Episoder
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One of the biggest myths about stopping birth control is that everything will just snap back to normal in a couple of weeks. But the truth? Thatâs not always the case. Your body has been coasting along with external hormones, and now itâs trying to remember how to do its thing solo. Itâs like waking up from a long napâyou might feel groggy before you feel refreshed.
How Long Does It Take to Adjust?Thereâs no one-size-fits-all answer because:
âïž The type of birth control you were on matters (pill, IUD, implantâoh my!)
âïž How long youâve been on it plays a role
âïž Your genetics, detox pathways, and gut health all factor in
âïž Your bodyâs natural ability to regulate hormones variesSome women get their cycles back right away, while others wait months. Frustrating? Yes. But understanding your bodyâs unique rhythm is key.
Supporting Your Body Through the TransitionIf you want to set yourself up for success, here are a few ways to give your body the love it needs:
đč Protein, Protein, Protein â Your body needs amino acids to make hormones. Focus on high-quality sources like grass-fed meats, eggs, and legumes.
đč Gut Health is Queen â Since your liver and gut help process hormones, keeping them happy is a must. Probiotics, fiber-rich foods, and proper hydration go a long way.
đč Seed Cycling â A simple but powerful way to support hormone balance. Try:
Days 1-14: 1 tbsp each of flax and pumpkin seeds
Days 15-28: 1 tbsp each of sesame and sunflower seeds
đč Liver Support â Your liver is working overtime to process hormones. Milk thistle, dandelion root tea, and even a daily sauna session can help detoxify.
đč Tinctures & Supplements â Certain herbal blends can support your hormones as they wake up from their birth control slumber. If youâre unsure where to start, working with a practitioner to personalize your approach can be a game changer.
đč Test, Donât Guess â A DUTCH hormone test can help pinpoint exactly where your hormones are at and what they need to get back into balance.
Join the 12 Week Female Hormone Solution:
Regular: https://drbethwestie.com/12-week-female-hormone-solution/
Menopause: https://drbethwestie.com/12-week-menopause-solution/
Unsure? Link for a free call: https://calendly.com/dr-beth-westie/program-discovery-call
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Why do periods sometimes feel like someone is stabbing you with a hot poker? (Not dramatic at all, right?) Youâre doubled over, your lower back is in knots, you feel nauseous, youâve got a headache brewingâitâs like your body throws a full-on tantrum once a month.
So, why is this happening? And more importantly, how do we make it stop?
First, know this: pain = inflammation. When your period starts, your hormone levels drop suddenly. This is supposed to happen, but if your body isnât flushing out excess estrogen properly (ahem, hello estrogen dominance), it can cause major inflammation. And guess what? Your period is also a detox process. So if your liver and gut (the MVPs of detoxing) arenât working efficiently, your system gets backed upâkind of like a clogged drain. And what happens when a drain gets clogged? Everything overflows and makes a mess. Thatâs your period pain.
Oh, and hereâs a fun fact: Your uterus doubles in size before your period. Yep, you read that right. Itâs pushing up against your bladder, intestines, and all that soft tissue. If thereâs any scar tissue or fibroids in the mix, that pressure gets even worse. No wonder it feels like your whole lower half is waging war against you!
So, what can you do?
You donât have to suffer through this every month! Hereâs where we start:
âš Reduce inflammation every day â This isnât just a period-week problem. Cutting back on alcohol, processed foods, and endocrine disruptors (aka hormone messers) helps lower inflammation all month long.
đ„ Support your detox pathways â Your liver and gut need some love. Start with nutrient-dense foods, hydration, and a DUTCH hormone test to see exactly where you need support.
đĄ Use targeted relief tools â Heating pads, red light therapy, dry brushing, and lymphatic drainage are game-changers for pain relief and inflammation control.
đż Cycle support â Seed cycling, hormone-balancing tinctures, and proper mineral intake can make a HUGE difference in regulating your hormones naturally.
And listen, I know this can feel overwhelming. Like, where do you even start?! Thatâs exactly why I created my 12 Week Hormone Solution programâto guide you through these changes step by step so youâre not stuck Googling âhow to survive my periodâ every month.
If your periods are getting worse, now is the time to take action. Registration is open for a limited time and I won't be offering this again until October.
Click here to join us:
Regular: https://drbethwestie.com/12-week-female-hormone-solution/
Menopause: https://drbethwestie.com/12-week-menopause-solution/
Unsure? Link for a free call: https://calendly.com/dr-beth-westie/program-discovery-call
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Manglende episoder?
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Have you ever woken up feeling puffy, achy, or just offâlike your body is holding onto something it shouldnât? Maybe your rings feel tight, your belly balloons after lunch, or your brain feels foggy no matter how much coffee you drink? (Been there, done that, got the headache.)
