Midlife Mayhem

Birth Control ≠ HRT, so why do they prescribe it?

Episode Title: Why the WHI Study Still Misguides Midlife Women + Why Birth Control Isn’t Hormone Therapy
Episode Overview
Mastering Midlife starts on SUNDAY (Sept 21) www.midlifemonth.com
 
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem, Joanne Lee Cornish breaks down one of the most damaging studies in women’s health history—the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI)—and explains how its flawed design still shapes the way doctors approach hormone replacement therapy (HRT) today.
She also explores why so many women in their 40s and 50s are prescribed birth control as “hormone therapy”, why it might feel like it works, and why the long-term consequences can be deeply concerning.
This conversation is not just for women—men face their own version of hormonal decline in midlife, and understanding both journeys creates stronger health, stronger relationships, and a deeper level of compassion.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The WHI Study: What Went Wrong
Conducted in the 1990s, cost nearly $1 billion, involved 160,000 women.
The average participant age was 63—decades older than the women HRT was meant to study.
Participants were often overweight, hypertensive, or smokers—factors that skewed results.
The hormones tested (Premarin + Provera) were outdated, synthetic formulations rarely used today.
Relative Risk vs Absolute Risk: How the Media Got It Wrong
Headlines screamed “26% increase in breast cancer risk.”
Actual increase was from 3 in 1,000 women to 3.8 in 1,000.
A frightening relative risk became a misleading headline that terrified women and doctors, leading to decades of confusion and reluctance to prescribe HRT.
The Fallout That Still Shapes Midlife Care Today
Doctors stopped prescribing HRT.
A generation of physicians received little-to-no training in modern, bioidentical hormone therapy.
Millions of women were left without proper guidance during midlife.
Birth Control as HRT: Why It’s Not the Same
Birth control suppresses natural hormone production instead of replacing what’s missing.
It significantly lowers testosterone—a key hormone for energy, mood, libido, and muscle tone.
Higher risks of clots and stroke, especially in women over 35, smokers, or those with metabolic issues.
Doctors prescribe it out of familiarity, insurance coverage, and convenience—not because it’s the best solution.
Why Testosterone Matters in Midlife Women
Already declining naturally, testosterone is further suppressed by birth control.
Leads to reduced strength, energy, motivation, and intimacy.
Many women don’t connect these struggles back to suppressed testosterone until years later.
Men and Midlife: The Overlooked Journey
Women’s hormonal chaos hits in their 40s, men’s decline (andropause) often creeps in during their 50s.
The mismatch in timing creates tension, frustration, and distance in relationships.
Understanding each other’s hormonal journeys builds patience, compassion, and stronger partnerships.
Why This Matters
We’ve spent over two decades living with the fallout of a flawed study. If you’ve been scared of HRT, or if your doctor avoids the conversation, this episode will help you understand why—and how to ask better questions, find the right practitioners, and take control of your midlife journey.
Call to Action
This episode is just the beginning. If you want to go deeper, get real strategies, and finally master your midlife years, join my Mastering Midlife Program—starting Sunday, September 21.
👉 www.midlifemonth.com
This program only runs once a year. You’ll get:
Live coaching calls (not a faceless webinar—you’ll be known by name)
Access to an exclusive content library
Practical, science-backed strategies for hormones, health, and body composition
A supportive group of like-minded men and women navigating midlife together
As one past participant said:
“I didn’t want to join. My wife dragged me in. But this program did more for our marriage than two years of therapy.”
Don’t wait—this is your chance to stop guessing, stop Googling, and start thriving.
✨ Midlife may feel like mayhem, but with the right knowledge and strategy, it becomes the best chapter yet.

DHM + L-Cysteine & Alpha GPC + DLPA: Reduce Alcohol’s Effects and Unlock Laser Focus

