44 episodes

Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn is a podcast dedicated to empowering women and promoting breast health through a functional medicine lens. Dr. Jenn is a leading functional medicine practitioner specializing in restoring health to the breast cancer population. She explores a range of topics related to breast health, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and holistic approaches to support overall well-being.  Whether you're a breast cancer survivor, a woman seeking to improve your breast health, a caregiver supporting a loved one, or you are just looking to thrive in this complicated world, this podcast is designed to meet your needs. Discover how functional medicine approaches can complement conventional treatments, support hormone balance, enhance nutrition, manage stress, optimize lifestyle choices, and promote overall well-being.  Tune into Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn to gain the knowledge, tools, and resources to take control of your breast health journey.  Remember, at the end of the day, breast health is health! 
 
Note: The Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations. 

Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn Dr. Jenn Simmons

    • Health & Fitness

Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn is a podcast dedicated to empowering women and promoting breast health through a functional medicine lens. Dr. Jenn is a leading functional medicine practitioner specializing in restoring health to the breast cancer population. She explores a range of topics related to breast health, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and holistic approaches to support overall well-being.  Whether you're a breast cancer survivor, a woman seeking to improve your breast health, a caregiver supporting a loved one, or you are just looking to thrive in this complicated world, this podcast is designed to meet your needs. Discover how functional medicine approaches can complement conventional treatments, support hormone balance, enhance nutrition, manage stress, optimize lifestyle choices, and promote overall well-being.  Tune into Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn to gain the knowledge, tools, and resources to take control of your breast health journey.  Remember, at the end of the day, breast health is health! 
 
Note: The Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn podcast is intended for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment recommendations. 

    44: The Misunderstood Journey of Menopause with Dr. Heather Hirsch

    44: The Misunderstood Journey of Menopause with Dr. Heather Hirsch

    In today's episode of Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, I am joined by the esteemed Dr. Heather Hirsch, a leading figure in menopausal health and hormone therapy. Our conversation today centers on the myths and realities surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the pivotal role of hormones in overall wellness, and the nuanced challenges of managing menopause symptoms, particularly in the context of breast health.

    In this episode you'll:
    Grasp a deeper understanding of hormone therapy and its impact on alleviating menopausal symptoms.Recognize the comprehensive benefits of estrogen beyond reproductive health, including its roles in brain function, emotional stability, and chronic disease prevention.Unpack the prevailing myths linking HRT to breast cancerExplore the importance of tailored healthcare approaches that integrate patient narratives and preferences in treatment plans.Understand the complexities and advancements in hormone therapy usage, especially in contexts like breast cancer survivorship.Discuss the role of social media and telemedicine in transforming patient empowerment and healthcare delivery.Consider the broader societal and medical contexts that influence hormone therapy perceptions and prescriptions.Episode Timeline:
    00:54 Guest Introduction: Dr. Heather Hirsch
    02:15 The misinterpretation of hormone therapy and breast health
    07:29 Benefits of hormone therapy in systemic health
    14:50 Hormones and their multifaceted functions in the human body
    20:22 Addressing the misinformation and fear surrounding hormone therapy
    27:35 The impact of social media on patient empowerment and healthcare accessibility
    32:28 Strategies for comprehensive patient care in menopause management
    38:45 The stigma around HRT and its reshaping through informed discourse
    44:19 Dr. Hirsch's personal and professional standpoint on HRT usage
    53:30 Closing thoughts and further resources

    Dr. Heather Hirsch is a leading physician specializing in internal medicine with a sub-specialty focus on women's health and midlife transitions, particularly menopause. After leaving a role in obstetrics and gynecology, Dr. Hirsch has dedicated her career to advancing the understanding and treatment of menopause through a holistic and patient-centered approach. She is well known for her educational efforts on various platforms, including her acclaimed course, "the reclaiming menopause Masterclass," and her comprehensive guidebook available on Amazon. Dr. Hirsch is reshaping the conversation around menopause and women's health

    Connect with Dr. Heather Hirsch
    www.instagram.com/heatherhirschmd/
    https://heatherhirschmd.com/

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 51 min
    43: Uncover the Power of Diet and Exercise for Women's Health and Disease Prevention with JJ Virgin

    43: Uncover the Power of Diet and Exercise for Women's Health and Disease Prevention with JJ Virgin

    In today's episode of Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, our esteemed guest is none other than JJ Virgin, a celebrated author, and a veritable powerhouse in the nutrition and fitness world. Together, we dissect the common misconceptions around metabolic health, body composition, and the profound influence that age, exercise, and diet have on women's health, particularly as it pertains to breast cancer survivors.

