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Mini Pause #92: Are you losing water?

Posted on by stephanie-estima

TL;DR

As estrogen drops, your ability to regulate fluids, electrolytes, and body temperature changes. You'll lose more sodium, tolerate less heat, and miss your thirst cues.

The fix? Strategic hydration. More electrolytes. Earlier in the day. Especially around training or sauna sessions.

—

You're not drinking enough water.
You're retaining water.
Salt will make you bloat.
You don't have enough salt.
Spending too much time in water dehydrates you…

What in the dihydrogen monoxide are you actually supposed to do with water?!

Hydration in midlife is no joke… and it's not just about how much water you drink. It's about how much water you can hold onto.

WHY

Most women in midlife are underhydrated and don't even know it.

When estrogen declines, your internal thermostat and hydration control system start to shift.

Dark Roast Bettys will appreciate that estrogen influences the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system… aka the hormonal circuit that tells your kidneys to retain sodium and water.

When it drops, everything changes:

  • You lose more sodium in your sweat.
  • You become less heat-tolerant (hello, hot flashes and sauna fatigue).
  • You have lower plasma volume during training, which increases risk of dehydration and cramping.
  • You feel thirst later than you should, so you're already behind before you drink.

In the colder months, it somehow manages to get even worse.

We feel less thirsty, but still lose fluid through breathing, training, and dry indoor air.

The silent dehydration zaps your energy to the ground, and while you're down there, it also takes swings at your cognition, recovery, and mood.

So, Betty, while you're zonked out on your yoga mat using a dumbbell as a pillow, you can take comfort in knowing you don't necessarily need more water…

You need a strategy.

HOW

Electrolytes are charged minerals: sodium (Na⁺), potassium (K⁺), magnesium (Mg²⁺), and chloride (Cl⁻) that maintain muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and hydration inside and outside our cells.

The general rule of thumb is to hydrate before you’re thirsty and take sodium before you fatigue. Look for this electrolyte balance:

  • Sodium at a rate of 800-1000 mg/hour of sweating (bump this up if you see white salt streaks on your clothes or skin).
  • Potassium at a rate of 200-400 mg/hour.
  • Magnesium at a rate of 100-200 mg/day.

Before Training or Sauna

Preload your activity with electrolytes about 30-45 minutes before training or sauna sessions to expand plasma volume, and reduce heart rate drift and perceived exertion.

I love LMNT. It has the 1000 mg of sodium, 200 mg of potassium, and 60 mg of magnesium I’m looking for. I load it up in 16-24 oz of water about 30 minutes before a sweat sesh.

(My go-to flavor is lemonade, especially on sprint or heavy lifting days. Think popsicle on the beach.)

If you want something gentler, try Pique Tea Electrolytes (500 mg sodium, 300 mg potassium, 50 mg magnesium). It’s great for recovery days, Zone 2 cardio days, or upper body days in LIFT.

During Training

If your workout lasts longer than 45 minutes, sip 8 oz of electrolyte water every 15-20 minutes.

If you’re working in the heat, like hot yoga or a sauna, sip consistently throughout your session.

No matter what activity you’re doing, drink until you quench your thirst, and then add in a few more sips for bonus points before you start sweating again.

After Training or Sauna

Rehydrate with 1-1.5x the fluid lost. How do you know how much fluid you lost?

Hop on a scale before and after your workout. Each pound you lost equals about 500 mL of fluid, so you need 500-750 mL of hydration per pound lost.

Combine fluids with electrolytes. LMNT for heavier or intense sweat sessions, Pique Tea for lighter, anti-oxidant rich option that also supports gut health.

Within an hour, enjoy a salty, protein-rich meal. Think: eggs + avocado + sea salt. This will help reinforce sodium and amino acid replenishment.

In Fall and Winter

You might feel less thirsty, but heated air and layered clothing increase water loss.

Schedule your hydration earlier in the day. Women in midlife often experience nocturia (translation: getting up to pee overnight), so getting the fluid in early prevents the post-dinner chugging that keeps you up.

Lean into warm electrolyte drinks over the winter. Warm drinks support thermoregulation and you’re more likely to stick with it because it’s super cozy.

NOW

Your hydration needs have changed. Your strategy should too.

Start preloading electrolytes before workouts or sauna sessions this week. You’ll feel the difference in your energy, recovery, and sleep within days… if not hours.

If you’re in your lifting heavy era (if you aren’t, what’s going on?! Check out LIFT and I’ll walk you through it.), use LMNT and Pique Tea the way I do – intelligently, consistently, and seasonally.

It’s not always about more effort. It’s about more understanding.

 

Stay strong, stay hydrated, and stay curious.

Dr. Stephanie

WHAT I LOVE THIS WEEK

Bon Charge (Sauna Blanket)¹

Fall is when I double down on recovery… and one of my favorite tools for recovery is the Bon Charge Infrared Sauna Blanket.

Think of it like an at-home reset button.

The far infrared heat penetrates deep into muscle tissue, easing soreness, supporting detox pathways, and giving you that unmistakable post-sauna glow.

What I love most is that it's thoughtfully designed with low-EMF tech, non-toxic materials, and customizable heat sessions so you can sweat smarter, not harder.

I use mine after training sessions or before bed to calm my nervous system and boost sleep quality.

It's one of the most powerful and consistent ways to support recovery and longevity while you just hang out at home – especially as the temps drop.

Get 15% off your Bon Charge Sauna Mat with code DRSTEPHANIE.

Young Goose2

This week on the podcast, I sat down with Amitay Eshel, founder of Young Goose, and I'll be honest – it completely changed how I think about aging skin.