Welcome to Midlife Mayhem! For the first time, I’m not just talking to you through your headphones — I’m also filming this for YouTube. So if you’d rather see me chatting through today’s episode, head over to (joanne lee cornish)  my YouTube channel. 
Today, I want to share some of the lesser-known supplement pairings I personally use and keep on hand. These aren’t your typical multivitamins or fish oils — they’re unique stacks that I pull out a couple of times a month when I need them. And since my Mastering Midlife Program kicks off on September 21, I thought this was the perfect time to give you a preview.
🍶 DHM + L-Cysteine: My “Alcohol Insurance” Stack
Okay, let’s talk about what I jokingly call my going-out stack. If I know I’m going to enjoy a glass of wine or two, this is what I reach for:
DHM (Dihydromyricetin): When you drink alcohol, your liver breaks it down in steps. First, ethanol (the alcohol in your drink) is broken down into acetaldehyde — and that’s the nasty stuff that makes you feel headachy, nauseous, and sluggish. Your body has an enzyme called acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which converts that toxic acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid (basically vinegar). The catch? Your liver can only work at a steady pace — it doesn’t speed up just because you had three margaritas. Research shows DHM can help upregulate acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, essentially nudging your body to clear out that toxic middle step faster.
L-Cysteine: This one is an amino acid that helps your body make glutathione, your master antioxidant. Think of glutathione as your liver’s cleanup crew — it sweeps away leftover toxins and free radicals so you can recover more quickly. By taking L-Cysteine with DHM, you’re not only speeding up the breakdown of alcohol but also giving your body extra tools to handle the oxidative stress that comes with drinking.
💡 How I use it: If I know I’ll have more than one drink, I take one capsule of DHM (around 350–500 mg) and one capsule of L-Cysteine (500 mg) after my first drink. Honestly, if I only have one glass, I don’t need them, but I’ll often still take them — it just helps me feel clearer and better the next day.
And here’s the kicker: these are simple, inexpensive supplements. The DHM I use is by Nutricost, and the L-Cysteine is by NOW — but you don’t have to stick to those brands. They’re basic compounds, no need to overpay for a fancy “hangover pill” when you can pair them yourself for less than $30 and get way more doses.
⚡️ Alpha GPC + DLPA: The Focus & Flow Stack
Now, let’s shift gears to another duo I love — not for social nights out, but for when I need serious focus and mental clarity. This is my deep work stack, perfect for writing, planning, or any project that requires a lot of brainpower.
DLPA (DL-Phenylalanine): This supplement is a blend of two mirror-image forms of the amino acid phenylalanine.
The L-form is a precursor to dopamine — the neurotransmitter responsible for motivation, focus, and drive. Think of dopamine as the spark that helps you get things done.
The D-form works differently: it helps slow the breakdown of endorphins, those natural “feel-good” chemicals your body releases when you laugh, exercise, or enjoy a great meal. By keeping your endorphins around longer, it helps sustain a positive, motivated state.
Alpha GPC (L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine): This is a highly bioavailable source of choline, which your brain uses to make acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter tied to learning, memory, and focus. Think of it as premium fuel for your brain’s communication system. When acetylcholine is abundant, neurons fire more efficiently, and everything feels clearer and sharper.
💡 How I use it: I don’t take these every day. For me, it’s more of a “power button” stack. If I know I need a solid 2–3 hours of uninterrupted writing, content creation, or really intense focus, I’ll take one DLPA and one Alpha GPC together. About 20–30 minutes later, it feels like the fog lifts, I’ve got more drive, and I can really lock in.
Are they stimulants? Not in the jittery, wired way that coffee or pre-workouts can be. You don’t get the crash. Instead, it’s like your brain is clicking into gear — smooth energy, clearer thinking, better recall.
🧘 Mastering Midlife Program — Starts September 21!
If all of this has your brain buzzing and you want to learn more about how to use supplements (without the confusion or hype), then I’d love to invite you to join me in the Mastering Midlife Program, starting September 21st.
Here’s what you’ll get:
🔟 Live coaching calls over 6 weeks — each one covering a key pillar of thriving in midlife.
📚 A growing library of 70+ pieces of content — with strategies, deep dives, and explanations you can access for a full year.
🎯 My top 5 everyday supplements that I recommend for everyone, plus specialized “a la carte” options for specific needs like sleep, focus, skin health, bone strength, and more.
👩‍🏫 Direct access to me during the live program to answer your questions and guide you step by step.
Midlife is not something to dread — it’s your chance to step into a vibrant new chapter of strength, energy, and confidence. But you need the right tools and strategies to make that happen. That’s exactly what we’ll cover in this program.
👉 We start September 21st. Spots are limited.Check out all the details here: midlifemonth.com
✨ Thanks so much for tuning into Midlife Mayhem! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend who might find it helpful. And if you want the full supplement deep dive (plus all my midlife optimization strategies), join us inside the program.
Brands mentioned DHM (nutricost) L cysteine (NOW)  DLPA (Life Extension) Alpha GPC (NOW)