    In this episode, JJ Virgin walks us through:
    Her personal philosophy on strength training and metabolic health.The significance of muscle mass and body composition over mere weight.The principles of anabolic resistance and the necessity of resistance training combined with protein intake.How the quality of food we consume directly impacts our metabolic health, and the dangers of ultra-processed foods.The critical nature of metabolic health in the fight against diseases, and the tools needed for monitoring and improving it.JJ's approach to empowering women to take control of their health, physical strength, and the aging process.00:55 Guest Introduction: JJ Virgin
    02:30 JJ’s Personal Experience and Stand on Health Empowerment
    03:22 The Evolution of Women's Fitness and Biohacking Health
    09:19 Breaking Down Metabolic Myths and Prioritizing Protein
    11:40 The Journey Through Dietary Trends and Their Impact
    15:07 Shifting the Focus From Weight to Body Composition
    21:34 Resisting Anabolic Resistance: Muscle Health as We Age
    26:30 The Heart of Muscle Mass: Resistance Training Recommendations
    31:14 Tackling Metabolic Syndrome with Proper Nutrition and Exercise
    33:22 The Critical Role of Resistance Training and Protein Intake
    36:50 Empower Women: Reshaping Societal Views on Strength
    42:22 JJ Virgin's Contribution to Women's Health Initiatives
    47:35 Key Takeaways on Metabolic Health and Breast Cancer Recovery
    57:32 Supplements for Metabolic Health
    59:18 JJ's Invaluable Resources and Closing Thoughts

    JJ Virgin is a nutrition and fitness expert who has authored numerous best-selling books and created a monumental platform in the health industry. She's highly respected for her research and practical insights into diet, physical fitness, and the importance of metabolic health. A fervent advocate for women's wellness, JJ is dedicated to changing the landscape of aging by encouraging others to step into their power by getting strong, not just slim.

    Connect with JJ
    Instagram: www.instagram.com/jj.virgin/
    Website: https://jjvirgin.com/

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 1 hr 8 min
    42: Is Your Toothpaste Harming You? The Link Between Oral Care and Wellness with Trina Felber

    42: Is Your Toothpaste Harming You? The Link Between Oral Care and Wellness with Trina Felber

    In today's episode of Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, I have the pleasure of discussing the intricate ties between oral health and overall wellness with Trina Felber. Trina, a registered nurse turned holistic healthcare advocate, is the brilliant mind behind Primal Life Organics, a company dedicated to eliminating toxins in personal care products. Our conversation dives deep into her oral wellness program's success and its impact not just on dental health but on systemic health including cardiovascular, thyroid, and breast health.

    In this episode you'll:
    Learn about products that strengthen teeth and increase oral blood flow.Understand the systemic reach of oral health - from brain to breast.Explore how everyday personal care products contribute to toxic load and illness.Recognize the role of stress and hormonal balance on overall health.Grasp the importance of a holistic oral wellness lifestyle.Appreciate the simplicity and effectiveness of an eco-conscious dental detox kit.Connect the dots between oral health practices and the body's production of nitric oxide.00:05 Introduction and Welcome
    01:08 Special Guest Trina Felber: Beauty's Dirty Secret and Oral Health
    02:43 Trina's Personal Journey: From Pain to Purpose
    06:42 The Hidden Dangers of Oral Care Products
    33:56 Fluoride: The Controversial Ingredient in Oral Health
    41:09 The Impact of Diet and Synthetic Products on Health
    42:04 The Dangers of Chemicals in Personal Care
    44:41 Understanding Oral Health and Its Systemic Effects
    55:50 The Connection Between Oral Health and Breast Cancer
    01:05:48 Innovative Solutions for Oral Health and Detoxification
    01:23:55 Empowering Your Health Journey

    Trina Felber is a registered nurse and a passionate entrepreneur and health advocate. She founded Primal Life Organics out of her desire to provide safe, effective, and toxin-free skincare and dental care products. Trina's holistic perspective and dedication to educating others about the significance of oral health in relation to overall well-being.