We talk so much about creams and serums, but true skin health starts deeper… with cellular energy and DNA repair.

Young Goose builds its formulations around NAD – the same molecule that fuels cellular repair and regeneration. For women in perimenopause and menopause, NAD becomes even more critical because it helps preserve skin elasticity and that natural radiance we start to miss when estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone decline.

What I love about Young Goose's skincare line is that it goes beyond over-correcting and resurfacing and really respects the biology of aging.

It's skincare that restores function – not just appearance.

Start supporting your skin from the inside out with Young Goose now and use code BETTER for 10% off.

Troscriptions3

I've been using Just Blue from Troscriptions. It's a pharmaceutical-grade methylene blue troche designed to enhance energy at the cellular level.

Unlike caffeine, there's no crash, no fried energy… just pure mitochondrial support.

Each 16 mg lozenge dissolves between your cheek and gum, delivering faster, cleaner clarity for both brain and body.

What I notice most? Sharper focus, better endurance, and more stable energy – whether I'm deep in writing, coaching, or lifting.

Most methylene blue supplements don't come close in dose or purity. This one is third-party tested and developed by four practicing physicians who use it in clinic.

We don't take shortcuts to brain optimization, but we will take a research-backed hack.

Try Just Blue from Troscriptions and use code BETTER for 10% off.

 

🌟 Love these recommendations? Find more resources to support your health in midlife in my Health Toolkit!

1. Bon Charge ships almost everywhere in the world, excluding a few places under sanctions, like Russia. Code DRSTEPHANIE will work on any order outside of sale periods, with no limits.

2. Young Goose code BETTER will work on all orders but cannot be stacked with any other promotional codes. Young Goose currently ships to all countries except Spain, due to their specific regulations that block skincare shipments.

3. Troscriptions requires that buyers are 21 to order. Please read their international order terms here.

 

Mini Pause #76: Ketones – Your New Metabolic BFF?

Posted on by stephanie-estima

TL; DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

Ketones are a clean energy source that mimic fasting or keto without cutting carbs.

They fuel your brain and body directly (unlike caffeine, which just blocks sleepiness) and can boost workout performance, mental focus, and appetite control.

They’re ideal if you want steady energy without the crash, care about long-term health, but don’t want to commit to a full keto lifestyle. Start small, use them strategically, and treat them as a tool (not a magic fix).

WHY

Why Should You Care About Ketones?

Ketones are drinks that rapidly elevate your ketone levels, mimicking a mild fasting or ketogenic state all without the need to fast or restrict your carbohydrates for extended periods of time. They are an effective way to fuel early morning workouts without sacrificing performance and not having to eat.

WHAT 

What do Ketones actually do in the body?

Ketones are small molecules we produce in our liver when fat is broken down. Higher ketone levels indicate that your body is using fat for energy rather than glucose (sugar), which is the primary goal of ketosis or a ketogenic diet.

When you supplement with ketones they provide an immediate source of energy for both your brain and your body.

This is in stark contrast to coffee (or the active ingredient – caffeine).

Caffeine works by blocking the receptors that make you feel sleepy. When we have caffeine, we often “feel” the jittery effects of it, but that is because it is ramping up our cortisol and adrenaline. Caffeine is not a source of energy that our cells can make energy from.

So while I’m never giving up my morning cappuccino, we have to recognize that the caffeine itself is not making energy.

Only molecules like glucose, amino acids or ketones (that we get from our diet or as we break down fat) that can be used to actually make energy inside the cell.

In my discussion this week with Dr. Brianna Stubbs, she outlined some of the benefits they provide:

  • Boost pre-workout energy without food, helping spare muscle glycogen and reduce fatigue during the actual workout.
  • Act as a natural appetite suppressant, lowering hunger hormones during and after workouts.
  • Enhance mental clarity and focus without caffeine's jittery side effects.
  • Possibly support longevity, improving mitochondrial function, reducing inflammation, protecting the brain, and positively influencing gene expression linked to healthy aging.

HOW

How do you know which option is right for you?

  • Vs. Natural Ketosis: Natural ketosis (via strict diets or fasting) is great if you can fast and restrict carbs for several weeks. The issue here is it often requires significant dedication and a longer term lifestyle change. Which is GREAT, but it is just not meant for everyone.
    • Supplementing with ketones instantly and temporarily mimic ketosis without carb restrictions. This is ideal if you prefer flexibility or occasional use without long-term commitment.
    • I also no longer follow a ketogenic diet, nor do I fast for longer periods of time, so supplementing with ketones is a nice work around for me.
  • Vs. Caffeine: Caffeine boosts alertness rapidly but can cause anxiety, jitters, and energy crashes. Ketones offer steadier, jitter-free energy, beneficial if caffeine leaves you wired or disrupts sleep.
  • Vs. Traditional Pre-workouts: Typical pre-workouts rely on stimulants (caffeine, beta-alanine, etc.) for a sharp energy spike. Ketones provide a subtle, sustained energy that may enhance endurance rather than immediate explosive power

Consider ketones if you:

  • Workout early and don't want to eat breakfast beforehand.
  • Struggle with hunger when fasting or caloric restriction.
  • Need stable, calm mental energy or you want to reduce your caffeine intake.
  • Are interested in metabolic, brain health, and longevity benefits but don't want to maintain strict dietary ketosis forever.

Avoid Ketones if you:

  • Prefer significant immediate stimulation (like strong pre-workouts).
  • Have sensitive digestion (ketones can initially cause GI upset in some people).
  • Are strictly following natural keto diets for long-term metabolic goals (you may not need them because you are likely already producing ketones).

NOW

What are your immediate next steps?

