow-collagen Epsom Salt: https://amzn.to/3IxgmMm Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie Chocolate Avocado Mousse with Cacao Nibs: https://jjvirgin.com/recipe/chocolate-avocado-mousse-cacao-nibs/ Study: Effect of Polyphenol-Rich Dark Chocolate on Salivary Cortisol and Mood in Adults: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3921/8/6/149 Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off

"Good energy is fundamentally about giving your body what it needs to thrive. When we do this, our cells work better, our hormones balance, and we feel absolutely incredible." - Dr. Casey Means In this eye-opening episode, I sat down with Dr. Casey Means, Stanford-trained physician, #1 New York Times bestselling author of "Good Energy," and co-founder of Levels, to unpack the truth about America's metabolic health crisis—and more importantly, how we can naturally optimize our body's energy systems. As women over 40, understanding our metabolic health is crucial not just for weight management, but for sustained energy, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Dr. Means shares groundbreaking insights about how we can naturally boost our body's production of key hormones like GLP-1 (the same hormone in popular weight loss medications) through simple dietary and lifestyle changes. Her approach proves that we don't need expensive prescriptions to feel our best—we just need to work with our body's natural wisdom. What you'll learn: Why 93% of Americans are metabolically unhealthy and what this means for your health The three key factors of "bad energy" that drive metabolic dysfunction Natural ways to boost your body's production of satiety hormones without medications Simple food combinations that help stabilize blood sugar and increase energy How continuous glucose monitoring can help you personalize your diet and lifestyle The surprising power of post-meal movement for blood sugar control Key tests to request from your doctor to understand your metabolic health Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/goodenergy Shop Apple Watches: https://amzn.to/43dn8QV Shop Oura Rings: https://ouraring.com/ Theia Health Continuous Glucose Monitor: https://join.theiahealth.ai/c/jj Download “The Ditch List: 7 Foods Harming Your Health”: http://jjvirgin.com/ditchlist Reignite Wellness™ Extra Fiber: https://reignitewellness.com/products/extra-fiber Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Reignite Wellness™ Glutamine Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/glutamine-powder Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A) - Save 10%: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Sugar Impact Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sugar-impact-diet-paperback-book The Virgin Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/the-virgin-diet-paperback Good Energy book: https://www.caseymeans.com/goodenergy Casey Means newsletter: https://www.caseymeans.com/newsletter BYOzempic by Dr. Casey: https://www.caseymeans.com/learn/byozempic-naturally-increase-glp-1-through-3-approaches Dr. Casey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcaseyskitchen/ Dr. Casey on X(Twitter): https://twitter.com/CaseyMeansMD Dr. Casey on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@caseymeansmd Dr. Casey on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CaseyMeansMD Dr. Casey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-means-md/ Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Get Dr. Casey’s FREE Ultimate Food List

In this game-changing episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on my personal supplement routine that's helped me get in the best shape of my life at 60! As we age, our bodies demand different support than they did in our 20s and 30s. I'm sharing my top supplement recommendations for women over 40, including some surprising choices that have transformed my recovery, energy, and overall vitality. From addressing muscle loss and brain fog to tackling those frustrating night leg cramps, I'm revealing the exact supplements that have made the biggest impact in my journey. Plus, I'll explain why that downward dog position might be showing you more than just your yoga form—and what you can do about it! What you'll learn: The three foundational supplements every woman over 40 needs for optimal health A game-changing supplement that helps combat age-related muscle loss and brain fog Why collagen becomes increasingly crucial for women in midlife (it's not just about wrinkles!) The surprising solution to those middle-of-the-night leg cramps that plague many women How to properly fuel your workouts and recovery as your body changes with age A cutting-edge supplement that acts like "exercise in a bottle" (but don't skip the gym!) The twice-monthly supplement that helps combat aging at the cellular level Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/8supplements JJ’s Powerhouse Protocol - The Ultimate Supplement Guide For Women 40+: http://jjvirgin.com/over40 7-Day Eat Protein First Challenge: http://jjvirgin.com/proteinfirst Flavorchef bone broth: https://affiliates.theflavorchef.com/121.html Reignite Wellness™ Omega Plus: https://reignitewellness.com/products/omega-plus Reignite Wellness™ SHEatine: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sheatine-capsules Reignite Wellness™ Magnesium Body Calm: https://reignitewellness.com/products/magnesium-body-calm Reignite Wellness™ Collagen Peptides Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/all-systems-glow-collagen Reignite Wellness™ ElectroReplenish: https://reignitewellness.com/products/electroreplenish Reignite Wellness™ Amino Power Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/amino-power-powder Reignite Wellness™ Protein First Enzymes: https://reignitewellness.com/products/protein-first-enzymes Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Epsom Salt: https://amzn.to/3IxgmMm Vital Choice wild-caught seafood: https://vitalchoice.sjv.io/daKYGy Timeline Mitopure (Urolithin A): https://www.timelinenutrition.com/partners/jj-virgin Qualia Senolytic - Get 15% off with code VIRGINWELLNESS: qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie The Virgin Diet: https://reignitewellness.com/products/the-virgin-diet-paperback Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Dry Farm Wines: dryfarmwines.com/jjvirgin Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off