What if I told you that inflammation might be behind it allâand that it could be messing with your hormones in ways you never even realized?
Hereâs how it works: When your body is inflamed, it sets off an alarm system. Cortisol, your stress hormone, jumps in to helpâbut if it stays elevated too long, it can throw off estrogen, progesterone, and even your ability to ovulate consistently. Inflammation can also slow down how your body processes hormones, leading to excess estrogen (hello, bloating and mood swings!) and making it harder for you to clear out toxins. Itâs a vicious cycle, and trust me, you are not imagining it.
But hereâs the good news: You donât have to stay stuck in the inflammation-hormone rollercoaster. Hereâs where to start:
1ïžâŁ Check in with your body. Do you feel inflamed? Are you noticing swelling, sluggishness, headaches, or bloating? Your body is talking to you. Listen. 2ïžâŁ Look at your stress. Inflammation and stress are BFFs (the toxic kind). Identify whatâs weighing you downâphysical, emotional, or even environmental stress (yep, those perfume-heavy office spaces count!). 3ïžâŁ Nourish, donât inflame. Swap out processed, inflammatory foods for whole, anti-inflammatory goodnessâthink turmeric, leafy greens, wild-caught fish, and lots of water. 4ïžâŁ Move in a way that heals, not harms. If youâre over-exercising and not recovering well, you could be adding fuel to the inflammation fire. Balance is key! 5ïžâŁ Test, donât guess. Want to get to the root cause? Tests like the DUTCH hormone panel and GI mapping can help you pinpoint exactly whatâs going on inside.
You donât have to do this alone. If youâre nodding along and thinking, this is me, then itâs time to take action. Letâs create a plan that works for your body. Click here to get on the waitlist (registration is open but ONLY to the waitlist!!) for my hormone solution program where weâll tackle inflammation, balance your hormones, and get you feeling like yourself again. Because you deserve to feel amazing.
Learn more: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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Letâs talk about something that actually matters for your health: muscle. Not just looking "toned" (because, let's be honest, that word is overused and under-explained), but truly building lean muscleâthe kind that makes you feel strong, energized, and unstoppable.
If you take one thing away from this, let it be this: protein is non-negotiable. I donât care how much youâre liftingâif youâre not getting enough protein, your body canât build muscle. Period.
Most women think theyâre eating enough protein, but in reality? Theyâre getting half of what they need. Imagine thinking you're filling up your gas tank, but you're actually running on fumes. Thatâs what happens when you skimp on protein.
Hereâs what to do:
Aim for at least 120-140g of protein daily (more if youâre in menopause!).
Space it out throughout the dayâthink protein pacing, not just one big shake at the end of the night.
Lean into easy sources: eggs, chicken, fish, Greek yogurt, protein shakes, and bars.
Muscle doesnât magically appear from cardio or tiny pink dumbbells. You need resistance trainingâsomething that challenges your muscles so they can rebuild stronger.
If youâre new to lifting, start small:
Push-ups on the kitchen counter â then on your knees â then full push-ups.
Bodyweight squats â then add weights â then increase reps.
Dumbbell workâpresses, rows, lungesâall amazing for muscle growth.
Women can gain about 0.5 to 1 pound of muscle per month with consistency. It takes time, but itâs 100% worth it.
Hormones play a huge role in muscle growth, and your cycle impacts when you build muscle best.
Follicular phase (post-period to ovulation): Your body is primed for building muscle. Push harder, lift heavier, challenge yourself.
Luteal phase (post-ovulation to period): Recovery takes longer. Focus on maintaining muscle and prioritizing rest.
Menopause? Your body needs more protein and heavier weights to achieve the same muscle growth as before.
If youâre doing everything ârightâ but still struggling to build muscle, check these culprits:
Not eating enough â Muscle growth needs fuel, not restriction.
Chronic stress â High cortisol can literally break down your muscle.
Poor sleep â Recovery happens when you rest, not when you push harder.
So, What Now?No more second-guessing. No more wasting time on workouts that donât work for you. You have the shortcutâprotein, strength training, and syncing with your body.
Want a step-by-step blueprint customized for you? Iâve got you covered. Click here to get on the waitlist for my next program where we take all of this and make it work for you: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
Because strong is the new strongâand you, my friend, are just getting started. đȘ
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Raise your hand if you hit snooze three times this morning.
Yep, I see you. If rolling out of bed feels like dragging a boulder uphill and you donât feel human until that first sip of coffee, youâre not alone. Trust me, I hear this all the time from women just like youâsmart, driven, and doing all the right things, yet still waking up exhausted. So what gives?
