The Functional Fueling® Podcast
The Functional Fueling® Podcast is hosted by expert Functional Registered Dietitian and hormone specialist, Lauren Papanos. Join us every Wednesday for a brand new LOdown with Lo solo episode or expert guest interview. Host Lauren Papanos asks and answers the questions around how to live a vibrant life through harnessing the power of natural hormonal balance and medicinal foods.
Episodes
Episode 166: Leptin: How It Impacts Fertility, Metabolism & Inflammation
Leptin: How It Impacts Fertility, Metabolism & Inflammation
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
Why leptin is about much more than hunger & fullness
The connection between leptin, thyroid function, & metabolism
How leptin influences ovulation, menstrual cycles, & reproductive hormones
Low leptin vs. leptin resistance and how they can look surprisingly si
Episode 165: Do Adaptogens Actually Help Cortisol? The Science of Functional Mushrooms with Olivia Richards
Do Adaptogens Actually Help Cortisol? The Science of Functional Mushrooms with Olivia Richards
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
What are functional mushrooms & how are they different from other mushrooms
How functional mushrooms can support the HPA axis & stress response
Which mushrooms may support sleep, energy, focus, & immune health
Ideal timing an
Episode 164: Case Study: Healing Exercise Intolerance, Cycle Symptoms and Recovering Thyroid Function
Case Study: Healing Exercise Intolerance, Cycle Symptoms and Recovering Thyroid Function
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
When exercise intolerance & chronic fatigue can signal something deeper
The connection between immune dysregulation, viral burden, histamine & thyroid function
Timing for gut, detox & antimicrobial work
The involvement of estrogen wi
Episode 163:Your Guide to Understanding Long COVID, MCAS & Dysautonomia w/ Lily Spechler
Your Guide to Understanding Long COVID, MCAS & Dysautonomia w/ Lily Spechler
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
What’s really happening in the body with long COVID
The connection between dysautonomia, POTS & long COVID
Why histamine & mast cells may be an overlooked piece of the puzzle
How previous viral infections like EBV may play a role
Why long COVID ca
Episode 162: [The LOdown] The Overlooked Environmental Factors Affecting Thyroid Health
[The LOdown] The Overlooked Environmental Factors Affecting Thyroid Health
A few things we chat about in this episode
Why your thyroid may be especially sensitive to your environment
The everyday exposures that could be quietly influencing thyroid function
The connection between environmental exposures & oxidative stress
Which exposures I actually pays attention to in my own life
Simple way
Episode 161: Could Poor Oxygen Delivery Be Draining Your Energy? with Teresa Reile
Could Poor Oxygen Delivery Be Draining Your Energy?
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
What hypoxia actually means & why oxygen matters for energy production
Why normal blood oxygen doesn’t always tell the full story
The connection between oxygen, mitochondria & fatigue
How breathing, hydration & movement may support oxygen delivery
Where iron fits into t
Episode 160: [The LOdown] Period Recovery While Breastfeeding: The When, How & More Details
[The LOdown] Period Recovery While Breastfeeding: The When, How & More Details
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
What’s actually keeping your cycle away while breastfeeding
Why nursing frequency may matter more than prolactin
How much energy breastfeeding really costs your body
The hormonal dominoes required to start ovulating again
Why getting your period back do
Episode 159: How to Fix Chronic Pelvic Pain with Dr. Christina Enzmann
How to Fix Chronic Pelvic Pain with Dr. Christina Enzmann
A few things we chat about in this episode
Why chronic pelvic pain is rarely coming from just one place
The overlooked gut & vaginal microbiome connection
Why pelvic floor tension can be mistaken for weakness
How histamine & estrogen may influence symptoms
The difference between endometriosis, adenomyosis, and other pelvic pain pat
Episode 158: [The LOdown] What Late Ovulation is Really Telling You
[The LOdown] What Late Ovulation is Really Telling You
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
Why late ovulation happens
What high AMH actually means
The thyroid's role in ovulation
The hidden drivers of poor follicle maturation
How to interpret your cycle tracking data
The Energy Leaks affecting ovulation
Important show links
Pre-Order my book The Thyroid Breakthrough
Episode 157: The Complete Guide to hCG: What Your Levels Really Mean with Dr. Sasha Hakman
The Complete Guide to hCG: What Your Levels Really Mean with Dr. Sasha Hakman
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
Take The Energy Leak quiz
Shop our Mineral Magic and Hormone Potion formulas
Listen to my Energy Leaks podcast episode
Learn more about the 6 stages of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Follow me on Instagram
Rate the show! Please give us a 5 star rating in your
Episode 156: [The LOdown] The Missing Nutrients Behind Hashimoto's
[The LOdown] The Missing Nutrients Behind Hashimoto's