Start Small: Begin with half a serving to see how your body responds. I use Ketone IQ and take 1 bottle before working out, or before podcasting.

Timing Matters: Use strategically: early morning pre-workout, during fasting windows, or mid-afternoon when focus and willpower fades.

Consistency over Magic: Remember, ketones are a useful tool, not a cure-all. Combine them with healthy eating, regular exercise, and quality sleep to maximize benefits.

 

WHAT I RECOMMEND

Ketone-IQ 

I have personally been using this product for years and I love it. It tastes great, I down a 10mL bottle and head out to the gym in the morning. No sugar. No artificial ingredients, just pure ketones in a convenient bottle. Visit https://ketone.com/STEPHANIE and 30% off your first subscription order

My Latest Article: Pique Life's Drinkable Skincare

Feeling like your skin has lost its “glow” in midlife? Myself and my Bettys can relate!

Hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can leave your skin thinner, drier, and more prone to irritation. Yes, gut health, strength training, and sleep are all essential, but your skin deserves just as much attention.

And while I love my cream and serums, there’s something else I’m loving that’s super simple… It’s “drinkable skincare” from Pique Life that helps your skin from the inside out.

Click here to read more and grab an exclusive discount on USA subscriptions while it lasts.

LvlUp Health’s Ultimate GI Repair:

If you’re feeling bloated, foggy, or just off after nearly every meal there’s a reason for it.

As estrogen declines in midlife, your digestion takes a hit and your body simply doesn’t process food like it used to. But there’s an easy solution, and you can support your gut naturally and effectively.

I’ve been using a gut-healing formula called Ultimate GI Repair from LvlUp Health, and it’s completely transformed how I feel after meals. It uses clinically-backed peptides to repair the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and improve nutrient absorption—no need to change what you eat or make drastic lifestyle changes. Most women see results in just two months, and LvlUp’s products are third-party tested for purity and transparency.

Want to feel lighter, clearer, and more energized after meals? Try Ultimate GI Repair for just 60 days and get back that confidence that you can eat without fear! Visit lvluphealth.com/DRSTEPHANIE and use the code DRSTEPHANIE for 15% off.

🌟 Love these recommendations? Find more resources to support your health in midlife in my Health Toolkit!

Mini Pause #75: Hair Loss In Midlife (And What You Can Do About It)

Posted on by stephanie-estima

TL; DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

Yes, hair loss in midlife is super common—and yes, it can still feel completely devastating.

Your ponytail gets thinner, your scalp feels more visible, and your bathroom floor starts to look like it’s wearing a wig.

What’s going on? Hormones are shifting, follicles are aging, and your hair’s natural growth cycle is slowing down.

BUT (and this is a big but), there are things you can do to help. Red light therapy, hormone support, and follicle-loving nutrients and products can bring your strands back to life.

WHY

Let’s Talk About WHY It’s Happening. Hair thinning or loss during perimenopause and menopause is incredibly common—and honestly, pretty upsetting.

You might be surprised to know that by the time you notice thinning, you’ve probably already lost about 50% of your hair volume.

Wild, right? Knowing why this happens makes it easier to take action—and feel more in control.

WHAT 

How Hair Actually Grows (and Falls Out)

Your hair goes through three main phases:

  • Anagen (Growth) – This is your hair’s growth mode.
  • Catagen (Transition) – Growth slows, and your follicle prepares to shed.
  • Telogen (Resting) – The strand falls out, and the follicle chills before starting over.

When we’re younger, the anagen phase can last years, thanks to high estrogen levels keeping our hair long, thick, and shiny.

But as estrogen and progesterone decline in midlife, that growth phase gets shorter. Hair starts falling out faster than it can grow back—and that makes long, full hair much harder to maintain.

Meet the Hair Wreckers: Hormones + Senescent Cells
So, what’s really messing with your hair?

  • Hormonal Decline: As estrogen and progesterone dip, the growth cycle shortens. Hair gets thinner, and new growth struggles to keep up.
  • Senescent Cells: These are aging cells that stop functioning but stick around causing inflammation. Around your hair follicles, they create the perfect storm for shedding and thinning.

I recently interviewed Alessandra Zonari, stem cell biologist and co-founder of OneSkin, on the BETTER! podcast. She and her team developed a peptide that helps clear out those senescent cells around hair follicles—and guess what?

I’ve been using their OS-01 Hair Serum consistently for 8 weeks and I’ve got baby hairs coming in. Amazing, right?

 

HOW

What Can You Do? Let’s get to the good stuff: how to help your hair thrive in midlife.

  • Red Light Therapy
    This is one of my favourite biohacks. Red light helps energize hair follicles, reduce inflammation, and can even help your body clear senescent cells. I personally use BonCharge Red Light Panels and aim for 10–20 minutes daily.
  • Load Up on Minerals
    Your hair loves nutrients. Make sure you’re getting plenty of:
    ✔️Iron – Helps deliver oxygen to follicles. (Red meat, lentils, spinach)
    ✔️Zinc – Needed for follicle repair. (Pumpkin seeds, beef, seafood)
    ✔️Magnesium – Boosts hair strength. (Almonds, avocado, leafy greens)
    ✔️Selenium – Protects against damage. (Brazil nuts, fish, eggs)
    ✔️Silica – For shine and resilience. (Oats, cucumbers, bananas)
    ✔️Copper – Supports pigment and density. (Mushrooms, nuts, seeds)
  • Clean Up Your Haircare Routine
    Ditch harsh shampoos and heat styling (or at least go easy). Use products that target aging follicles and support healthy growth. OneSkin’s OS-01 Hair Serum is a game-changer—especially if you’re trying to rescue thinning areas.

