The Girlfriend Doctor w/ Dr. Anna Cabeca

Latest Episodes:

Cardiac Clues Women Miss May 02, 2025

Show notes

Sometimes the signs of heart trouble in women don't look like what we expect—they show up as hot flashes, brain fog, or even a racing heart. When I sat down with Dr. Jayne Morgan, an incredible Cardiologist and Women's Health Advocate, we talked about how these often-overlooked symptoms during menopause can actually be clues about what's going on with your heart. We're so used to brushing things off as "just hormones," but Dr. Jayne explains why now is the time to tune in and take them seriously.

Dr. Jayne —who's not only a top Cardiologist but also Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hello Heart—is passionate about making sure women get the full picture when it comes to heart health. She breaks down how estrogen protects your heart, what happens when those levels drop, and why menopause can be a turning point for understanding your risk. We also talked about what real, thorough heart testing should include (because yes, there's more to it than just cholesterol). Her approach is practical, empowering, and honestly—something every woman deserves to hear.

Women need to feel empowered, not dismissed, when they bring up symptoms—and that starts with education. We're talking about prevention, clarity, and how to stop second-guessing what your body's trying to tell you. And in line with this we'd like to empower our women, mothers especially, we'll be having a Mother's Day Sale from May 7-11 '25 where we'll get you up to 25% off with bundles of your favorite products. Check out https://dranna.com for more information.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:05:38] Estrogen's role in heart disease.

[00:10:53] What entails an adequate cardiac workup?

[00:12:28] Prevention of heart disease.

[00:15:47] Aggressive management of risk factors.

[00:19:25] Statin therapy, hormonal management, lowering cholesterol.

[00:23:57] Pregnancy as a stress test.

[00:29:00] The connection of diabetes and cardiovascular disease risk.

[00:30:57] The relation of heart disease to early dementia and early stroke.

[00:32:22] Who can have hormone replacement therapy?

Memorable Quotes:

"All of these symptoms in perimenopause and menopause are actually biomarkers for heart disease, biomarkers for stroke." [00:06:47] – Dr. Jayne Morgan

"Heart disease is the number one killer of women, and you, as a patient or a member of the public, do not have the ability to discern whether your palpitations that you're having at home are related to your perimenopause or related to a real heart issue that could pose an impending heart attack." [00:09:08] – Dr. Jayne Morgan

Links Mentioned:

Mother's Day Sale from May 7- 11 '25 – https://dranna.com

Connect with Dr. Jayne Morgan:

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/DrJayneMorgan

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjaynemorgan/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrJayneMorgan

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaynemorgan/

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: https://www.evolvedpodcasting.com

The Deadly Secrets in Your Smile Part 1 Apr 25, 2025

Show notes

Most of us have no idea how much our mouths are telling us—and not just about our teeth. In this jaw-dropping episode, I sat down with Dr. Ellie Campbell, a powerhouse in functional medicine and the author of The Blood Pressure Blueprint, to uncover how oral health is deeply tied to cardiovascular disease, hormonal imbalance, cognitive decline, and more.

You'll learn why blood pressure readings at your doctor's office might be misleading, how mouth bacteria can trigger heart attacks and Alzheimer's, and why mouth taping at night could be the simplest step toward better sleep and brain health. Dr. Campbell also reveals the truth about fluoride, xylitol, and why so many root canals fail—not because of the procedure, but because of the hidden pathogens no one's testing for.

This episode is packed with "aha" moments, from the dangers of undiagnosed sleep apnea to the critical blood and saliva tests that can actually save your life. If you care about your heart, brain, and hormones—and want to take back control of your health—this one's a must-listen.

Grab a cup of tea (maybe some hibiscus!) and tune in. Your body will thank you—and so will your smile.

Key Timestamps

[00:00:00] Introduction

[00:03:40] Dr. Ellie's story & the overlooked cause of her patient's stroke.

[00:06:50] Key tests to measure for cardiovascular health.

[00:09:59] The truth about "normal" blood pressure.

[00:18:34] Low magnesium levels, undiagnosed sleep apnea, oral health.

[00:27:59] Nitric oxide – the miracle mouth molecule.

[00:29:31] Oral microbiome testing: what works, what doesn't.

[00:33:54] Ozone therapy, root canals, and implants.

[00:39:02] Xylitol's benefits—especially for pregnant women.

[00:41:07] Blood and urine markers that reveal oxidative stress.