Letâs get one thing straight: itâs not just about getting more sleep. If it were that easy, you wouldnât be reading this. The reality? Thereâs a whole cocktail of reasons why you might be waking up feeling like you got run over by a truck, and weâre about to dig into them.
The biggest culprit? Low cortisol. Think of cortisol as your bodyâs natural morning alarm clockâitâs supposed to rise and give you that letâs-go-conquer-the-day energy. But if your levels are in the basement, youâre starting the day on an empty tank, and no amount of caffeine can fully fix that.
I worked with a woman recently who had been battling morning fatigue for years. She swore she was doing everything rightâgoing to bed early, eating well, exercisingâbut when we ran a DUTCH test, her pre-cortisol levels were basically nonexistent. No wonder she felt like a zombie!
But low cortisol is just one piece of the puzzle. Here are a few other sneaky culprits:
Crummy sleep quality â Are you actually getting deep, restorative sleep or just logging hours in bed?
Melatonin misfires â If your melatonin is off, your bodyâs sleep-wake cycle might be too.
Nutrient gaps â Your body does a ton of repair work overnight, and it needs the right fuel to do it.
Circadian rhythm chaos â Stress, travel, late-night scrolling (weâve all been there)âall of this messes with your bodyâs natural rhythms.
How to Wake Up Feeling Better Than a Walking Zombie)First things first: Youâre not lazy. You donât need more willpower. You need to give your body what it actually needs to function. Hereâs how to start:
Test, donât guess â A DUTCH test will give you real insight into whatâs happening with your hormones.
Prioritize deep sleep â Set up a bedtime routine, cut back on blue light at night, and consider magnesium or melatonin support.
Fuel your body right â Protein, healthy fats, and key nutrients are essential for overnight recovery.
Stay the course â If your system is running on empty, fixing it isnât an overnight job. Give it time, and donât quit too soon.
I know how frustrating it is to feel like your body isnât cooperating. But hereâs the good news: you donât have to live like this. If youâre ready to stop waking up exhausted and actually feel energized, letâs get to the root cause.
Click the link to learn more about the Female Hormone Solution ProgramâIâm here to help you take back your mornings and feel like you again: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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You know that mid-afternoon slump, the one where youâre staring at your to-do list, wondering if a nap is a socially acceptable option? Or that feeling when your energy crashes before your workout even starts? Yeah, Iâve been there too.
But hereâs the thing: itâs not just about getting enough proteinâitâs how you eat it that makes the magic happen. Enter: protein pacing.
What is it? Think of it like giving your body consistent doses of protein throughout the day instead of one giant meal at dinner. Science (and my own experience) says this can:
â Keep your metabolism revved up đ„
â Balance blood sugar (bye, mood swings)
â Support lean muscle (hello, strength and confidence)And the best part? Itâs not about adding more foodâitâs about spreading it out smarter. Hereâs what that looks like:
âïž Breakfast: Scrambled eggs + avocado toast (or a smoothie packed with protein)
đŽ Snack: Greek yogurt + berries + a sprinkle of chia seeds
đ„ Lunch: Chicken, quinoa, and greens drizzled with a yummy dressing
đ„ Afternoon snack: protein shake or greek yog (yes, please)
đœ Dinner: Salmon, roasted veggies, and sweet potatoesSimple, right? And trust me, when you start fueling your body this way, you feel the difference. More energy, fewer cravings, and that steady, strong kind of confidence that makes you want to tackle your day (and maybe even that workout you were dreading).
Want 12 weeks of protein pacing meal guides, hormone testing and supplements for YOUR unique hormone challenges? Iâve opened the waitlist for my next 12 week hormone solution and you are invited (special discounts await!): https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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Have you been told to ditch carbs? In the world of keto and low-carb trends, let me tell you: Carbs are not the enemy. In fact, theyâre essential, especially for womenâs hormone health.
Carbs arenât just about energyâtheyâre also about balance.
Brain Food:
Your brain thrives on glucose (a form of sugar that comes from carbs). When youâre under stress or tired, your brain craves carbs because thatâs what it needs to function optimally. Restricting carbs? You might feel foggy, irritable, and more stressed.Hormone Health:
Cortisol: If youâre low on carbs, your stress hormone (cortisol) stays elevated, making it harder to recover from stress and even disrupting your sleep.
Thyroid: Your thyroid, the gland responsible for your metabolism, relies on carbs to produce hormones effectively. Low-carb diets can slow your metabolism.
Insulin: Skipping carbs can lead to insulin resistance over time, which impacts your energy, weight, and even fertility.
