Jj Virgin Lifestyle Show

In this episode, we dive deep into a sneaky culprit that could be sabotaging all your hard work: sugar overload. Even if you're steering clear of obvious sweets, hidden sugars might be sneaking into your diet from unsuspecting sources, leaving you feeling drained, struggling with cravings, and frustrated with stubborn weight that just won’t budge. Could sugar be the reason behind your energy roller coaster and those nagging mood swings? We’re uncovering how this sweet stuff can wreak havoc on your body’s energy balance, and what you can do about it. You’ll learn about the science behind sugar addiction and its surprising effects on brain chemistry, cravings, and your body’s ability to burn fat. We’re breaking down how excess sugar leads to insulin resistance, making weight loss feel impossible despite your best efforts. Plus, we’ll explore the troubling link between sugar and mood disorders, acne, aging skin, and even your immune system’s ability to fight off colds and infections. Join me as I share a persona

“Aging isn't just about the years that pass—it's about how you spend those years. The secret lies in maintaining your cells’ vitality, and that’s what we’re diving into today.” — Dr. Greg Kelly In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. Greg Kelly to explore the fascinating world of senescent cells—those "zombie cells" that linger in our bodies as we age, contributing to the aches, pains, and general decline many of us experience. If you've ever wondered why you start to feel "old" well before you're ready to admit it, this conversation will shed light on the cellular mechanisms behind aging and what you can do to turn back the clock. Dr. Kelly takes us on a journey through the history and science of cellular senescence, explaining how these cells behave like unwelcome houseguests—sticking around longer than they should and causing all sorts of trouble. But there's good news: senolytics, compounds that help clear out these lingering cells, can play a transformative role in how we age. For women in their

In this eye-opening episode of Well Beyond 40, we're pulling back the curtain on seemingly innocent foods that might be sabotaging your health. Prepare to be shocked as we expose the truth behind six everyday dietary staples that have been masquerading as "healthy choices" all along.  We'll dive deep into breakfast favorites that could be derailing your morning, snacks that promise nutrition but deliver hidden dangers, and beverages masquerading as health elixirs while potentially harming your body. You'll also discover popular treats that might be secretly packing on the pounds.  Throughout the episode, you'll learn how these everyday items could affect your wellness goals, metabolism, and overall health. We'll break down the science behind why these foods are problematic and provide you with some tasty alternatives that satisfy your cravings without the sugar crash. If you've been faithfully consuming these items, thinking you're doing right by your health, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we demys

"Doing hard things not only makes other hard things easier, but actually has incredible benefits for longevity and resilience." - Jeff Krasno In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jeff Krasno, the co-founder and CEO of Commune, a masterclass platform for personal and societal well-being. Jeff's journey is a compelling testament to the transformative power of lifestyle changes, especially for those of us navigating the complexities of life beyond 40. Jeff's story is deeply personal and relatable. Four years ago, despite being a prominent figure in the wellness industry, he found himself struggling with borderline diabetes and significant weight issues. This wake-up call led him to embrace intermittent fasting, heat and cold therapy, and other wellness protocols. His commitment to these practices resulted in a remarkable transformation—he lost 60 pounds and reclaimed his health and vitality at age 50. In this episode, you'll discover a surprising ally for women over 40 - the concept of "good stre

Ozempic might be the latest buzzword in weight loss, but it’s not the only option out there. If you're looking to manage cravings and hunger naturally, this episode is for you. I'm revealing nine natural appetite suppressants that are not only effective but also easy to incorporate into your daily routine. Say goodbye to expensive injections and hello to Mother Nature's best-kept secrets for effortless weight management. You’ll learn what to prioritize in your meals to feel fuller for longer and keep those pesky cravings at bay. I’ll share a free 7-Day Challenge along with some of my favorite foods and practical tips to help you boost your intake of natural appetite suppressants to help you feel full, stabilize your blood sugar, and support your overall gut health without feeling overwhelmed. Trust me, your body will thank you! And don't underestimate the power of hydration—drinking water before meals can significantly reduce your calorie intake and keep hunger at bay.   FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.