[00:45:15] Fluoride's impact on thyroid and hormone health.

[00:50:44] Foods & supplements to support blood pressure and oral health.

Memorable Quotes

"Heart attacks are optional. Strokes are stoppable. But only if we're willing to look where no one else is looking—like the mouth." [00:05:14] – Dr. Ellie Campbell

"What happens in the mouth doesn't stay in the mouth, and those mouth bacteria have very aggressive virulence pathways that they use to cause real trouble other places in the body." [00:25:14] – Dr. Ellie Campbell

Links Mentioned

Dr. Ellie's book: The Blood Pressure Blueprint – https://bpblueprint.com

Magic Menopause Program: https://order.magicmenopause.com/

Bristle oral care https://bristlehealth.com/?ref=yjhmyjz

Wellnesse.com https://wellnesse.com/pages/toothpaste-offer?oid=30&affid=27

Connect with Dr. Ellie Campbell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drelliecampbell

Website: https://campbellfamilymedicine.com

Book Website: https://bpblueprint.com

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: https://www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Decoding Physical and Mental Knots Apr 18, 2025

Show notes

There's this deep connection between how we feel, what we think, and what our bodies go through—especially during big transitions like menopause. I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Yasmine Saad, an award-winning NYC Psychologist and TEDx Speaker, who's doing some seriously powerful work helping people understand their emotions in a whole new way. She talked about how our feelings—like sadness, anger, even loneliness—don't just pass through quietly; they show up in our bodies. And when we start to really listen to those messages, that's when the real healing begins.

Dr. Yasmine shared her own personal journey and how she blends traditional Chinese medicine with modern psychology in the most grounded, eye-opening way. We got into what loneliness actually means (hint: it's not about being alone) and how connecting with your purpose can change everything. We also touched on menopause—not just the symptoms, but how it can be a time to reconnect with yourself and feel more powerful than ever. If you've been carrying emotions in your body and not quite sure how to unpack them, you're going to love this one.

Tune in and I think you'll come away with some beautiful aha moments—and maybe a few deep sighs of relief. We even talked about how to stay centered and hopeful when the world feels heavy, which feels especially important right now. And if menopause has you feeling off or just plain over it, don't miss my Magic Menopause program—it's a space to get grounded, feel better in your body, and actually understand what your hormones are trying to tell you. You can check it out at dranna.com—I'd love to have you there.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:05:33] Embarking on a mission to empower people to heal.

[00:09:22] Healing through miscarriage experiences.

[00:10:19] Traditional Chinese medicine and menopause.

[00:15:00] Processing emotions during menopause.

[00:17:19] Emotional release in the body.

[00:20:46] Trusting others for support.

[00:24:31] Making sense of your negative thoughts.

[00:35:07] Loneliness and self-discovery.

[00:39:50] Rising with love despite the trauma.

[00:39:05] Healing trauma through love.

[00:44:09] Decoding your thoughts/emotions effectively.

Memorable Quotes:

"If the mind cannot do it, the body cannot do it because the body and mind constantly communicate. So based on what your body is going through, we can know what's happening in your mind and vice versa." [00:11:17] – Dr. Yasmine Saad

"When you live fully your purpose, you're full of life. There's no way you can ever feel alone." [00:35:46] – Dr. Yasmine Saad

Links Mentioned:

Magic Menopause Program: https://order.magicmenopause.com/

Connect with Dr. Yasmine Saad:

Website: https://www.dryasminesaad.com/ & https://madisonparkpsych.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Dr.yasminesaad

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yasmine.saad.397

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yasmine-saad-phd-6b81661b6/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dryasminesaad

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: https:// www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Genetics & The Future of Personalized Medicine Apr 11, 2025

Show notes

Most women don't realize their DNA might be the reason they're feeling off—foggy, tired, overwhelmed—and just chalk it up to getting older. But what if your genes were actually holding the answers to what's going on with your hormones, your energy, even your ability to handle stress? I sat down with Kashif Khan, TEDx speaker, Author of The DNA Way, and Founder of The DNA Company, to talk about exactly that. He breaks down how understanding your unique genetic blueprint can completely shift how you approach your health—especially when hormones start doing their own thing.

We also talk about how trauma can leave a mark not just emotionally, but biologically too. Kashif shares how your DNA influences everything from how you metabolize estrogen to how you recover from stress (yes, even cold plunges make an appearance). The best part? He gives practical tips you can actually use—things that help you support your body your way, instead of following a one-size-fits-all plan that was never designed for you.