Digestive Health:
Your gut actually produces enzymes to break down carbs. Stop eating them, and your gut stops making those enzymes. When you reintroduce carbs, your digestion may struggle, leading to discomfort.Growth & Repair:
Growth hormone, which helps your body repair itself and maintain healthy tissues, is most active at night. But if your blood sugar isnât stable during the day, this process can be disrupted, leaving you feeling less rejuvenated.âDonât carbs cause weight gain?â
Not when you eat them in balance. Excessive carbs without enough protein or fats can contribute to weight gain, but eliminating them altogether can wreak havoc on your metabolism.âIsnât sugar bad for hormones?â
Itâs about quality, not elimination. Focus on whole, nutrient-dense carbs like fruits, veggies, and whole grains instead of processed sugars.Think of your body like a house. If the foundation is crooked, everything else is offâno matter how much you try to âfixâ the details. Nutrition is that foundation. When your carbs, protein, and fat are balanced, your body can self-regulate more effectively, improving hormone health, stress levels, and even sleep.
Iâm hosting a FREE 5-Day Hormone Balance & Metabolism Jumpstart where weâll dive deeper into this and more: https://dr-beth-westie.mykajabi.com/free-5-day-metabolism-boost-hormone-balance-reset
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Did you know that years of dieting could be sabotaging your metabolism? Letâs unpack why this happens and, more importantly, how you can rebuild your metabolism for better energy and better health!
The Diet TrapFor decades, diet culture has pressured women to pursue unrealistic body standards. From cabbage soup diets to extreme calorie restriction, the message has been clear: smaller is better. But hereâs the thingâthis is not true, and itâs certainly not good for your metabolism.
When you restrict calories or cut out entire food groups, your metabolism adapts. It slows down to conserve energy because your body perceives these restrictions as a stressor. Over time, this makes it harder to lose weight, creates hormonal imbalances, and depletes your energy stores.
Why the Female Body is DifferentHereâs something diet culture ignores: the female body is designed to store fat as a survival mechanism. Fat is essential for hormone regulation, fertility, and overall health. When you drastically cut calories or follow extreme diets, your body clings to fat reserves even harder. Itâs not youâitâs biology.
On top of that, factors like stress, lack of sleep, medications, and birth control can further impact your metabolism. Add in chronic dieting, and the result is often a sluggish metabolic rate, nutrient deficiencies, and burnout.
The Metabolism You WantThe good news? You donât have to stay stuck in this cycle. The key to a healthy metabolism is fueling your bodyânot depriving it. Itâs about giving your body the nutrients, rest, and movement it needs to function optimally.
Protein is Your Friend: Start your day with a protein-rich breakfast to support muscle repair and metabolism.
Prioritize Sleep: Growth hormone, essential for metabolic function, is released during deep sleep.
Manage Stress: High cortisol levels can wreak havoc on your metabolism. Build stress-reducing habits into your day.
Fuel Strategically: Eating enough calories and the right balance of nutrients keeps your metabolic âfireâ burning.
Ready for a Reset?If youâre ready to break free from the dieting hamster wheel and build a metabolism that works for you, Iâm inviting you to join my FREE 5-Day Metabolism Reset Challenge.
In just five days, youâll learn how to:
Fuel your body for better energy.
Improve your digestion.
Build habits for long-term metabolic health.
Plus, weâll be giving away prizes like DUTCH hormone tests, metabolism-supporting tinctures, and dry brushes to kickstart your journey.
This is a no-pressure, supportive challenge designed to help you feel better, fast. Whether youâre looking for a reset or just some practical tips, this challenge is the perfect place to start.
Details at a Glance:đ When: February 3rd - February 7th
đ Prizes: Dutch hormone tests, metabolism tinctures, and more!
đ Where: Online
đ° Cost: FREEđ Join the Challenge Here: https://dr-beth-westie.mykajabi.com/free-5-day-metabolism-boost-hormone-balance-reset
I know how exhausting it can feel to try diet after diet and end up disappointed. Letâs shift the focus to fueling your body, improving your health, and building a metabolism that works for youânot against you.
I canât wait to see you there!
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Do you ever feel like youâre trapped in a body thatâs having wild emotional responses for no reason? Like one moment youâre calm, and the next, youâre completely overwhelmed? Youâre not alone.
Mood swings can feel like a rollercoasterâsudden anger, tears, or irritability that seem to come out of nowhere. But hereâs the thing: itâs not âall in your head,â and youâre not overreacting. Your body may be signaling deeper imbalances.
