Today, I am blessed to have here with me Karen Martel. She is a Certified Hormone Specialist and Transformational Nutrition Coach, and stands as a distinguished authority in the realms of women’s weight loss and hormonal health. As the esteemed host of the highly acclaimed women’s health podcast, “The Hormone Solution Podcast,” Karen delves deeply into the intricacies of female fat loss and the complex world of hormones, arming women with the knowledge they require to seize control of their well-being. In this episode, Karen Martel shares her personal menopausal journey, exploring unexpected symptoms, dietary challenges, and the critical role of thyroid medication. Discover the impact of hardcore keto diets on hormonal balance and how Karen advocates for the Keto Flex approach. We dive into protein intake optimization for weightlifters and non-lifters, hormonal health baseline assessments, the significance of reverse T3 testing, and the effects of heavy metal toxicity on thyroid health. Karen also emphasizes proactive measures for hormonal health, shedding light on early interventions, supplements, and the role of hormone replacement in preventing decline-related diseases. Don't miss this empowering discussion on achieving hormonal harmony and overall well-being. Dr John Lieurance’s LIVE event in Sarasota, Florida: https://www.drjohnlieurance.com/elements-of-vitality  Use the coupon code: Azadi for 5% off (case sensitive) Join Ben Azadi's 90 day heavy metal detox program (15 spots available): https://ketokamp.clickfunnels.com/order-page-a  / / E P I S O D E   S P ON S O R S  Wild Pastures: $20 OFF per Box for Life + Free Shipping for Life + $15 OFF your 1st Box! https://wildpastures.com/promos/save-20-for-life-lf?oid=6&affid=132&source_id=podcast&sub1=ad BonCharge: Blue light Blocking Glasses, Red Light Therapy, Sauna Blankets & More. Visit https://boncharge.com/pages/ketokamp and use the coupon code KETOKAMP for 15% off your order.  Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list. [09:20] Karen's Menopausal Odyssey: A Rapid Onset, Unusual Timeline, and the Role of Thyroid Medication -       Karen experienced a sudden and intense onset of menopausal symptoms within a six-month period. This included a significant increase in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to menopausal levels, a drop in estrogen and progesterone, as well as other symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, weight gain in the stomach area, itchy skin, and breast tenderness. -       Her experience of going through menopause deviated from the typical timeline. Instead of the gradual progression over 10 years of perimenopause followed by a couple of years of more intense symptoms, Karen’s symptoms intensified rapidly, leading to a quicker transition into menopause. -       Karen discovered that the thyroid medication she was taking played a role in exacerbating her hormonal imbalance. -       Luckily, Karen successfully reversed some of the adverse effects of early menopause by implementing changes in her lifestyle and incorporating hormone replacement therapy. [15:20] Dietary Challenges and Hormonal Harmony -       Karen observed issues arising from a prolonged and intense adherence to hardcore keto diets among her clients, as well as in her own experience. Problems included menstrual irregularities, hair loss, and weight regain. Individuals were resorting to more extreme measures like extended fasting and carnivore diets in an attempt to address these challenges. -       Initially, the hardcore keto approach appeared to yield positive results, with clients experiencing improved energy levels, weight loss, and relief from menopausal symptoms. However, over the long term, these benefits diminished, prompting Karen to investigate the impact on the thyroid and other hormonal systems. -       Karen emphasizes the importance of understanding the body's response to dietary signals, particularly in the context of signaling abundance or scarcity. -       Karen advocates for the Keto Flex approach, incorporating carbohydrate intake a few days a week to signal abundance and support reproductive functions. [21:35] Optimizing Protein Intake: Recommendations for Weightlifters and Non-Lifters, Daily Distribution, and Whole-Food Emphasis -       Karen suggests adjusting protein intake based on whether an individual engages in weightlifting. For those not lifting weights, she recommends a slightly lower protein intake, around 0.5 to 0.8 grams per pound of body weight. -       However, for those involved in weightlifting, she recommends aiming for the standard guideline of 1 gram per pound of ideal body weight. -       Karen emphasizes the importance of distributing protein intake throughout the day. Ideally, individuals should aim for 30 to 35 grams of protein per meal. -       While acknowledging that many women may need to supplement their protein intake with shakes or essential amino acids, Karen emphasizes the preference for obtaining protein