NOW

What To Do Next (AKA Your Hair Rescue Plan)

✨ Start Red Light Therapy – Try 10–20 minutes a day. It’s relaxing and restorative.
🥗 Eat for Your Hair – Prioritize protein, good fats, and those follicle-loving minerals.
🧴 Use Smarter Products – Swap in serums like OS-01 Hair that support cellular repair and follicle rejuvenation.

WHAT I RECOMMEND

OneSkin OS-01 Body  

Bettys, you know I always say: your skin isn’t just something you moisturize—it’s your largest organ and a vital part of your metabolic and inflammatory health. That’s why I’m obsessed with OneSkin’s OS-01 BODY. This isn’t your average body lotion—it’s a topical longevity treatment formulated by scientists to actually reverse biological aging in your skin cells.

In clinical studies, it increased skin thickness by up to 40%, dramatically improved hydration, and even lowered markers of systemic inflammation. Translation? Smoother, firmer skin and deeper health benefits you can feel.

If you’ve got crepey arms, a dull chest, or thinning skin on your legs, you’ll want to read this. → Click here to learn how it works.

And if you want to see the results for yourself, use DRSTEPHANIE at checkout to save 15%!

 

Strengthen Your Foundation with Peluva 

As women age, the risk of falling—and suffering serious injuries like fractures—rises dramatically. In fact, falls are the leading cause of ER visits in women over 65!

But here’s the good news: there are simple things you can start doing today to protect your future mobility. One of the most important? Improving your proprioception, which is your body’s ability to sense where it is in space. It’s what keeps you balanced, coordinated, and steady on your feet.

One easy way to boost proprioception is by wearing barefoot or minimalist shoes. Unlike conventional shoes that weaken your feet and limit natural movement, barefoot shoes help activate the small stabilizing muscles in your feet.

My absolute favourite? Peluva’s barefoot shoes. (I own three pairs!) They’re cute, comfy, and actually work to strengthen and realign your feet with every step. Whenever I wear them, I feel more confident in my stride and know that I’m improving my long-term mobility and independence.

Want to give them a try? Use code DRSTEPHANIE at peluva.com/DRSTEPHANIE for 10% off.

🌟 Love these recommendations? Find more resources to support your health in midlife in my Health Toolkit!

Ready to stop midlife weight gain? Start here.

Posted on by stephanie-estima

Struggling to Lose Weight? You May Need More Minerals

So many of my Bettys tell me they have difficulty losing weight, even when following a healthy diet. They are frustrated, and rightly so.

You may not realize a mineral deficiency is happening behind the scenes of your health. According to recent data from the CDC, more than 90% of American adults are deficient in at least one essential mineral. [*]

It’s a shocking statistic, and much of it can be attributed to our food supply. In today’s world, it’s almost impossible to meet your body’s mineral needs through diet alone. That lack of minerals can surprisingly impact your ability to lose weight.

The good news? Mineral deficiencies are easy to correct! So, for my Bettys: Here’s why it’s so hard to get enough minerals, why they matter for fat burning, and how to get more minerals in your diet.

Modern Food Is Short on Minerals

Our food has changed a lot over the past 70 years. We eat more processed junk, which is its own problem. But even fruits, veggies, and other whole foods aren’t as nutritious as they used to be.

A 2024 study measured the vitamin and mineral content of common ingredients, including fruits, vegetables, and meat. The results showed an “alarming decline in the nutritional quality of foods” since about 1950. The authors called this decline one of “the biggest challenge[s] for future generations’ health.” [*]

A 2022 review found similar results. Tests found that the mineral content of vegetables and legumes has fallen continuously over the past half-century, with a particularly steep decline in the last ~20 years. [*]

Both studies cite the same two causes.

  • Pesticide use and harsh industrial farming practices have stripped the soil of nutrients.
  • Commercial farmers prioritize quantity over quality. They’re paid by the pound, so they aim to produce as many pounds of food as possible, often with little care for the nutrient content of what they grow.

From that perspective, it’s no surprise that almost everyone is mineral-deficient. [*] Even if you’re eating lots of veggies and whole foods, you not getting the same nutrients in your food that your grandparents did. The result is that it’s increasingly challenging to meet your body’s mineral needs.

Low Minerals Make Weight Loss Harder

When you’re short on minerals, weight loss gets a lot harder. There are two reasons: metabolism and hormone balance.

Your metabolism depends on minerals to stay running. In a 2023 review, researchers identified five minerals that are essential cofactors for energy metabolism: phosphorus, magnesium, iron, copper, and manganese. [*]

These minerals all work together to convert the food you eat into energy. When you have enough of them, your metabolic rate stays high, and you burn fat throughout the day. If your mineral stores are depleted, however, fat burning slows down.

Hormone production also relies on minerals. Your body needs 15 essential minerals to survive, and almost every single one is involved in either hormone synthesis or hormone distribution.

Minerals are potent regulators of your three major fat-burning hormones: testosterone, [*] estrogen, [*], and thyroid hormones. [*] Mineral deficiencies can interfere with your hormone levels, slowing weight loss to a crawl.

A Simple Way to Get More Minerals

Mineral deficiency is a bigger deal than most of us realize. Even if you’re eating great food, there’s a high chance you’ll gradually develop mineral depletion over time.

That’s why I partner with BEAM Minerals. They’ve warned about mineral depletion for a long time and offer a simple way to counter it.

Instead of a cabinet full of pills, BEAM makes a full-spectrum liquid mineral supplement. It contains every essential mineral your body needs, in an optimal ratio, with fast absorption.