"Sometimes at midlife, we stop doing the things we think we should be doing, and start focusing on what we truly want to do. That's when we find that inner peace." - James Davis Are you navigating the complex waters of midlife relationships? In this enlightening episode, I sit down with James and Claire Davis, founders of Midlife Mentors, to explore the transformative journey of relationships after 40. Having met in their late thirties/early forties and now running a successful business together, they bring a unique perspective on finding love, maintaining connections, and reinventing ourselves during this pivotal life stage. As someone who found my own love story at 52, I was particularly moved by their insights on how our values shift during midlife and why this period can become our greatest opportunity for growth and authentic connection. James and Claire share their personal journey of maintaining intimacy while working together, including their courageous decision to seek marriage counseling—proving that investing in our relationships is just as crucial as investing in our careers. What you'll learn: Why midlife isn't a crisis but an opportunity for reinvention and deeper self-discovery How hormonal changes affect both men and women's relationships and what you can do about it The surprising truth about friendship transitions during midlife and why they're actually healthy Key strategies for maintaining intimacy and connection while navigating major life changes Why investing in your relationship is crucial and how to do it effectively How to handle when one partner starts making healthy changes and the other feels threatened The truth about dating apps and finding love later in life FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/midlifereset The Midlife Mentors: https://themidlifementors.com/ Shop Oura Rings: https://ouraring.com/ Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Dry Farm Wines: dryfarmwines.com/jjvirgin Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Take James & Claire’s Free Quiz: The Midlife Reset Audit: https://midlife-reset-audit.scoreapp.com

In this game-changing episode, I'm tackling one of the most confusing topics for women over 40—what type of exercise actually works for maintaining a healthy weight, strong bones, and vibrant energy as we age? Drawing from both my personal journey and decades of research, I'm exposing the outdated myths about cardio and weight training that might be holding you back from your best health. You'll discover why the conventional wisdom about endless treadmill sessions could be sabotaging your results and learn about the surprising connection between grip strength and longevity. If you're frustrated with your current fitness routine or worried about maintaining your independence as you age, this episode is your roadmap to building a stronger, more resilient body that keeps up with your vibrant life. What you'll learn: The shocking truth about muscle loss after 40 and what it means for your metabolism Why your grip strength could be the most important health metric you're not measuring The game-changing research about VO2 max and longevity How to combine cardio and weights for optimal results at any age Simple strategies to prevent bone loss and maintain independence The most effective exercise sequence to transform your fitness routine Why the old "cardio-first" approach might be working against you Full show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/cardiovsweights Hand Grip Dynamometer: https://amzn.to/48OI2a1 Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance TRX Resistance Training Equipment: Free Shipping on all orders $99+: https://trxtraining.sjv.io/EKrvrP Weighted Vest: https://amzn.to/4aSOVIM Study: Influence of early hip fracture surgery in the elderly on mortality, readmissions, dependence and quality of life: https://consensus.app/papers/influence-fracture-surgery-mortality-readmissions-ruizromero/de4487d539d4519aa7541b29febae142/?utm_source=chatgpt Study: Long-term Change in Cardiorespiratory Fitness and All-Cause Mortality: https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(16)30257-9/abstract Study: Association of Grip Strength With Risk of All-Cause Mortality, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Cancer in Community-Dwelling Populations: A Meta-analysis of Prospective Cohort Studies: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28549705/ Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off