from whole food sources rather than relying solely on supplements. [23:05] Navigating Hormonal Health: Baseline Assessment, Sensitivity Variations, and Proactive Intervention in Perimenopause -       Karen emphasizes the importance of getting a baseline of hormones, especially during the fertile years in one's 30s. -       Different individuals have varying sensitivities to hormones, and what is considered normal or within the range may differ from person to person. -       Perimenopause typically begins between the ages of 35 and 40, marked by a decline in progesterone due to less frequent ovulation. Karen advises paying attention to subtle signs, such as weight gain, worsening periods, insomnia, or other symptoms emerging in the late 30s. Proactive intervention during this phase is recommended. -       Waiting until significant symptoms manifest may complicate treatment. Unfortunately, Karen notes that many doctors may be reluctant to address hormonal issues until a woman is in menopause, and finding a doctor willing to provide appropriate treatment with bioidentical hormones can be challenging. [37:05] Reverse T3, Testing Challenges, and the Impact of Heavy Metal Toxicity -       Karen stresses the importance of testing for reverse T3, a thyroid hormone that is often overlooked by doctors. -       She notes that obtaining reverse T3 testing can be challenging in some regions, such as Canada, where it may need to be sent to a lab in California. Doctors may not routinely order this test, so individuals are encouraged to advocate for their health by requesting and even paying for the test themselves. -       Karen explains that a crucial aspect of thyroid health is the relationship between free T4 and free T3. -       Lastly, Karen shares her personal experience of heavy metal toxicity affecting her thyroid health. [42:55] Proactive Hormonal Health: Early Intervention, Supplements, and the Role of Hormone Replacement in Preventing Decline-Related Diseases -       Karen emphasizes the importance of addressing hormonal imbalances proactively and early, especially before the onset of severe symptoms. -       Hormones play a crucial role beyond reproduction, influencing the function of organs throughout the body. -       Catching hormonal imbalances early can prevent the development of diseases associated with hormonal decline. -       During the late 30s and early 40s, when ovarian function starts to decline, Karen recommends certain supplements and lifestyle changes to support hormone production for a longer duration. -       Karen highlights that replacing hormones becomes a crucial option when natural hormone production declines. AND MUCH MORE!   Resources from this episode: ●      Karen’s Website: https://karenmartel.com/ ●      Elements of Vitality (Code “AZADI”): https://tickets.drjohnlieurance.com/events/advancedrejuvenation/1023550 ●      Primal Blueprint: https://www.primalblueprint.com/ ●      Eat Like The Animals: https://www.eatliketheanimals.com/ ●      Follow Karen ●      YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfWWN_4IhMZJOXjvj8FDKIQ ●      Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenmartelhormones/ ●      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenmartelhormones ●      Twitter: https://twitter.com/KarenMartelCTNC ●      Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hormone-solution-with-karen-martel/id1438772276   Dr John Lieurance’s LIVE event in Sarasota, Florida: https://www.drjohnlieurance.com/elements-of-vitality  Use the coupon code: Azadi for 5% off (case sensitive) Join Ben Azadi's 90 day heavy metal detox program (15 spots available): https://ketokamp.clickfunnels.com/order-page-a  / / E P I S O D E   S P ON S O R S  Wild Pastures: $20 OFF per Box for Life + Free Shipping for Life + $15 OFF your 1st Box! https://wildpastures.com/promos/save-20-for-life-lf?oid=6&affid=132&source_id=podcast&sub1=ad BonCharge: Blue light Blocking Glasses, Red Light Therapy, Sauna Blankets & More. Visit https://boncharge.com/pages/ketokamp and use the coupon code KETOKAMP for 15% off your order.  Text me the words "Podcast" +1 (786) 364-5002 to be added to my contacts list. // F O L L O W ▸ instagram | @thebenazadi | http://bit.ly/2B1NXKW ▸ facebook | /thebenazadi | http://bit.ly/2BVvvW6 ▸ twitter | @thebenazadi http://bit.ly/2USE0so ▸clubhouse | @thebenazadi Disclaimer: This podcast is for information purposes only. Statements and views expressed on this podcast are not medical advice. This podcast including Ben Azadi disclaim responsibility from any possible adverse effects from the use of information contained herein. Opinions of guests are their own, and this podcast does not accept responsibility of statements made by guests. This podcast does not make any representations or warranties about guests qualifications or credibility. Individuals on this podcast may have a direct or non-direct interest in products or services referred to herein. 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