For my Bettys who would like a little weight loss support, I encourage you to try BEAM Minerals. All you do is take a 1-ounce shot of liquid each morning. It tastes like water and is an amazing way to boost your mineral intake.

Don’t miss the exclusive discount BEAM has offered to my community! Go to BEAM Minerals and enter code BETTER at checkout for 20% off your first order.

Mini Pause #43: Stressed? How to Calm, Soothe, and Find Peace

Posted on by stephanie-estima

Call on the All-Loving Mother Within You

TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

There’s distress (GAH) and then there’s eustress (Ahhh). In perimenopause, you’re going to experience both. Call upon the gentle mother within you to calm, soothe, and reach for what you need in each moment. Your nervous system will thank you.

WHY

In the tangled web of perimenopause and the relentless tide of to-do lists, sleep becomes an elusive dream that gives rise to weary, brain-foggy days.

The neverending waves of worry and angst occupy your mind, with racing thoughts governed by wild hormones, overturning your desire to embrace the fleeting present moment.

Ah, perimenopause. What a trip.

WHAT

Stress can be a good thing. Exercise, sauna therapy, cold plunges, compression boots, and red light therapy–these are all examples of eustressors. They elevate and anoint the body to heal, adapt, and recover. (I share my top choices with you in “What I Recommend” below.)

But there is also the repugnant, slow poison stress that can seep into every cell in your body, slowly turning the most robust of colors into muted grays. The seemingly never-ending storm that drowns out your desire to live life on your terms. A vice that tightens its grip on the throat, heart, and chest, and ends up choking out your joy, happiness, and peace.

Welcome to your chronically dysregulated nervous system.

You can have two responses to chronic stress:

  • The fight or flight response, where you might avoid a situation entirely or cause chaos and fiery arguments because you feel overwhelmed, cornered, and locked in; or,
  • The freeze pathway, where you feel numb, disassociated, and muted.

HOW

The first step is to recognize this is happening and acknowledge that you may be struggling. This is the time to be gentle with yourself.

The second step is figuring out what you need to do for yourself at this moment. Whatever you choose doesn't need to fix the problem. It just needs to be something that responds appropriately to your immediate needs.

  • Is it a cup of tea?
  • A walk?
  • Reminding yourself of how far you have come?
  • Getting some sunshine on your face?
  • Taking a few deep cleansing breaths?
  • Gratitude for what you have survived and gotten through?

NOW

Go ahead and choose one of the above (or another similar activity that dependably brings you to a more balanced state). They all cost nothing and can do wonders for your ability to take care of yourself and respond to your own needs.

Now, imagine you are a loving, calm mother.

Imagine your baby is looking up at you with her big eyes looking for guidance, protection, and answers.

That baby is your body. Your body will find a way to do whatever you give to it.

If she is fussy and upset, maybe she needs a warm bath, followed by some fuzzy socks and a warm cup of milk.

If she is frenetic and has a lot of pent-up energy, maybe she needs a walk or a run in the park, or some time to smash weights at the gym. If she is irritated and tired, maybe she needs a nap.

You can begin to view and respond to your body cues as if you were tending to your own child who is all trusting, innocent, and dependent on you.

And in so caring for her gently, she may begin to calm down, be soothed, and finally find peace.

What I Recommend

Boost Your Stress Recovery with Minerals

When it comes to easing stress, I’m all about simple fixes. The last thing you need when you’re stressed out is another complicated addition to your day.

When we are chronically stressed, our bodies ramp up the use of minerals and vitamins to keep up with the demands of the stress response. In perimenopause, having a regular mineral supplement in your rotation will help replenish lost minerals and keep your cells running smoothly.

That’s why I depend on BEAM Minerals. Their plant-based mineral supplement is tailor-made to relieve stress—it contains every essential mineral your body needs, in the right ratios, with rapid absorption. You can literally feel it relaxing you in minutes.

If you don’t replace the minerals chronic stress is eating up, you become more vulnerable to future stress. Researchers call this the “vicious circle concept” of stress—the more challenging your life, the harder it is for your body to recover, and the worse your stress will get long-term. [*]

Replenishing your mineral stores gives your body the tools to fight back. Minerals in the right ratio increase your stress tolerance, speed recovery from stress, and help you reach a state of balance, breaking that cycle so you can feel good again.

Best of all, BEAM makes things easy. All you do is take a shot of mineral-rich liquid each morning, which tastes like water and boosts your stress resilience.

It’s one of my secret weapons for staying calm and collected when life gets hard. And no matter how busy you are, I KNOW you’ve got 30 seconds in your day to down a shot of liquid minerals.

If you want (or need!) a little extra stress recovery, try BEAM Minerals, especially the Advanced Electrolyte & Micronutrient Support set. Use code BETTER at checkout to get 20% off your first order.

My Go-To Eustress Choices

SAUNA: When I got a sauna this year, I admit I was surprised and how quickly I experienced the benefits. Beyond recovery, just taking the time to sit with my thoughts and assess my day (noticing and naming the stressors) have made a difference in how I frame my needs and my time. Infrared and red light work with the body to improve mitochondrial function, too. While I knew that, I’ve been getting a solid energy boost energy with consistent sauna use–and more energy helps everything.You can start with shorter sessions of 10-15 minutes and work up to 30-45 over time.

  • Click here to get use tips and check out the Sunlighten sauna styles. Use code DRSTEPHANIE to get an exclusive discount.

RED LIGHT THERAPY: I also got serious about red light this year for recovery. The bonus side effect has been stress relief. To lay on the PEMF mat, I have to slow down. To get the full effects of the sauna blanket (yes, some days I swap), I have to be still.

  • Click here for details on the BON CHARGE red light therapy collection and use code DRSTEPHANIE to get 15% off.