In this episode of the Functional Fueling Podcast, we discuss:
The role of nutrient deficiencies in Hashimoto's
Why women with Hashimoto's have higher nutrient needs
The hidden connection between oxidative stress and thyroid health
The first labs I look at before recommending supplements for Hashimoto's
Important show links
Take The Ener
Episode 155: Pain, Swelling & Exercise Intolerance? This Lymphatic Tool May Help | Rush Simonson
Pain, Swelling & Exercise Intolerance? This Lymphatic Tool May Help | Rush Simonson
A few things we chat about in this episode
Why not all vibration plates are created equal
The hidden risks of most vibration plates and how it compares to micro-vibration plates
The connection between mechanical stimulation and bone density
How vibration may improve pain, soreness, and exercise recovery
Who m
Episode 154: What 10 Years of Helping Active Women Taught Me About Why So Many Stay Stuck with Thyroid Symptoms
What 10 Years of Helping Active Women Taught Me About Why So Many Stay Stuck with Thyroid Symptoms
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Why so many active women stay stuck despite doing everything right
The hidden energy leaks I see behind persistent thyroid symptoms
Why normal thyroid labs don’t always explain how you feel
The limitations of thyroid hormone medication
The underfuel
Episode 153: [The LOdown] Coming off Thyroid Medication - Timeline, The Prep and Outcomes
[The LOdown] Coming off Thyroid Medication - Timeline, The Prep and Outcomes
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Whether it's actually possible to come off thyroid medication
Why so many women remain symptomatic despite treatment
The four Energy Leaks I most commonly see in thyroid dysfunction
How I determine whether someone is ready to taper medication
Why increasing thyroid medicatio
Episode 152: The Hidden Immune Connection To Endometriosis, HPV, Herpes & Recurrent Vaginal Infections: Causes, Triggers & Solutions w/Christian Sohmen
The Hidden Immune Connection To Endometriosis, HPV, Herpes & Recurrent Vaginal Infections: Causes, Triggers & Solutions with Christian Sohmen
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
The immune connection to fertility & unexplained infertility
The overlooked immune drivers of endometriosis
Why recurrent BV, yeast infections, HPV, & herpes keep coming back
Why antibiotics
Episode 151: [The LOdown] AMA: Navigating Toddler Sleep Deprivation and Balancing Business, Motherhood and Health
Episode 151: [The LOdown] AMA: Navigating Toddler Sleep Deprivation and Balancing Business, Motherhood and Health
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
How I balance motherhood with work and healthy habits
The strategies I used to help my toddler finally become a better sleeper (no crying involved)
How I make time for movement and self-care as a busy mom
The productivity tools I rely o
Episode 150: Are Seed Oils Really Harmful? The Truth Behind the Headlines with Cherie Calbom
Are Seed Oils Really Harmful? The Truth Behind the Headlines with Cherie Calbom
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Why seed oils have become one of the most debated topics in nutrition
The history of seed oils & how they entered the food supply
How different oils are processed & why that matters
The role of omega 6 fatty acids in human health
What current research suggests abo
Episode 149: [The LOdown] The Strategy Behind My Daily Meals & Grocery Shopping
[The LOdown] The Strategy Behind My Daily Meals & Grocery Shopping
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What my weekly meal planning routine actually looks like
How I balance intentional nutrition, ease, and real life as a busy mom
The grocery shopping strategies that help me stay consistent throughout the week
Why I focus on repeatable routines rather than rigid meal plans
The st
Episode 148: Osteopenia & Bone Stress Injuries in Pre- and Post- Menopausal Women with Dr. John Neustadt
Osteopenia & Bone Stress Injuries in Pre- and Post- Menopausal Women with Dr. John Neustadt
In this episode of the Functional Fueling® Podcast, Lauren sits down with John Neustadt to discuss the often-overlooked factors driving osteopenia, osteoporosis, and bone stress injuries in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women. Together, they explore the complex relationship between hormones, thy
Episode 147: [The LOdown] The Truth About Healing Timelines for Thyroid, Fertility & Autoimmunity
[The LOdown] The Truth About Healing Timelines for Thyroid, Fertility & Autoimmunity
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
The realistic root cause healing timelines for menstrual cycle recovery, immune dysregulation, infertility and thyroid recovery
Understanding phased healing and its importance in long term recovery
The role of energy leaks in healing timelines
Why optimizing he
Episode 146: How to Stop Mouth Breathing with Dr. Douillard
How to Stop Mouth Breathing with Dr. Douillard
Breathing is something we do every second of every day, yet most people never stop to consider how their breathing patterns may be influencing their energy, metabolism, stress response, exercise performance, sleep, and overall health.
