In this episode, you will learn the truth about women's health + hormones, along with the misinformation that keeps so many women confused, overwhelmed, and constantly questioning their bodies. Today, Mercedes and Anastasia sit down with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, researcher, science communicator, women's health expert, and one of the leading voices cutting through the noise in the health and fitness industry. If you've ever wondered whether you need to cycle sync your workouts, avoid certain foods, balance your hormones, buy expensive supplements, or follow the latest wellness trend, this conversation is for you. Dr. Lauren shares what the science actually says - and what the wellness industry often gets wrong. Inside this episode, you'll learn: - What you should (and shouldn't) do differently during your menstrual cycle - The truth about cycle syncing - What hormones actually do in your body (and how to feel your best!) - The biggest fitness myths people still believe today - The health hacks that matter far more than supplements, gadgets, and wellness trends - Hacks to build strength, confidence, and long-term health without obsessing over perfection - What parents need to know about helping their children develop a healthy relationship with food, exercise, and body image This conversation is both empowering and reassuring. Dr. Lauren reminds us that health doesn't require extreme diets, complicated rules, expensive supplements, or constantly trying to "fix" ourselves. The biggest changes often come from the simplest habits done consistently over time. And stick around until the end for Dr. Lauren's powerful advice for parents striving to help their children build a positive relationship to their bodies and to food - and for the lesson she wishes someone had told her when she was young. Whether you're a teenager, parent, athlete, or simply someone trying to navigate the endless stream of health advice online, this episode will help you feel more confident, more informed, and much more at peace with your body. Explore our website Shop Be Canada Crewneck Follow Dr. Lauren on Instagram Explore Dr. Lauren's website Ready to Hack Your Happiness some more? Listen to our interview with Dr. Sarah McKay. We know you'll love it: listen + watch now! (00:00) Why This Episode Matters For You(02:16) A Confused Girl and Woman - The Misinformation Dr. Lauren Faced(03:58) The Impacts of Misinformation(07:23) How Can I Avoid Health 'Fads'?(08:15) Social Media: Empowering or Confusing?(09:54) Are Anti-Inflammatory Foods Real!?(12:38) Fitness Advice That You SHOULD NOT Follow(14:44) The Gym Floor vs A Lab(16:55) How Differently Should Men vs Women Train?(20:20) Be Canada22:07) I Only Have 20 Minutes...What Do I Do?(24:34) The Impact of Hormones on Happiness(27:26) Stop Blaming Your Hormones For This!(29:45) Top Nutrition Fears(32:44) Women vs Men: Intermittent Fasting(35:24) Should I Cycle-Sync?(38:49) Your Emotions Throughout Your Cycle - How To Tell Which Phase You're In!(42:07) Live Well and Feel Well: Make These Lifestyle Changes (45:31) Thank You(45:58) Social Support's Impact on Health(50:01) Dr. Lauren's Overarching Goal(52:21) Hacks For Building a Positive Body Image(55:31) Rapid Fire(57:58) Find Dr. Lauren Here(58:20) Brain Health Hacks, Building Habits, and Environmental Influences on Mood