The Period Recovery Podcast

Cynthia Donovan
  • 5.0 (52)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
The Period Recovery Podcast

Welcome to the Period Recovery podcast. Here is where your host Cynthia Registered Dietitian Period Recovery expert, will discuss the reality, ups & downs & life-changing journey of getting your period back and finding balance with food, body & exercise. After overcoming missing period issues of her own, Cynthia started to help women across the world get their periods back for good & restore their health & fertility through her unique methodology for period recovery. Cynthia breaks down the science into simple-to-follow ways so that you can understand why your period is missing (still) and what you can do to get your period back every month (or get pregnant if that's your goal). It's time to stop stressing & guessing & get your period & your life back! Tune in every other Thursday & feel empowered to take action to get your period back for good with all the tips, information & stories Cynthia is sharing. Follow Cynthia on Instagram @period.nutritionist or visit her website www.periodnutritionist.com.

  1. JUN 26

    Navigating Nutrition During Pregnancy

    In this podcast episode, Cynthia Donovan and Stephanie Lauri discuss the critical role of nutrition during pregnancy. They explore the gaps in prenatal nutrition education, the importance of balanced meals, and how to manage food aversions and nausea.  Stephanie shares practical tips for expecting mothers to optimize their nutrition while maintaining a realistic and flexible approach to eating. Cynthia and Stephanie emphasize the importance of hydration, managing constipation, and the need for a balanced diet. The conversation also touches on the significance of trusting one's body during pregnancy, especially regarding weight management and the individual nature of pregnancy experiences. Practical tips for symptom relief and meal planning are provided, making it a valuable resource for expectant mothers. Takeaways: Nutrition is often overlooked in prenatal care.Many women have questions about nutrition during pregnancy.Balanced meals and eating frequently help with nausea and energy levels.Full-fat products are important for nutrient absorption.Different nutrients are important at different pregnancy stages.Food aversions are common and can be managed.Comfort foods can be made more nutritious.Smoothies are a great way to add nutrition.It's important to focus on what to add, not restrict. Constipation is common in pregnancy due to slowed motility.Hydration is crucial, but can be challenging due to nausea.Spacing out water intake can help reduce nausea.Trial and error is essential for symptom management during pregnancy.Leaving snacks at bedside can help with morning nausea.Slowly increasing fiber intake is important for digestion.Movement, like walking, can aid in digestion and bowel movements.A variety of foods should be incorporated for balanced nutrition.Trusting your body is vital during pregnancy and postpartum.Weight gain varies greatly among individuals and does not determine baby health. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    45 min

  2. JUN 12

    Cortisol, Carbs & No Periods: What Female Athletes Need to Know

    In today’s episode, Cynthia Donovan, MS RD & Lindsey Cortes MS RD CSSD, dive into the overlooked connection between nutrition, cortisol, and period recovery—especially for active women and female athletes. If you’ve ever wondered why your workouts feel harder, your period is missing, or your sleep is off, this episode is for you. Cynthia & Lindsey explore: Why female athletes have unique nutritional and hormonal needsThe impact of body image and restrictive eating on menstrual healthHow high cortisol disrupts hormone balance and period regulationThe role of carbohydrates in lowering cortisol and promoting recoveryWhy pre- and post-workout fueling matters more than you thinkThe power of nighttime snacks in supporting hormone healthHow to approach intentional eating post-recoveryThe real difference between a rest day and active recoveryWhy hydration, sleep, and fun with food are hormone boostersWhat exercise periodization really means for female bodiesTips to shorten fasting windows and optimize morning workoutsHow to tune into your cycle and adjust training accordinglyPlus: Why caffeine may be sabotaging your hormones, and how resting more is often the missing piece in your healing journey. This episode is packed with real talk, clinical insights, and mindset shifts to help you recover your period, manage hypothalamic amenorrhea, and feel strong, nourished, and hormonally healthy again. _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist Lindsey Elizabeth Cortes is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics with over 12 years of experience consulting competitive, collegiate, high school, recreational, elite, military, and Olympic athletes. She specifically helps female athletes use food as fuel to perform at their highest level addressing overcoming disordered eating and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDS). As a former Division 1 Track and Field athlete herself, and later obtaining a Master’s degree specializing in Sports Nutrition, using nutrition to optimize performance was always Lindsey’s specialty. As a Sports Dietitian, she worked at 3 different NCAA universities: University of Georgia, Florida State University, and University of Texas San Antonio prior to establishing her own business. She is the host of the popular Female Athlete Nutrition podcast available on all major listening platforms and YouTube. Connect w/Lindsey:  IG: @female.athlete.nutrition YouTube: www.youtube.com/@femaleatheltenutrition FB: Female Athlete Nutrition facebook group LinkedIN: Lindsey Cortes MS RD CSSD Podcast: The Female Athlete Nutrition Podcast For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    50 min