"Your brain is like a muscle—it's use it or lose it. And the best part is, you can start strengthening it at any age." - Jim Kwik In this captivating episode, I chat with Jim Kwik, a renowned brain performance coach and New York Times bestselling author of "Limitless." Jim's journey from struggling with a traumatic brain injury in childhood to becoming a leading expert in brain health and learning is nothing short of inspiring. He turned his "broken brain" into a catalyst for discovering how to optimize brain function, proving that no matter our age, we can continually learn and grow. For many women in their 40s and beyond, Jim's story is particularly resonant. It underscores that it's never too late to improve cognitive abilities and debunks the myth that aging inevitably means a decline in mental sharpness. Tune in to hear Jim walk us through his top 10 keys to unlock brain health. Jim emphasizes that our brains need novelty and nutrition to thrive. He also provides practical advice on which foods boost bra

In today's episode, we explore common mistakes that can hinder your intermittent fasting success. Tune in to hear the common pitfalls I see all the time that can sabotage your fat loss and make you gain weight instead. Learn about simple but crucial changes to boost your metabolism and address insulin sensitivity issues. We'll discuss research on meal timing and its impact on your body's natural rhythms, and I'll share insights on optimizing eating schedules for better health outcomes. One major pitfall we'll address is how you approach your feeding windows. We'll delve into the importance of balanced eating and avoiding extreme behaviors that can sabotage your efforts. Discover strategies for maximizing the benefits of intermittent fasting, including its effects on cellular processes and hormone regulation. I'll also reveal my personal approach to managing hunger and maintaining muscle mass during fasting periods. Another crucial aspect we cover is the role of nutrition and hydration in your fasting routine.

"Your liver is amazing. You can renew it. You can regenerate it." - Kristin Kirkpatrick In this episode of Well Beyond 40, I had the pleasure of discussing a silent yet widespread health issue with Kristin Kirkpatrick, a renowned Registered Dietitian and bestselling author. Together, we unpacked the hidden epidemic of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which affects a surprising 1 in 4 people, and its profound impact on metabolic health. Kristin's new book, "Discover Your Metabolic Type and Renew Your Liver for Life," sheds light on how prevalent this condition is and provides a comprehensive guide to reversing its effects. Kristin's journey into liver health began with a realization in her practice: countless patients were unaware of the severity of their liver conditions due to a lack of definitive guidance. She emphasizes that even without symptoms, elevated liver enzymes can signal trouble. This is particularly important for women over 40 navigating metabolism and hormone balance changes during me

In this episode, we're diving deep into the science of building muscle and speeding up those gains! If you're tired of feeling like progress is at a snail's pace, I've got three proven strategies that will help you see results faster.  First up, we're talking nutrition and the critical role of protein in muscle synthesis. Discover how optimal protein intake, especially the right amount of leucine, can trigger muscle growth. Plus, I've got a free 7-day protein challenge waiting for you at jjvirgin.com/7day to kickstart your journey. Next, we'll explore the power of pre-workout carbs and their surprising benefits. A 2016 study revealed that carbs before exercise can boost performance, reduce fatigue, and even enhance brain function during workouts. I'll share my personal experiments with fasted versus non-fasted workouts and why timing your carbs and protein around your exercise sessions is crucial for maximizing muscle gains. Supplements can make a significant difference, and I'll highlight the heavy hitters l

"Women are not small men. This means understanding that everything from our exercise to our nutrition needs to be different for optimal health." -Dr. Stacy Sims In this enlightening episode of the Well Beyond 40 podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Dr. Stacy Sims, a renowned exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist. Dr. Sims shares her groundbreaking insights on how women over 40 should approach their health, specifically focusing on the critical differences in exercise and nutrition compared to men. Dr. Sims' journey has been nothing short of inspiring. She has dedicated her career to uncovering the critical distinctions in how women should train and eat, especially as they transition through perimenopause and menopause. This episode dives deep into these gender-specific differences, emphasizing the importance of recognizing that women's bodies respond uniquely to various stimuli. We discuss the significance of incorporating strength and power-based training into fitness routines to maintain muscle mass an