Cellular Energy, NAD+, and Gut Diversity Demystified

Recorded: September 6 (rainy morning in Idaho 🌧️)Host: Joanne Lee CornishTheme: Cutting through the “too simple” and the “too complex” to the useful middle—so you actually know what to do and why it works.
Why this episode matters
There’s a giant gap in health education: on one side, fluffy tips (“eat healthy fats!”); on the other, firehose-science that sounds impressive but leaves you asking, …now what? This episode lives in the middle. You’ll get plain-English explanations of high-value concepts and, more importantly, how to implement them for midlife results.
⚡️ Heads up: Enrollment for Mastering Midlife starts really soon. It’s a 10-Step to Success program with live coaching plus a full content library so you can learn at your own pace. Details below.
Episode Highlights
1) The “Gap” I Fill (00:29–03:31)
The internet swings between oversimplified advice and overcomplicated biohacking.
Most people don’t need more noise—they need actionable explanations and a clear progression.
That’s why my programs are designed as a journey—not 10 random Zooms.
2) Why a Progressive Framework Works (03:01–04:46)
Mastering Midlife follows a 10-step sequence across bloodwork, smart nutrition, supplements, exercise, and strength training.
Each step builds on the last so you can understand, apply, and sustain.
3) Buzzwords You Hear Everywhere—Decoded (04:46–10:07)
We name the elephant in the room: terms are tossed around like everyone learned this in school (we didn’t). This series clarifies the why and the how so you can use the info.
Topics called out: mitochondria, cellular energy, NAD+, autophagy, mTOR/AMPK, BDNF, leptin resistance, metabolic flexibility, glycation, inflamaging, photobiomodulation, peptides (BPC-157, tesamorelin, GHK), exosomes, stem cells, senescent cells, HRV, cold exposure/brown fat, methylation, zonulin, LPS, histamine intolerance, oxalates, collagen cross-linking, microdosing, sarcopenia, longevity genes, and more.
4) Deep Dives (Plain English)
A) Mitochondria & Cellular Energy (10:07–18:43)
Mitochondria are more than “little batteries.” They decide:
How efficiently you burn fat
How much energy is available to brain/muscle/organs
How quickly you age
Cellular energy = ability to produce ATP (the “currency of life”).
Low ATP → fatigue, cravings, slow recovery, poor gains.
Support via quality food, smart meal timing (including some fasting), resistance training, sleep, and light (e.g., red light therapy).
B) NAD+ & Why Everyone’s Talking About It (18:43–23:54)
NAD+ is a coenzyme required to turn food into usable energy. Levels decline with age.
You’ll hear about NR/NMN (precursors). Lifestyle also protects NAD (exercise, sleep, fasting).
5-Amino-1MQ (which I carry) supports your own NAD production.
Warning: medications may create great scale changes, but cellular health still matters—don’t abandon the basics.
C) Microbiome Diversity (24:19–29:49)
Think of your gut like a rainforest—diversity = resilience.
Diverse microbes = better digestion, vitamins, hormone balance, immune regulation, even mood/cognition (gut-brain axis).
Midlife naturally reduces diversity. Counter it by:
Eliminating ultra-processed foods (non-negotiable)
Eating more fiber (feeds good bacteria)
Including fermented foods (adds good bacteria)
D) LPS & Leaky Gut—The Silent Saboteur (29:49–34:35)
LPS (lipopolysaccharide) lives on certain gut bacteria. Fine inside the gut; toxic if it leaks out.
With leaky gut, LPS escapes → big immune reaction → systemic inflammation, brain fog, joint pain, fatigue, insulin resistance, mood issues; linked with autoimmunity.
Drivers: ultra-processed food, irritants, toxins, antibiotics, high sugar.
I have a free leaky gut video—email me.
E) Oxidative Stress (34:57–41:51)
When cells make energy, free radicals (sparks) are created. Antioxidants are the cleanup crew.
If sparks build up without cleanup, you get a fire = oxidative stress.
Result: faster aging (wrinkles), joint issues, chronic disease risk, low energy.
Fix the inputs: whole foods, consistent activity, sleep, stress management.
As we age, internal antioxidant systems decline → diet quality matters more.
5) Big Picture (42:18–44:57)
Weight alone isn’t the game. Cellular health is.
When people understand the why, simple solutions are finally implemented—and they stick.
6) The Power of Community (45:20–46:34)
Join as a front-row participant or low-key spectator; the group dynamic accelerates results.
Coaching is not about dumping information—it’s progression + conversation.
About the Program: Mastering Midlife — 10-Step to Success
Starts soon (runs live once per year).
10 progressive steps that cover: bloodwork, smart nutrition, supplementation, strength training, recovery, metabolic health, gut health, and more.
Live coaching calls + full content library (review at your pace all year).
Small-group energy with big-league support—practical, science-backed, no extremes.
Flexible payment option: split into 3 payments.
Learn more / enroll: midlifemonth.com
Questions? jo@theshrinkshop.com
Quick Glossary (Buzzwords, Decoded)
ATP: Cellular fuel your body spends for every heartbeat, thought, and muscle contraction.
Mitochondria: Cellular power plants; they influence fat-burning, energy, and aging.
NAD+: Coenzyme required for converting food to energy; declines with age.
Microbiome Diversity: Variety of gut species; more diversity = more resilience.
LPS: Toxin on certain gut bacteria; harmless in gut, inflammatory if it leaks into the bloodstream.
Oxidative Stress: Damage from excess “sparks” (free radicals) when antioxidant cleanup can’t keep up.
Do This This Week (Action Checklist)
Upgrade food quality: 80–90% whole, minimally processed foods.
Add fiber daily: Aim 25–35g—veggies, berries, legumes, ground flax, chia (if tolerated), oats.
Include fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, plain yogurt, tempeh (as tolerated).
Lift 2–4x/week: Prioritize big patterns (squat/hinge/push/pull/carry).
Sleep audit: 7–9 hours, consistent times, dark/cool room.
Light & movement: Morning outdoor light; frequent walking; consider red-light sessions.
Consider NAD support: Lifestyle first; discuss supplements if appropriate.
Curious about leaky gut? Email me for the free video.
Links & Contact
Enroll/learn more: midlifemonth.com
Email: jo@theshrinkshop.com
YouTube: Joanne Lee Cornish (long-form videos)
Speaking/Group Coaching inquiries welcome.
P.S. Want a Part 2?
If you want me to continue this series and break down more terms (mTOR/AMPK, autophagy, HRV, cold exposure, methylation, histamine intolerance, oxalates, collagen cross-linking, and more), email me and tell me which topics you want next.

