Health Hacks

Dr. Jeni St. Onge, DC, CFMP and Tara Peterson
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Health Hacks is a functional medicine podcast for women who are done being told their labs are "normal" while still feeling exhausted and hormonally imbalanced. Hosted by Dr. Jeni St. Onge, DC, CFMP and Tara Peterson, we cover hormone optimization, perimenopause, metabolic health, thyroid function, gut health, and women's longevity — with real answers and actionable insights every episode. Dr. Jeni and Tara practice in Branson, MO with Telehealth available nationwide. www.thrivecfh.com

  1. Jun 15

    PCOS is Now PMOS: What Every Woman Needs to Know About Hormones, Metabolism, and Real Solutions

    If you've been diagnosed with PCOS — or suspect you might have it — this episode is essential listening. PCOS is now being renamed PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome), and this isn't just a label change. It fundamentally changes how we understand and treat one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women today. In this episode, Dr. Jeni St. Onge and Tara Peterson break down: Why the name change from PCOS to PMOS mattersWhat PMOS actually is — and why it's a metabolic condition, not just an ovarian oneThe most common symptoms women experience (including ones that are frequently missed)Root causes from a functional medicine perspective — insulin resistance, adrenal dysfunction, inflammation, and gut healthWhat standard lab testing misses — and what comprehensive testing revealsReal solutions that address root causes, not just symptomsWhether you've struggled with irregular cycles, unexplained weight gain, fatigue, hair loss, or fertility challenges — and been told your labs are "normal" — this episode will give you answers and hope. Your body is not broken. There are reasons these symptoms are happening, and there are ways to heal. 🔗 Schedule your free functional health consultation: thrivecfh.com 2GFVJNxIbKUtJZqp7yPM

    21 min

  2. May 20

    The Root Cause of Autoimmune Conditions (And Why Women Are Most Affected)

    Autoimmune Conditions: Why They Happen (and Why Women Are Most Affected) Autoimmune conditions are on the rise—and if you’re dealing with symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, brain fog, or hormone imbalances, you’re not alone. What many people don’t realize is that autoimmune conditions are not random. They are often the result of underlying imbalances in the body. At Thrive Functional Health, we take a root-cause approach to help uncover what’s really driving these conditions—and more importantly, how to support the body in healing. An autoimmune condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. Instead of protecting you from harmful invaders, the immune system becomes dysregulated, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage. https://www.thrivecfh.com/functional-medicine⁠ This can affect many areas of the body, including: Thyroid (Hashimoto’s, Graves’)Joints (Rheumatoid arthritis)Gut (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis)Skin (eczema, psoriasis)Autoimmune symptoms often develop gradually and may include: Chronic fatigueBrain fogJoint pain or stiffnessDigestive issues (bloating, food sensitivities)Hormonal imbalancesSkin issuesAnxiety or mood changesThese symptoms are often early warning signs that the immune system is under stress. Approximately 80% of individuals with autoimmune conditions are women. This is due to several key factors: Estrogen stimulates immune activity, increasing antibody production and immune responsiveness. Women have two X chromosomes, which carry many immune-related genes, increasing susceptibility to immune dysregulation. Chronic stress impacts cortisol levels, which play a critical role in regulating inflammation and immune function. Puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause all create shifts in the immune system. Research suggests that up to 75% of autoimmune conditions are driven by environmental factors. Some of the most common include: The health of the gut is central to immune function. Issues like leaky gut and dysbiosis can trigger immune activation. Gluten can increase intestinal permeability and trigger immune responses in susceptible individuals. Exposure to heavy metals, mold, pesticides, and chemicals increases inflammation and immune burden. Chronic or past infections can keep the immune system in a constant state of activation. Chronic stress disrupts immune regulation and increases inflammation. Nutrition plays a powerful role in calming inflammation and supporting immune balance. Leafy greensHealthy fats (olive oil, avocado)Wild-caught fish (rich in omega-3s)Fermented foodsHerbs and spices like turmeric and gingerGlutenProcessed foodsRefined sugar and artificial sweetenersIndustrial seed oilsOne of our favorite supportive tools in the clinic is a high-quality omega-3 supplement. Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have been extensively studied for their role in: Reducing inflammationSupporting joint healthModulating immune functionImproving brain and mood healthFor individuals dealing with autoimmune symptoms—especially joint pain and stiffness—this can be an important part of a comprehensive plan. At Thrive Functional Health, we don’t just manage symptoms—we look for the root cause. This includes: Advanced lab testingPersonalized nutrition plansGut healing protocolsHormone and stress supportBecause no two autoimmune cases are the same. Autoimmune conditions are not something you simply have to live with. When you begin to understand the “why” behind your symptoms, you can take meaningful steps toward healing. If you’re ready to explore a root-cause approach, we’re here to help. Schedule your Free Health Consultation today:https://www.thrivecfh.com/functional-medicine Let’s uncover what’s really going on—and create a plan that works for you.