Ever wondered how to get those lean, toned arms that make you feel strong and confident? You're not alone! I get asked about my arms all the time, and today, I'm spilling the beans on how to achieve this look. Spoiler alert: it’s easier than you think if you follow the right strategies! In this episode, I'll break down the three critical steps to building great arms, with a special focus on the one step everyone tends to overlook. First, let's talk workouts. To build muscle, volume is key. I’ll explain the importance of compound movements involving pushing and pulling, which engage multiple muscles, including the triceps and biceps. Discover how to structure your workouts with the right sets, reps, and weekly frequency to maximize muscle growth. Plus, I'll share why hitting the point of near-fatigue at the end of your sets is crucial for those sculpted arms. But building muscle isn’t just about the gym. Nutrition plays a huge role. Learn how much protein you really need (hint: more than you might think) and w

"We're trying to protect ourselves against sun cancer as well, yet we're putting these cancer-causing chemicals on the body. It’s a tough situation."  - Dr. Stephen Cabral In this episode of the Well Beyond 40 podcast, I'm thrilled to have Dr. Stephen Cabral, a board-certified naturopathic doctor, joining us. Dr. Cabral dives deep into the hidden world of environmental toxins and their profound impact on our health. From battling severe autoimmune issues in his youth to becoming a leading voice in functional medicine, Dr. Cabral's journey is both inspiring and eye-opening. Dr. Cabral shares his expertise on the invisible toxins lurking in our environment and the products we use, including pesticides, heavy metals, and the ever-present microplastics. He emphasizes how these toxins can disrupt our hormones, hinder weight loss, and contribute to chronic health issues. His personal story of overcoming Addison's disease and autoimmune disorders through natural health practices offers hope and practical advice for

Are you tired of searching for the fountain of youth at Sephora? The real secret to younger-looking skin is found in your kitchen! In this episode, we delve into the dietary changes that can help you achieve that glowing complexion. Find out what daily ingredient accelerates skin aging through a process called glycation, damaging your collagen and elastin, leading to wrinkles and sagging. Plus, learn about a fantastic alternative sweetener, which won't spike your insulin levels and even has prebiotic benefits! We also discuss the hidden dangers of seed oils, which ones to avoid, and why they wreak havoc on your skin and overall health. Learn why it's essential to balance your intake of omegas and which oils to avoid to reduce inflammation and promote clear, healthy skin. We’ll explore healthier alternatives that boast anti-inflammatory properties and help maintain a robust skin barrier. I also share my personal struggle with acne and what I eliminated to transform my skin. This food can increase insulin level

"I was ready to feel happy again, and every time I got that endorphin boost, I was like, oh my God, this is why I'm doing this." - Mari Llewellyn   Have you ever felt stuck in a rut, both mentally and physically? My guest today, Mari Llewellyn, knows that feeling all too well, but found a sustainable and satisfying way out. As the co-founder of Bloom and the founder of Strength by Mari, Mari's story is a testament to the transformative power of fitness and mental health. She joins us to share her incredible journey from battling severe mental health issues and significant weight gain to becoming a successful fitness entrepreneur and mental health advocate. In this episode, Mari takes us back to 2017, a pivotal year when she decided to turn her life around. Struggling with borderline personality disorder, depression, and anxiety, Mari found herself at 250 pounds and deeply unhappy. She recalls how simple dietary and lifestyle swaps began to change her life. The gym became her sanctuary, where she discovered th

In this episode, I delve into the essential strategies for using weight loss peptides like Ozempic and Munjaro effectively, ensuring you retain muscle mass while shedding fat. We'll cover common pitfalls and provide actionable advice to help you navigate your weight loss journey more healthily. Tune in as I share insights from a 2017 Advances in Nutrition review, which underscores the importance of preserving muscle mass during weight loss. You'll hear about the critical role of high protein intake and resistance exercise in maintaining your muscle strength and overall physical function. You'll learn how much protein you need based on your target body weight and why tracking your intake is crucial. I'll also introduce you to useful apps to help with this process. I also share some exciting natural supplements that can enhance your weight loss journey. Set yourself up for success with these expert tips! FULL show notes: https://www.jjvirgin.com/ozempic Download my free Resistance Training Cheat Sheet: https://