"The silence around menopause has to end – we deserve better information and support." – Tamsen Fadal After 30 years as an award-winning news anchor, Tamsen Fadal experienced her menopause journey in the high-pressure, public-facing world of broadcast journalism. This sparked a complete career reinvention, leading her to become a powerful advocate for menopause awareness and workplace equality. In this candid conversation, we dive deep into Tamsen's personal transformation from experiencing hot flashes on air to producing groundbreaking documentaries and writing essential guides for women navigating this life transition. Her journey from suffering in silence to becoming a vocal champion for women's health perfectly captures what's possible when we embrace change and turn our challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether you're approaching menopause, in the thick of it, or want to better support the women in your life, Tamsen's insights will forever change how you think about this powerful life phase. What you'll learn: - Why understanding hormone therapy options is crucial for making informed decisions about your health - How workplace culture needs to evolve to better support women through menopause - The unexpected ways menopause affects your whole body—from dental health to brain function - Why the right exercise and nutrition strategies are essential during this transition - How to transform your mindset from seeing menopause as an ending to viewing it as an opportunity for reinvention - The importance of breaking the silence around menopause and creating supportive communities - Why it's never too late to pivot your career and pursue your passion Don't miss Tamsen's groundbreaking PBS documentary, "The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause," and pre-order her upcoming book "How to Menopause"—your girlfriend-vetted guide to thriving through this transition. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/tamsen Rethinking Breast Cancer Prevention—Well Beyond 40 with Felice Gersh: https://jjvirgin.com/main-podcast/rethinking-breast-cancer-prevention-with-dr-felice-gersh-ep-573/ Dr. Joe Dispenza meditations: https://drjoedispenza.com/?rfsn=6914154.37386a&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=6914154.37386a Reignite Wellness™ Amino Power Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/amino-power-powderReignite Wellness™ SHEatine: https://reignitewellness.com/products/sheatine-capsules Reignite Wellness™ ElectroReplenish: https://reignitewellness.com/products/electroreplenishReignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Get 60 FREE delicious, protein-packed shake recipes in my Eat Protein First Smoothie Guide: https://jjvirgin.com/smoothie Book: How to Menopause: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better than Before: https://www.amazon.com/How-Menopause-Charge-Health-Reclaim/dp/0306833549 Tamsen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tamsenfadal/ Tamsen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamsenfadal/?hl=en Tamsen on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tamsenfadal?lang=en Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk-free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Watch the trailer for her groundbreaking new documentary on PBS: The M Factor Follow this link to watch the documentary on your local PBS channel

"Women are not small men. This means understanding that everything from our exercise to our nutrition needs to be different for optimal health." -Dr. Stacy Sims In this enlightening episode of the Well Beyond 40 podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Stacy Sims, a renowned exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist. Dr. Sims shares her groundbreaking insights on how women over 40 should approach their health, specifically focusing on the critical differences in exercise and nutrition compared to men. Dr. Sims' journey has been nothing short of inspiring. She has dedicated her career to uncovering the critical distinctions in how women should train and eat, especially as they transition through perimenopause and menopause. This episode dives deep into these gender-specific differences, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that women's bodies respond uniquely to various stimuli. We discuss the significance of incorporating strength and power-based training into fitness routines to maintain muscle mass and boost metabolic health. Dr. Sims also explains which types of training she recommends for women to reduce the risk of chronic diseases like Alzheimer's by promoting brain health through lactate metabolism. On the nutrition front, Dr. Sims debunks common myths around fasted workouts and ketogenic diets, stressing the importance of a well-balanced diet rich in fiber and protein. She highlights the essential role of carbohydrates in women's overall health and offers practical advice on managing caloric intake to support weight loss and metabolic efficiency. Dr. Sims also shares her expert opinion on the benefits of creatine supplementation, particularly for women over 40, to enhance muscle function and overall well-being. Her insights are backed by extensive research and her own experiences, making this episode a treasure trove of valuable information. Join us for this empowering conversation that will give you actionable strategies to optimize your health and fitness as you navigate life beyond 40. Listen to the full episode now for more transformative insights from Dr. Sims. FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/sims Reignite Wellness™ Plant-Based & Paleo-Inspired All-In-One Shakes: https://reignitewellness.com/collections/shakes Literature Review: Creatine Supplementation in Women’s Health: A Lifespan Perspective: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13030877 Reignite Wellness™ Clean Creatine Powder: https://reignitewellness.com/products/clean-creatine-powder Download my