The Dangerous Advice That’s Keeping Midlifers Weak

Show Notes – Midlife Mayhem Podcast
Episode Type: Venting / Educational RantProgram Mentioned: Mastering Midlife (Sept 21 – Nov 1) → www.midlifemonth.com
🎙️ Episode Overview
In this episode, Joanne takes aim at a recent Telegraph article that claimed you can lose weight without losing muscle by following outdated and misleading advice. From the laughably low protein recommendations (45g/day for women) to the suggestion that light weights and bodyweight exercise are enough for midlife muscle preservation, Jo breaks down why this kind of misinformation is dangerous—not just frustrating.
This episode is raw, fiery, and unapologetic—a venting session that highlights why midlife is not the time for “everyone gets a trophy” advice. Instead, it’s the time for clear, science-backed strategies that actually protect muscle, metabolism, and long-term vitality.
🔥 Key Topics Covered
1. Why 45g of Protein is a Joke
The article recommended ~0.75 g/kg of protein per day (≈45g for women, 55g for men).
Joanne explains why this 1960s RDA guideline is dangerously outdated and fails to account for modern research, especially in midlife when anabolic resistance sets in.
For true muscle preservation, most adults need closer to 1.6–2.2 g/kg bodyweight. That’s triple what the article suggested.
2. Anabolic Resistance: The Silent Muscle Killer
Jo breaks down the science of anabolic resistance and its connection to insulin resistance:
Insulin resistance → harder to move glucose into muscle.
Anabolic resistance → harder to move amino acids into muscle.
Result: even if you think you’re eating enough protein, your muscles may not be getting fed.
Why this matters: muscle loss accelerates with age, even for people who “do all the right things,” unless nutrition and training are dialed in.
3. The “Light Weights & Pilates” Trap
The article claimed bodyweight training, yoga, Pilates, and light weights with high reps are “enough” for muscle preservation in midlife.
Joanne explains why this is not effective for building or maintaining meaningful lean mass.
Strength training needs progressive overload—challenging resistance that forces muscles to adapt.
While bodyweight and Pilates have benefits, they don’t replace structured resistance training for midlife muscle protection.
4. Why This Matters Beyond Vanity
Holding onto muscle isn’t about just looking “toned”—it’s about survival and independence later in life.
Without enough muscle:
Metabolism plummets.
Fatigue and frailty increase.
Quality of life in your 70s and 80s diminishes sharply.
Midlife is the one opportunity to re-route the trajectory of aging—miss it, and the next chapter becomes exponentially harder.
5. The Problem With Mainstream Advice
Articles like this reinforce mediocrity disguised as inclusivity: “everyone’s a winner” messaging.
Jo argues this robs people of their chance to succeed because they’re never told the truth about what’s necessary.
Clear, accurate information empowers people to do the work—and it doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be correct.
6. Midlife as the Opportunity Window
Too many people fear midlife without realizing the real fear should be what comes after if they don’t act now.
Midlife = chance to reset metabolism, protect muscle, preserve energy, and ensure the later decades of life are vibrant.
Ignore it, and the outcome is predictable: loss of muscle, independence, and quality of life.
💡 Cutting-Edge Add-Ons
Protein Distribution Matters → It’s not just how much protein you eat, but how you spread it through the day (aim for 25–40g per meal with sufficient leucine).
The Role of Resistance Training → Strength training triggers mTOR and muscle protein synthesis. Lighter loads can work only if trained to failure—but that’s rarely sustainable.
Metabolic Flexibility → Without muscle, the body loses its best tool for glucose disposal and fat utilization, fueling insulin resistance.
Hormonal Influence → Midlife shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone amplify anabolic resistance—making accurate protein and strength training strategies non-negotiable.
📢 Featured Program: Mastering Midlife
Midlife doesn’t have to mean decline. Joanne’s signature Mastering Midlife program runs Sept 21 – Nov 1 and gives you the full roadmap for building muscle, balancing hormones, optimizing metabolism, and rewriting the script for your next decades.
👉 Learn more and join at www.midlifemonth.com
🧭 Listener Question
Joanne ends this rant with a question for her audience:
Should she create a dedicated program for people using weight loss medications (GLP-1s, etc.)—a short 3–4 hour video course called RX Success—to fill the massive coaching gap that doctors aren’t covering?
Email Jo your thoughts at jo@theshrinkshop.com.
✅ Bottom line: Don’t buy into outdated “light weights and 45g protein” nonsense. Midlife is your one chance to create a strong, lean, healthy body that carries you into later life with energy and independence. Do the work that’s necessary—not the fluff that gets printed in newspapers.