"Protein is the unlock that a lot of people aren't using. It supports blood sugar balance, keeps you feeling full, and helps maintain muscle mass—crucial as we age." - Kelly LeVeque In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Kelly LeVeque, a clinical nutritionist, celebrity health coach, and bestselling author of Body Love.  Kelly's story is particularly resonant as she navigates the challenges of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while balancing the demands of being a mother of three young children. Her expertise in blood-sugar balance and protein intake provides invaluable guidance for those of us aiming to stay energized and vibrant. Kelly emphasizes the importance of getting the basics right—prioritizing protein, healthy fats, and fiber in our diets to maintain stable blood-sugar levels and support overall health. Throughout our conversation, Kelly delves into the science of how protein aids in blood sugar balance, debunks common myths about protein intake, and shares her practical tips for in

If belly fat has become your nemesis, especially as you age, this episode is your guide to fighting back. We're diving deep into the science of visceral adipose tissue (VAT), that sneaky belly fat hidden deep within your abdominal cavity surrounding vital organs. It's not the pinchable stuff; it's the insidious kind linked to serious health risks like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. But don't worry, I've got you covered with effective strategies to tackle it head-on. First, I reveal the essential step with your food intake that you need to master before anything else will work. Then, I share the impact that different types of physical activity (like walking, running, HIIT, and resistance training) have on VAT fat. Plus, we'll explore the importance of quality sleep and hormonal balance, especially if you're navigating menopause. Join me in this transformative episode where I blend practical tips with personal insights, including my own struggles and triumphs. Let’s make middle age the prime time f

"We know that the number one component for aging healthfully and extending our lifespan is the quality of our relationships." - Shawn Stevenson On this episode of Well Beyond 40, I'm thrilled to speak with my good friend Shawn Stevenson, bestselling author of Eat Smarter and Sleep Smarter, and host of the top-ranked Model Health Show. Shawn shares the often-overlooked power of communal eating, diving deep into how sharing meals with loved ones can profoundly impact our physical and mental well-being. Shawn shares how our relationships are fundamental to not only living longer but also living healthier. This episode is a goldmine of actionable advice on fostering these crucial connections through the simple yet profound act of eating together. Shawn’s new family cookbook is filled with delicious, nutritious recipes designed to bring people together around the table, making healthy eating a communal and enjoyable experience. One of the standout moments is Shawn's discussion on "healthwashing," where foods marke

Ever wondered what a nutrition expert eats every day? In this episode, I'm sharing my top five daily foods and my personal food rules that help me stay on track. We'll dive into my favorite ways to prepare these foods quickly and easily, and I'll also touch on my thoughts about cheat meals. Whether you're looking for healthy meal ideas or trying to build better eating habits, this episode has got you covered. I'll start by discussing the importance of a food audit and the mantra I live by: eat protein first. Learn how to determine your protein needs using my handy online calculator and discover why it's crucial to get the right amount of protein in your diet. I'll also share my go-to sources of clean, lean protein along with some delicious preparation tips. But it's not all about protein. I'll explain how I incorporate non-starchy vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats into my meals for balanced nutrition and optimal health. From cauliflower pilaf and shaved Brussels sprouts to antioxidant-rich berries and hear

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Tony Horton, the legendary creator of P90X, a workout program that has transformed countless lives. Tony's journey is nothing short of inspiring, especially for women navigating the unique challenges of life after 40. At 65, Tony's commitment to fitness and personal growth is evident in every story he shares and the actionable advice he offers. Tony's path to becoming a fitness icon had its challenges. He candidly talks about overcoming personal and professional obstacles, including moments of self-doubt and the pressures of sustaining a career in an ever-evolving industry. His experiences resonate deeply with anyone who's had to pivot and adapt, particularly as we age and our bodies demand different approaches to health and wellness. One key takeaway from our conversation is the importance of variety and listening to your body, especially as women experience hormonal changes during perimenopause and postmenopause. We delved into Tony's collaboration with D