In this episode of The Functional Fueling Podcast, we dive into the physiology of breathing and why chronic mouth brea
Episode 145: [The LOdown] Energy Leaks: The 4 Root Causes of Thyroid and Hormone Disruption in Active Women
Energy Leaks: The 4 Root Causes of Thyroid and Hormone Disruption in Active Women
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What “energy leaks” are
Why hidden energy leaks may keep you feeling symptomatic despite healthy habits
How energy leaks impact thyroid function, the immune system, adrenal and sex hormones
The connection between mitochondria, energy leaks, and histamine
The most co
Episode 144: [The LOdown] Low Pregnenolone vs DHEA-S: The Hormones Before the Hormones
Low Pregnenolone vs DHEA-S: The Hormones Before the Hormones
In this episode, we’re diving into two of the most overlooked hormones in women’s health: pregnenolone and DHEA-S — the hormones before the hormones.
While estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone often get the spotlight, pregnenolone and DHEA play a foundational role in the hormone cascade and can significantly influence energy, metabol
Episode 143: Why Most Pregnancy Lab Work Falls Short (And What Women Actually Need)
Most pregnancy lab work is designed for the average non-pregnant person, not the rapidly changing physiology of pregnancy.
In this episode, we break down why standard lab testing often falls short during pregnancy and postpartum, and what that means for thyroid function, nutrient status, metabolism, and immune health. You’ll learn how trimester-specific lab ranges impact interpretation, which crit
Episode 142: The Molecule That Supports Blood Flow, Hormones, and Fertility with Dr. Bryan
The Molecule That Supports Blood Flow, Hormones, and Fertility with Dr. Bryan
In this episode, we dive into the powerful role of nitric oxide, a key signaling molecule that directly impacts blood flow, hormone delivery, thyroid function, and fertility with leading researcher Dr. Nathan Bryan.
We break down how nitric oxide supports circulation at the cellular level, why it’s essential for proper h
Episode 141: [The LOdown] Understanding Stimulatory Hormones: LH, FSH, TSH
Understanding Stimulatory Hormones: LH, FSH, TSH
In this episode, we break down the role of key stimulatory hormones—LH, FSH, and TSH—and how they influence ovulation, thyroid function, and overall hormonal function. You’ll learn how to interpret LH:FSH ratios (including patterns seen in PCOS), what low vs. high levels really indicate, and why timing your labs is critical for accurate insigh
Episode 140: My Morning Routine & Things I'm Loving (As a Functional RD + Mom)
My Morning Routine & Things I'm Loving (As a Functional RD + Mom)
In this episode I’m sharing a realistic look at how my morning routine has evolved after having a baby—what’s changed, what I’ve simplified, and what I’ve kept as non-negotiables to support my hormone health, workout recovery, and overall wellness. We’ll cover how I structure my mornings when sleep is unpredictable, how to stay
Episode 139: Microdosing Peptides for Chronic Illness with Jay Campbell
Microdosing Peptides for Chronic Illness with Jay Campbell
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What peptides are and how they function in the body
What microdosing peptides means and how it differs from standard dosing
How microdosing GLP peptides may help in chronic illness
How peptides can influence metabolism, inflammation, and brain signaling
The foundations that must be in place
Episode 138: [The LOdown] Is Your Immune System Overactive… or Exhausted? Understanding Immune Modulation
[The LOdown] Is Your Immune System Overactive… or Exhausted? Understanding Immune Modulation
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What immune modulation is and why the goal is to regulate, not suppress, the immune system
How autoimmune conditions develop when the immune system becomes stuck in a hyperactive state
How immune dysregulation can drive inflammation, histamine symptoms, and
Episode 137: Prolactin: Understanding High Levels & Prolactinomas with Romana
Prolactin: Understanding High Levels & Prolactinomas with Romana
Prolactin is most commonly known as the hormone responsible for breast milk production during pregnancy and postpartum. However, elevated prolactin levels outside of pregnancy or breastfeeding—known as hyperprolactinemia—are far more common than many people realize and can significantly impact cycles, fertility, and thyroid funct
Episode 136: [The LOdown] My Mold Remediation Story: Everything I Did, Used and How I Recovered
[The LOdown] My Mold Remediation Story: Everything I Did, Used and How I Recovered
In this solo episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my personal mold remediation experience (for the second time). I'm sharing signs that indicated mold, how I organized remediation to protect my family, how I'm recovering and all the tools and resources I used along the way.
