Ep.195 “Normal Isn’t Optimal”: Hormones, Heart Disease, Thyroid & Midlife Lab Blind Spots

Have you ever been told your labs are “normal” — but you don’t feel normal?

In this episode, I sit down with integrative and functional medicine physician Aaron Hartman, author of Uncurable, to unpack the dangerous gap between normal and optimal — especially for women in midlife.

We cover:

• What lab reference ranges really mean
• The cardiovascular markers every woman should know (hs-CRP, LDL particle number, Lp(a), ApoB, homocysteine)
• Why LDL alone is outdated thinking
• Thyroid testing beyond TSH (free T3, free T4, reverse T3, antibodies)
• Ferritin, B12, iodine & nutrient blind spots
• Estrogen, progesterone & testosterone — when to start and what actually protects your brain and heart
• Statins, diabetes risk, and mitochondrial health
• Gut health, inflammation & autoimmune triggers
• Why lifestyle is foundational — and where advanced longevity tools fit in

Dr. Hartman explains how heart disease begins decades before symptoms appear, why hormone replacement therapy dramatically reduces risk when used appropriately, and how women can advocate for themselves in a system that often dismisses midlife symptoms.

If you care about your brain, your bones, your heart — and living strong into your 80s and 90s — this conversation is essential.

Did you miss something? Check out the transcripts of the episode!

You can find Aaron Hartman, MD at https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aaronhartmanmd/

His book, Uncurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, is available where you buy books. 

_________________________________________
If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies.

https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products.

Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/

✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter:
https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq

Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com 

Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.