  3. MAY 29

    Losing My Period, Not My Identity

    In this episode of the Period Recovery Podcast, Drew shares her experience working with Cynthia to regain her period. From conditioning to fixate on thinness to the misconceptions of healthy living, Drew discusses how her experiences led her to seek support and the importance of accountability in the recovery process. The conversation highlights the complexities of women's health and the need for a holistic approach to recovery.  Drew shares her journey of period recovery, discussing the fears and challenges she faced, particularly around identity and nutrition. She emphasizes the importance of eating enough calories and how shifting her mindset about food helped her regain her health. Drew reflects on the freedom and happiness she has found post-recovery, highlighting the confidence she gained and the ability to embrace life without the constraints of diet culture. The discussion also touches on the emotional aspects of recovery and the encouragement she offers to others on a similar journey. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    49 min

  4. MAY 15

    Will I Ever Reach My Set Point?

    Today Cynthia welcomes Caitie Corradino, the founder of Full Soul Nutrition to talk about the best ways to care for our bodies.​ Caitie is a Registered Dietitian-Nutritionist, Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, eating disorder recovery coach, body image expert, Certified Personal Trainer, Registered Yoga Teacher, breathwork facilitator, and reiki healer. ​She combines nutrition counseling with body image counseling and a toolkit of somatic healing modalities to help you feel more alive. Today Cynthia and Caitie talk about healing from food anxiety in its many forms so that you can trust your body to find its own natural set point for weight.  Learn more about Caitie: fullsoulnutrition.com @caitie.c.rd Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    51 min

  5. MAY 1

    How Body Image Shapes Mental Health, Relationships & Self-Worth with Dr. Morgan Francis

    In this conversation Cynthia and Dr. Morgan Francis discuss the complexities of body image and its profound impact on mental health. They emphasize the importance of understanding body image beyond eating disorders, highlighting its influence on various aspects of life, including relationships and sexual health. The discussion also covers the role of family dynamics in shaping body image perceptions, the distinction between body neutrality and body positivity, and the unique challenges faced during pregnancy and postpartum. Dr. Francis provides practical advice for improving body image and stresses the importance of therapy and self-compassion in this journey. Takeaways: Body image affects mental health and relationships.Struggles with body image are common and widespread.Body image is shaped by personal experiences and societal influences.Family dynamics play a crucial role in body image perceptions.Body neutrality is a more attainable goal than body positivity for many.Pregnancy and postpartum are vulnerable times for body image issues.Self-awareness and education are critical in addressing body image concerns.Therapy can provide essential support in improving body image.Practicing kindness towards oneself is a vital step in healing.Social media can help individuals realize they are not alone in their struggles. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist Dr. Morgan Francis is a Doctor of Clinical Psychology and a Licensed Mental Health Therapist. She is the owner of Scottsdale Premier Counseling, in Scottsdale, Arizona. At her private practice she treats young adults, individuals, couples, and families. Her mission is to break through the mental health shame game. With over 20 years of experience specializing in the treatment of Body Image and Eating Disorders, Dr. Francis can empower you to make peace with your body and food. She is the Mental Health Expert for 12 News Arizona and you can find her on Wellness Wednesdays to discuss all things related to mental health. She has also been a guest on Fox News Phoenix, she has been featured in local and national publication, she is a public speaker and consultant on mental health helping churches, schools, and community organizations. You can work with Dr. Francis by accessing her online courses or attending her webinars. Dr. Francis lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with her three children and husband. https://www.scottsdalepremiercounseling.com/ IG: @drmorganfrancis  For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    27 min