A few things we chat about in this
Episode 135: Understanding MTHFR & Methylation for Fertility & Chronic Illness with Dr. Sam Shay
Understanding MTHFR & Methylation for Fertility & Chronic Illness with Dr. Sam Shay
MTHFR is one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—genes in the functional medicine world. But what does it actually mean to have an MTHFR mutation? How does methylation influence fertility, thyroid health, homocysteine levels, detox pathways, and chronic illness? And when is genetic testing truly help
Episode 134: AMA: Low Luteal BBT, Mold Exposure, Thyroid Antibodies & Thyroid Inflammation—What It All Really Means
AMA: Low Luteal BBT, Mold Exposure, Thyroid Antibodies & Thyroid Inflammation—What It All Really Means
In this AMA episode, I answer some of your frequently asked questions you submitted over on Instagram. We discuss the causes of low luteal phase basal body temperatures (BBT), progesterone dysfunction, mold-related inflammation, thyroid antibodies, and thyroid swelling.
A few things we chat a
Episode 133: Fertility Over 35: The Prenatal Supplement Roadmap for Women + Men with WeNatal Co-Founder
Fertility Over 35: The Prenatal Supplement Roadmap for Women + Men with WeNatal Co-Founder
Trying to conceive after 35 requires more than just “taking a prenatal.” In this episode, we break down how to choose the right prenatal supplement for both women and men, and why fertility optimization starts months before conception.
We discuss why the number of capsules per serving actually matters, how i
Episode 132: [The LODown] Overtraining Syndrome: When Your Body Stops Adapting and Starts Protecting Itself
Overtraining Syndrome: When Your Body Stops Adapting and Starts Protecting Itself
Overtraining Syndrome isn’t just about doing too much—it’s what happens when your body stops adapting to exercise and shifts into a protective, survival state. In this episode, we break down what overtraining syndrome actually is, why it affects both recreational exercisers and competitive athletes, and how it’s ofte
Episode 131: [The LODown] How to Support Androgens: Navigating Both Low and High Testosterone and DHEA-S in Women
How to Support Androgens: Navigating Both Low and High Testosterone and DHEA-S in Women
In this episode, we explore how to support androgens in women by understanding both low and high testosterone and DHEA-S, and what these patterns reveal about thyroid function, insulin signaling, adrenal health, inflammation, and stress. Androgens are essential for female energy, mood, muscle tone, libido, and
Episode 130: Chinese Medicine for Kiddos w/ Dr. David Allen
Chinese Medicine for Kiddos w/ Dr. David Allen
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, we explore how Chinese Medicine approaches children’s health differently than Western medicine and why understanding these differences can transform the way you support your child’s digestion, sleep, emotions, and immune system. Chinese Medicine views children as physiologically and energetically developing, wi
Episode 129: [The LODown] How Inflammation & The Immune System Pushes You Into Low T3 and High Reverse T3
How Inflammation & The Immune System Pushes You Into Low T3 and High Reverse T3
Low T3 is one of the most misunderstood thyroid patterns, and it’s rarely a problem that starts in the thyroid itself. In this episode, we explore how the immune system, inflammation, and metabolic stress drive changes in T3 and reverse T3, often long before the thyroid gland becomes the primary issue.
You’ll learn
Episode 128: Micronutrients, Probiotics & Prenatals for Fertility & Pregnancy w/ Ayla Barmer, Fullwell Fertility
Micronutrients, Probiotics & Prenatals for Fertility & Pregnancy
w/ Ayla Barmer, Fullwell Fertility
In this episode, I sit down with Ayla Barmer, registered dietitian and founder of FullWell Fertility, to break down what the research actually says about micronutrients, probiotics, and prenatals for fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum health.
Despite the growing prenatal market, many suppl
Episode 127: [The LOdown] Low T3 With Normal TSH: How Energy Availability Impacts Thyroid Function
Low T3 With Normal TSH: How Energy Availability Impacts Thyroid Function
If your TSH looks “normal” but you still feel exhausted, with irregular cycles and slowed metabolism, this episode will help you understand what standard testing often misses.