    15 min

  3. May 7

    30 Day Gut Reset for Energy and Hormones

    Bloating, fatigue & brain fog? Our 30-day gut reset protocol tackles the root cause. Functional medicine, Branson MO. Free consult available at https://www.thrivecfh.com/functional-medicine-branson-mo

    10 min

  4. Apr 8

    Mitochondria Makeover — The Real Source of Energy

    Did you know the reason you feel tired might have nothing to do with sleep… and everything to do with tiny structures inside your cells? They’re called mitochondria — and they’re known as your body’s true powerhouses. Mitochondria take the food you eat and the oxygen you breathe and turn it into cellular energy. That energy powers your brain, your muscles, your metabolism, and even your hormones. But stress, toxins, blood sugar spikes, and nutrient deficiencies can damage mitochondria — leaving you feeling fatigued, foggy, and inflamed. Connect with us: www.thrivecfh.com

    15 min

  5. Mar 18

    The Forgotten Women

    Are you fatigued despite sleeping, stuck with weight that won't budge, and concerned it might be hormones or your thyroid, but told your labs are fine? Today, we recognize the forgotten woman, why you are not crazy, and real solutions to your concerns. Join us March 30th at Thrive Functional Health for an educational evening on hormones, thyroid, blood sugar, and adrenal health. Because normal labs don’t always mean optimal health. Event Details: March 30th, 630pm Located at 574 Hwy 248, Ste.4 Branson, MO call or text 417-545-3635 to reserve a spot Schedule a Free Health Consultationhttps://www.thrivecfh.com/

    25 min

  6. Mar 2

    Too Busy to Get Healthy? Think Again.

    In this episode of Health Hacks, Dr. Jeni and Tara share a powerful patient transformation story: 60 pounds lost, A1c reduced from 7.9 to 5.4, liver enzymes normalized, cholesterol improved, and inflammation markers cut nearly in half. More importantly, he shares how he feels — confident, energized, and back in control of his health, despite being a busy business owner and running a political campaign. If you’ve ever wondered whether real metabolic change is possible even in the middle of busy- this episode is for you.

    28 min

  7. Feb 24

    Why Resistance Training Is Essential for Insulin Sensitivity & Long-Term Metabolic Health

    Insulin resistance isn’t just about sugar—and it’s not just about weight. In this episode of Health Hacks, Tara Peterson and Dr. Jeni explain why resistance training is one of the most effective tools for improving insulin sensitivity and protecting metabolic health. Using current research and clinical insight, they break down how insulin works, why muscle is the body’s largest glucose sink, and how strength training improves blood sugar control, reduces visceral fat, lowers inflammation, and slows metabolic aging—even after the workout is over. You’ll also learn why up to 93% of U.S. adults are metabolically unhealthy, why muscle loss accelerates insulin resistance after age 30, and how just 2–3 strength training sessions per week can make a meaningful difference. If you’re struggling with blood sugar swings, fatigue, inflammation, or stubborn weight gain—this episode is for you. 💚 Interested in a personalized plan?Schedule a FREE Health Consultation with Thrive Functional Health to address your metabolic health from the inside out. www.thrivecfh.com In This Episode, We Cover: What insulin does and how insulin resistance develops Why insulin resistance can exist even at a normal weight NHANES data showing 93% of U.S. adults are metabolically unhealthy The role of skeletal muscle as the body’s largest glucose sink How excess blood sugar is stored as fat—especially visceral fat Why visceral fat worsens inflammation and insulin resistance How resistance training improves insulin sensitivity for 24–48 hours post-workout The connection between muscle mass, mitochondria, and metabolic aging Why adults lose 3–8% of muscle mass per decade after age 30 How strength training protects against metabolic decline and chronic disease Practical guidance on how often to strength train for metabolic health Resistance training isn’t just about strength—it’s about blood sugar control, inflammation reduction, hormone balance, and long-term metabolic resilience. NHANES Metabolic Health DataEstimates indicate that ~93% of U.S. adults meet criteria for poor metabolic health, defined by abnormalities in blood glucose, triglycerides, blood pressure, HDL cholesterol, or waist circumference. Wildman RP et al.The metabolic syndrome in normal-weight individuals: the importance of visceral adiposity.Arch Intern Med. 2008. DeFronzo RA, Tripathy D.Skeletal muscle insulin resistance is the primary defect in type 2 diabetes.Diabetes Care. 2009. Strasser B, et al.Resistance training improves insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.Sports Medicine. 2010. Current Reviews in Musculoskeletal Medicine (2024)Resistance training as a key intervention for insulin sensitivity, mitochondrial function, and metabolic aging.👉 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11994356/ Phillips SM, et al.Sarcopenia and the role of resistance training in aging.Appl Physiol Nutr Metab. 2016.

