Type 1 In Midlife: Women Over 40 with Type 1 Diabetes, Hormones, Perimenopause, Menopause, and Blood Sugar Challenges

What happens when the diabetes strategies that worked for years suddenly stop working the same way? For women with type 1 diabetes entering perimenopause and menopause, changing estrogen and progesterone can affect insulin sensitivity, blood sugar patterns, sleep, weight, mood, and the amount of insulin we need. Yet for years, many women have walked into diabetes appointments with these concerns only to discover that no one was connecting the dots. In this episode, I welcome back Dawn Adams, midwife, diabetes advocate, researcher, and woman living with type 1 diabetes since 1993. Dawn has helped bring the lived experiences of women with diabetes into international research on menopause and women's health. We talk about why those lived experiences matter, what researchers are finally beginning to document, and why the next step has to be translating research into better conversations and better care. We also talk about: Why women with type 1 diabetes have often felt unseen during perimenopause and menopause What women are reporting about changing blood sugars, insulin needs, weight, sleep, brain fog, and other symptoms Why CGM, insulin pump, and insulin-dose data could help researchers better understand hormonal changes The growing research around menopause and diabetes Hormone therapy and why the conversation has changed significantly since the original WHI headlines Why symptoms and lived experience matter—not just age or lab values The need for diabetes technology to better support women through hormonal transitions How women can use credible research to advocate for better conversations with their healthcare providers One of my favorite reminders from this conversation is that if we have the information, we can ask better questions. That is also why I wrote Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women Managing Diabetes—from Monthly Cycles to Menopause. Dawn was one of my advanced readers, and during our conversation she shares why having reliable, evidence-based information can give women the courage to advocate for themselves. This conversation is about more than menopause. It's about making sure the women coming behind us have better information, better support, and hopefully a much easier path than many of us had. About Dawn Adams Dawn Adams was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes during her final year of teacher training in 1993. After more than a decade working in education, she retrained as a midwife. Dawn advocates for diabetes research through #dedoc, the International Diabetes Federation Blue Circle Voices Network, and Menopause Together. She is a member of the TREND Diabetes Committee and is frequently invited to speak at international conferences on diabetes and women's health. She has collaborated with researchers from Ulster University, Diabetes UK, and University College London on the experiences of women with diabetes during menopause and has worked with Abbott Laboratories to highlight stigma surrounding diabetes and menopause. Dawn also facilitates peer-support networks for people living with diabetes locally, nationally, and globally.   Listen to Dawn Adams in EP 25   Research Referenced in This Episode Dawn referenced several research papers exploring the experiences of women living with diabetes through menopause, women's health, and the need for more sex-specific diabetes research. Women Living With Diabetes: Overlooked and Under-Recognized, the Psychosocial Impact Published: July 2026 Explores the often-overlooked psychosocial experiences and challenges faced by women living with diabetes. http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/dme.70389 One Size Does Not Fit All: The Need for Sex-Specific Precision Medicine in Diabetes Technology Published: May 2025 Highlights the need to consider sex-specific differences when developing and using diabetes technology and calls for a more individualized approach to diabetes care. https://doi.org/10.1177/19322968251340673 Supporting Women in Menopause Published: March 2025 Addresses the need for greater awareness and support for women navigating menopause alongside diabetes. https://doi.org/10.1111/dme.70039     Women's Experiences of Living Through Menopause With Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes: A Scoping Review Published: May 2024 Examines the available research surrounding the experiences of women with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes as they navigate menopause. https://pure.ulster.ac.uk/ws/portalfiles/portal/241398893/Review_Protocol_.pdf A Pilot on the Endocrine Effects of Hormonal Replacement Therapy on Menopausal T1 Diabetics Using Wearable Sensors Published: November 2022 Explores the use of wearable diabetes technology to examine the endocrine effects of hormone replacement therapy in menopausal women living with Type 1 Diabetes. https://doi.org/10.3390/ecsa-9-13215   Connect with Dawn Adams: IG @t1dawnie   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Highs, Lows, & Hormones Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What if the things that worked for your type 1 diabetes at 30 simply don't work the same anymore? Your insulin needs change. Hormones change. Sleep, recovery, energy and body composition can change too. Yet everywhere we turn, we're being told there is another diet, supplement, workout, peptide or strategy we should be doing to fix it. After 44 years of living with type 1 diabetes, I'm learning something important: I don't need my old body back. I need to understand the body I'm living in right now. In this episode, I'm sharing five ways I'm rethinking what it means to age well with type 1 diabetes: 1. Stop expecting your body to respond like it did 20 years ago. Different doesn't mean worse. Hormones, insulin sensitivity, muscle mass, sleep, stress and recovery change—and our strategies may need to change with them. 2. More discipline isn't always the answer. Before eating less, exercising more, adding another supplement or assuming you need to try harder, ask: What has changed? 3. Become curious instead of critical. Blood sugar changes, hunger, poor sleep, slower recovery and changes in energy are not a grade on how well you're managing diabetes. 4. Change your definition of success. A1C, time in range, weight and insulin needs matter, but they aren't the whole story. Strength, muscle, bone health, energy, sleep, relationships and confidence in your diabetes decisions matter too. 5. Make advocacy part of your diabetes management. Don't automatically accept "that's just aging" or "that's just menopause." Ask questions about hormones, thyroid health, sleep, bone and muscle health, sexual and pelvic health, and changes in your insulin needs. We're also talking about the pressure women feel to have the perfect CGM graph, perfect body, perfect diet and perfect routine—and why someone else's carefully selected moment shouldn't become the measuring stick for your health. Aging with type 1 diabetes isn't about getting your 30-year-old body back. It's about learning how to care for the woman you are today. I also share why I wrote Highs, Lows & Hormones and how we're continuing these deeper conversations inside the Highs, Lows & Hormones Circle, where women with diabetes can ask questions, learn from one another and feel supported as their bodies and diabetes needs change.   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Highs, Lows, & Hormones Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when a women's health nurse practitioner also lives with type 1 diabetes herself? In this episode of the Type 1 in Midlife Podcast, Melissa sits down with Dena Kranzberg, DNP, WHNP-BC, women's health nurse practitioner, certified personal trainer, and woman living with type 1 diabetes for 35 years. Melissa and Dena talk openly about the intersection of type 1 diabetes, perimenopause, menopause, hormone replacement therapy (HRT/MHT), insulin sensitivity, strength training, nutrition, and metabolic health—and why these pieces of women's health shouldn't be treated in isolation. Dena shares how her own experience with type 1 diabetes influences the way she cares for women, including one of her guiding principles: just as there is no single diabetes regimen that works for everyone, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hormone therapy. They also discuss why symptoms such as joint pain, brain fog, fatigue, sleep changes, body composition changes, mood shifts, tinnitus, and changing blood sugars may deserve a closer look during perimenopause—even when hot flashes aren't part of the picture. You'll also hear Dena's personal experience beginning hormone therapy in her 30s, becoming a competitive bodybuilder while managing type 1 diabetes, and why she believes strength training is one of the most important habits women can build for glucose management, muscle, bone health, and healthy aging. Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that your experience is real, your symptoms matter, and you don't have to wait until things get worse to start asking questions. In this episode: Type 1 diabetes and changing insulin needs during perimenopause Estrogen, progesterone and testosterone Individualizing hormone replacement therapy Symptoms of perimenopause beyond hot flashes Muscle as a tool for glucose management and healthy aging Strength training, protein and body composition HRT, joint pain, sleep, energy and metabolic health Advocating for yourself when something has changed Why women's health needs a more holistic approach If you're a woman with type 1 diabetes navigating perimenopause or menopause or simply wondering why your body and blood sugars suddenly seem to be playing by different rules, this is a conversation you'll want to hear.   Whether you're experiencing symptoms or simply want to better understand your body, this conversation is filled with practical education and encouragement.   Connect with Dena Kranzberg:   IG @denabetic @denathednp   Linkedin   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Highs, Lows, & Hormones Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.  