So if you're in that phase where your hormones feel like they've hijacked your life, this episode is definitely for you. And if you're ready to go deeper, my Magic Menopause program was made with you in mind—it's my go-to method for helping women reset their hormones and feel like themselves again. Head over to dranna.com to check out the masterclass—I'll walk you through what's really going on and how to take back the reins.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:04:36] Eating with our hands.

[00:09:32] Gut health genetics and microbiome.

[00:12:17] Survivor genes and health optimization.

[00:15:00] The connection between women stuck in trauma and genetics.

[00:18:31] Healing begins with fixing the nervous system.

[00:22:05] Dopamine's role in mental health.

[00:26:56] Reward seeking and structure.

[00:32:33] Genetics and different cycles of menstruating women.

[00:36:37] Knowing what your body wants and needs you to do.

Memorable Quotes:

"As soon as your fingers touch that food, digestive processes start, metabolic processes start, because that's what our ancestors did for not hundreds of years, not thousands of years, tens of thousands of years. Our DNA hasn't changed in a quarter million years." [00:04:46] – Kashif Khan

"I wasn't wired for those habits. And they're making me sick. And I'm no longer sick because now I know what my habits are supposed to be…And since then, many tens of thousands of people's lives have been changed." [00:06:46] – Kashif Khan

Links Mentioned:

Magic Menopause Program: https://order.magicmenopause.com/

The DNA Way Book: https://thednacompany.com/pages/dna-way

Connect with Kashif Khan:

Website: https://kashkhanofficial.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kashkhanofficial/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kashkhanofficial

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Repair Your Mitochondria, Heal Your Body Apr 04, 2025

Show notes

Most people have no idea that something as tiny as algae is one of the most powerful foods for longevity, energy, and hormone balance. But what if just a few tiny tablets a day could support your mitochondria (those little powerhouses in your cells), detoxify your body, and even ease menopause symptoms? Catharine Arnston, algae expert and Founder of ENERGYbits®, breaks down the science behind spirulina and chlorella—two superfoods packed with antioxidants, protein, and essential nutrients for women's health. We're talking detoxification, hormone support, and even slowing down aging—yes, really!

Catharine breaks it all down in the simplest way, so you'll walk away knowing exactly why mitochondria are the secret to balancing hormones and feeling your best. We chat about how spirulina protects your cells from stress and damage, why chlorella is a natural detoxifier your body craves, and how both can support estrogen, progesterone, and overall vitality. She even shares super easy ways to add these into your routine without overhauling your life. If you've ever felt like your body isn't bouncing back the way it used to, this conversation is a must-listen.

And if you're ready to get serious about taking back control of your hormones, my Magic Menopause program was made for you. It's all about natural, practical ways to feel like yourself again—because you deserve to feel amazing at every stage. Head over to dranna.com to learn more!

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:02:34] Hormone detox with key nutrients.

[00:05:50] Algae – the most nutrient dense alkaline food.

[00:09:03] Spirulina as a brain food and chlorella as a gut health food.

[00:10:50] Mitochondria and cellular energy.

[00:13:50] Mitochondrial DNA and free radicals.

[00:19:09] Spirulina's superoxide dismutase benefits.

[00:21:34] Progesterone and ovarian function.

[00:27:02] Spirulina as world hunger solution.

[00:28:23] Phycocyanin's cancer cell effects.

[00:31:28] How much spirulina and chlorella to take.

[00:32:14] Chlorella aids with sleep troubles.

Memorable Quotes:

"90% of inflammation is in the mitochondria, and inflammation is a marker of accelerated aging and indicative of chronic disease. So I tell people, mitochondria are where the rubber hits the road." [00:10:42] – Catharine Arnston

"One gram of algae has the same nutrition as a thousand grams of vegetables." [00:34:31] – Catharine Arnston

Links Mentioned:

Magic Menopause Program: https://order.magicmenopause.com/

Energy Bits (Use code DRANNA to get 20% off): https://dranna.com/energybits

The Miracle of Algae: The Future of Fast Food And Reversing the Aging Process With Catharine Arnston https://drannacabeca.com/blogs/podcast/the-miracle-of-algae-the-future-of-fast-food-and-reversing-the-aging-process-with-catharine-arnston

Connect with Catharine Arnston:

Website: https://energybits.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/energybits/ & https://www.instagram.com/beautybits

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ENERGYbits/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@energybits

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

The Gut-Hormone Link You Need to Know with Steven Wright Mar 28, 2025

Show notes

Sometimes, feeling "off" isn't just about stress or aging—it could be your gut trying to tell you something. Your digestion plays a bigger role than you might think, influencing everything from your energy and hormones to your mood and even your sex life. Steven Wright, Functional Medicine Expert and Founder of The Healthy Gut Company, is back to share why gut health is the key to feeling like yourself again. We get into the hidden culprits behind bloating, brain fog, and even intimacy struggles—because, yes, your gut impacts that too!