Mood swings arenât just a simple A + B = C equation. Womenâs physiology is incredibly complex, and factors like hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies, and stress play a major role. Here are some common culprits:
Hormonal Imbalances: Issues with estrogen processing or progesterone levels often show up on advanced hormone tests like the DUTCH test. Adrenal Stress: Elevated cortisol (your stress hormone) can throw your emotional balance off. Nutrient Deficiencies: Lacking key vitamins or minerals can exacerbate mood swings. Sleep Issues: Poor-quality sleep leaves you emotionally vulnerable.Severe mood swings donât just affect youâthey can ripple through your relationships, work, and overall well-being. One client described feeling like Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, losing patience with her kids and spouse, and even jeopardizing lifelong friendships.
Your mood swing road map:
Testing is Key: A comprehensive hormone test can pinpoint the root causes of your mood swings. Support Your Liver: Estrogen is processed through the liver, and if itâs sluggish, emotions like anger can build up. Tailored Nutrition: Small tweaks to your diet can make a huge difference in how you feel. Stress Management: Addressing adrenal fatigue can stabilize your emotional responses.You donât have to live at the mercy of your mood swings. With the right tools, you can regain control and feel like yourself again.
Join the next 12 week Hormone solution: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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You're hot then you're cold⊠unlike the Katy Perry song, hot flashes are NOT fun.
And from an Eastern medicine perspective, they may also signify "stuck energy" or issues with stress response and detox pathways.
Major ugh.
But wait, you are not destined to be stuck in the night sweat - hot flash cycle forever!
Letâs unpack these sweaty episodes:
Common Triggers for Hot Flashes
Stress: Emotional, physical, and chemical stress can all contribute. Examples include:
High-intensity workouts followed by stressful to do list.
Emotional events like a job change, divorce, or death.
Chemical triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and fermented foods.
Dietary Factors: Foods high in sugars, alcohol, and certain irritants (like nightshade vegetables) can exacerbate symptoms.
Liver and Gut Health: According to traditional Chinese medicine, nighttime hot flashes often occur during liver detoxification hours (1-3 AM). Issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea can signal gut-related concerns.
So letâs make it stop!!Start with Testing: A personalized approach begins with understanding your body's unique needs. Recommended tests include:
Dutch Test: A comprehensive hormone test to pinpoint imbalances.
GI Map: To assess gut health and ensure proper digestion.
Full Thyroid Panel: Since the thyroid regulates body temperature, a detailed evaluation of TSH, T3, T4, and antibodies is essential.
Manage Stress:
Incorporate meditation, mindfulness, or yoga and BOUNDARIES
Use adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola to support cortisol regulation.
Support Detox Pathways:
Water-Soluble Pathway: Stay hydrated, add mineral-rich foods, and boost lymphatic flow through gentle exercise or dry brushing.
Fat-Soluble Pathway: Focus on liver and gut health by reducing alcohol and sugar, incorporating fiber, and addressing digestive concerns.
Adjust Your Diet:
Avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and fermented foods if they trigger symptoms.
Opt for anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing foods like leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
Consider Targeted Supplements:
Adaptogens for stress.
Liver-supportive nutrients like milk thistle and dandelion root.
Probiotics to enhance gut health.
Candace did it! She struggled with hot flashes for nearly two years despite trying medications, OBGYN recommendations, and advice from friends. After starting a customized protocol based on DUTCH test results, her symptoms initially worsened as her body released a backlog of hormones. Within weeks, the hot flashes significantly decreased and eventually disappeared. Today, she sleeps soundly and doesnât wake up in a pool of sweat!
If you are ready to tackle the hot flashes FOR GOOD, I've got a 12 week hormone solution plan for you: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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Most of what weâve been told about boosting metabolism is incompleteâor just plain wrong. Cutting calories? Over-exercising? These approaches might work for a while, but they often backfire, especially for women as we age and our hormones shift.
Your metabolism is more than a calorie-burning machine; itâs the foundation of how your body creates energy, processes nutrients, and detoxifies naturally. Here are the top three ways to support your metabolism for lasting energy, health, and vibrancy:
1ïžâŁ Fuel Your Body Properly
Stop starving yourself! Consistently eating too little slows your metabolism and deprives your body of essential nutrients. Instead, focus on nourishment. Prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods and enjoy treats without guilt. When you fuel your body well, your metabolism can handle moreâwhether itâs cookies made with love or a holiday feast.2ïžâŁ Build and Maintain Muscle
Muscle is a metabolic powerhouse. The more lean muscle you have, the more energy your body burnsâeven at rest. Incorporate strength training into your routine and ensure youâre getting enough protein to repair and build muscle. Even adding just five pounds of lean muscle can significantly boost your basal metabolic rate.3ïžâŁ Support Natural Detox Pathways
Your bodyâs natural detox systemsâlike your liver, lymphatic system, and digestive tractâplay a huge role in metabolism. If you experience bloating, sluggish digestion, or fatigue, these pathways may need support. Simple steps like dry brushing, sweating through exercise or sauna sessions, and staying hydrated can help your body flush out toxins and function optimally.Iâve got an entire 12 week plan mapped out for you, complete with hormone testing, meal guides, training videos, live coaching sessions and supplements!
