Ever wondered what lab tests are essential when you hit perimenopause? Then don’t miss this episode of the Mind Movement Health Podcast with Cindy Dupuie, a seasoned functional medicine nutritionist, who shares her expertise on how women can better understand and manage changes during perimenopause and menopause. We explore the importance of comprehensive lab testing, the role of hormones and gut health, gallbladder health and thyroid must-knows and how to advocate for yourself in medical settings. 🌿 Retreat Invitation... If this episode resonates, this is exactly why I host immersive women’s health retreats focused on movement, nervous system healing, connection and restoration. My next international retreat, Pilates by the Mekong in Vietnam this October, is designed for midlife women who want to reduce stress, improve digestion, balance hormones and reconnect with themselves through Pilates, strength training, whole-food nutrition and daily regulation practices. Our early bird offer is available until 31st March- save $200! Check it out and join our Pilates by the Mekong Retreat Here. Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction to Cindy Dupuy and her background in functional medicine (02:45) What is functional medicine and how it differs from conventional approaches (07:30) Common symptoms women experience during perimenopause and how to address them (12:20) Essential blood panels for women in menopause, including vitamin D, iron, lipids, and thyroid tests (18:00) Understanding thyroid function and the importance of comprehensive thyroid testing (24:00) The role of insulin and blood sugar regulation in metabolic health (30:00) How hormonal shifts affect the immune system, gut, and overall health (34:50) Nutritional strategies: Protein, fiber, and supporting digestion (42:40) Gallbladder health, common issues, and the significance of choline and estrogen (52:50) Practical tips for women to take charge of their health and speak confidently with healthcare providers (55:00) Resources for further support, including online courses, labs, and expert contact details More about Cindy: Cindy’s been helping both men and women for over 20 years who were sick and tired of feeling sick and tired. She’s a functional medicine practitioner/nutritionist whose specialty is digestion, thyroid, blood work, and women in their Pause years. It’s her goal to educate and empower women to advocate for themselves. Cindy received her BS degree in Dietetics many moons ago and then found Functional Medicine over 23 years ago when she was going through a very difficult time in her life- her digestive system was rebelling like a teenager, and was thrown into an early menopause at the age of 43. Since that time, she’s never looked back and has helped 100’s of clients, heal through the functional medicine lens. One of Cindy’s superpowers is to research, connect the dots, listen and to teach. She likes to dig deep. She doesn’t take things at face value. She’s happiest when she’s in front of an audience, even an audience of one. Along with helping her ladies in her 1:1 telehealth practice, she offers courses, lab work assessments and teaches yoga. She’s also a mom and grandma. Her main goal is to help women be their own healthcare advocate. Places to follow Cindy and work with her. Website: alivingbalance.net https://alivingbalance.net Instagram: @cindy_dupuie https://www.instagram.com/cindy_dupuie/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alivingbalance Signature Course: Grace In Transition for Women Of A Certain Age: https://alivingbalance.net/course/ Free Download Lab Checklist for The PauseYears: https://mailchi.mp/ec838eef0e74/lab-checklist Video: What End Is Up When It Comes To HRT https://youtu.be/A-jMfvQifjo Want a little help with your health? Then check out Paleo Valley’s range of organic foods and supplements. Grab 15% off all Paleo Valley products HERE. From healthy snacks to helping to boost your protein needs or support your system with supplements, Paleo Valley products are organic and nutrient dense. Check out their range of products HERE. Sign up to our weekly newsletter and become an M&M Insider! You'll receive special discounts, bundles, behind the scenes podcast insights and simple tips to help you improve your health. Don't miss out! Join here: https://www.mindmovementhealth.com.au/subscribe/ Connect with Kate: Website: MindMovementHealth.com.au Facebook: facebook.com/MindMovementHealth Instagram: instagram.com/MindMovementHealth Haven’t subscribed to the podcast yet? Be sure to subscribe and leave us a review at: Apple Podcasts