Turns out, simple changes can make a big difference. Steven breaks down how digestive enzymes can transform your digestion, why butyrate is a game-changer for gut healing, and what all of this has to do with hormone balance. We even tackle a topic most people avoid—how gut health can impact erectile function and what men can do about it. If you've been dealing with stubborn symptoms and wondering what's really going on, you won't want to miss this one.

Taking care of your gut is one of the best ways to support your body, and it doesn't have to be complicated. And if menopause symptoms have been throwing you for a loop, I've got you—check out my Magic Menopause Program and let's get you back to feeling amazing!

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:04:02] Gut health journey and solutions.

[00:08:21] Beyond the everything's toxic paradigm.

[00:12:01] Enzyme production and digestion.

[00:15:00] Digestive health and food variety.

[00:19:42] Intimacy and digestive health.

[00:22:02] Enzyme dosage and sensitivity.

[00:24:11] Digestive enzymes and aging.

[00:27:39] Importance of butyrate for health.

[00:32:08] Butyrate and gut health.

[00:34:02] Tributyrate vs. Sodium Butyrate.

[00:40:20] Erectile dysfunction and gut health.

[00:45:49] Estrogen and gut health connection.

[00:47:53] Importance of gut health.

Memorable Quotes:

"It's not the foods that are wrong, the foods are not the enemy, it's the fact that your body is not capable of digesting these normal everyday foods and we should be looking upstream to what's going on with the body instead of blaming the foods." [00:12:05] – Steven Wright

"If it doesn't work, most of the time you have a gut issue that you need to address along with the BHRT. And if you do those things together, everything you're wanting from your program will start to come together." [00:46:08] – Steven Wright

Links Mentioned:

Magic Menopause Program: https://order.magicmenopause.com/

Healthy Gut (Code: DrAnna for 15% off): https://healthygut.com/dranna

Holozyme: https://healthygut.com/drannaholo

Tri-X: https://healthygut.com/drannatrix

HCL: https://healthygut.com/drannahcl

HoloImmune: https://healthygut.com/drannaimmune

Mag-HP: https://healthygut.com/drannamaghp

Beserene Bundle: https://healthygut.com/drannaserene

HistaHarmony: https://healthygut.com/drannahh

Connect with Steven Wright:

Website: https://healthygut.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthygutco/

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

HRT: Compounding Hormones & Customization with Sahar Swidan Mar 21, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever felt like your hormones are running the show? One minute you're energized, the next you're dragging—or maybe those hot flashes and mood swings are making life way harder than it needs to be. The thing is, not all hormone therapies work the same, and that's where compounding comes in. Dr. Sahar Swidan, PHARM.D., ABAAHP, FAARFM, FACA, is back to break down what you need to know about custom-compounded hormones, different formulations, and how to figure out what's actually best for your body.

Dr. Sahar is a powerhouse when it comes to compounding pharmacy and hormone health, and we're getting into the real talk about hormone therapy—what's backed by science, what's just hype, and what actually works. We're covering everything from the latest research on hormone replacement to the surprising ways your skincare could be messing with your balance. Plus, if you're curious about longevity, we're sharing simple, natural ways to keep your body thriving without going overboard. There's a lot to unpack, and trust me—you don't want to miss this conversation.

If your energy's been low, your hormones feel off, or you just want to understand your body better, you'll love this episode. And speaking of feeling your best, I have to mention Mighty Maca Plus—my go-to superfood blend that's been a game changer for so many women. It's got over 30 powerhouse ingredients to support energy, mood, and hormone balance naturally. Check it out at https://dranna.com/drinkmaca and see how it can help you feel amazing every day.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:01:44] Hormones and health optimization.

[00:05:07] Compounding pharmacies controversy explained.

[00:12:04] Clean ingredients in compounding.