Click here if youâd like to join us for the next Hormone Solution: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/
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More exercise isnât always better⊠itâs HOW you exercise and WHEN you exercise that really matters.
Here are some mistakes that women make with exercise that end up making things WORSE:
Mistake #1: Over-Exercise
If youâre battling adrenal fatigue, pushing through intense workouts can backfire. Signs like lingering soreness or not getting stronger despite consistent effort mean your body is crying out for rest. Instead, try light yoga, walking, or gentle resistance training to support recovery.Mistake #2: Ignoring Your Bodyâs History
Your past stressors matter. Trauma, major life transitions, and even positive stress like a dream move can impact your bodyâs response to exercise. Your nervous system may interpret stress as a signal to escapeâleaving you exhausted when you need energy most.Mistake #3: Sticking to Exercise You Hate
Not a fan of weightlifting? Thatâs fine! Exercise is personal, so explore Pilates, barre, or small-group fitness classes. Find what excites you and connects you with others. Exercise should be enjoyable, not a chore.Mistake #4: Exercising Without Guidance
Not all workout plans are created equal. If your progress has stalled, itâs time to understand what your body truly needs.You donât need to work harder. You need to work smarter. Stop spinning your wheels. Reconnect with your body, understand what it needs, and start seeing real results.
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Is your metabolism really working against you?
Youâve done all âthe right thingsâ like adjusting your diet and movement and still feel sluggish.
Hormonal imbalances can play a massive role in metabolic dysfunction and even body composition.
Your hormones regulate more than you might realize. Imbalances can lead to issues with your metabolism: fatigue and weight loss resistance. This isnât just about calories in versus calories out. Itâs about how your body processes, stores, and uses energy. For women especially, factors like stress, sleep, and digestive health can drastically alter metabolic processes.
This resistance often happens because your fat cells arenât static. Theyâre highly dynamic and responsive to hormones like estrogen and cortisol. If your body is under stress or storing excess hormones, your fat cells hold on tightly. This is why yo-ho dieting is so harmful!
The female body is designed to prioritize survival. When youâre stressed or underfed, your system may âfreezeâ metabolically, locking down fat storage and shifting away from building lean muscle. Even the most grueling workouts and restrictive diets can backfire in this state.
So what can you do??
You can TEST! Since hormones are at the root of the symptoms, we need to see exactly what those hormones are doing. Unlike standard blood tests, which measure a mix of free and bound hormones, the DUTCH test gives a clearer picture of how your body is processing and utilizing hormones. For example:
Is your body storing excess estrogen?
Are your cortisol levels too low to support a healthy metabolism?
If you suspect a metabolism or hormone imbalance, get your new year DUTCH test here: https://drbethwestie.com/dutch-hormone-testing/
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The holidays are a whirlwind. Between Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Yearâs, and every party and get-together in between, itâs no wonder many of us start January feeling burned out, puffy, and far from our best selves. Itâs time to reset your cortisol and kick off the new year on the right footâslow and steady.
Hereâs how:
1. Evaluate Before You AddInstead of diving headfirst into intense gym sessions or restrictive diets, start by taking something away. Overwhelming your system with big changes can do more harm than good. For example, try cutting out alcohol (hello, Dry January!) or reducing sugar intake before adding intense workouts to your routine.
2. Prioritize Nervous System SupportYour body craves routine and calm after the holiday chaos. Focus on:
Sleep: Establish a consistent bedtime and wake time. Good sleep is foundational for cortisol recovery.
Nutrient-Dense Foods: Incorporate leafy greens, organ meats, animal proteins, and plenty of minerals.
Dry Brushing: Stimulate your lymphatic system and reduce cortisol buildup. Bonus: itâs great for your skin too.
Adrenal Tinctures: Consider blends with ashwagandha, maca, or kava kava to support both high and low cortisol levels.
3. Slow and Steady Wins the RaceRemember the story of the tortoise and the hare? Sustainable habits, not quick fixes, are the key to long-term health. Rushing into an intense regimen can worsen adrenal fatigue and stress. Instead, take it one step at a time.
4. Test, Donât GuessIf youâre unsure where to start, start with a DUTCH test. This comprehensive hormone test helps pinpoint exactly what your body needs so you can take targeted action.
Start small, stay steady, and give your body the recovery it deserves.