In this episode, we break down energy availability—the balance between the energy you take in and the energy your body expends—and why it is one of the
Episode 126: [The LODown] Is Your Low Progesterone Actually a Thyroid Issue?
[The LODown] Is Your Low Progesterone Actually a Thyroid Issue?
Low progesterone is one of the most common hormone concerns I see—but it’s also one of the most misunderstood. In this episode, we unpack why low progesterone is rarely a true progesterone deficiency and is far more often a downstream signal of poor ovulation quality driven by low T3, metabolic stress, or thyroid autoimmunity.
You’ll
Episode 125: Liver & Kidney Stagnation: The Connection to Stress, Fertility, Sleep & More with Dr. David Allen
Liver & Kidney Stagnation: The Connection to Stress, Fertility, Sleep & More with Dr. David Allen
Struggling with 1–3am wakeups, stress sensitivity, or chronic fatigue? This episode uncovers how liver and kidney stagnation quietly disrupt stress resiliency, fertility, sleep and more. Learn the signs of stagnation, why stress tolerance drops over time, how chronic stress drains fertility an
Episode 124: Your Guide to a Hormone Healthy Thanksgiving
Your Guide to a Hormone Healthy Thanksgiving
In this episode I chat with my right hand gal, Romana Brennan. Romana is our other functional medicine registered dietitian here at Functional Fueling. In this episode we provide our best holiday survival tips, sharing with you how we navigate the holiday season, and what to do and what not to do to make this your healthiest year yet. You can find all o
Episode 123: Your Guide to Correcting Insulin Resistance
Your Guide to Correcting Insulin Resistance
If you're struggling with fatigue, stubborn weight gain, or irregular cycles, insulin resistance could be at the root. Insulin Resistance affects far more than just blood sugar. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know to identify, understand, and correct insulin resistance.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
How to spot
Episode 122: Case Study: How She Resolved Her Acne, Chronic Bloating & Got Pregnant with Ease
Case Study: How She Resolved Her Acne, Chronic Bloating & Got Pregnant with Ease
In this episode, I share a powerful case study of a client struggling with bloating, acne, low cortisol, and low progesterone — symptoms that had left her feeling hopeless after working with multiple practitioners.
We take a deep dive into what was actually going on behind the scenes, including:
Brain-to-ovary c
Episode 121: Behind the Scenes of My Career Path: Your Questions Answered
Behind the Scenes of My Career Path: Your Questions Answered
This is a long overdue podcast episode that you have been asking for, for YEARS!
In this episode, I answer the questions I get most often about my career journey, how I built my practice, and the trainings that shaped my approach.
You can also find more specifics on this over at functionalfueling.com/about. I hope this episode helps gu
Episode 120: How I Started Solids and What Feeding Looks Like Now
How I Started Solids and What Feeding Looks Like Now
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
How I introduced solids and open-cup drinking: what I prioritized and what I skipped
Green juices for babies: safe bases & what I avoid
The baby products & pantry staples I reach for on repeat & brands we actually use
The key nutrients babies need from 6–24 months & simple ways we c
Episode 119: [The LOdown] Why You Can't Stay Asleep, What Your Hormones Have to do with it (And How to Fix It)
[The LOdown] Why You Can't Stay Asleep, What Your Hormones Have to do with it (And How to Fix It)
Do you find yourself waking up at 2 or 3 a.m., staring at the ceiling, wondering why you can’t stay asleep? In this week’s episode of The Strength in Hormones Podcast, I dive into the root causes of nighttime waking and what your hormones—like progesterone, thyroid, and cortisol—have to do with it.
Yo
Episode 118: [The LOdown] How to Control Inflammation Around Workouts
[The LOdown] How to Control Inflammation Around Workouts
Inflammation isn’t always the enemy. In fact, it’s exactly what your body needs after a workout to repair muscles, stimulate growth, and get fitter. But when exercise-driven inflammation becomes chronic, it can lead to hormonal chaos.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
✅ The difference between acute (helpful) and chronic (harmf
Episode 117: [The LOdown] Minerals for PCOS
[The LOdown] Minerals for PCOS
PCOS is often talked about in terms of hormones, blood sugar, and fertility—but minerals are one of the most overlooked tools for managing symptoms and restoring balance. In this episode of the Strength in Hormones podcast, we explore how specific minerals like magnesium, chromium, zinc, selenium, and electrolytes can directly impact insulin resistance, thyroid healt
Episode 116: [The LOdown] The Root Causes of Women's Hair Loss
[The LOdown] The Root Causes of Women's Hair Loss
If your hair is thinning, shedding faster than it’s growing, or just won’t regain its fullness, the problem may go deeper than shampoo or supplements. In this episode, we uncover how key mineral imbalances—especially zinc, copper, iron, selenium, and iodine—can make or break your hair health.
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Why l
Episode 115: [The Lodown] Your Guide to Coming Off Birth Control: What to Expect & How to Support Your Hormones
[The Lodown] Your Guide to Coming Off Birth Control: What to Expect & How to Support Your Hormones
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Important show links 👇👇👇
Join waitlist for Inflammation Hormony now
Get your hormones tested with our DUTCH test- learn more about our hormone testing packages
Follow me on Instagram
Rate the show! Please give us a 5 star rating in your podcas
Episode 114: Is It Really ADHD? Focus, Hormones & the Functional Medicine Lens with Christa Biegler, RD
Is It Really ADHD? Focus, Hormones & the Functional Medicine Lens with Christa Biegler, RD
In this episode of the Strength in Hormones podcast, we explore the deeper layers behind ADHD—beyond the common diagnosis and medication route. From neurotransmitters and hormones to micronutrients and brain inflammation, we dive into the functional root causes that often get missed. Whether you've been
Episode 113: Keratosis Pilaris (Chicken Skin): Root Causes & Functional Solutions
Keratosis Pilaris (Chicken Skin): Root Causes & Functional Solutions
Keratosis Pilaris (KP) — often referred to as "chicken skin" — is more than a cosmetic issue. In this episode, we break down what KP really is, why it happens, and what it reveals about your internal health. You'll learn:
What causes those stubborn bumps on the back of your arms
The role of Vitamin A, essential fatty acid
Episode 112: Your Guide to Egg Quality & Egg Freezing: How to Prepare and Support Your Body for Fertility
Your Guide to Egg Quality & Egg Freezing: How to Prepare and Support Your Body for Fertility
In this episode of the Strength in Hormones Podcast, Lauren discusses the critical aspects of egg freezing and egg quality. She emphasizes the importance of hormonal balance, nutrition, and lifestyle choices in supporting egg quality as women age or prepare for egg freezing. The conversation covers the
Episode 111: Case Study: How She Healed From Mold, Recovered Her Thyroid & Progesterone Levels
Case Study: How She Healed From Mold, Recovered Her Thyroid & Progesterone Levels
In this powerful case study, I’m walking you through this client's transformation — from severe bloating, brain fog, and fatigue to finally achieving regular, ovulatory cycles and reclaiming her energy.
After years of loose stools, hair loss, sinus inflammation, and dependence on caffeine just to function, she di
Episode 110: [The LOdown] The Hormonal Link to High Cholesterol
[The LOdown] The Hormonal Link to High Cholesterol
What if your high cholesterol isn’t just about your diet—but about your hormones?
In this episode, we explore the surprising hormonal connections behind elevated cholesterol levels. You’ll learn why your liver—not your lunch—is responsible for the majority of your cholesterol, and how thyroid, estrogen, cortisol, insulin, and progesterone all infl
Episode 109: [The LOdown] [The LOdown] Your Guide to Electrolytes (for the Adrenals, Thyroid, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding)
[The LOdown] Your Guide to Electrolytes (for the Adrenals, Thyroid, Pregnancy & Breastfeeding)
In this episode, Lauren dives into the essential—but often overlooked—role of electrolytes in hormone health and daily function. From stress to sweat to pregnancy, your body’s need for key minerals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium shifts constantly. Lauren breaks down how hormones such
Episode 108: [The LOdown] Cycle Syncing with Imbalanced Hormones
[The LOdown] Cycle Syncing with Imbalanced Hormones
In this episode of the Strength in Hormones podcast, Lauren discusses the complexities of cycle syncing for women with hormonal imbalances. She emphasizes the importance of understanding individual cycles, particularly for those who do not have a regular 28-day cycle. The conversation covers various aspects of hormonal health, including ovulation
Episode 107: Why Muscle is Key to Healthier Bones & Metabolic Health in Menopause w/ Dr. Cecily Havert
As women move through perimenopause and menopause, the hormonal landscape shifts dramatically—and so does the way the body holds onto muscle and bone. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Cecily Havert of Northern Virginia Family Practice, to break down what happens to muscle mass, metabolism, and body composition in midlife, and why resistance training is your best ally.