[00:14:00] Hormone compounding options available.

[00:18:31] Hormone pellet therapy considerations.

[00:22:31] 10 million women study findings.

[00:25:35] Hormone therapy and women's health.

[00:29:42] Hormone therapy misconceptions and risks.

[00:34:03] Hormone therapy benefits in aging.

[00:35:44] Hormones as part of wellness.

[00:40:47] FSH and menopause management.

[00:45:31] Hormone disruptors in skincare.

[00:49:24] Consumer educational programs for health.

Memorable Quotes:

"Compounding has been around forever, right? I mean, really. That was the original arc of pharmacy." [00:04:57] – Dr. Sahar Swidan

"People are healthier in general when they were younger with hormones than when they're older without hormones." [00:33:10] – Dr. Sahar Swidan

Links Mentioned:

Mighty Maca Plus: https://dranna.com/drinkmaca

American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine: https://www.a4m.com/

Connect with Dr. Sahar Swidan:

Website: https://sahar.world/ & https://saharskincare.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saharswidan_pharmd/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SaharSwidanPharmD/

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: https:// www.evolvedpodcasting.com

The Benefits and Story of Mighty Maca Mar 19, 2025

Show notes

Did you know ancient Peruvian warriors used Maca for strength and stamina? Turns out, they were onto something—this little root is a powerhouse for energy, mood, and hormone balance. Studies even show it can ease anxiety and depression in postmenopausal women, which is huge! But what really makes Maca so special, and how can it actually help you feel better every day?

I first discovered Maca during a rough time—infertility, early menopause, the whole rollercoaster. That journey led me to explore healing superfoods, and Maca completely changed the game for me. In this episode, I'm sharing exactly how it works, why it's so good for energy, libido, and mood, and how I combined it with 30+ other powerhouse ingredients to create Mighty Maca Plus. Plus, you'll hear stories from women who've seen incredible changes—because when your body gets what it needs, everything shifts.

So if you're tired of feeling off—low energy, mood swings, those annoying hormone fluctuations—I get it. That's exactly why I created Mighty Maca Plus, and I can't wait for you to try it. Just mix it with water or toss it in a smoothie, and let your body do the rest. Check it out at dranna.com/drinkmaca and see what a difference it can make!

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:01:52] Benefits of Mighty Maca Plus.

[00:04:50] Benefits of maca root.

[00:09:24] Mighty Maca Plus formulation journey.

[00:12:28] Superfoods and their benefits.

[00:16:48] Hormone balance and detoxification.

[00:19:50] Mighty Maca success stories.

Memorable Quotes:

"I just started combining these superfoods with no hope or ever foresight indication that I would be able to reverse these conditions, but it's exactly what I did." [00:08:59] – Dr. Anna Cabeca

"Your health is an important investment." [00:20:44] – Dr. Anna Cabeca

Links Mentioned:

Mighty Maca Plus: http://dranna.com/drinkmaca

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Pause & Learn: Peri-Post Menopause Explained Mar 14, 2025

Show notes

One day, you're cruising along like usual, and the next… everything feels off. Your mood's all over the place, sleep is a struggle, and let's not even talk about the sudden weight changes. Sound familiar? In this episode, my daughter Amira joins me again as we unpack what's really happening during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause—when it starts, what to expect, and how to handle the rollercoaster of symptoms.

We're getting real about everything from hormone therapy to natural ways to feel better, plus the surprising links between menopause, bone health, and heart health. And if your sex drive isn't what it used to be, you're not alone—we'll talk about why that happens and what you can do about it. This conversation is all about getting answers to the questions so many of us have but don't always talk about. If you've ever wondered, is this normal?—this episode is for you.

Also, if you're feeling drained, moody, or just off, I have to tell you about Mighty Maca Plus. It's my go-to for balancing hormones naturally, and so many women swear by it for better energy, mood, and fewer hot flashes. It's easy, it works, and it's made a real difference in my life too. Check it out at dranna.com/drinkmaca and see for yourself!

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:02:48] Perimenopause timeline and symptoms.

[00:05:42] Weight gain during perimenopause.

[00:08:24] Feelings of anxiety in perimenopause.

[00:10:00] Sleep problems in perimenopause.

[00:11:21] Sex drive changes in perimenopause.

[00:12:24] Hormone therapy during perimenopause.

[00:14:27] Brain fog and memory issues in perimenopause.

[00:16:26] How do you know you've entered menopause?