Fat Burning, Muscle Protection & Midlife Energy: SLU-PP-332 and 5-Amino-1MQ Explained

Midlife Mayhem – August 27, 2025
SLU-PP-332, 5-Amino-1MQ, and the Truth About Midlife Muscle & Fat
Hey friends, welcome back to Midlife Mayhem! I’ve just returned from a whirlwind trip through England and Greece—a mix of family remembrance, laughter, tears, chaos, and joy. I’m running on jet lag fumes, but I wanted to sit down and share something important with you today: two breakthrough compounds that could be absolute game-changers for midlife body composition—SLU-PP-332 and 5-Amino-1MQ.
👉 SLU-PP-332 is now available at www.slu332.com👉 5-Amino-1MQ is available at www.5amino.com👉 You can also buy both together at a discounted bundle price on either site.
And don’t forget—my Mastering Midlife program kicks off September 21 – November 1. Learn more and sign up at www.midlifemonth.com.
SLU-PP-332 – The "Exercise Mimicker"
SLU-PP-332 attaches to a receptor on muscle cells and nudges them to burn fat for fuel.
By pushing muscles toward fat oxidation, it increases endurance, mimics the benefits of cardio, and protects muscle mass during calorie restriction.
This is why it’s often nicknamed an “exercise mimicker.”
In animal studies, it improved fat burning, increased endurance, and prevented muscle loss in calorie-restricted conditions.
Caveat: High doses over time may encourage fast-twitch fibers (the power fibers we lose with age) to behave more like slow-twitch endurance fibers. The solution? Always pair SLU-PP-332 with resistance training.
5-Amino-1MQ – The Fat Cell "Brake Remover"
5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor that blocks the enzyme NNMT.
Why that matters: NNMT rises with age and acts like a metabolic brake, making fat cells better at storing fat and slowing NAD+ recycling.
By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ:
Keeps NAD+ levels higher → better mitochondrial health and energy.
Reduces fat cell size and fat storage.
Lowers inflammation.
Helps preserve muscle through improved cellular energy.
I’ve been taking it for three years with consistent results—including not gaining weight on trips where, historically, I would have put on 3–5 lbs (despite extra eating, less routine, and long-haul flights).
Together: A One-Two Punch
SLU-PP-332 → tells muscles to burn fat as fuel and boosts endurance.
5-Amino-1MQ → prevents fat cells from storing more fat and supports cellular energy.
Different mechanisms, same goal: preserve muscle, burn more fat, and fight midlife metabolic slowdown.
You don’t have to take them together, but combined they offer a unique, complementary strategy.
Why This Matters in Midlife
Midlife frustrations—slower fat loss, muscle loss, stubborn belly fat, fatigue—are exactly what these compounds address.
Unlike GLP-1 weight-loss medications, these compounds don’t rely on suppressing appetite (which often leads to muscle loss you may never regain in midlife).
Instead, they support muscle protection, energy, fat burning, and inflammation reduction—without making it hard to eat protein or train.
My Personal Update
Even during my two-week Europe trip—with flights, disrupted routines, and plenty of restaurant meals—I came back the exact same weight I left.
In the past, I’d always gain several pounds of bloat and fat. Since using 5-Amino-1MQ, that hasn’t happened once in three years of testing it.
Next, I’m excited to test SLU-PP-332 specifically for endurance—since it’s shown to improve performance in longer-duration exercise.
Mastering Midlife – Starts September 21
This is my flagship 6-week program for anyone 40+ who wants to feel sharp, strong, and capable in midlife and beyond.
Format: Two live Zoom coaching calls per week, for three weeks → one week off to catch up → then another two weeks of coaching.
Dates: September 21 – November 1
Access: Full library of 70+ content pieces plus direct access to me throughout.
Cost: $529 (payment plan available).
Sign up: www.midlifemonth.com
Topics we’ll cover include:
Optimized nutrition and why every food in my plans serves a purpose.
Training splits, strength vs endurance, and smarter—not harder—midlife training.
Mitochondrial health, NAD+, mTOR vs AMPK.
Midlife fasting, keto, cardio sweet spots, and recovery.
Hormones: insulin, cortisol, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone.
Pain, perimenopause, andropause, HRT & TRT.
Peptides, biohacks, supplements, and blood work panels.
Bone health, skin health, and processed food dangers.
Midlife is not the beginning of decline—it’s the opportunity window. Addressing body composition, hormones, and energy in your 40s–60s sets you up for vitality into your 70s, 80s, and beyond.
Quick Links
SLU-PP-332 → www.slu332.com
5-Amino-1MQ → www.5amino.com
Mastering Midlife (Sept 21 – Nov 1) → www.midlifemonth.com
Email me anytime with questions: jo@theshrinkshop.com