A few things we chat about
Episode 106: [The LOdown] Postpartum Thyroiditis
[The LOdown] Postpartum Thyroiditis
Postpartum thyroiditis is one of the most overlooked conditions affecting new moms—and it can leave you feeling anxious, exhausted, and completely out of sync with your body. In this episode, we unpack what postpartum thyroiditis is, why it often goes undiagnosed, and how it differs from other thyroid conditions like Hashimoto’s. You'll learn about the immune sy
Episode 105: From PCOS to Motherhood with Aurora Culpo
From PCOS to Motherhood with Aurora Culpo
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, host Lauren Papanos sits down with Aurora Colpo to explore her deeply personal journey through PCOS, fertility struggles, miscarriages, and perinatal anxiety. Aurora opens up about the emotional and physical toll of hormone imbalances and the natural methods that have helped her reclaim her health—like acupuncture,
Episode 104: [The LOdown] Why Your Mitochondria are Key to Fatigue, Fertility and the Thyroid
[The LOdown] Why Your Mitochondria are Key to Fatigue, Fertility and the Thyroid
This week’s episode of the Strength in Hormones Podcast uncovers one of the most overlooked root causes of hormone imbalance and fatigue: mitochondrial dysfunction. These tiny powerhouses are responsible for making energy in every cell—and when they slow down, so does everything else.
We explore how sluggish mitochond
Episode 103: [The LOdown] How to Reverse Low Progesterone without HRT
[The LOdown] How to Reverse Low Progesterone without HRT
If you've been dealing with irregular cycles, PMS that feels like it's getting worse, or you're struggling with fertility, low progesterone might be the missing link. In this episode, we're diving deep into how to recognize the symptoms of low progesterone, what labs to request, and how to naturally support healthy hormone production—without
Episode 102: Fixing Leaky Gut for Better Hormones: Natural Strategies for Thyroid & PCOS Support with Abby Hueber, RD
Fixing Leaky Gut for Better Hormones: Natural Strategies for Thyroid & PCOS Support with Abby Hueber, RD
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, we dive deep into leaky gut syndrome and its widespread effects on hormones and metabolism. Our guest, Abby, a fellow functional medicine registered dietitian, breaks down what leaky gut is, why it matters, and how you can take steps to heal your gut
Episode 101: [The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts
[The LOdown] Blood Sugar & Cortisol Response to Different Types of Workouts
Ever wonder why some workouts leave you energized while others leave you crashing? In this week’s SIH episode, we’re diving into how different types of exercise—like strength training, HIIT, and aerobic cardio—
impact your blood sugar, cortisol levels, and overall recovery. Whether you're working out for body composi
Episode 100! Lo vs. Joe: Rapid-Fire This or That – Nutrition, Labs & Workouts!
100th Episode! Lo vs. Joe: Rapid-Fire This or That – Nutrition, Labs & Workouts!
Get ready for a special 100th episode! In this milestone episode, my husband Joe and I go head-to-head in a fun and informative This or That showdown, tackling the biggest debates in training, hormones, nutrition, and labs.
👉 I grill Joe on his workout philosophy for hormone imbalances—heavy weights or light weigh
Episode 99: Cognitive Health & Hormones: How to Naturally Support Your Mind Through Perimenopause with Dr. Cat Brown
Cognitive Health & Hormones: How to Naturally Support Your Mind Through Perimenopause w/ Dr. Cat Brown
In this episode of Strength in Hormones, we’re diving into the powerful connection between hormones and brain health. We’ll explore the critical role of estrogen in cognitive function—how it supports memory, focus, and neuro-protection, and what happens when levels shift in peri-menopause and
Episode 98: [The LOdown] Hunger & Satiety Hormones: How Ghrelin and Leptin Control Your Menstrual Cycle and Thyroid
[The LOdown] Hunger & Satiety Hormones: How Ghrelin and Leptin Control Your Menstrual Cycle and Thyroid
In this episode, we’re breaking down ghrelin and leptin—your body’s key hunger and satiety hormones—and how they impact thyroid function, metabolism, and reproductive health. Learn how sleep, stress, fasting, and diet choices can throw these hormones out of balance, leading to reduced thyroi
Episode 97: Unveiling the Root Causes of Long COVID Fatigue and Autoimmunity with Dr. Keith Ellis, PhD
Unveiling the Root Causes of Long COVID Fatigue & Autoimmunity w/Dr. Keith Ellis, PhD
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Keith Ellis, a leading Long COVID researcher, to break down the science behind lingering symptoms. We dive into the role of spike protein in Long COVID, its connection to autoimmunity, and why so many experience debilitating fatigue. Dr. Ellis also shares natural solutions
Episode 96: [The LOdown] Navigating the Beauty & Challenges of Postpartum
In this episode I share all about my experience postpartum. The beauty, the challenge and everything in between. I also talk about how I’ve adjusted my daily routine, what’s been most helpful for healing (hello, bone broth and red light therapy!), and the hardest parts of this transition—like redefining productivity.