  6. APR 17

    Reclaiming Femininity: The Journey of Period Loss

    Silba is a behavioral scientist, somatic coach, and sensuality educator passionate about helping ambitious women with a big heart reconnect to their bodies, rekindle their pleasure, and reclaim their full feminine expression so they can safely be themselves. With eleven years of experience in human fulfillment—first as a consultant for organisations in London and for the past six years working 1:1 with clients and leading talks and workshops worldwide, Silba brings a unique blend of science, storytelling, and accessible strategies. Her approach is warm, creative, and playful, making personal growth feel deeply enjoyable. In this conversation, Cynthia and Silba explore the profound connection between women's emotional health and their physical well-being, particularly focusing on the experience of period loss. Silba shares her personal journey of losing her period, the impact of family dynamics, and the struggle with body disconnection. They discuss the societal pressures that lead women to suppress their emotions and the importance of reconnecting with one's femininity.  The conversation also touches on the role of medical diagnoses like PCOS and the journey towards self-discovery and healing through practices like the Love Protocol.  In this conversation, Silba and Cynthia explore the importance of nourishment, self-awareness, and pleasure in women's health and healing. They discuss the need for honesty in assessing one's relationship with their body, the significance of rest and energy management, and the transformative power of pleasure as a guiding force in life. The dialogue emphasizes the journey of self-discovery and the importance of being curious and playful in one's healing process. Takeaways Period loss can be linked to emotional repression.Disconnection from the body often starts in adolescence.Family dynamics can significantly impact emotional health.Reconnecting with femininity is crucial for healing.Medical diagnoses can sometimes mislabel women's experiences.Inner wisdom is key to understanding one's body.Practices like the Love Protocol can aid in self-discovery.Building a friendly relationship with the body is essential. There's got to be a better way to nourish ourselves.We must look inward to connect with our bodies.Getting honest about our relationship with our body is crucial.Desires are sacred and guide us towards our true selves.Rest is essential for energy and pleasure.Pleasure emerges when we align with our inner and outer worlds.Life is happening for you, not to you.Be a scientist of your own experience.Nourishment is a key pillar in healing.Curiosity and playfulness enhance the healing journey.Silba's instagram: instagram.com/silbastaffler Silba's substack: silbastaffler.substack.com Silba's website: silbastaffler.com Bites of Pleasure Podcast - find it on Spotify: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/caitie-corradino0 For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    51 min

  7. APR 3

    Building a Strong Foundation for Future Performance

    Cynthia welcomes back the wonderful Elena Kunicki, RD to discuss trying to get your period back as an athlete or as an active person. We know it's a hard pill to swallow but we're big believers in rest days. We want to encourage you to build up your nutrition and your hormonal health in recovery from hypothalamic amenorrhea. We're also talking about cardiovascular health, finding joy beyond exercise, and the importance of building a strong foundation for future performance. Elena is a Registered Dietitian who helps women heal their relationship with food, their bodies, and exercise. Through her own journey to food freedom after 4 years struggling with binge eating and amenorrhea, she developed a passion for helping other women overcome similar struggles. Elena now provides nutrition coaching and counseling services to clients in her private practice and as part of a group practice in New York City. Her specialty is helping fitness and health conscious women stop binging, get their periods back and prioritize fitness goals in a healthy and sustainable way. Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist Reach out to Elena via email at: elena@elenakunicki.com Check out Elena's podcast The Binge Eating Dietician Podcast  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elenakunickird/ For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    36 min

  8. MAR 20

    Getting My Period Back & Planning a Wedding- A Fairytale Ending!

    In this episode, Cynthia and Jayden discuss Jayden's inspiring journey through period recovery, her struggles with an eating disorder, and the joy of becoming pregnant. They explore the fears and challenges faced during recovery, the importance of supportive people, and the transformative changes that come with embracing a healthier lifestyle. So many insights into what it's like to have this newfound freedom! Takeaways Jayden had always dreamed of having a baby girl and the fear of not being able to conceive was a significant concern.Jayden started her period recovery journey well before her wedding and support from her fiancé was crucial in her recovery journey.Jayden's life was controlled and routine before recovery, but she experienced a transformation in her mental health and happiness post-recovery.The fear of weight gain was a major barrier to starting recovery, but Jayden learned to honor her hunger and cravings, which has been crucial during her pregnancy.Recovery allows Jayden to enjoy life, vacationing, socializing,  eating and spontaneity.  ____________________________________________________________________________________ Apply for coaching w/Cynthia:  https://0u8h3wddwmr.typeform.com/StrategyCall Discover the truth about HA:  click the link to download Cynthia's fact sheet that debunks common myths and misinformation!  Website: https://www.periodnutritionist.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/period.nutritionist For the full show notes - please visit my website: periodnutritionist.com

    41 min
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Trailer

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About

Welcome to the Period Recovery podcast. Here is where your host Cynthia Registered Dietitian Period Recovery expert, will discuss the reality, ups & downs & life-changing journey of getting your period back and finding balance with food, body & exercise. After overcoming missing period issues of her own, Cynthia started to help women across the world get their periods back for good & restore their health & fertility through her unique methodology for period recovery. Cynthia breaks down the science into simple-to-follow ways so that you can understand why your period is missing (still) and what you can do to get your period back every month (or get pregnant if that's your goal). It's time to stop stressing & guessing & get your period & your life back! Tune in every other Thursday & feel empowered to take action to get your period back for good with all the tips, information & stories Cynthia is sharing. Follow Cynthia on Instagram @period.nutritionist or visit her website www.periodnutritionist.com.

Information

  • Creator
    Cynthia Donovan
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2025
  • Episodes
    87
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Period Recovery Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Period Recovery Podcast

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