[00:18:10] Persistent hot flashes and solutions.

[00:21:03] Weight gain in the midsection and insulin resistance.

[00:24:05] Vaginal health and aging.

[00:29:08] Menopause and bone health.

[00:32:06] Pros and cons of HRT.

[00:33:28] How long do menopause symptoms last?

[00:35:19] Heart health post-menopause.

[00:37:17] Losing your sex drive after menopause.

[00:39:07] Natural alternatives to hormone therapy.

[00:40:30] Mental health during post menopause.

[00:44:37] Supplements for optimal health.

[00:47:54] Improving your energy levels.

[00:49:08] Brain health and wellness risks.

Memorable Quotes:

"While menopause is natural and mandatory, suffering is optional." [00:04:31] – Dr. Anna Cabeca

"Vaginal health is necessary for life and really part of optimal health, because if that isn't healthy, then we're going to have some issues." [00:25:23] – Dr. Anna Cabeca

Links Mentioned:

Mighty Maca Plus: http://dranna.com/drinkmaca

Submit your questions to us through this form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeAxR1oPFFM7hGaipAEwUCGhl8q79G8MawUxxXMaeuZX_c_WA/viewform

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegirlfrienddoctor

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drannacabeca

Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com

Breast Implant Illness? Explant? with Candice Barley Mar 07, 2025

Show notes

It's wild how something that's supposed to make you feel more confident can actually be the thing making you sick. Candice Barley learned this the hard way after struggling with years of unexplained symptoms—fatigue, gut issues, even liver problems—before realizing her breast implants were the culprit. Now, as a leading advocate for women with Breast Implant Illness (BII), she's on a mission to educate and support others through their own healing journeys. She's here to share what she wishes she knew sooner, from the hidden health risks to the life-changing decision to explant.

Candice has helped countless women through the explant process, from finding the right surgeons to navigating the emotional ups and downs. She's the author of The Explant Book, a step-by-step guide to healing from BII, and the creator of the photo documentary Not As Advertised, which sheds light on the real impact of implants. We talk about the symptoms no one warns you about, why proper explant surgery matters, and how to reclaim your confidence—scars and all. Plus, she shares stories from women who've gone through it and come out feeling better than ever. If you've ever questioned whether your implants could be affecting your health, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

Speaking of feeling better, I have to mention Mighty Maca Plus—it's been a total game-changer for so many women struggling with low energy, mood swings, and hormone imbalances. It's packed with over 30 superfoods and makes such a difference in how you feel every day. If you haven't tried it yet, check it out at dranna.com/drinkmaca—because taking care of yourself should always come first.

Key Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction.

[00:05:48] Breast implant illness journey.

[00:10:05] Implant-induced hormonal changes.

[00:12:44] Breast implant illness recovery.

[00:16:45] Explant journey and body image.

[00:22:18] Inner work after explant surgery.

[00:25:15] Partners' reactions to explant surgery.

[00:29:47] Breast implant inflammation symptoms.

[00:38:06] Breast implant capsules and its implications.

[00:40:26] Breast implants and detoxification.

[00:42:36] Implant removal considerations.

[00:46:12] Bacteria in breast implant capsules.

[00:49:52] Explant surgery techniques and safety.

[00:52:18] Deflation and Breast Implant Associated ALCL risks.

[00:56:39] Preparing for surgery.

[01:01:06] Recovery tips after surgery.

[01:06:00] Restoring gut to intuition after explant surgery.

[01:07:51] The Explant Book

Memorable Quotes:

"That's when I had profound changes in my health—to the point that I feel better now at almost 48 years old than I did even in my twenties because now I understand my genetics." [00:14:29] – Candice Barley

"Once I removed my breast implants, I became so in tune with my body. And this is the feedback I get from so many women is that gut to intuition that we naturally have is heightened or restored back to what it was meant to be." [01:06:22] – Candice Barley

Links Mentioned:

Mighty Maca Plus: http://dranna.com/drinkmaca

The Explant Book: https://www.amazon.com/Explant-Book-Personal-Advocacy-Handbook/dp/B0DK7DTXRG

Auro Wellness: https://aurowellness.com/

The DNA Company: https://thednacompany.com/

Connect with Candice Barley:

Website: https://www.olisticolife.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olisticolife/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@olisticolife

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@olisticolife

Connect with Dr. Anna Cabeca:

Website: https://drannacabeca.com/pages/show