The Liver–Body Composition Connection: Why Your Results May Be Stuck

We tend to think of the liver as “the detox organ.” We imagine green juice cleanses, detox teas, and vague ideas about “flushing toxins.” But your liver is so much more than that — it’s a powerhouse that affects every aspect of your body composition, from how much fat you store to how much energy you have.
And while the liver is incredibly resilient (it can literally regrow after being partially removed), modern lifestyles are pushing it past its limits. That’s why we’re now seeing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) not just in adults, but alarmingly, in children.
In this episode, we’re diving deep into:
1. The Liver’s Role in Fat Storage and Fat Burning
The liver makes fat — it’s not meant to store it.Excess sugar in your diet is converted in the liver into triglycerides (fat) and released into your bloodstream, where it eventually gets stored on your body.
When the liver is overwhelmed and can’t push fat out fast enough, it starts storing it internally — that’s how fatty liver develops.
2. Your Liver as Your Energy Bank
About 75% of stored carbs (glycogen) live in your muscles — but muscle glycogen is locked away for personal use. Your biceps can’t “share” their carbs with the rest of your body.
The liver’s glycogen, however, can be broken down into glucose and released into your blood to keep your energy steady between meals, during sleep, or under stress.
If your blood sugar stays high even when you’ve cut carbs, your liver may be releasing stored glucose — often a sign of insulin resistance.
3. The Liver’s Impact on Hormones
Cortisol clearance: The liver inactivates cortisol, helping prevent the muscle loss, midsection fat gain, water retention, collagen breakdown, and cravings that come with high cortisol.
Thyroid activation: The liver converts inactive T4 thyroid hormone into active T3 — your metabolism’s “go” signal. Poor liver function can mean slower metabolism and stubborn fat.
4. How Modern Lifestyles Damage the Liver
Insulin resistance: A high-carb, low-activity lifestyle keeps insulin elevated. Overexposure makes the liver resistant to insulin’s signal, tricking it into thinking blood sugar is low — so it makes more sugar through gluconeogenesis, adding to the problem.
Leaky gut: Low-fiber, high-sugar, ultra-processed diets damage the gut lining. Toxins and undigested food particles leak into the bloodstream, triggering constant inflammation. That inflammation travels to — and damages — liver cells.
Poor food quality: You can’t out-supplement or out-macro a bad diet. “Weekend junk” and overly restrictive eating both take their toll on gut and liver health.
5. Why This Matters for Body Composition
A healthy liver helps you:
Efficiently use stored energy between meals (no energy crashes)
Convert thyroid hormones for optimal metabolism
Clear cortisol so you preserve muscle and control fat storage
Avoid fat buildup in the liver, which is linked to systemic inflammation and metabolic slowdown
When the liver is struggling, everything from fat loss to hormone balance to workout recovery becomes harder.
Key Takeaway
The liver is a workhorse — but it’s underappreciated and often abused. If your fat loss has stalled, your energy is inconsistent, or your hormones are out of balance, your liver might be the missing link.
📅 Next Live Program – Mastering Midlife (Sept 14 – Oct 25)If you’re ready to reset your metabolism, balance your hormones, and build a lean, strong body in midlife, join me for my ever-popular Mastering Midlife program.
This year’s live program includes:
11 live coaching calls over 5 weeks (with a built-in review week so you can catch up)
Meal plans, workouts, and supplement guidance
Deep dives into the 6 hormones that change with age
Sessions on exercise adjustments, nutrition upgrades, HRT/TRT, peptides, biohacks, and more
Men and women welcome — and the results are incredible
We only run this once a year live. Reserve your spot today at:👉 www.midlifemonth.com

Gene Editing: The New GMO Loophole You’re Not Hearing About

We’ve all heard the term GMO — genetically modified organisms — and most of us know it’s controversial. But there’s a newer, slicker technology making its way into our food supply that’s flying under the radar: gene editing. It’s marketed as “natural,” it’s not always labeled, and it’s already on supermarket shelves. The problem? Most consumers have no idea it’s there… or what it could mean for our health.
In this episode, I pull back the curtain on:
What gene editing actually is — how it differs from GMO technology, and why industry insiders argue it shouldn’t require labeling.
The rapid takeover of GMO crops in the U.S., from their quiet introduction to dominating over 90% of certain harvests in less than a decade.
Why Europe bans or strictly controls GMOs under the “precautionary principle” — and why the U.S. does the opposite, requiring proof of harm rather than proof of safety.
The glyphosate connection — and the staggering increases in allowable residues on soy, corn, wheat, and even animal feed (including a 2,000-fold increase on alfalfa).
How altered protein patterns in gene-edited plants and animals could confuse the immune system, potentially leading to chronic inflammation, autoimmune issues, and other long-term health risks.
Examples already in circulation: non-browning mushrooms, disease-resistant bananas, slick-coated cattle, faster-growing salmon, and more.
The labeling loophole: why most gene-edited products don’t have to be labeled in the U.S., and how companies use terms like “bioengineered” or QR codes instead of clear wording.
The eerie historical parallels with cigarettes and opioids — early warning signs ignored, public assurances of safety, and decades before the truth came out.
I also share practical, actionable steps you can take now to reduce your exposure, including how to identify higher-risk foods, what to look for on labels, and why “100% organic” is a very different standard from “organic.”
This isn’t fearmongering — it’s about being informed and proactive before the “monster” grows too big to contain.
📅 Don’t Miss My Next Live Coaching Program – Mastering Midlife
If you want to reclaim your energy, optimize your hormones, and build a lean, strong body in midlife and beyond, now is the time to join the ever-popular Mastering Midlife program.
Live from September 14 – October 25, 2025, this year’s program is bigger and better than ever, with a brand-new pacing designed for busy lives:
11 live coaching calls over five weeks (3 weeks on, 1 week off to catch up, then 2 final weeks)
Expert-led sessions on the six hormones that shift in midlife, how to adapt your training, how to fine-tune your nutrition, plus deep dives into HRT, TRT, peptides, biohacks, skin and muscle health, and more
Structured meal plans, targeted workouts, and supplement guidance included
The chance to connect with a motivated, like-minded community — men and women welcome
Only runs once per year in the live format — payment plan available
Reserve your spot at www.midlifemonth.com and step into the healthiest, strongest version of yourself.

Starbucks Stomach

If you’ve ever left Starbucks feeling bloated, sluggish, or… ahem… blocked up for days, you’re not imagining things.In this episode, I dive deep into why Starbucks hits your gut differently than your local coffee shop. From dark roasted beans and ultra-pasteurized milk to highly processed plant-based alternatives and the whole A1 vs A2 milk debate, I break down exactly what’s going on — and why it matters for your digestion, energy, and even your waistline.
I also explain why even if you don’t think you’re lactose intolerant, you might still react to certain dairy proteins — and how a simple milk swap could make a world of difference.
This topic comes straight out of my Tight28 program’s dairy module, so if you’ve been struggling with gut discomfort, unexplained puffiness, or sluggish digestion, you’ll definitely want to listen in.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
☕ The Coffee Factor
Why Starbucks uses very dark roasted beans — and how this affects bitterness, bile release, and gut motility.
How ultra-high volume roasting and older beans can increase oxidized oils — and why oxidized oils = gut irritation.
Why your local café’s medium roast and fresher beans are usually gentler on digestion.
🥛 The Dairy Factor
The difference between regular pasteurization and ultra-pasteurization — and how extreme heat denatures milk proteins like casein.
Why casein (especially A1 beta-casein) is already hard to digest — and how ultra-pasteurization makes it worse.
Why large latte servings = large dairy hits that can trigger bloating and constipation.
🌱 The Milk Alternative Trap
Why Starbucks oat, almond, and soy milks are highly processed and full of gums and emulsifiers.
How gums/emulsifiers can damage gut lining, worsen leaky gut, and trigger bloating or sluggish digestion.
Why oat milk’s beta-glucans and residual enzymes can ferment in the gut and cause discomfort.
🐄 A1 vs A2 Milk Explained
A1 milk (common in U.S. dairy from Holstein cows) contains a beta-casein variant that releases BCM-7 during digestion.
BCM-7 slows gut motility, irritates the gut lining, and can trigger histamine release → bloating, puffiness, water retention.
A2 milk (from Jersey/Guernsey cows, goats, sheep, buffalo) produces minimal BCM-7 — often eliminating symptoms entirely.
Why switching to A2 can be a game-changer for digestion, even if you’re not lactose intolerant.
Key Takeaways
Starbucks’ combination of dark roast bitterness, ultra-pasteurized A1 milk, and/or processed plant milks can be a “perfect storm” for gut issues.
If you want to keep enjoying coffee without the digestive misery:
Switch to medium roast, freshly ground beans.
Use A2 dairy or goat/sheep/buffalo milk.
Skip processed plant milks with gums/emulsifiers.
Try smaller coffee sizes or Americano-style drinks instead of milk-heavy lattes.
Gut irritation isn’t just about discomfort — it can contribute to systemic inflammation, histamine buildup, and even changes in body composition.
Want to Go Deeper?
This episode barely scratches the surface of what I teach in Tight28, my 28-day program designed to uncover hidden food sensitivities, calm inflammation, and get your digestion — and your body composition — working in your favor.
Check it out here: www.jlcstrong.com
Resources & Links Mentioned
5-Amino-1MQ: www.5amino.com
My upcoming SLU-PP-332 release — stay tuned!
Email me anytime with questions: jo@theshrinkshop.com
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s still wondering why their Starbucks habit might be causing their gut drama.

Are You Building Muscle or Breaking Down? Let Bloodwork Decide

If you’ve hit a plateau with your workouts… if you're gaining fat despite training hard… or if you're feeling constantly tired and inflamed, your bloodwork might have the answers.
In this episode, we dive into:
What the DHEA-to-cortisol ratio really tells you about stress, recovery, and resilience
The exact numbers you want to see (with examples)
Key blood markers like CK, AST, LDH, CRP, and what they reveal about muscle breakdown
How to interpret patterns that signal overtraining or burnout
Because you don’t build muscle in the gym—you build it when you're recovering properly. Let's make sure you're set up to build, not break down.
🔬 DHEA-to-Cortisol Ratio: What It Means
Hormone Ratio
What It Means
✅ ≥ 10:1
Healthy recovery, strong stress resilience, good environment for fat loss & muscle gain
⚠️ ≤ 5:1
Stress outweighs recovery; may stall progress, impair sleep, increase fat storage
❌ ≤ 2:1
Burnout, poor training response, HPA axis dysfunction, inflammation, fatigue
 