COLD PLUNGE: If peri or meno is causing restless nights filled with a whirring brain or a misfiring thermal system, or your recovery is stalled, or if you have that feeling of just being off, cold therapy can help. And don’t make it hard. Start with 3x a week, 3-4 minutes per session. That’s it! And you don’t have to get as cold as the guys, either: 10C-16C / 50F-60F is adequate. Stay in until you elicit a shiver response. (If you can only do 1-2 minutes at first, that’s ok, too. It’s not another competition.)

  • Click here to learn about Coldture tub and barrel choices. Use code DRSTEPHANIE to get an exclusive discount.

COMPRESSION: Post-workout compression does wonders for inflammation and muscle soreness. And when you lower your inflammation and pain, your stress levels go down.

  • Click here to learn about the many benefits of Rapid Reboot and use code DRSTEPHANIE to save 10%.

INSIDER STRESS-LESS TIP: It’s getting close to the holidays when you’re likely focused on your family and friends. I encourage you to take a few minutes to look into any of the eustress products I’ve mentioned above and save this Mini Pause edition. Or, click the links and plunk something in your cart for later. Some terrific holiday deals are coming your way, which means you can put the spotlight on yourself!

  • Be looking for our digital Gift of Health Guide 2024 and a robust list of the best holiday specials from our partners coming to you via email and Mini Pause in November!

Now Open: EVEN BETTER! Premium Membership Subscription

Want in? Check out all the benefits of being a member:

  • Early and ad-free access to the weekly Better! podcasts.
  • Private “Ask Me Anything” episodes based on member questions. (Note: The Mini Pause Question of the Week Section has been sunset. You’re invited to join the Premium Membership for access to Q&A opportunities & episodes. )
  • Surprise guests and solo shows only for members.
  • My insights from the guest discussion coupled with recommendations you can use to build habits and routines that support your goals.
  • Downloadable action guides. Coming Soon!
  • Bonus content beyond the podcast episodes.
  • Exclusive discounts for brands I love.
  • Being a part of a community with like-minded Bettys!

Subscribe HERE to find several introductory membership options to fit your budget.

How Minerals Slow Down Aging

Posted on by stephanie-estima

I talk a lot about how you can feel (and look) amazing at any age. As women, we’re often taught to fight against our bodies, but it’s incredible how much can change when instead, you start supporting your body.

A few simple shifts in your daily habits can make you look 10 years younger—and add 10 years to your life.

One of the easiest changes you can make is to add full-spectrum minerals to your routine. Every single cell in your body relies on minerals, and they play an essential role in everything from hormones to metabolism to brain function. The sad fact is that, since most of us are mineral-deficient, many women struggle to maintain healthy function in these areas.

Here’s a quick look at how minerals can nourish your body and help you look and feel your best, especially as you age.

Why Do Minerals Matter for Aging?

Minerals play an essential role in almost every major biological process in your body. They’re involved in:

  • Hormone production (especially estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormone synthesis)
  • Fat burning (your metabolism slows if you don’t have enough minerals)
  • Food cravings (cravings are often a sign of mineral deficiency)
  • Sleep (you won’t create melatonin, your body’s sleep hormone, without adequate magnesium and potassium)
  • Stress response (mineral deficiencies make you more reactive to cortisol)
  • Mood (minerals make up the neurotransmitters that regulate your emotions)
  • Mental clarity, memory, and other aspects of brain function

Minerals also are essential to mitochondrial function (energy production), which is important in aging. Your mitochondria are the power plants of your cells: they make ALL the energy that keeps your body alive.

As you get older your mitochondria struggle to produce energy. [*] Your metabolism slows, collagen production in your skin decreases, you feel fatigued more easily, your body struggles to manage inflammation, and so on.

One of the biggest drivers of mitochondrial decline is a lack of minerals. [*] Your body needs more minerals as you age, and if you don’t get them, your mitochondria begin to break down.

As a result, you age much faster when you don’t have enough minerals. [*] They’re essential to keeping your cells young and your body healthy.

The trouble is that almost everyone needs more minerals. A 2022 study from the CDC found that 97% of Americans are mineral-deficient. [*] We’re all aging a lot faster than necessary!.

Support Your Body with Minerals

The good news is that replenishing your minerals is easy. The right supplement routine will refill your mineral stores and support your mitochondria. That allows you to slow down aging and help your body to work better than it has in years.

In the past, replenishing your minerals meant taking a cabinet full of individual supplements: magnesium, potassium, zinc, calcium, iron, manganese, and so on.

That’s why I was so happy to find BEAM Minerals. They offer a full-spectrum liquid supplement that provides all the minerals your body needs, in the right ratios, with close to 100% bioavailability.

You can take a one-ounce shot of liquid in the morning (don’t worry; it tastes like water) and refill all your mineral stores at once.

BEAM Minerals also contain flavonoids that deliver mineral cofactors directly to your mitochondria, which makes them especially good for anti-aging. They help your mitochondria get stronger as you age, not weaker.

The best part is how easy BEAM makes it. In 30 seconds a day, you can refill all your body’s mineral stores at once, nourish your cells, and access a younger, brighter version of yourself.

If you decide to give BEAM Minerals a try, make sure you enter BETTER at checkout for 20% off your first order.

And however you choose to do it, I highly recommend finding a good mineral supplement. Minerals make a night-and-day difference in the aging process, and taking them is one of the simplest things you can do to look and feel your best.

With one shot of liquid in the morning, you can replenish every essential mineral your body needs!

It takes just 30 seconds, and you’ll feel the difference in your energy, focus, and more. Head to BEAM Minerals and use code BETTER for 20% off.