FREE Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/resistance Download my FREE Best Rest Sleep Cheat Sheet: https://jjvirgin.com/sleep Dr. Stacy Sims Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drstacysims Dr. Stacy Sims Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstacysims Learn more about Dr. Stacy Sims: https://www.drstacysims.com/ Get Stacy’s book ROAR: How to Match Your Food and Fitness to Your Unique Female Physiology for Optimum Performance, Great Health, and a Strong, Lean Body for Life: https://amzn.to/3WgZ4ea Get Stacy’s Book Next Level: Your Guide to Kicking Ass, Feeling Great, and Crushing Goals Through Menopause and Beyond: https://amzn.to/3LftxTx Episode Sponsors: Try Timeline: https://www.timelinenutrition.com/shop?rfsn=7082975.4b75243 Use code JJ10 for 10% off all products Go to qualialife.com/VIRGINWELLNESS to try Qualia risk free for up to 100 days and code VIRGINWELLNESS for an additional 15% off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If a simple staircase becomes your Everest, it's not just about stamina—it's a hint about your health's future. I'm excited to speak with Dr. Andy Galpin in this episode, who is a true expert in exercise science and peak performance. Dr. Galpin breaks down his essential tips for optimizing health over 40, emphasizing the critical roles of VO2 max, grip strength, and balance exercises in your fitness regimen. We also touch on the topics of exercise recovery, his FDA-approved do-it-yourself sleep lab, and his upcoming podcast, “Perform with Andy Galpin.” Discover how boosting your fitness level can empower you to breeze through your daily activities and maintain a high quality of life as you age. FULL show notes: jjvirgin.com/andy Subscribe to my podcast Learn more about Dr. Andy Galpin: https://www.andygalpin.com/ Listen to Perform with Dr. Andy Galpin: https://lnk.to/perform Subscribe to Dr. Andy Galpin’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drandygalpin Learn 5-Minute Physiology: https://www.andygalpin.com/5-minute-physiology Learn 25-Minute Physiology: https://www.andygalpin.com/25-minute-physiology Learn 55-Minute Physiology: https://www.andygalpin.com/55-minute-physiology Visit Absolute Rest: https://www.absoluterest.com/ Visit BioMolecular Athlete: https://www.biomolecularathlete.com/ RAPID Health Optimization: https://rapidhealthreport.com/ Learn about VO₂ Max: https://www.healthline.com/health/vo2-max Study: Strength and multiple types of physical activity predict cognitive function independent of low muscle mass in NHANES 1999–2002 Reignite Wellness™ Omega Plus: https://store.jjvirgin.com/products/omega-plus Reignite Wellness™ Amino Power Powder: https://store.jjvirgin.com/products/amino-power-powder Reignite Wellness™ Extra Fiber: https://store.jjvirgin.com/collections/supplements/products/extra-fiber Reignite Wellness™ Curcumin Chews: https://store.jjvirgin.com/collections/supplements/products/curcumin-chews Reignite Wellness™ Protein First Enzymes: https://store.jjvirgin.com/products/protein-first-enzymes Reignite Wellness™ Brownie Crunch Protein Bars: https://store.jjvirgin.com/products/brownie-crunch-protein-bar Visit AxioForce: https://axioforce.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it mean to be sexually healthy? That’s the question I asked Dr. Amy Killen, co-founder of the Human Optimization Project. Her answer might surprise you. Our conversation covers so much ground—the interplay between general health and sexual health, how much sex you actually need, whether or not your pelvic floor is the problem, if supplements can really boost your libido, and more. You’ll feel like you took a masterclass! Plus, you’ll learn about her four H’s of sexual health, things you can do today to revive desire, and the cutting-edge treatments creating a whole lot of excitement. You absolutely don’t want to miss it! FULL show notes: jjvirgin.com/dramy Subscribe to my podcast: http://subscribetojj.com Download the FREE Inner Wellness, Outer Beauty: Your Anti-Aging Cheat Sheet: http://jjvirgin.com/antiaging Read my book, The Virgin Diet: https://store.jjvirgin.com/products/the-virgin-diet-paperback Learn more about Dr. Amy Killen: https://dramykillen.com/ Learn about the Human Optimization Project: https://hopbox.life/ Explore Meet Rosy: https://meetrosy.com/ Study: American Journal of Cardiology: Sexual Activity, Erectile Dysfunction, and Incident Cardiovascular Events: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2824175/ Get Jana Danielson’s Cooch Ball: https://si421.isrefer.com/go/CB+FPM/jjvirgin/ Learn more about the Nof1+ app: https://www.nof1plus.com/ Oura Ring: https://ouraring.com/ Whoop: https://www.whoop.com/us/en/ Bio Strap: https://biostrap.com/ Google Pixel Watch 2 with Fitbit: https://amzn.to/3uKYZ6T Vyleesi: https://www.vyleesi.com Get Dr. Amy’s BEAMSSSS Longevity Challenge and E-book: https://beamssss.life/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Resistance training is the ideal type of exercise to prevent muscle loss, maintain a healthy weight, build lean muscle, age powerfully, and so much more. Here, JJ shares 4 things to focus on as you build muscle. She shows you how to design a workout routine regardless of your current fitness level, the overlooked key for lean muscle, the #1 food in your diet to build and maintain muscle, the best way to measure and monitor your progress, and how building muscle helps you age confidently. “You’re not only going to love the way it makes you look and feel now,” JJ says in this video about resistance training. “Your future self will thank you.” Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices