Endocrine disruptors, such as chemicals in plastics, can disrupt the oestrogen receptors in our bodies and affect our health. Not in a good way! We all need to know about this. Your body and endocrine system has already been disrupted through cancer treatment and the menopause. We mustn’t overload it even more.

Bruce Blumberg, a professor of Developmental and Cell Biology at the University of California, Irvine, discusses the impact of endocrine disruptors on our bodies and the environment.

These disruptors can be found in various products which are all around you, including plastic containers, vinyl blinds and floors, and cosmetics. The effects of endocrine disruptors go beyond cancer and can also lead to obesity and infertility.

Blumberg provides practical tips for reducing exposure to endocrine disruptors and I am so grateful I get to share this important conversation with you.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:57 Endocrine disruption and hormone-dependent breast cancer.

14:22 Avoid parabens and harmful sunscreen agents, find alternatives.

19:42 Endocrine disruptors negatively affect sperm count in men.

21:48 Endocrine disruptors may link to human obesity.

24:59 Exposing mice to low dose chemical causes obesity.

32:10 Hierarchy of what we can eliminate to help ourselves.

36:14 Protect your lungs from water mist chemicals.

38:37 Whole fresh foods aids weight loss.

42:57 Encouraging healthy cooking through enjoyable recipes.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Here are links to Professor Blumbergs’s work:

https://www.amazon.com/Obesogen-Effect-Exercise-Struggle-Weight/dp/1549168983

https://blumberg-lab.bio.uci.edu/

There is also a web site for the book:

https://theobesogeneffect.com/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Leanne Pero is a remarkable woman who received an MBE from Prince William for her exceptional charity work with Black Women Rising. I had no idea of the challenges black women face when navigating cancer and I also had no idea that Leanne receives so much trolling for her exceptional work. It shows my ignorance and I am here to learn.

Leanne shares with us how we can each start to champion ourselves. We also talk about her journey through menopause and how she nearly started HRT after her breast cancer diagnosis. However, her story took an unexpected twist and turn and it shows us quite how underserved we are as women as we navigate menopause and life after cancer.

Leanne Pero, you are amazing!

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

07:54 Shocked by breast cancer, feeling isolated.

11:58 Black women face disparities in cancer outcomes.

15:00 Encouraging women to embrace authentic connections.

18:27 PR firm hired to handle abuse, and protect voices.

25:38 Met Prince William and had an amazing chat.

29:35 Therapy is crucial for personal and generational healing.

31:03 Women prioritise others, and struggle to prioritise themselves.

39:05 Knew HRT had risks, not well-informed.

41:39 Finally saw family doctor, diagnosed with an under-active thyroid.

44:50 Talking about health experiences outside medical norms.

49:11 Excited about our walking challenge, join us now!

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

The walking challenge I mentioned is here for you: https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Connect with Leanne:

https://www.leannepero.com/

https://www.instagram.com/leanneperoofficial/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Research shows that only 4% of cancer survivors meet lifestyle recommendations. Dietician and board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition Krystle Zuniga discusses what these lifestyle recommendations are with us on the show today.

Have you been told what they are?

For solutions, of how we can help the 96% that currently don’t follow the recommendations that could potentially reduce their risks of a cancer recurrence, we need to understand that there is a gap between guidelines and behaviour. We need more discussions, less barriers to referrals for support and more awareness.

And it starts with you and I today.

Krystle Zuniga is a US based registered and licensed dietitian and a board certified specialist in oncology nutrition and the Assistant Professor of Instruction in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at UT Austin. She is incredibly good at telling us exactly what the evidence says and where there is a lack of it.

This is a powerful conversation for sure - giving us more agency in times of uncertainty.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

04:04 Curiosity about lifestyle recommendations and cancer survivorship.

10:27 Cancer treatment impacts daily life and nutrition.

13:39 Encouraging seeking help for health and well-being.

23:33 Busy days may lead to processed snacks.

25:00 Ultra processed foods are unhealthy, limit consumption.

28:09 Limit alcohol intake for cancer prevention, avoid it.

33:12 Carnivore diet raises cardiovascular disease risk concerns.

35:21 Limited awareness of alcohol-cancer link, booze-free trend.

40:48 Cancer research resources for in-depth information.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Here is the link for the World Cancer Research Fund International https://www.wcrf.org/

Connect with Krystle:

You can find more about Krystle’s work here www.canvernutritionhq.com and here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cancernutritionhq/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Since when did we think we all have to thrive as well as just getting through a tough time? In today’s episode, I speak to Henny Flynn, a therapeutic coach and host of the Henny Flynn podcast about self-compassion strategies and self-coaching techniques that can support us.

We talk:

- glimmers

- making space for the joy and the pain

and please join me in imagining myself naked in front of the mirror! ;-)

I also hope you enjoy my poem at the end.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

09:41 Struggle with self-compassion and parenting triggers.

11:49 Compassion and understanding in navigating life.

16:17 All parts serve us, including uncomfortable ones.

23:31 Menopause affects hormones, manage stress for balance.

25:51 Journaling enhances well-being and reduces stress.

28:17 Flow journaling slows down thoughts, brings calm.

34:03 Practice self-compassion by expressing love for yourself.

37:22 Belonging without changing yourself to fit in.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Connect with Henny:

https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

In this insightful episode, Sam Evans and I discuss the challenges women face in maintaining intimacy and sexual pleasure during menopause and cancer. Sam provides practical advice on self-exploration, communication, and using sex toys to enhance sexual experiences. And we have a great starting point (discount code for you!).

It is not just about penis-in-vagina sex! Oh no.

The conversation covers physical and emotional factors impacting libido and offers strategies for reconnecting with one's sexuality.

Key points include:

• The importance of pleasure, sex toys, and lubrication in the context of cancer and menopause.
• The need for healthcare professionals to address sexual health and provide accurate information.
• The role of different types of lubricants and the importance of choosing products with safe ingredients.
• Encouragement to explore sexuality and seek professional help if needed.

We hope to normalise discussions about sexual health and promote a holistic approach to pleasure and intimacy.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:16 Loneliness and sex life impact menopause community.

09:12 Navigating menopause's impact on intimacy and relationships.

11:40 Sam recommends starting small with sex toys.

16:18 Explore new ways to improve sex life.

19:50 Overcoming challenges in maintaining intimacy and connection.

21:07 Learning about non-vaginal sex.

26:26 Dilators used for sexual sensation and relaxation.

29:51 Check ingredients for vaginal and skin health.

31:08 Lubricants.

46:42 Exploring sex toys and libido in relationships.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

We have a fantastic 10% discount code for you: MAC2024 (£5 minimum spend on full-priced products excluding P&P) ENDS 31/08/24

More info is here:

https://www.jodivine.com/blogs/sexual-health/jo-divine-health-brochure

In today’s episode, we dive into your bowel health. How do chemotherapy, surgery, medication, and menopause affect our bowel health? What should we look out for? And what are some top tips to improve it?

We are joined by Dr Julie Cornish, a consultant colorectal surgeon at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. Dr Cornish has a specialist interest in pelvic floor and women’s health and is currently running a trial looking at the impact of cancer surgery on bowel function. This is a significant issue for many patients, often exacerbated after menopause.

Julie has also founded https://www.everywomanfest.com/ helping women understand what’s normal and where to seek help for various health issues.

Learn more about the POLARiS trial here: www.bowelresearchuk.org/research-hub/polaris/

IBS Dietician Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ibs.dietitian/?hl=en

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

05:35 Chemotherapy impacts the bowel lining, and gut microbiome. Dietary solutions.

12:45 Neglect of cancer survivors' post-treatment issues.

19:06 Post-bowel cancer: regular stool, fibre, avoid risks.

21:14 The impact of surgery on patients' lives.

23:46 Beware of unreliable health information on the internet.

28:16 Common doesn't mean it's normal. Seek help.

31:46 Boost fibre intake, and prioritise bowel health. Try flaxseeds.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Empowering you to transform your life.

Did you know that there are 34 randomised control trials (the golden standard of trials!) to show the incredible health benefits that yoga has for cancer survivors? Research tells us that the impact of yoga on the quality of life for cancer survivors ranged from moderate to high! That’s a lot more than many medications you might have prescribed to you!

I am joined by the pioneer for teaching yoga to those affected by cancer and that is Vicky Fox.

You can join Vicky’s weekly online classes here - most are free to attend https://vickyfox-yoga.com/classes or join one of her yoga teacher trainings to support others going through cancer.

Find Vicky on Instagram here: @yogaforcancer

And if you don’t believe me when I say yoga is the most incredibly healing tool, then have a look at the research yourself here ;-)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38426042/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

03:37 How Vicky started free yoga classes for cancer survivors.

06:44 Reflect on yoga, find the right fit.

12:10 Yoga benefits physical well-being and relieves some side effects.

14:01 Yoga opens the door to breath, mindfulness, and meditation.

17:01 Exercise is crucial for healthcare and empowerment.

23:08 Yoga improves bone quality and strength.

29:26 Dani and Vicky share physical and emotional challenges.

34:17 Supporting people with osteoporosis, and lymphedema through safe practice.

37:08 Yoga connects inward and outward community experiences.

38:33 Self-kindness in yoga practice is important.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/

Menopause sneaks in as an uninvited and unwelcome guest to a house already dealing with so much. Join me, a whole group of women in our community and life coach Sanela Lukanovic for this interactive session.

- How do we allow ourselves to feel when it’s all very scary?

- Emotions - friends or foes? Uncover what blocks you from feeling all your feelings.

- How to deal with anger, overwhelm and shame?

- Becoming your own best friend - how to listen to, learn from and let go of our emotions.

You can find Senior Leadership and Life Coach Sanela Lukanovic here: www.sanelalukanovic.co.uk

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro.

06:45 Challenges of emotional labour in decision making.

10:59 Struggling with ongoing never-ending emotional conflicts.

13:54 Societal pressure to manage and show emotions.

26:29 Neglecting emotions fills and blocks emotional basket.

27:30 Joy is fleeting, difficult to hold onto.

32:33 Recognising and processing emotions through body tapping.

42:01 Relief in not always needing to improve.

49:05 Focus on gratitude.

50:29 Tapping on meridian points can help.

About Dani:

The Menopause and Cancer Podcast is hosted by Dani Binnington, menopause guide, patients advocate for people in menopause after a cancer diagnosis, and founder of the online platform Healthy Whole Me.

There is lots of information out there about the menopause but hardly any if you have had a cancer diagnosis as well. Many people say to me they have no idea what their options are, who to ask for help, and that they feel really isolated in their experiences.

I started this podcast because there was nothing out there when I was thrown into surgical menopause at the age of 39, which followed on from my cancer diagnosis aged 33.

Through the episodes, I want to create more awareness, share information from our fabulous guest experts, doctors and other specialists in the cancer and menopause field.

And of course, I will share stories from the people in our community.

So that together we can work towards a better menopause experience. For all of us.

More educated, better informed and less alone.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub

Mentioned in this episode:

https://move-with-menopause-and-cancer.raiselysite.com/