Most women have heard the words pelvic floor, but few of us truly understand what it does—or how much it influences our everyday lives. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Casey Mosos, pelvic floor physical therapist, dry needling certified clinician, and perinatal exercise specialist. Casey specializes in helping women overcome pelvic pain, endometriosis, bladder concerns, painful intimacy, pregnancy and postpartum recovery, and so much more. What makes this conversation especially meaningful is that Casey also lives with endometriosis herself, bringing both professional expertise and personal understanding to the women she serves. Together, we discuss why pelvic floor health deserves far more attention, especially as women move through midlife and menopause. We also explore how hormones, vaginal estrogen, and chronic conditions like type 1 diabetes can impact pelvic tissues and why so many women are silently living with symptoms they assume are simply "part of getting older." In this episode, we discuss: What the pelvic floor actually is and why it matters Common symptoms women should never ignore Pelvic pain and why it is never something you should simply "live with" Endometriosis and its long-term impact on women's health Painful intercourse and what can be done about it The important role of vaginal estrogen for tissue health Bladder leakage, urgency, and pelvic floor dysfunction Constipation and bowel health Pregnancy and postpartum recovery Why pelvic floor therapy is about so much more than Kegel exercises The connection between chronic disease, hormones, and pelvic health When it's time to seek help from a pelvic floor physical therapist Whether you're experiencing symptoms or simply want to better understand your body, this conversation is filled with practical education and encouragement. About Dr. Casey Mosos Dr. Casey Mosos is a pelvic floor physical therapist, dry needling certified clinician, and perinatal exercise specialist passionate about helping women feel empowered in their bodies. She specializes in treating pelvic pain and endometriosis, a condition she personally lives with, giving her both clinical expertise and firsthand understanding of the challenges many women face. Originally from Pennsylvania and raised in the Florida Keys, Casey earned her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. Through education rooted in evidence and real-life experience, she helps women better understand their bodies and find hope for healing.   Connect with Dr. Casey Mosos Instagram: @dr.caseymosos Business Instagram: @insideoutpelvicpt Website: Inside Out Pelvic Health and Wellness Email: [email protected]   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Highs, Lows, & Hormones Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this final episode of my three-part hormone series, we're talking about the hormone many women overlook: testosterone. Most women associate testosterone with men, but it plays a critical role in women's health too. From muscle maintenance and metabolism to energy, motivation, confidence, recovery, and insulin sensitivity, testosterone influences far more than most of us realize. If you've been feeling weaker in the gym, struggling with brain fog, noticing changes in body composition, or simply feeling less motivated than you used to, low testosterone may be part of the conversation worth having with your healthcare provider. In this episode, you'll learn: ✔ Common physical symptoms of low testosterone ✔ Why muscle is one of the most powerful tools for metabolic health ✔ The connection between testosterone and insulin sensitivity ✔ Mental and emotional signs that may be overlooked ✔ Possible signs your testosterone levels may be too high ✔ Questions to ask your healthcare provider ✔ Why symptoms—not just lab numbers—matter when evaluating hormone health Throughout this series, we've explored how estrogen helps us feel balanced, progesterone helps us feel calm, and testosterone helps us feel strong. Most importantly, I want you to remember this: Your symptoms are not random. They are information. When you learn how to recognize patterns and connect the dots, you become a stronger advocate for your health and your future.   Resources Mentioned 📘 Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women Managing Diabetes from Monthly Cycles to Menopause Inside the book you'll find: The Symptom Hormone Matching Guide (Chapter 4) Symptom tracking worksheets Hormone education designed specifically for women managing diabetes Practical tools to help you communicate more effectively with your healthcare team Access to 12 companion resources and guides Get your copy of the book through the link below. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another woman who needs this conversation today.     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If you've ever been told, "Your thyroid labs are normal," yet you still struggle with fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight gain, or unpredictable blood sugars, this episode is for you. I'm joined by Dr. Amie Hornaman, known as "The Thyroid Fixer," to unpack one of the most overlooked pieces of women's health—your thyroid. We explore why thyroid dysfunction is so common in women living with type 1 diabetes, the powerful connection between Hashimoto's and autoimmune disease, and why standard thyroid testing often misses the full picture. Dr. Amie also explains how thyroid hormones influence insulin sensitivity, metabolism, energy, and even menopause symptoms. Most importantly, she shares practical ways to advocate for yourself so you can stop settling for "normal" when you know something still isn't right. Whether you've been diagnosed with hypothyroidism, Hashimoto's, or you're simply searching for answers, this conversation will help you better understand your body and feel more confident asking the right questions. In this episode, you'll learn: • Why the thyroid is often called the body's "master gland" • The connection between Hashimoto's and type 1 diabetes • How thyroid function affects insulin needs and blood sugar • Why TSH alone doesn't tell the whole story • Which thyroid labs provide a more complete picture • How menopause and thyroid health influence one another • Why many women continue to struggle even after starting thyroid medication • Practical ways to advocate for the care you deserve If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another woman living with diabetes. The more we understand our hormones, the better equipped we are to advocate for our health.   Resources mentioned: • Dr. Amie Hornaman's book, The Thyroid Fix  • The Thyroid Fixer Podcast • Connect with Dr. Amie at dramie.com Connect on IG @dramiehornaman   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when a person living with Type 1 diabetes spends more than four decades navigating the condition—and then helps shape the future of healthcare? In this episode, I'm joined by Hanna Boëthius, patient advocate, international speaker, consultant, and person living with Type 1 diabetes for more than 41 years. Together, we explore why lived experience matters, why people with diabetes deserve a seat at the table when decisions are being made, and how healthcare can move from simply treating patients to truly partnering with them. We discuss: • What life with Type 1 diabetes looked like in the 1980s compared to today • Why patient voices belong in healthcare conversations • The difference between patient-centered care and true collaboration • How women continue to be underrepresented in research • Why diabetes management must be individualized • The challenges and opportunities of diabetes technology and data • The role of peer support and community • How to advocate for yourself during medical appointments • Why "Nothing About Us Without Us" is more important than ever Whether you've lived with diabetes for decades or are newly diagnosed, this conversation is a powerful reminder that your experience matters, your voice matters, and you deserve to be an active partner in your care.   