    13 min

  8. Feb 11

    Hormones, Breast Health, Menopause & Smarter Screening

    Hormones, Breast Health, Menopause & Smarter Screening Hormones don’t stop mattering after menopause — and estrogen is not the enemy many women have been led to believe. In this episode of Health Hacks, Tara Peterson and Dr. Jeni dive into a powerful, fear-reducing conversation around hormones, breast health, menopause, and breast cancer screening. Inspired by insights from the DUTCH Podcast and integrative oncologist Dr. Jenn Simmons, this episode challenges outdated beliefs and helps women understand what the science actually says. We discuss the role of estrogen and progesterone in breast health, why synthetic progestins — not estrogen — are linked to increased risk, and how smarter, individualized screening fits into a proactive, functional medicine approach. You’ll also learn how DUTCH hormone testing helps us personalize care by looking at hormone metabolism, stress, and detox pathways — not just hormone levels. If you’ve ever felt confused or fearful about hormones, menopause, or breast cancer screening, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and confident in advocating for your health. https://www.thrivecfh.com 00:00 – 03:00 | IntroductionWhy this conversation around hormones, breast health, and screening is long overdue 03:00 – 07:00 | What Is DUTCH Hormone Testing?• What DUTCH testing measures• Why hormone metabolism matters• How stress, cortisol, and detox pathways impact breast health 07:00 – 12:00 | Estrogen & Breast Cancer: Separating Myth from Fact• Why estrogen is not the primary driver of breast cancer• What research actually shows about estrogen and risk• Health consequences of estrogen deficiency 12:00 – 16:00 | Progesterone vs. Progestins• The critical difference between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins• Why progestins — not progesterone — are linked to increased risk• How progesterone supports sleep, mood, and brain health 16:00 – 22:00 | Smarter Breast Cancer Screening• Screening vs. prevention — why they are not the same• Limitations of mammograms• Breast ultrasound, MRI, and thermography as adjunct tools• Why tissue health, inflammation, and metabolism matter 22:00 – 25:00 | Birth Control vs. Menopausal Hormone Therapy• Why birth control is often misused in perimenopause• Hormone suppression vs. hormone restoration• How personalized hormone therapy differs from conventional care 25:00 – 28:00 | Hormones After Breast Cancer• What studies show about hormone therapy after breast cancer• Quality of life, timing, and individualized care• Moving beyond fear-based medicine 28:00 – 30:00 | Why We Use DUTCH Testing & Final Takeaways• Personalized hormone care• Proactive breast health• Education over fear DUTCH Hormone Testing DUTCH Podcast featuring Dr. Jenn Simmons Functional medicine approach to hormone and breast health If you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, hormone symptoms, or breast health concerns, we offer free functional health consultations to help you understand your hormones and explore personalized options. Listen, learn, and advocate for your health. https://www.thrivecfh.com

    20 min
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About

Health Hacks is a functional medicine podcast for women who are done being told their labs are "normal" while still feeling exhausted and hormonally imbalanced. Hosted by Dr. Jeni St. Onge, DC, CFMP and Tara Peterson, we cover hormone optimization, perimenopause, metabolic health, thyroid function, gut health, and women's longevity — with real answers and actionable insights every episode. Dr. Jeni and Tara practice in Branson, MO with Telehealth available nationwide. www.thrivecfh.com

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Jeni St. Onge, DC, CFMP and Tara Peterson
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    202
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Jeni St. Onge, DC, CFMP and Tara Peterson
  • Show Website
    Health Hacks