Mini Pause #8: Make the Change to Zone 2 Cardio Training

Posted on by stephanie-estima

Zone 2 Training for Energy Heart Health & Metabolic Flexibility

TL,DR (too long, didn't read)

Much ado has been made about the ideal zones for training. But, as usual, there’s often a gap in evidence to demonstrably show that these sweeping recommendations are also appropriate for women in perimenopause and menopause.

Estrogen, our metabolic superheroine, keeps us insulin-sensitive when we are younger, but as this dwindles in perimenopause and menopause, we should be thinking about Zone 2 as a protective activity for heart health and a way to keep us metabolically flexible.

WHY

The big question I want to answer here is “Why should perimenopausal and menopausal women care about Zone 2 in the first place?”

Simply, as a woman over 40, you want to double down on cardiorespiratory fitness, and Zone 2 trains up mitochondrial function, health, and density. This is going to maximize your capacity to produce energy.

You know the days where you are absolutely bagged and your teenager comes home with drama, the laundry room has clothes piling up on top of the washer, there are seven glasses of water on the counter despite only having two children, the dishwasher needs to be emptied and you still need to find time for your skincare routine, a social life, save money for retirement, and deep condition your hair?

Zone 2 won’t solve these problems, but it will certainly increase your capacity for energy production to help you navigate your to-do list.

Zone 2 also helps to sensitize our muscles to both insulin-dependent and insulin-independent glucose uptake. Said another way, it makes you more carbohydrate sensitive which is something we tend to lose as we age.

It helps to combat inflammation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and generally slows the aging process.

WHAT

Most exercises are defined into zones based on muscle fiber recruitment and whether the energetic demand is aerobic or anaerobic.

As the energetic demand for activity increases, we will move from burning fat to burning some fat and some carbs to exclusively burning carbohydrates. As the demand increases, your body will turn to glucose for its fuel.

When we think about fiber type distribution, there are differences between men and women. Women typically have a greater distribution and area percentage of Type 1 fibers (“slow twitch”). Men typically have bigger cross-sectional diameters of all fiber types and have more Type 2 fiber types (“fast twitch”).

This is not to say men have MORE Type 2 fibers than women, but that the diameter of our Type 2 fibers is smaller so that the whole body percentage tips towards Type 1. This can certainly be one (of many) reasons why men can exhibit greater muscle strength and power compared to women, and women typically demonstrate greater muscular endurance.

Some have looked at this data and suggested that this means women need less Zone 2 training than our male counterparts. While I think this is true for women in their fertile cycling years, I do think perimenopausal and menopausal women are a cohort unto themselves. Women in their cycling years may need less Zone 2, but as you creep into perimenopause and menopause, your needs change.

As we navigate perimenopause and menopause, we absolutely need to be training up our capacity for Zone 2 AND because our Type 2 fibers are smaller in diameter, we need to also prioritize resistance training and sprinting (in Zones 5 or 6), both of which are anabolic to Type 2 fibers. Sprinting and resistance training will most certainly be topics for future Mini Pause newsletters!

The primary argument that women are better at fat oxidation than men is largely due to estrogen levels. Estrogen has major implications on our metabolism because it helps to sensitize the whole body to insulin. This fundamentally changes in menopause where we see estrogen levels fall off a cliff to one percent of their previous levels. This means that metabolic derangements like insulin insensitivity, Type 2 Diabetes, visceral fat accumulation, dyslipidemia, and weight gain around the abdomen are rampant in menopausal women, despite no changes in their lifestyle habits.

If you want a deeper dive into body composition changes during menopause, read issue 6 of the Mini Pause.

In essence, we lose our metabolic superpowers and now, in menopause, have to work to stay metabolically flexible.

Zone 2 training can serve as a foundational tool to help improve insulin sensitivity. As you get stronger, your power and work output will also continue to increase. You’ll be able to do more work and sustain a higher heart rate in zone 2 as you get better at it.

HOW

Ideally, you can do a Functional Threshold Power test on a bike and multiply this by 80% to get your Zone 2 number. You can read more about FTP here if you’re a nerd or have a champion attention span for details.

I have used my Carol Bike’s 20-minute FTP test to determine my Zone 2 levels and now retest this once a quarter. I like the bike because it is AI-based and calculates my resistance and watts for me–I don’t have to think about it!

If you don’t have an FTP test available to you, you can also crudely measure heart rate by using Phil Maffetone’s MAF equation: 180 minus your age. Then, multiply that number by 80% and that is your baseline HR to aim for.

In full transparency, I do find this equation slightly underestimates my heart rate. Remember, as you get fitter through Zone 2 training, you can work at a higher heart rate and workload. Nonetheless, it’s a good metric to start with.

You can do Zone 2 on any cardio machine as long as you have your target heart rate and stay there. Rucking (walking with a weighted vest or backpack), salsa dancing, or twerking all can get you in that Zone 2 sweet spot. And who doesn’t want to be twerking on the regular?

For my Type A Bettys who don’t think they’ve worked out unless they go max all out, take note: that isn’t Zone 2! I often joke that my toxic trait is being unable to stay in Zone 2 because it barely feels like a workout.

I’m sweating…sort of.
I’m breathing heavier….sort of.

If you can still have a conversation or nasal breath through the workout–but you’re working hard enough that you would prefer not to do either–you’re doing it correctly.

The next question is how often should you be doing Zone 2 work? This is going to depend on how conditioned you are. A beginner to Zone 2 might start at 30 minutes, three times a week, and each week, aim to ramp up the time by a few minutes per session.