Connect with Hanna Boethius: IG @hannadiabetesexpert   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Welcome back to Part 2 of this special 3-part series inspired by one of the most valuable resources inside my book, Highs, Lows & Hormones: The Symptom-Hormone Matching Guide. Do you crawl into bed exhausted but can't seem to shut your brain off? Are you feeling more anxious, overwhelmed, reactive, or stressed than you used to be? You may be experiencing one of the most common signs of low progesterone. Often called the "calming hormone," progesterone plays an important role in helping your body relax, manage stress, and prepare for sleep. While estrogen is often associated with staying asleep, progesterone helps you fall asleep. When levels begin to decline, many women notice they feel tired all day but wired at night. In this episode, you'll learn: • What progesterone does and why it's so important during perimenopause and menopause • Why difficulty falling asleep can be a key sign of low progesterone • How progesterone influences stress resilience and nervous system regulation • The connection between sleep, cortisol, insulin resistance, and blood sugar management • Why some women thrive on progesterone while others may experience intolerance • The different progesterone delivery methods available • Questions to ask your healthcare provider when exploring hormone therapy • Why tracking symptoms may be the most powerful tool you bring to your next appointment One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is that symptoms matter. When you begin tracking changes in your sleep, mood, stress levels, energy, and blood sugar patterns, you start to uncover clues about what may actually be driving how you feel. Too often, women are told their symptoms are simply part of aging. But understanding your symptoms is the first step toward finding answers and advocating for the support you deserve. Resources Mentioned: • Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women Managing Diabetes from Monthly Cycles to Menopause. Chapter 4: Connecting Symptoms to Hormonal Changes • The Symptom-Hormone Matching Guide • Hormone and Symptom Tracking Tools included with the book Next week, we'll wrap up this series by discussing testosterone, one of the most misunderstood hormones in women's health and one that can significantly impact energy, motivation, muscle health, confidence, and quality of life.   If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another woman who needs this conversation today.   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Are your blood sugars harder to manage than they used to be? You may be blaming your diabetes, your food choices, or your insulin settings. But what if estrogen is part of the story? In this first episode of a three-part hormone series inspired by Chapter 4 of my book Highs, Lows & Hormones, we're taking a deep dive into estrogen and the many ways it impacts women in midlife. You'll learn: ✔ Why estrogen is far more than a reproductive hormone ✔ Common signs of low estrogen ✔ How estrogen influences insulin sensitivity and blood sugar management ✔ Why rising fasting glucose can be an early clue that hormones are shifting ✔ What improved estrogen levels may feel like ✔ Can you have too much estrogen? ✔ Why symptom tracking matters more than chasing a perfect lab number ✔ Questions to discuss with your healthcare provider Most importantly, you'll learn how to start connecting your symptoms to possible hormone changes so you can become a more confident advocate for your health. This episode is based on the Symptom & Hormone Matching Guide found in Chapter 4 of Highs, Lows & Hormones, along with the companion symptom-tracking resources available with the book   If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another woman who needs this conversation today.     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Returning guest Mary Ann Chamberlain is back for an honest conversation about what life with type 1 diabetes looks like after more than 36 years. If you haven't already, be sure to go back and listen to Episode 143, where Mary Ann shares her diagnosis story, life transitions, and the journey that has shaped who she is today. In this episode, we're simply catching up as two women living with type 1 diabetes. We talk about everything from new diabetes technology and hormone health to navigating complications, advocacy, burnout, and why community matters more than ever. Mary Ann opens up about living with diabetic retinopathy and low vision, moving to a new city, beginning a new career, and finding purpose through advocacy. We also discuss the latest diabetes innovations, the excitement surrounding cure research, and how to hold space for the many emotions those headlines can bring. Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that while diabetes may be part of our story, it doesn't define the whole story. In this episode, we discuss: Mary Ann's new chapter after relocating to Denver Living with type 1 diabetes and low vision Why hormone health deserves more attention for women with T1D The latest advances in diabetes technology Thoughts on cure research and the emotions surrounding it Diabetes burnout and the mental load of daily management Long-term complications and why these conversations matter Learning to advocate for yourself within today's healthcare system Finding hope, purpose, and community after decades with type 1 diabetes   Connect with Mary Ann Chamberlain: Instagram: @owningt1dwithma   🎧 Be sure to listen to Episode 143 to hear Mary Ann's original story and then come back to this conversation to see just how much life has continued to evolve.     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever felt like you're doing everything "right" with your diabetes management, but your blood sugars still seem unpredictable? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brooke Shelton, Doctor of Physical Therapy, educator, founder of Dynamic Diabetes, and someone who has personally lived with type 1 diabetes for more than 20 years. Together, we explore a topic that doesn't get enough attention in the diabetes community: nervous system regulation. Brooke explains how chronic stress, diabetes management, fluctuating blood sugars, hormonal changes, and even exercise can keep us stuck in a constant state of fight-or-flight. We discuss how this affects insulin resistance, energy levels, sleep quality, recovery, and ultimately how we feel every day. You'll learn: • The difference between fight-or-flight, rest-and-digest, and the often-overlooked freeze response • Why diabetes itself can create ongoing nervous system stress • How chronic stress contributes to stubborn high blood sugars • Practical ways to regulate your nervous system throughout the day • Why sleep may be one of the most important health tools you're overlooking • How exercise needs change throughout your menstrual cycle and during perimenopause • The connection between hormones, insulin resistance, and burnout • Simple "movement snacks" and recovery strategies that can help you feel better without doing more We also discuss cycle syncing and how adjusting your movement based on where you are in your cycle can support blood sugar management, recovery, and overall well-being. This is a concept I cover in Chapter 8 of my book, Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women Managing Diabetes from Monthly Cycles to Menopause, in the chapter titled Movement That Matches Your Hormones. If you've ever felt exhausted, overwhelmed, or like your body isn't responding the way it used to, this conversation will remind you that there is nothing wrong with you. Your body is doing exactly what it was designed to do—and learning to work with it instead of against it can be a game changer. Purchase Highs, Lows & Hormones and connect with Melissa through the links in today's show notes.   Connect with Dr. Brook Shelton: IG @dynamic.diabetes Website: Dynamic Diabetes   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What does it really look like to live 50 years with type 1 diabetes? In this episode, I sit down with Ruth Collin, who was diagnosed at just five years old and is now marking five decades of life with type 1. From glass syringes in the 1970s to today's closed-loop technology, Ruth shares how diabetes care—and her mindset—has evolved. We talk about: How technology has transformed diabetes management The emotional side of living with type 1 long-term Hormones, stress, and midlife changes What "good enough" really means with blood sugar Why community and shared stories matter more than ever Ruth also shares why she started her podcast, The Long View – Living with Type 1 Diabetes, and how hearing others' stories has shaped her perspective on resilience, identity, and hope. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, frustrated, or like you're doing everything "right" but your numbers say otherwise—this conversation will remind you: you're not alone, and there's wisdom in taking the long view.   Connect with Ruth Collin Podcast: The Long View - Living with Type 1 Diabetes  Website: The Long View   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever looked at your body and thought, "I don't understand what's happening anymore?" In this episode of the Type 1 in Midlife Podcast, I'm sharing a powerful conversation from inside our Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle about stubborn weight gain in midlife — especially when hormones, thyroid health, stress, sleep, insulin resistance, and type 1 diabetes all collide at the same time. One of our members opened up honestly about gaining 20 stubborn pounds despite eating well, exercising, tracking her blood sugars, and trying so hard to "do everything right." And honestly? So many women in the room nodded in agreement. Because this isn't simply about eating less and exercising more. In this episode, we unpack: Why midlife hormones can dramatically impact metabolism The connection between estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, thyroid hormones, and insulin resistance How sleep disruption and cortisol affect fat storage Why strength training matters more than endless cardio after 40 How thyroid medication and hormone therapy can interact Why increasing insulin needs may signal hormonal shifts The emotional toll of feeling uncomfortable in your changing body Why your body is not broken — and what it may actually be trying to tell you This is a validating, educational conversation for women living with type 1 diabetes who feel frustrated, confused, or discouraged by the changes happening in midlife. You are not failing, you are not imagining it, and you are definitely not alone. ✨ Learn more about my book Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women Managing Diabetes from Monthly Cycles to Menopause and explore resources designed specifically for women navigating hormones and diabetes. ✨ Interested in support and community? Learn more about the Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle where women gather to learn, ask questions, and feel understood. If this episode encouraged you, please share it with another woman who needs this conversation today.     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when perimenopause collides with type 1 diabetes? For many women, the answer is confusion, frustration, and feeling like they're suddenly managing a completely different body. In this episode, Melissa sits down with Sascha Vrolijk, founder of Project M(e) and host of the Perimenopause Unfiltered podcast. Sascha shares her personal journey of experiencing brain fog, anxiety, exhaustion, and unpredictable blood sugars that ultimately led her to leave a demanding career before discovering that perimenopause was at the root of many of her symptoms. Together, they discuss: • The symptoms that made Sascha realize something wasn't right • Why so many women are unprepared for perimenopause • How hormonal changes can impact blood sugar management with type 1 diabetes • The emotional toll of feeling unlike yourself • Why self-advocacy matters in healthcare • How to prepare for productive conversations with your doctor • Common hormone therapy concerns and misconceptions • The importance of finding a provider who listens and collaborates • Why sharing our stories helps other women feel less alone Whether you're beginning to notice changes in your cycle, struggling with unexplained blood sugar swings, or simply wondering if hormones could be playing a role in how you feel, this conversation offers validation, practical insights, and encouragement. Remember: You're not imagining it. Hormones matter and understanding what's happening in your body is the first step toward feeling more confident and in control.   Connect with Sascha Vrolijk Website https://www.myproject-me.com/ Podcast Perimenopause Unfiltered     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when you're told you have type 2 diabetes… but your body keeps telling you something isn't right? In today's conversation, I'm joined by Linnea May Huxford, author of the book Success with LADA Diabetes, as we unpack one of the most misunderstood forms of diabetes: LADA (Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults). Linnea shares her personal story of being misdiagnosed with type 2 diabetes at 31 years old, despite having classic symptoms of autoimmune diabetes. We discuss the emotional toll of delayed diagnosis, the importance of proper testing, and why so many adults are still falling through the cracks. Inside this episode, we cover: What LADA diabetes actually is Why adults are often misdiagnosed as type 2 Important testing: antibody panels + C-peptide Why insulin is not something to fear CGMs, pumps, and learning to "sugar surf" Hormones, perimenopause, and insulin resistance Mental health and diabetes burnout The difference between managing diabetes and micromanaging it Why women especially experience more unpredictable blood sugars during hormone shifts The importance of community, advocacy, and self-trust This conversation is compassionate, educational, and deeply validating for anyone living with insulin-dependent diabetes—especially women navigating midlife hormone changes. Linnea also shares why she believes earlier diagnosis and awareness could dramatically change long-term outcomes for millions of people living with LADA worldwide. Connect with Linnea May Huxford: Her book: Success with LADA Diabetes: Achieving Optimal Health with Diet, Exercise, and Insulin YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LinneaMayHuxford Website: InsulinPumpLife.com   🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs hope and community today.   Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

For years, I thought I was failing at diabetes every single month. Same meals. Same insulin. Same workouts. Yet suddenly my blood sugars were higher, corrections stopped working, cravings intensified, and I felt exhausted trying to figure out what I was doing wrong. Then I learned the truth: Hormones change insulin sensitivity. In this episode of the Type 1 in Midlife Podcast, we're talking about why blood sugars often become more difficult to manage during the luteal phase — the 7–14 days before your period begins — and how progesterone can increase insulin resistance, impact fasting glucose, cravings, sleep, and stress response. Inside this conversation: • Why insulin suddenly feels "weaker" before your cycle • Common blood sugar patterns women experience before a period • Higher fasting numbers and stubborn post-meal highs • Cravings, sleep disruption, and lower HRV • How to track your cycle without becoming obsessive • Why understanding patterns reduces fear and self-blame   If you've ever felt like you have "two versions" of diabetes every month, this episode will help you feel seen, validated, and informed.   This conversation is also a sneak peek into my upcoming book, Highs, Lows & Hormones, releasing May 27, 2026 — created to help women better understand the connection between hormones, blood sugar, and life transitions from monthly cycles to menopause.   Resources + Next Steps My upcoming book, Highs, Lows & Hormones, goes deeper into this—helping you understand how your cycle, hormones, sleep, and insulin all work together so you can stop guessing and start responding with confidence. 👉 Order Your Book: Highs, Lows, & Hormones 👉 Connect with other women inside the Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle     Connect with Melissa Slemp:   Follow on: Instagram Tik Tok YouTube Linkedin   Check out Melissa's website   Purchase Melissa's book, Highs, Lows, & Hormones   Connect with other like-minded women in a supportive group coaching community: Type 1 In Midlife Coaching Circle   Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If your morning number has started creeping up—even though you haven't changed anything—you are not imagining it. This is one of the most common patterns I see in women with type 1 diabetes moving through their 40s and beyond. And it's not about doing more or trying harder. It's physiology. In this episode, I'm breaking down why fasting blood sugar is often the first place midlife hormone shifts show up—and what's actually happening overnight in your body. Because when you understand the "why," you can respond with clarity instead of frustration.   What You'll Learn: How declining estrogen impacts insulin sensitivity overnight Why cortisol rises earlier and stronger in midlife How the dawn phenomenon becomes more pronounced The role of progesterone shifts in blood sugar variability Why muscle loss affects overnight glucose regulation How sleep disruption directly raises fasting blood sugar   Why This Matters Morning blood sugar is often the first signal that something is shifting hormonally. And too often, women blame themselves. But this isn't failure, it's your body asking for a different approach.   What You Can Start Doing: Build and protect muscle with strength training Prioritize protein at dinner to support overnight stability Improve sleep quality to lower cortisol response Evaluate basal insulin needs (this often changes in midlife) Track patterns across your cycle or symptom shifts   A Personal Note After 40+ years of living with type 1 diabetes, I've seen how quickly things can change in this season. What used to work… stops working, and that can feel discouraging. But it's also where deeper understanding begins.   Resources + Next Steps My upcoming book, Highs, Lows & Hormones, goes deeper into this—helping you understand how your cycle, hormones, sleep, and insulin all work together so you can stop guessing and start responding with confidence. 👉 Join the waitlist + get my free Type 1 + Hormone Support Guide 👉 Connect with other women inside the Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle     What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when the routines that once worked for your Type 1 diabetes suddenly stop working? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Alyssa Chapman, who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at 34 and has now lived with it for nearly 17 years. Together, they talk about what it looks like to manage diabetes through midlife, especially when hormone shifts begin affecting blood sugar, energy, sleep, and overall wellbeing. Alyssa shares her experience of being diagnosed later in life, navigating the emotional side of diabetes, learning to recognize hormone-related blood sugar patterns, and discovering the value of tracking symptoms instead of only chasing numbers. This is also a conversation about something many women need more of: support. Alyssa hosts a monthly meetup through DiabetesSisters and shares why being around other women who truly understand can make such a difference.   In This Episode, We Talk About: What it was like being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 34 The classic symptoms Alyssa noticed before diagnosis Why adult diagnosis can sometimes be missed or misunderstood The fear of eating and dosing insulin in the early days How hormones started changing her blood sugar patterns in midlife What she noticed around her cycle and insulin sensitivity Tracking symptoms and discovering patterns with progesterone The emotional weight of fearing high blood sugars Letting go of perfection and micromanagement Using the Omnipod and Dexcom while learning to trust the system more The importance of finding providers who actually listen Why women need community support while navigating Type 1 in midlife Alyssa's role hosting a monthly DiabetesSisters support meetup Want deeper support? If you or someone you love is navigating life with diabetes, visit diabetessisters.org to become a member. It's free to join and free to use, and it's a great place to find community and support. Learn more about my Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle, where we meet weekly and focus on one area of health each month to support hormones, blood sugar, and long-term wellbeing.   Connect with Alyssa Chapman on IG @midlifet1d   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever looked at your CGM and felt confident… only to get your lab A1C back and feel completely thrown off? If your numbers don't match, you're not doing anything wrong. In this episode, we're breaking down the real reason your CGM estimate (GMI) and lab A1C can show different results—and why this disconnect can feel so frustrating, especially after years of doing your best to manage type 1 diabetes. Melissa shares her personal experience of seeing a 5.9 CGM estimate vs a 6.2 lab A1C and why that moment matters more than just the number. This conversation will help you stop second-guessing yourself and start understanding what your data is actually telling you.   In This Episode I cover: What A1C really measures (and what it doesn't) How CGMs track glucose differently (interstitial vs blood) Why CGM estimates (GMI) are not exact The role of standard deviation and glucose variability Why your A1C can look "good" while your daily swings tell another story How anemia, iron levels, and hormones can impact A1C results Sensor accuracy, lag time, and calibration factors Why midlife hormones make this even more confusing Mentioned in This Episode: Episode 153: What Labs to Ask for When You're Told "Everything Is Normal" Free Guide: Hormone Therapy + Type 1 Diabetes Upcoming Book: Highs, Lows & Hormones   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What does life actually feel like 3 months after an islet cell transplant for Type 1 diabetes? In this episode, I'm joined by Katie Beth Hand for an honest and hope-filled update on what life has looked like since receiving her islet cell transplant as part of a clinical trial for Type 1 diabetes. Katie Beth was diagnosed with Type 1 in 2013 and is now 3 months post-transplant, sharing what this experience has been like physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. We talk about what it's like to be off insulin, how her daily decisions around food and exercise have changed, and why one of the biggest gifts has been freedom from the constant fear of lows. We also talk about: what made her say yes to this clinical trial how the transplant process worked what the medication Tegoprubart (Tego) is doing to help protect the islet cells what life looks like now without basal insulin or mealtime insulin how food, movement, and blood sugar feel different now what she's noticed around monthly cycles, hormones, and insulin resistance why the Islet Act matters for the future of Type 1 diabetes research and why this moment feels so hopeful for the T1D community This conversation is such a meaningful reminder that while many women are still carrying the daily burden of Type 1 diabetes, there is real progress happening — and real reason to stay hopeful. If you've been watching Katie Beth's story unfold online, or if you're simply curious what a functional cure might actually look like in real life, this episode is one you'll want to hear.   In This Episode 00:00 Meet Katie Beth Hand 03:00 Why she said yes to the clinical trial 07:00 What makes this transplant medication different 13:00 Coming off basal insulin 17:00 The biggest life-changing shift: fewer lows 21:00 Food freedom and fewer diabetes decisions 28:00 Hormones, cycles, and insulin resistance 35:00 FDA updates and hope for faster progress 39:00 The Islet Act explained 45:00 What treatment looks like 3 months post-transplant 49:00 Faith, diagnosis, and purpose 54:00 Encouragement for women living with Type 1 today   Connect with Katie Beth Hand Follow Katie Beth and her journey: Instagram: @calamitykatiebeth TikTok: @calamitykatiebeth Facebook: Katie Beth Hand To advocate for the ISLET Act (2026), which classifies donor islets as organs to increase transplantation access for Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), act by contacting your US representatives, signing petitions on platforms like Change.org   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever looked at your HRV score and thought… what does this even mean? If you wear an Oura Ring, Apple Watch, sleep tracker, or use any device that gives you heart rate variability data, this episode is for you. In today's solo episode, I'm breaking down HRV (heart rate variability) in plain English — especially for women navigating midlife hormones and type 1 diabetes. Because if your blood sugar has been feeling more stubborn lately… if your fasting numbers are creeping up… if your sleep is off… or if you feel tired, wired, and more on edge than usual… Low HRV may be one clue your body is carrying more stress than you realize. And I'm not just talking about emotional stress. I'm talking about the kind of physiological stress that can come from: shifting estrogen and progesterone poor sleep blood sugar swings insulin resistance the mental load of living with diabetes In this episode, I will explain: what HRV actually is (without the confusing tech language) why it often drops in perimenopause and menopause How low HRV can impact cortisol, insulin sensitivity, and fasting glucose what it can feel like in real life and 5 simple ways to support your nervous system and improve recovery This is such an important conversation because so many women are trying to "fix" blood sugar without realizing their stress physiology and hormone shifts are part of the picture too. Your body is not broken. It may just be asking for more support. In This Episode, We Cover: What HRV means and why higher is usually better The difference between heart rate and heart rate variability Why low HRV can signal your body is stuck in stress mode How cortisol affects insulin resistance Why HRV often drops after 40 The 3 layered stressors midlife women with T1D are often carrying: hormonal fluctuations blood sugar variability chronic nervous system strain Real-life signs your body may be under too much pressure My own experience noticing subtle stress patterns and how they affected my overnight blood sugar 5 simple ways to naturally support HRV If This Episode Helped: Please share it with another woman living with type 1 diabetes who may be feeling overwhelmed, overstimulated, or frustrated with stubborn blood sugar. And if you haven't yet, make sure you follow the show, so you don't miss future episodes on hormones, blood sugar, sleep, stress, and aging well with type 1 diabetes.   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever left a doctor's appointment feeling frustrated because your labs were called "normal" … even though you know something still feels off? In this episode, I'm joined by Kelly Schmidt, a registered dietitian, strength coach, and woman living with Type 1 diabetes, for an honest conversation about what to do when your symptoms are being overlooked. Kelly specializes in helping women with T1D manage blood sugar beyond just carbs and insulin. She blends real-life experience with functional nutrition, muscle-building strategy, and hormone education to help women feel stronger, steadier, and more in control—especially after 35. Together, we talk about why "normal" lab work doesn't always mean optimal, what labs may be missing from your routine care, and how to advocate for yourself when your body is clearly telling you something has changed. If you've been dealing with: stubborn blood sugars rising insulin needs fatigue poor sleep weight gain thyroid symptoms hormone shifts or just the feeling that something is "off" …this episode will help you ask better questions and take your next step with more clarity. In this episode, we talk about: Why women with Type 1 are often told "everything looks fine" The difference between standard lab ranges and optimal health markers Why symptoms matter just as much as lab values Labs Kelly often recommends women ask about The importance of tracking symptoms before your appointment How insulin needs, thyroid symptoms, inflammation, and hormone shifts can overlap Why you need both blood sugar data and insulin data What to do if your doctor dismisses your concerns How to advocate for care that actually fits this stage of life Mentioned in this episode: Full thyroid panel Vitamin D3 Iron + ferritin CBC Cholesterol panel hs-CRP B12 Folate Magnesium ApoB + Lp(a)   A previous EP 99 we referenced: Statins or Not? Understanding Your Cholesterol with Kelly Schmidt, RDN Loved this episode? If this conversation helped you feel seen, send it to a friend and share it on Instagram. And if you haven't yet, make sure you're on the list for my upcoming book, Highs, Lows & Hormones—because these are exactly the conversations women with Type 1 diabetes have needed for far too long.   Connect with Kelly Schmidt: Website IG @diabeticdietitian YouTube   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Muscle Is Medicine Why Strength Training Improves Blood Sugar with Type 1 Diabetes Have you ever noticed that what worked for your body in your 30s doesn't seem to work the same way anymore? Many women with type 1 diabetes begin to notice shifts in their 40s and 50s: Blood sugars become harder to manage Energy drops Body composition changes Workouts that once worked no longer deliver the same results One of the biggest reasons is something many women overlook: muscle. In this episode, I share why building and maintaining muscle is one of the most powerful tools we have for blood sugar stability, metabolism, and aging well with type 1 diabetes. Muscle acts like a glucose reservoir, helping improve insulin sensitivity and stabilize blood sugar patterns over time. And the good news? It's never too late to start building strength. I also share some of my own experience in the gym and how shifting my focus from cardio to strength training has supported my metabolism, recovery, and glucose management.   In This Episode You'll Learn • Why muscle is one of the biggest drivers of insulin sensitivity • How strength training supports blood sugar stability • Why metabolism shifts after age 40 • The role hormones play in muscle loss • Why cardio alone isn't enough in midlife • Simple ways to begin protecting muscle today   Simple Muscle-Supporting Habits ✔ Strength train 2–3 times per week ✔ Focus on progressive strength over time ✔ Prioritize adequate protein intake ✔ Allow active recovery days ✔ Keep daily movement like walking in your routine Small, consistent steps build strength over time. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a woman who's navigating this season—you never know who needs to hear it.   Sneak Peek of My Upcoming Book In my upcoming book Highs, Lows & Hormones, I dedicate an entire section to: • Muscle and metabolism • Hormone shifts in midlife • Insulin sensitivity patterns • Strength and movement strategies for women with diabetes This is one of the most important topics for women navigating type 1 diabetes through perimenopause and menopause.   Join the Advance Review Team Want early access to the book before it launches? Members of the Advance Review Team receive: • A free digital advance copy • Early access to resources from the book • A discounted pre-release print copy In exchange, you leave an honest review on launch week. Click here to join the advanced reader team: https://abundant-health-with-melissa.kit.com/advancedreaderteam   👉 Want deeper support? Learn more about my Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle, where we meet weekly and focus on one area of health each month to support hormones, blood sugar, and long-term wellbeing. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2026     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

I'm joined by Cassandra Donahue, registered dietitian, Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, and Certified Specialist in Weight and Obesity Management. Cassandra was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at just 21 months old and went on an insulin pump at age five. Today, she works in endocrinology and obesity clinical research at UNC, supports vIOP programming with The Emily Program, and provides coverage for the SOVAH hospital system. We talk about: Cassandra's diagnosis story and how she unexpectedly found her career in diabetes care The emotional toll of living with diabetes long-term Why A1C and time-in-range don't tell the whole story Diabetes burn out and how to recognize it Stigma in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes Why mental health must be integrated into diabetes care A preview of the upcoming Diabetes and Mental Health Conference This fully virtual conference takes place May 1–2 and is designed for: People living with diabetes (type 1 and type 2) Caregivers and partners Healthcare professionals seeking continuing education The event includes keynote speakers, breakout sessions, panels on longevity, discussions on intimacy, stigma, perfectionism, burnout, and the emotional impact of diabetes data. Learn more and register for Diabetes and Mental Health Conference on May 1 and 2nd 2026 https://dmhconference.com/#2026-conference If you've ever felt overwhelmed, isolated, or silently exhausted from managing diabetes — this episode (and this conference) is for you.   🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs hope and community today.   Connect with Cassandra Donahue on IG @cassiedonahue Diabetes and Mental Health Conference, Founder Allison Nimlos @thediabetictherapist   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Today's episode is a special one — I'm officially announcing my upcoming book: Highs, Lows & Hormones: A Survival Guide for Women with Diabetes — From Monthly Cycles to Menopause. This book was born from years of lived experience, coaching women through midlife, and realizing there simply wasn't one comprehensive resource that connects the dots between: Monthly cycles and insulin sensitivity Perimenopause chaos and blood sugar swings Sleep, weight gain, gut health, and inflammation Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and safety What labs to run and what questions to ask your doctor And I'm not doing this alone. Joining me in this project are two incredible contributors: Dr. Vanessa Soviero Board-certified OB/GYN, Menopause Certified Practitioner, Director of the Center for Menopause & Midlife Health at Northwell Health, and a woman living with type 1 diabetes herself.  Site Medical Director OB/GYN of Islandia Katz Institute of Women's Health MSCP (Menopause Society Certified Practitioner) Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra Clinical Associate Professor Dr. Soviero brings medical depth to perimenopause, menopause, hormone therapy, cardiovascular risk, and long-term health considerations for women with insulin-dependent diabetes. Kelly Schmidt Registered Dietitian, founder of T1D Functional Nutrition, strength coach, and woman living with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years. Kelly dives into: Insulin sensitivity strategies Gut health & hormone balance Thyroid optimization Inflammation markers Supplements like magnesium, creatine, vitamin D, and more   What You'll Learn in This Episode Why perimenopause feels like "reverse puberty" for blood sugar Why does checking hormones once tell the full story How declining estrogen impacts insulin resistance The truth about HRT safety for women with type 1 diabetes Why tracking symptoms empowers better conversations Why menopause is not the end, it's a recalibration We also share our own personal hormone journeys — what surprised us, what we wish we knew earlier, and what we're doing now.   Who This Book Is For Women newly diagnosed in midlife Women who have lived with type 1 diabetes for decades Women with LADA or insulin-dependent diabetes Any woman navigating monthly cycles, perimenopause, or menopause This book is your roadmap. Not just information — strategy.   Join the Advanced Reader Team The book is expected to be released soon, and we will have an Advanced Reader Team. If you want early access, sneak peeks, and the opportunity to leave a review — stay tuned and check the links in the show notes. Click here to join the advanced reader team: https://abundant-health-with-melissa.kit.com/advancedreaderteam   Connect with Kelly Schmidt Website IG @diabeticdietitian   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. Watch on YouTube    What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Living with type 1 diabetes means living with autoimmunity. And if you've ever wondered why did this happen? — you're not alone. In today's conversation, I'm joined by board-certified health and wellness coach, pharmacist, and host of Autoimmune Health Secrets, Amy Behimer. Amy lives with multiple autoimmune diagnoses herself, including MS and thyroid disease, and she brings both clinical insight and lived experience into this conversation. We talk about: What an autoimmune disease is (in simple terms) Why autoimmune diagnoses are increasing The difference between disease and "autoimmune health" Why willpower fails (and what the brain is wired to do instead) The 6 lifestyle spokes that influence autoimmune health How to rebuild trust with your body What to do when hormones shift and habits stop working How to stop blaming yourself when consistency feels impossible Why tiny habits create big ripple effects (including blood sugar stability) If you're managing type 1 diabetes in midlife, navigating hormone shifts, or feeling burned out on "trying again," this episode will help you shift from control to influence, from frustration to curiosity, and from disease to health. Because better is possible — even if perfect isn't.   🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.   Connect with Amy: Podcast: Autoimmune Health Secrets IG @amybehimercoaching Website  Free Habit Hub Quiz   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If you've started progesterone and suddenly your blood sugars feel harder to manage—especially overnight, during stress, or in the luteal phase—this episode is for you. In this solo conversation, Melissa unpacks a nuance that doesn't get talked about enough: progesterone can be incredibly supportive for many women with type 1 diabetes… and for others, it can quietly increase insulin resistance. You'll learn: Why progesterone is often the first hormone to decline in perimenopause How progesterone affects sleep, cortisol, and insulin sensitivity What "progesterone intolerance" can look like in real life Why form, dose, and delivery method matter more than most women are told A powerful client story showing how switching progesterone delivery changed everything This episode is a reminder that harder blood sugars aren't a personal failure—and that symptoms are meaningful data, especially in midlife. Melissa also shares practical questions to bring to your hormone provider, how to track patterns without panic, and why advocating for individualized care is essential when you're living with type 1 diabetes. You're not doing this wrong. Your body is communicating—and you deserve care that listens. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a woman who's navigating this season—you never know who needs to hear it. 👉 Want deeper support? Learn more about my Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle, where we meet weekly and focus on one area of health each month to support hormones, blood sugar, and long-term wellbeing. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2026   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode.   What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. *Visit diabetessisters.org to join. It's free, easy to use, and a great place to find community and support.     Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Living with chronic illness is exhausting enough. Add denied claims, surprise bills, $500 copays, and confusing insurance rules—and suddenly managing your health becomes a full-time financial battle. In this episode, I sat down with Sally Figueroa, a mom of four, chronic illness advocate, and founder of Health Savings Expert. Sally lives with Type 1 diabetes (diagnosed at age 12) and Rheumatoid arthritis, Raynaud's disease, chronic sinusitis, and the long-term impact of multiple surgeries She's also supported loved ones through endometriosis, Lyme disease, and amplified musculoskeletal pain syndrome (AMPS). For over two decades, she's been navigating the healthcare system—not just for herself, but for others. And what she discovered? Many of the ways to lower medical costs already exist. They just aren't widely shared. In this conversation, we talk about: Manufacturer copay programs that can reduce prescriptions to $0 Prescription discount cards like GoodRx and how to use them strategically Why insurance doesn't always mean affordable What to do when your medication is denied Organizations that advocate for patients behind the scenes The emotional weight of chronic illness + financial stress Why community storytelling can save families thousands Sally created Health Savings Expert as a hub where patients share real-life savings stories—so no one must figure this out alone. Because while we wait for policy reform or future breakthroughs, we still must manage today. 💻 Visit Sally's website: HealthSavingsExpert.com Explore the resource hub, read savings stories, and consider sharing one of your own. Saving $20 on supplies matters when you're living with a condition that never takes a day off. You can also find Sally on: Website: HealthSavingsExpert.com Instagram @Sallyfigfry YouTube @Health Savings Expert    Every shared story creates a ripple effect. Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Sometimes women aren't ready for hormone replacement therapy. Sometimes access is limited. And sometimes you simply want to strengthen your foundation first. In this episode, I'm sharing three supportive, non-hormonal ways to boost insulin sensitivity during perimenopause and beyond — especially when progesterone and estrogen are fluctuating and your blood sugars feel harder to predict. If your luteal phase feels stickier… If fasting glucose is creeping up… If workouts spike you more than they used to… This conversation is for you. I cover: • How Vitex (chasteberry) may support progesterone signaling and improve luteal-phase insulin resistance • Why improving HRV (heart rate variability) and activating the vagus nerve can lower stress hormones and support fasting glucose • The powerful combo of strength training followed by steady-state cardio to improve muscle glucose uptake and reduce post-workout spikes These are practical tools you can begin implementing right away — always in partnership with your healthcare provider. Remember: These strategies are not replacements for medical care. They are foundational habits that support steadier blood sugars — whether you pursue hormone therapy now, later, or not at all. You don't have to figure this out alone.   Mentioned in this episode: I'm proud to spotlight Diabetes Sisters, a nonprofit offering education, peer support, and community for women living with diabetes. Visit diabetessisters.org to join—it's free and a wonderful resource. 👉 Want deeper support? Learn more about my Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle, where we meet weekly and focus on one area of health each month to support hormones, blood sugar, and long-term wellbeing. If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a woman who's navigating this season—you never know who needs to hear it.   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover. Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.  

