If you've been feeling unlike yourself lately — exhausted, wired, moody, foggy, or like your body is suddenly playing by a whole new set of rules — this episode is for you. In this conversation, I'm joined by Dr. Alicia Newsome, functional medicine practitioner, bestselling author, and founder of the Powerful & Healthy Academy, to talk about natural ways to support hormone balance in midlife. We dig into how stress affects hormones, why testing matters, and simple lifestyle shifts that can support more steady energy, better sleep, and fewer frustrating symptoms. Hormonal changes in midlife can leave many women feeling confused, dismissed, and frustrated. From low energy and sleep struggles to weight changes, mood swings, and hot flashes, it can feel like your body has suddenly become unfamiliar. In this episode of Living Life Naturally, I'm joined by Dr. Alicia Newsome — an international speaker, bestselling author, functional medicine practitioner, and founder of the Powerful & Healthy Academy. Dr. Alicia is passionate about helping women understand what's going on inside their bodies so they can move forward feeling more informed, supported, and confident. Together, we talk about natural approaches to hormone balance during perimenopause and menopause, with a strong focus on looking at the whole picture rather than simply masking symptoms. In this episode, we discuss: · why hormone changes in midlife can affect energy, sleep, weight, and mood · how chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance · why the body often prioritizes cortisol over sex hormones during times of stress · natural ways to support the body, including reducing toxic burden and addressing deficiencies · the importance of testing rather than guessing · how personalized support may include adaptogens and targeted supplementation · hormone-friendly daily routines that support steadier energy and better resilience · the benefits of a savory, protein-rich breakfast · how evening brain-dumping and transition routines can support a calmer nervous system · the role of functional testing, including Dutch testing, 24-hour urine testing, and blood work · how Dr. Alicia works with women virtually and the free resources she offers through her website One of the things I especially appreciated in this conversation is Dr. Alicia's reminder that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. What works for one woman may not be what another woman needs, which is why getting clearer information about your body can be so important. This episode is packed with practical insight for women who are tired of guessing and are ready to better understand their symptoms and next steps. Free Resources from Dr. Alicia Newsome: Midlife Hormone Reset Guide A step-by-step starter plan to support energy, improve sleep, and reduce hot flashes with simple daily habits, plus a lab-request checklist. https://www.dralicianewsome.com/hormone-reset-guide Hormone-Friendly Meal Blueprint A free 7-day plan with protein targets, blood-sugar-balanced meals, and a grocery list tailored for perimenopause and menopause. https://www.dralicianewsome.com/meal-blueprint Mini Masterclass: Natural Hormone Balance in Midlife A free 25-minute video on how stress, sleep, and blood sugar influence symptoms — and 5 supportive levers to begin turning things around. https://www.dralicianewsome.com/midlife-masterclass Complimentary 15-Minute Hormone Clarity Call For women who want support interpreting labs or deciding on next steps. https://www.dralicianewsome.com/clarity-call Connect with Dr. Alicia Newsome Website: https://www.dralicianewsome.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.alicianewsome Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dralicianewsome YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dr.AliciaNewsome Podcast: The Whole & Complete Woman About Dr. Alicia Newsome: Dr. Alicia Newsome is an international speaker, bestselling author, trainer, and esteemed doctor working in functional medicine. Dr. Alicia empowers women who lack clarity and guidance to receive the steps, strategies & confidence to regain their authentic voice, transform their health and walk boldly into their life purpose. Dr. Newsome has been recognized in USA Today, ABC, NBC, FOX & CBS for her work and contribution to the world. She is the honored recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award. In private practice, she helps women find out exactly what's happening inside their bodies & resolve those issues without drugs or surgery through advanced lab testing and boutique-style concierge, one-on-one, customized programs that are designed for the individual needs of each woman. Dr. Alicia keeps it real and brings the eye-opening truths about health while breaking down complex medical concepts into simple easy to digest gold nuggets of information. Every audience receives newfound knowledge and roadmap which allows them to walk away more confident, empowered and excited about the next steps in their health journey Connect with Lynne Join the Energized Healthy Women's Club on Facebook for encouragement, practical wellness support, and real conversations for women in midlife and beyond: https://www.facebook.com/groups/energized.healthy.women Website: https://holistic-healthandwellness.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/holistichealthandwellnessllc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lynnewadsworth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnewadsworth 👉 Grab your free copy of Lynne's "5 Essential Steps for Flourishing in Menopause" here: https://holistic-healthandwellness.com/flourish-in-midlife/ If today's conversation resonated with you and you'd like a gentle chat about next steps, you can schedule time with me here: https://calendly.com/lynnewadsworth/30min Did You Enjoy the Podcast? If this episode encouraged you, taught you something new, or helped you feel more supported on your midlife wellness journey, I'd be so grateful if you would subscribe, share it with a friend, and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Pandora. Your support helps Living Life Naturally reach more women who are looking for trustworthy, compassionate support in midlife and beyond. Disclaimer This podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, medications, or wellness routine.