    Connect with Trina:
    Instagram: www.instagram.com/trinafelber/
    Website: Trina Felber's Official Site

    Primal Life Organics
    Real White LED Teeth Whitening System
    Dental Detox Kit

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 1 hr 25 min
    41: The Thyroid Connection: Navigating Hormone Resistance and Cellular Inflammation with Dr. Pompa

    41: The Thyroid Connection: Navigating Hormone Resistance and Cellular Inflammation with Dr. Pompa

    In today's episode of Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, I sat down with the incredible Dr. Daniel Pompa, a highly respected clinician well-known for his contribution to understanding and combating environmental and metabolic toxicity. With an enlightening conversation that dives deep into the "perfect storm" of emotional, physical, and chemical stressors, we dissect how these elements collaborate in exacerbating health issues and disrupting hormone function. Dr. Pompa shares his personal battle with mercury toxicity and how this experience paved the way for his groundbreaking work in cellular detoxification.

    In this episode you'll:
    Understand the "stress bucket" and how accumulated toxins can lead to health symptoms.Learn how hypothyroidism and breast cancer are associated due to the common underlying cause of toxins and inflammation.Recognize why cellular inflammation and detoxifying the body are crucial for hormone function.Discover the truth behind healthy and unhealthy fats, and how diet can benefit your health.Hear how jaw infections and mold exposure can disrupt trigger gene expression.Understand how chronic stress and modern lifestyle affect our health, with a special focus on how COVID has influenced mitochondrial function.Appreciate the urgency in addressing the root causes of hormone dysfunctions, rather than just treating symptoms.01:15 Guest Introduction: Dr. Daniel Pompa
    03:10 Unveiling the Perfect Storm of Stressors
    07:55 Journey Through Dr. Pompa’s Personal Health Challenges
    12:30 Hormone Disruptors and Their Sources
    18:40 Strategies to Reduce Exposure to Toxins and Chemicals
    15:26 The Connection Between Hypothyroidism and Breast Cancer
    24:07 The Relationship Between Diet and Hormone Health
    28:08 Hidden Infections in the Jaw and Mold Exposure
    34:22 Practical Steps Towards Detoxifying Your Environment
    41:15 Nutritional Philosophies and the Importance of Diet Variation
    55:34 The Connection Between Hormone Disorders and Breast Cancer
    59:05 Discussing Mold Exposure and Neurotoxins
    01:05:50 Closing Advice and Where to Find Dr. Pompa Online

    Dr. Daniel Pompa is a globally recognized leader in the health and wellness sphere, specializing in the fields of detoxification, diet variation, and the role of environmental toxins in chronic disease. Through his personal experience and extensive research, Dr. Pompa has emerged as a key proponent of cellular healing and functional medicine. He advocates for practical, holistic strategies to reduce toxin load, empowering individuals to reclaim their health. His work emphasizes the significance of addressing cellular inflammation to alleviate and prevent hormonal and metabolic disorders.

    Connect with Dr. Pompa: https://drpompa.com/

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 1 hr 13 min
    40: Unlocking Estrogen's Secrets: A Guide to Hormonal Harmony with Dr. Felice Gersh

    40: Unlocking Estrogen's Secrets: A Guide to Hormonal Harmony with Dr. Felice Gersh

    In today's episode of Keeping Abreast with Dr. Jenn, we are so excited to welcome Dr. Felice Gersh, a board-certified OB GYN and integrative medicine physician. In this episode we tackle the contentious and often misunderstood relationship between estrogen and breast cancer, as Dr. Gersh dispels the myths surrounding estradiol, enlightening us on its pivotal role for maintaining metabolic and immune processes. We critique the conventional medical practice of using contraceptives to treat menstrual irregularities, the discussions uncover the importance of natural hormone rhythms for preventing inflammation and cancer. We delve into the complexities of hormone-positive tumors, the nuances of different estrogen types, and the unintended consequences of hormone suppression in breast cancer treatment.