🧮 Example Calculations:
DHEA-S 150 / Cortisol 10 = 15:1 ✅
DHEA-S 90 / Cortisol 18 = 5:1 ⚠️
DHEA-S 40 / Cortisol 22 = 1.8:1 ❌
💪 Blood Markers That Reveal Muscle Breakdown
Marker
Optimal Range
Concern Threshold
What It Indicates
DHEA-S
W: 100–200 / M: 150–300 mcg/dL
<70 (W), <100 (M)
Anabolic status / stress buffer
Cortisol (AM)
8–15 mcg/dL
>23 (stress), <6 (burnout)
Stress response or adrenal fatigue
Creatine Kinase (CK)
30–150 U/L
>500 = intense training, >1,000 = concern
Muscle breakdown marker
AST / ALT
AST <40 / ALT <56 U/L
AST >80 without liver issue = muscle strain
Post-exercise stress or liver burden
LDH
140–280 U/L
>400 U/L
Chronic tissue stress or poor recovery
CRP (hs-CRP)
<1.0 mg/L
>3.0 = systemic inflammation
Inflammation, potential overtraining
Urea / Creatinine
Urea: 10–20 / Cr: <1.2
Depends on hydration, protein, renal function
Contextual clues for stress and protein turnover
 
🧠 What Affects These Markers?
Overtraining or lack of deloads
Low-carb or low-calorie diets
Emotional stress and poor sleep
Hormonal changes (especially in midlife)
Poor gut health or chronic inflammation
These markers give you insight into whether your training is building your body—or breaking it down.
🧬 New Peptides + Supplements
💊 Now Available: 5-Amino-1MQA powerful compound that supports fat loss, muscle preservation, and energy through NAD+ pathways.
🧪 Coming Late August: SLU-PP-332If you'd like to be notified the moment it's available, email me at 👉 jo@theshrinkshop.com to get on the early bird list.
💻 Looking for a Coaching Program?
I have six powerful programs—covering everything from foundational weight loss to advanced body composition, hormone health, and gut repair. Each one is:
✅ Self-paced✅ Educational✅ Results-driven✅ Can be combined with private coaching for a fully customized experience
👉 Browse the full library at www.jlcstrong.comLet’s find the right fit for your body and your goals.

Midlife Thermostat

Midlife Mayhem Podcast – Episode Title: "Midlife Thermostat: Why You're Sweating, Freezing, and Waking Up at 3 A.M."
Hosted by: Joanne Lee Cornish
🎙️ Episode Summary:
In this packed episode, Joanne tackles one of the most frustrating but misunderstood midlife symptoms: temperature dysregulation. Whether you're a woman waking up drenched in sweat or a man with freezing hands and sleepless nights, your body's thermostat might be working against you. Joanne breaks down how hormonal shifts during perimenopause and andropause disrupt thermoregulation—and what you can do to reset the balance.
She also shares the latest on red light therapy, the impact of stress on your nervous system, and how both men and women can support better sleep and energy by working with—not against—their biology.
🧠 Key Topics Covered:
What the hypothalamus does and how it controls your internal thermostat
Why women experience hot flashes and sudden chills during perimenopause
How declining testosterone affects men's ability to regulate temperature
The narrowing thermoneutral zone in midlife and why that matters
Blood sugar crashes, cortisol spikes, and 2–4 a.m. wakeups
How estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone influence your sleep architecture
The nervous system’s role: sympathetic vs. parasympathetic dominance
🔧 Solutions & Biohacks Shared:
Breathwork to calm the nervous system and aid sleep
Red light therapy for increasing melatonin and promoting restful sleep
Small protein-fat bedtime snacks to reduce blood sugar crashes
Supplements that support hormonal balance:
Women: DIM, calcium D-glucarate, magnesium (watch for B6 sensitivity)
Men: Citrulline, beet powder, magnesium, zinc
Why warm socks + cooling bedding may be your best bedtime combo
Grounding sheets, sleep hygiene, and stress management techniques
How resistance training and lowering belly fat helps support testosterone
🔬 Supplement Mentions:
5-Amino-1MQ – Learn more or order at: www.5amino.com
Shrink Shop Sleep Formula – Natural, effective, non-habit forming sleep support: www.shrinkshopsleep.com
📍 Local Deal for Boise Listeners:
Peak Personalized Healthcare is offering DEXA scans for $75 through the end of July. This includes body composition and bone density. Great value!
🧪 Coming Soon:
Joanne teases the upcoming release of SLU-PP-332, a compound known for mimicking muscle contraction and supporting fat oxidation. She's working to offer this at a reasonable price—watch this space.
🔔 Stay Connected:
Email Joanne at jo@theshrinkshop.com to join the mailing list and stay informed about upcoming programs like Mastering Midlife.
Follow Joanne on YouTube (Joanne Lee Cornish) for detailed videos on 5-Amino-1MQ, SLU-PP-332, and more.
💬 Final Takeaway:
Sleep quality, body temperature, and hormone health are deeply connected. Midlife is not the time to ignore these cues—it’s the time to understand them and respond with strategy. Whether you're burning up or freezing out, your body is speaking to you.