Get your test here: https://drbethwestie.com/dutch-hormone-testing/
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I am so excited to share this interview I had with Amanda Kuda!
Amanda is an alcohol-free lifestyle expert. Sheâs a holistic life coach, speaker and author living, working and playing in Austin, TX. As a coach, Amanda helps ambitious, soul-centered women stop drinking and start manifesting the life they deserve and desire.
She teaches a modern approach to personal development, self-actualization and spiritual enlightenment through the lens of elective sobriety. Amandaâs first book, Unbottled Potential: Break Up With Alcohol And Break Through To Your Best Life is out now (Penguin Random House / Avery) is available now wherever books are sold.
Her work has been featured on CNN, Business Insider, and The Skimm.
Exclusive Access to Amandaâs 21-Day Challenge: https://www.amandakuda.com/challenge
Amanda's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amandakuda/
Amanda's Website: https://www.amandakuda.com
Unbottled Potential on Amazon: https://a.co/d/fHooI5M
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Have you ever thought, âItâs not my fault, I inherited it from my momâ? While your DNA sets the stage, your environment and lifestyle also play leading roles in your health.
Genetics loads the gun. Lifestyle pulls the trigger.
This means that while you may carry certain genetic predispositions, itâs your daily habits and environment that determine whether those traits become active or remain dormant. Factors like stress, nutrition, and even life events can activate or suppress your genetic tendencies. For example:
Pregnancy can act as a major stressor, revealing hidden health issues like postpartum thyroiditis. This condition is often tied to genetics but can be exacerbated by life events.
The Power of Genetic Testing: Understanding your unique genetic profile is like having a roadmap for your health. It provides insights into:
How your body handles stress (methylation).
Your predisposition to hormone imbalances or autoimmune conditions.
The best foods, supplements, and lifestyle practices to optimize your health.
Take methylation as an example. Itâs a crucial process your body uses to repair DNA, manage stress, and detoxify. If youâre not a strong methylator, small lifestyle changes like eating B-complex-rich foods (leafy greens, wild-caught fish) and managing stress can significantly improve your health.
Why This Matters: Genetic testing empowers you to take control. Instead of guessing why certain health issues arise, you gain clarity and actionable steps to support your well-being. With the right insights, you can shift your lifestyle to work with your genes, not against them.
Get your genetic blueprint here: https://dr-beth-westie.mykajabi.com/offers/38Fg4ByH/checkout
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In July, our family faced a moment that shook us to the core. My husband, a lifelong athlete and ultra-marathoner, came dangerously close to losing his life. What unfolded was a painful reminder of the importance of listening to our bodies and respecting their limits.
Over the years, my husbandâs love for running had grown into an all-consuming obsession. He pushed his body to extremes, racing back-to-back ultra-marathons in grueling conditions. The warning signs were there: fatigue, a persistent headache, and difficulty recovering. But the drive to "do one more race" overshadowed them all.
After a particularly challenging race, his body broke down. Symptoms like vomiting, severe muscle pain, and extreme fatigue signaled something deeply wrong. Lab results confirmed the terrifying truth: rhabdomyolysis. His muscles were breaking down, flooding his bloodstream with toxins that his kidneys struggled to filter.
For two months, my once-unstoppable husband could barely care for himself. I watched as this bear of a man lost 20 pounds, struggled to swallow food, and battled constant pain. Sleepless nights, endless IV therapies, and careful monitoring became our new normal as I fought to keep him alive.
Six months later, heâs on the road to recovery, but life has changed. Simple joys like running with our dogs or enjoying Thanksgiving dinner are taken slowly. His stamina isnât what it once was, and weâre still unsure about long-term impacts. But through it all, weâve learned powerful lessons about balance, recovery, and the dangers of pushing too far.
Ladies, as you read this, I urge you to listen to your body. Health is not just about doing more or going harder; itâs about nourishing and caring for yourself. Letâs honor the strength of our bodies by giving them the care they deserve.
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"Quit crying about it, or I'll give you something to cry about."
Many of us grew up hearing phrases like this, dismissing our emotions as if stress were just a fleeting feeling. But what if I told you stress is not just âin your headâ but a full-body experience that impacts every system you rely on?
Stress is our body's natural response to challenges, releasing cortisol to help us react and adapt. But unlike squirrels or deer, humans don't just "shake it off" after the danger passes. Our brains can perceive stress from thoughts aloneâwhether reliving a past trauma, dreading an upcoming meeting, or imagining a worst-case scenario. And our bodies respond as if the threat is real.
Hereâs how chronic stress shows up in the female body:
Hormones Out of Balance: Stress disrupts cortisol, leading to fatigue, poor sleep, and even weight gain.