    In this episode you'll:
    Discover the distinctions between estrone and estradiol, and their impact on breast cancer.Learn about the potential negative effects of common breast cancer medications.Challenge the long-standing misconceptions about natural estrogen's role in our bodies.Explore the benefits of phytoestrogens and a high plant-based diet to support estrogen receptors function.Recognize the importance of menstrual cycles as an essential sign of women’s health and fertility.Dive into the detrimental impact of hormonal contraceptives on hormone levels and endocrine health.Emphasize the need for individualized treatment approaches to hormone therapy and the potential of "super aging."Understand the timing and considerations for perimenopause and hormone replacement therapy.00:00:35 Introduction and Welcome
    00:01:45 Guest Introduction: Dr. Felice Gersh
    00:03:32 Correcting Estrogen and Breast Cancer Misconceptions
    00:10:28 The Downsides of Tamoxifen and Aromatase Inhibitors
    00:17:11 The Critical Function of Estradiol in Women's Health
    00:24:06 The Case for Phytoestrogens and Plant-Based Diets
    00:30:57 The Ill-Preparedness of Medical Practitioners in Hormonal Balance
    00:38:14 Menstrual Cycles and Fertility's Impact on Long-term Health
    00:49:25 Hormonal Contraceptives and Their Impact on Women's Wellness
    00:58:13 Strategies for Managing Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms
    01:05:47 Closing Advice and Where to Find Dr. Gersh
    Dr. Felice Gersh is a multi-award-winning physician who is board certified in both OB GYN and integrative medicine. Dr. Gersh's extensive research and clinical experience have made her a crusader against the one-size-fits-all approach to women's health. She's an advocate for patient education, disrupting outdated medical paradigms, and providing holistic care that encompasses emotional, physical, and environmental wellbeing.

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 1 hr 29 min
    39: The Thyroid's Crucial Role in Breast Health and Beyond with Dr. Alan Christiansen

    39: The Thyroid's Crucial Role in Breast Health and Beyond with Dr. Alan Christiansen

    Discover how optimizing thyroid function can enhance overall wellness and breast health.

    On today's episode we're joined by Dr. Alan Christiansen to explore the critical role of thyroid health. This episode is a holistic dive into how optimizing thyroid function can enhance your life, touching on its connections to breast health, cancer prevention, and beyond. Dr. Christiansen shares invaluable insights into iodine balance, dietary influences on thyroid function, and natural interventions that benefit everyone - whether you’re navigating thyroid issues, interested in cancer prevention, or simply aiming for peak health. Discover the truths behind thyroid and dietary myths, understand the comprehensive testing that illuminates the path to better health.

    What You’ll Learn
    Uncover the importance of iodine balance and how to achieve it through diet.The Thyroid Reset Diet, a natural approach to potentially reverse thyroid disorders.Understand the necessity of comprehensive thyroid testing beyond traditional methods.Explore the realm of thyroid autoimmunity, uncovering its prevalence and risks.Embrace effective natural thyroid health strategies, from lifestyle modifications to judicious dietary adjustments, enhancing your well-being.Episode Timeline:
    00:05 - Welcome & Introduction
    01:15 - Introducing Dr. Alan Christiansen
    02:05 - The Vital Role of Thyroid in Overall Well-being
    04:20 - Understanding Iodine:
    07:30 - The Thyroid Reset Diet
    11:00 - Dietary Strategies
    14:45 - Comprehensive Thyroid Testing
    18:20 - Unraveling Thyroid Autoimmunity
    22:35 - Lifestyle Adjustments for Optimal Thyroid Function
    26:50 - Debunking Myths: Soy, Cruciferous Vegetables, and Thyroid Health
    31:15 - Thyroid Health and Breast Cancer Prevention
    35:40 - Iodine, Breast Health, and Cancer: Understanding the Connection
    39:55 - Personal Care Products Role in Thyroid and Breast Health
    44:10 - Navigating Thyroid Medication and Supplements
    48:25 - Enhancing Thyroid and Overall Health
    52:30 - Listener Q&A Segment
    57:10 - Concluding Thoughts

    About Dr. Alan Christiansen:
    Dr. Christiansen is a naturopathic endocrinologist who specializes in thyroid disorders, bridging the gap between traditional and alternative medicine. With his book, "Thyroid Reset," Dr. Christiansen aims to educate and empower individuals to take control of their thyroid health through natural, proven strategies.

    Instagram: https://instagram.com/dralanchristianson/
    Website: https://www.drchristianson.com/

    To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit:
    https://calendly.com/stephanie-1031/time-to-talk

    To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Person's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://realhealthmd.kartra.com/page/SmartPersonsGuidetoBreastCancer

    Join the Facebook group: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/keepingabreastwdrjenn

    Connect with Dr. Jenn:
    Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/
    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons

    • 1 hr 12 min

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