Ideally, I would love to get everyone up to a baseline of about 45 minutes, three times weekly. The 45-minute mark is where the mitochondrial magic happens.

There are a few ways I get my Zone 2 training:

  • Most of it is on my Carol Bike, and I aim to get in two longer sessions of about 75 minutes during the week. (If you check out the bike, use code DRSTEPHANIE for a discount.)
  • I recently started yoga and have been doing a few Vinyasa classes per week. I wore my heart rate monitor a few times and, as I suspected, my heart rate was in that sweet spot for Zone 2.

NOW

  • Look at your calendar and see where you might be able to fit in three, 30-minute Zone 2 workouts this week:

-Could you tack it onto a time you are already at the gym?

-Do you like to watch TV at the end of the day? Could you do that with a treadmill and a weighted vest or a stationary bike?

  • Start this week with one 30-minute session. Put it on your calendar right now.
  • Next week, add in two minutes until you are comfortable and able to do 45 minutes at your Zone 2 heart rate.
  • As you monitor your heart rate, you should see, over an eight- to 12-week period, where the intensity of your workout becomes “easier.” You may even notice your heart rate doesn’t get up as high. This is a great sign! It means going ahead and making the workload a little harder. Up your speed, watts (if on a bike), or incline on a treadmill to challenge yourself.
  • Now high-five yourself and your heart for adaptation!

Question of the Week

Q: How do you cope with feeling like you’re losing your youthfulness?

To Kristen in the Bettyverse, thank you for asking what many of us have felt at one time or another.

MORTALITY

I think aging and the feeling of losing your youthfulness force you to contend with your mortality. I think about death probably more than the average person, and I try to contrast it with the life I currently have.

Most of us never thought about the totality of our lives when we were in our 20s and 30s. And yet, in our 40s this thought that we might not be here forever begins to stir and frequent our thoughts more often.

A part of life is death.

And despite the speed at which science is progressing, I think most of us are going to have somewhere around 80 or 90 great years in us. Maybe slightly more, maybe less, but this is a reasonable estimate.

EXPLORE YOUR THOUGHTS

So if you’re 40-something and starting to feel like your better years are behind you, what does that mean?

First, consider why you so heavily place weight on youth:

  • Is it your youthful beauty you are mourning?
  • Your lack of responsibilities like mortgage payments?
  • Your ability to travel without kids?
  • Or does the brain select only the positive aspects of your youth and forget the rest in the name of nostalgia?

Maybe your skin was plumper 20 years ago, but with age, a different kind of beauty emerges.

The beauty of being comfortable in your skin, the unhitching of who you THOUGHT you should be with just being who you ACTUALLY are.

The wisdom and experience of your life can now work harmoniously with the intuition you likely ignored when you were younger. Decision-making gets easier. You fight for yourself rather than sacrifice yourself at the altar of others' desires. You spend time with people you truly enjoy being around.

As for the aesthetics… sure, our melanocytes are not producing pigment in our hair anymore, and the elasticity of our eyelids is not what it once was. But that is the privilege and gift of aging.

I’ll repeat it for emphasis: That is the privilege and gift of aging.

It is a privilege to watch your children grow up.
It is a privilege to become a grandmother.
And it is even a great privilege to die with people around you who love and revere you.

A life well lived is one where your time is spent without the shackles of what you think you should do and how you think you should act. Forget what society tells you should be. Age brings the ultimate gift of “you do you, boo.”

SHINE YOUR LIGHT

For me, the prospect of aging is more about the time and impact I want to make.

  • I have a gift and I want to share it with as many of you as I can.
  • I’m not going to spend any more time hiding because I fear judgment or criticism from others. I have no time for that!
  • In my 40s, I know what I am capable of, who I am, who I am not, and how to remember who I am when I have temporarily forgotten.

And if we’re just talking about loss of youthfulness: grays can be covered, and skin creams and cosmetic procedures can be applied to make you look younger.

If you don’t become MORE of who you already are, the loss of youthfulness doesn't matter as much because you’re still warring with yourself internally.

Maybe a soliloquy on mortality wasn’t what you were expecting with this question, but I hope this helped redirect what it means to age, and how lucky you are to do it.

YOUR TURN!

I'll be answering your questions every week right here in the Mini Pause! Let me know what's on your mind. I'll be checking for both questions and feedback at support@drstephanieestima.com.

WHAT I RECOMMEND: BEAM Minerals

It’s almost impossible to get all your minerals from food alone. And many of us are experiencing that deficiency in the form of chronic health issues like fatigue, muscle cramping, anxiety, hair loss and imbalances with adrenals, hormones and blood sugar. In my case, it was hair loss and chapped lips.

It was only when I started supplementing with minerals and electrolytes that I noticed a substantial slow down in hair loss and my lips are not peeling anymore.

I use BEAM Minerals daily. It's so easy to just pour a capful and throw it back. It tastes like water and is a powerful system detoxifier, removing mold toxins, heavy metals, and pesticides.

Head over to beamminerals.com/BETTER and use BETTER at checkout for 20% off sitewide.

P.S. FREE! Hormone Super Conference

Menopause and the years leading up to it could actually be some of the best, most stable, enjoyable, and healthful years of life. I believe this so much I'm going to be a speaker at the online 2024 Hormone Super Conference, March 18-24.

At this event, you'll learn how to manage hormones (and so much more!) during these periods of your life. 40+ of the world’s foremost experts on hormone health will present breaking science, unmatched wisdom, and proven remedies for stabilizing hormones before, during, and after menopause as a means of experiencing optimal health and joy on every level.

This seven-day online event is 100% FREE of charge. Save your seat right here. And when you sign up now you’ll be given instant access to six BONUS GIFTS!