Brain Fog: Stress shifts brain function, sidelining logical decision-making in favor of survival instincts.
Digestive Distress: Enzymes and motility change, impacting nutrient absorption and gut health.
Immune Dysfunction: Women are disproportionately diagnosed with autoimmune diseasesâa likely connection to chronic stress.
Emotional Eating: Under stress, your brain craves sugars and salts for quick energy, driving unhealthy cravings.
Our culture often pressures women to manage everyone elseâs stress while ignoring their own. Is it any wonder so many women experience burnout, chronic fatigue, or unexplainable health symptoms?
The Good News:
You can rewire your response to stress. It starts with recognizing the signals your body sends and intentionally calming your nervous system. Tools like adaptogenic herbs (ashwagandha, maca, rhodiola - try this blend!) mindfulness practices, and even short meditations can work wonders.
Take it from one of my clients. She struggled with stress for over a decade, even after improving her diet and supplements. But when she committed to daily meditation, she lost over 5 pounds in just a few weeksânot because she ate less or exercised more, but because her body finally relaxed.
Stress is not "just a feeling." It's a cascade of physical responses that, left unchecked, can derail your health. The key is to give your body permission to REST.
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Progesterone is your bodyâs natural balancer. It counteracts estrogen, helps you sleep better, improves your mood, regulates your cycle, and even supports bone health. Itâs also key for the second half of your cycle (the luteal phase) and for overall balance and fertility.
But hereâs the catch: you must ovulate to produce progesterone. Stress, nutrient deficiencies, or imbalanced cortisol can throw your system off, making ovulation harder â and your progesterone levels plummet.
This is where my Progesterobalance Tincture comes in. With natural, time-tested ingredients like Vitex, red raspberry leaf, and Damiana, this tincture supports your body to:
ⶠRegulate your cycle
ⶠReduce PMS symptoms (goodbye, cramps and clots!)
ⶠImprove mood and sleep
ⶠBalance progesterone levels naturallyWhether youâre dealing with irregular cycles, perimenopause chaos, or just feeling off, this blend is a game-changer. And no â youâre not broken. Your body just needs the right support!
Try Progesterobalance Tincture today â your hormones will thank you. FREE Shipping & 15% OFF with code: GIFT https://nutritionforyourhormones.com/products/estrobalance-progesterobalance-bundle
*code must be applied at checkout - the discount cannot be applied after the purchase is made.
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Estrogen is like the ugly step sister who gets blamed for everything, but actually itâs essential for women!
Yes, too much or too little will easily throw your body into a slew of uncomfortable symptoms, if you can get this hormone in balance, it can be a superpower.
Estrogen is a hormone primarily produced by the ovaries, although itâs also made in smaller amounts by fat cells, adrenal tissue, and even neural tissue. It plays a central role in:
Puberty: Triggering the development of secondary sex characteristics.
Menstrual Cycle: Building the uterine lining to support fertility.
Bone Health: Supporting bone density and strength, essential for preventing osteoporosis.
Muscle Repair: Aiding in muscle repair and building.
Heart Health: Contributing to cardiovascular health by protecting blood vessels.
Brain Function: Crossing the blood-brain barrier to influence neurotransmitter production and cognitive health.
Skin, Hair, and Nails: Supporting the health of mucous membranes and connective tissues.
An imbalance in estrogen can lead to a variety of challenges:
Estrogen Dominance: Common in conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids, excess estrogen can lead to weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal disruptions.
Low Estrogen Levels: Often caused by stress, restrictive eating, or menopause, this can result in low bone density, poor muscle recovery, and difficulty maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle.
Hereâs a fascinating (and frustrating) fact: fat cells produce estrogen. For those with excess adipose tissue, this can create a cycle of estrogen dominance, which can be challenging to break. On the flip side, rapid weight loss can release stored estrogen from fat cells, temporarily disrupting your cycle and causing symptoms like heavy periods or cramping.
Letâs balance that estrogen:
Nutritional Support: Seed cycling and eating for your cycle can help regulate estrogen levels month after month.
Herbal Tinctures: Incorporating Eastern medicine herbs like estrogen-balancing tinctures during the first two weeks of your cycle and progesterone-supportive tinctures during the second two weeks can be game-changing.
Liver and Gut Health: Your liver and gut are responsible for processing and eliminating excess estrogen. A nutrient-rich diet and staying hydrated can support these pathways.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone production. Practices like yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep can keep your hormones in check.
Hormones like estrogen donât operate in isolation. Theyâre part of a dance with other hormones, like progesterone, which counterbalances estrogen. When your bodyâs cycle is supported, magic happens: regular cycles, easier weight management, and improved overall health.
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