If you’re in the postpartum phase or preparing for it, tune in for real talk, pr
Episode 95: [The LOdown] My Labor & Postpartum Experience
[The LOdown] My Labor & Postpartum Experience
In this candid episode, I share the intimate details of my labor and postpartum experience, diving into the challenges I faced along the way. Join me as I discuss the emotional rollercoaster of being overdue and the various natural induction methods I tried, including castor oil, the Foley balloon, membrane sweep, and the Miles Circuit. I recount
Episode 94: Your Guide to Indoor Mold Testing with Jason Earle of Got Mold?
Your Guide to Indoor Mold Testing with Jason Earle of Got Mold?
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
The prevalence of mold in homes and why it's on the rise
Why having a new build doesn't decrease your chances of mold
Signs to look for that may indicate mold growth in your home
The problems with mold testing and what to know before you hire an inspector or remediation company
How to
Episode 93: [The LOdown] The Link Between Oxalates & Inflammation
[The LOdown] The Link Between Oxalates & Inflammation
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What are oxalates and what foods contain them?
The role of oxalates in kidney stones, Hashimoto's thyroiditis and chronic inflammation
What is oxalate sensitivity and oxalate dumping?
How oxalates impact mineral balance
Minerals that can help bind up oxalates
Important show links 👇👇👇
Join
Episode 92:[The LOdown] PMDD vs. PMS
[The LOdown] PMDD vs. PMS
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
What is PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder) and how does it compare to PMS?
The role of progesterone metabolism in PMDD
Why "optimal" progesterone levels may not be optimal for women with PMDD
Testing for PMDD
Common PMS symptoms and why they occur
The hormonal and inflammation-related causes of PMS
Natural treatment reco
Episode 91: Anti-Aging and Acne Mistakes with Esthetician & Acne Expert Danielle Gronich
Anti-Aging and Acne Mistakes with Esthetician & Acne Expert Danielle Gronich
A few things we chat about 👇👇👇
The top 3 skincare mistakes people make that are experiencing cystic and fungal acne
What is fungal acne and how does it compare to acne vulgaris?
The key differences and similarities in products and treatment recommendations between acne vulgaris and fungal acne?
The ingredients in m
Episode 90: [The LOdown] Protein & Lean Muscle Building
[The LOdown] Protein & Lean Muscle Building
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
How protein supports lean muscle building
Determining how much protein to eat, how to time it and how carbohydrate intake influences this number
Why you should focus less on total daily protein intake and more on sources and amount per meal
How soon after exercise you should consume protein
The benefit
Episode 89: [The LOdown] AMA: Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, Appetite and Hunger Hormones, and Inflammation
[The LOdown] AMA: Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, Appetite and Hunger Hormones, and Inflammation
A few things we chat about in this episode 👇👇👇
Supporting healthy progesterone while trying to conceive
How to stimulate appetite and support digestion with REDS (relative energy deficiency in sport) or low energy availability
Blood markers for Insulin Resistance
How to know if you're eating too healthy o
Episode 88: Holiday Survival Tips with Ro
Holiday Survival Tips with Ro
In this episode I chat with my right hand gal, Romana Brennan. Romana is our other functional medicine registered dietitian here at Functional Fueling. In this episode we provide our best holiday survival tips, sharing with you how we navigate the holiday season, and what to do and what not to do to make this your healthiest year yet. You can find all of the practical
Episode 87: Understanding and Navigating Secondary Infertility with Functional Medicine with Dr. Kalea Wattles
Understanding and Navigating Secondary Infertility with Functional Medicine with Dr. Kalea Wattles
Secondary infertility is when mothers experience difficulties conceiving or carrying their second baby to term. In this episode I interview naturopathic doctor and fertility expert, Dr. Kalea Wattles of Functional Fertility to share why secondary infertility occurs and how functional medicine is help
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