Are there natural or non-hormonal options for managing perimenopause and menopause symptoms—especially if you're living with type 1 diabetes? This is one of the most common questions I hear from women, and in this solo episode, I'm breaking it down with honesty and realistic expectations. We'll talk about what non-hormonal options can support, where they fall short, and why the goal isn't perfection—but steadiness. I share my own experience navigating perimenopause, plus what I've seen work (and not work) with the women I coach. In this episode, we cover: When non-hormonal options may make sense Prescription options that don't include estrogen or progesterone Why sleep, stress regulation, strength training, and nutrition matter no matter what Herbs and supplements like magnesium, omega-3s, Vitex, black cohosh, and maca—who they may help and who should be cautious Why "natural" doesn't always mean safe or predictable How your hormonal stage changes what works I also share why I believe lifestyle support is the foundation—whether you eventually choose hormone therapy, non-hormonal options, or a mix of both. As always, this episode is educational and based on lived experience. Take what you learn here back to your healthcare provider and decide what's right for your body.   🎧 Mentioned in this episode: I'm proud to spotlight Diabetes Sisters, a nonprofit offering education, peer support, and community for women living with diabetes. Visit diabetessisters.org to join—it's free and a wonderful resource. 👉 Want deeper support? Learn more about my Type 1 in Midlife Coaching Circle, where we meet weekly and focus on one area of health each month to support hormones, blood sugar, and long-term wellbeing. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2026   If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a woman who's navigating this season—you never know who needs to hear it.     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when you outgrow pediatric diabetes care—but never outgrow type 1 diabetes? In this episode, I'm joined by Kelly Dawes, founder and executive director of Grownup T1Ds, the first nonprofit created specifically to support adults living and aging with type 1 diabetes, including adult-onset diagnosis. Diagnosed in 1981, Kelly brings more than four decades of lived experience alongside her certification through the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists (ADCES). We talk about why adulthood can be the most isolating phase of type 1, what's missing for midlife and older adults, and how in-person, peer-to-peer connection can be life-changing. You'll hear why diabetes support shouldn't end after childhood, how Grownup T1Ds is filling a long-ignored gap, and why visibility, validation, and community matter more than ever as we age with this condition. If you've ever felt like you don't quite fit into the diabetes world anymore, this conversation is for you.   🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs hope and community today.   Connect with Kelly Dawes on IG @kellyuselesspancreas @grownupt1ds   Visit Grown Up T1D's https://grownupt1ds.org/   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What happens when long-term type 1 diabetes collides with midlife change, vision loss, motherhood, and a major life transition? In this deeply honest and encouraging episode, I sit down with Mary Ann Chamberlain, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 36 years. Diagnosed at age seven, Mary Ann shares her journey through diabetic retinopathy, low vision, parenting, perimenopause, and what it really looks like to rebuild your life—without giving up on yourself. Now in her 40s, Mary Ann opens up about: Growing up with type 1 diabetes before tech, CGMs, or online support Navigating low vision while continuing to manage diabetes daily Becoming a mom while learning to ask for help (and receive it) Moving to a brand-new city and rebuilding community with confidence Midlife hormone changes, insulin resistance, and advocating for care Why thriving with T1D doesn't mean perfect numbers—it means grace   This conversation is full of wisdom, humor, and the kind of reassurance only lived experience can offer. If you're navigating change, burnout, complications, or midlife shifts with type 1 diabetes—this episode will remind you that you are not broken, and you are not alone. 🎧 Share this episode with someone who needs hope today.   Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025   Connect with Mary Ann Chamberlain: IG @owningt1dwithma   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

What does it really look like to live fully with type 1 diabetes—through careers, marriage, athletics, sleepless nights, and decades of daily management? In this episode, I sat down with my husband, David, who has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 40 years. From his diagnosis in his early 20s to a 30-year career in fire rescue, competitive athletics, and life on the water, this conversation is a real-life reminder that a chronic condition does not get the final say. We talk about: Being diagnosed with type 1 as a young adult Managing diabetes in high-stress, high-risk careers Marriage when both partners live with type 1 Nighttime alarms, CGMs, pumps, and MDI decisions Athletics, adrenaline, cortisol, and blood sugar swings What's changed—and what hasn't—after 40+ years with diabetes Faith, mindset, and why we still believe anything is possible   This is an honest, hope-filled conversation for anyone living with type 1 diabetes—or loving someone who does.   Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025   Connect with David Slemp on IG, see his talents on the water @firstcoast_efoiling   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If your insulin pump suddenly feels harder to manage, morning spikes, overnight drops, or blood sugars that don't follow the rules, you're not failing at diabetes. In this episode, we dive into basal insulin challenges for women using insulin pumps during perimenopause. Hormone shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol can dramatically change insulin sensitivity, even when your pump technology hasn't changed. You'll learn: Why pump settings that worked for years may suddenly feel "off" How perimenopause affects basal insulin needs hour by hour When manual mode can be more helpful than automated mode How to use temporary basals to stay ahead of hormone-driven highs and lows What to know if you're starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) This episode is about understanding your body, using your pump as a tool—not a source of frustration—and gaining confidence to advocate for better care. 🎧 Part 2 of the basal insulin series. If you're on daily injections, listen to Episode 140.   Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If your basal insulin suddenly feels wrong, morning highs, overnight lows, or afternoons that make no sense, you're not imagining it, and you're not failing at diabetes. In this solo episode of the Type 1 in Midlife, I'm breaking down why basal insulin becomes a moving target during perimenopause, especially for women on multiple daily injections (MDI). We'll talk about how fluctuating estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol change insulin sensitivity hour by hour—and what you can do about it. I share real client examples, explain why basal timing matters more than ever, and walk through options like split dosing, midday basal, and choosing the right long-acting insulin for this stage of life. You'll also hear how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can influence insulin needs, why "low and slow" matters, and how tracking patterns, not single days—can help you feel steadier again. 🎧 This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 2 in Episode 141 focuses on basal settings for pump users.   Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2026     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this episode, I'm pressing pause and taking a deep breath. As we step into a new year, I'm reflecting on what 2025 revealed—about hormones, insulin needs, burnout, faith, and what women ith diabetes truly need more of. This year was full of honest conversations about perimenopause, menopause, sleep, cortisol, insulin resistance, and learning to trust your body again. I'm also sharing what's ahead for 2026: shorter, clearer episodes… more practical "what do I do now?" guidance… and the book I wish I had decades ago. Inside this episode, we cover: Why blood sugars can suddenly feel unpredictable in midlife How hormones quietly change insulin needs What women told me they need more of (and less of) Why validation must come before education The role faith has played in staying grounded through it all What's changing on the podcast in 2026 A sneak peek at my upcoming book Highs, Lows & Hormones If you've ever thought, "Why did no one tell me this sooner?" — this episode is for you. You're not behind. You're not failing. And you don't need to do more — you need better timing, better information, and support that understands both hormones and diabetes. ✨ Thank you for being part of this community. We're just getting started.   Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. 14-day free trial below. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.  

In this powerful episode, Melissa sits down with Aisha Coons, medical copywriter, researcher, and creator behind Heed Her Health and Her Homeostasis. Diagnosed with both Type 1 diabetes and hypothyroidism at age four, Aisha shares her lifelong journey of learning to balance multiple autoimmune conditions while navigating the hormonal shifts of womanhood.   Together, Melissa and Aisha explore: How early diagnosis shaped Aisha's independence and mindset The connection between thyroid function, insulin needs, and menstrual cycle patterns Why some diabetes technologies can help or hinder weight and glucose balance The challenges in current research on women's cycles and glucose variability How women with Type 1 can advocate for better care, better research, and better understanding Aisha also offers a behind-the-scenes look at her work in medical writing and her mission to bring more female-focused conversation into diabetes care.   Follow Aisha Coons IG @aisha9356 My website: heedherhealth.com My YouTube channel: Her Homeostasis    Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.      

This week, Melissa gets real about the three lessons that shaped her health, her training, and her mindset in 2025 — and how you can carry these into 2026 with less pressure and more clarity. If you've been feeling stretched thin, sprinting through December, pushing your workouts harder than your body seems to tolerate… this one is going to speak right to you. Inside, she walks through: Why she shifted from HIIT to strength + restorative work How cortisol and midlife physiology change the rules Why doing less actually improve her blood sugar, sleep, mood, and strength How to build a simple, realistic rhythm for movement in midlife The small shifts that will matter more in 2026 than any big resolution You'll also hear reflections on faith, gratitude, and how Jesus has grounded her through the whirlwind of the holidays — and the encouragement to pause and set intentions that support your whole self: mind, body, and spirit. Plus: a reminder that tools like weighted vests are optional (Melissa still hasn't bought one!) and why your recovery matters more than your hustle. Join the Type 1 in Midlife Circle for weekly support, hormone clarity, gentle accountability, and a place to stop guessing about your midlife health. 14-day free trial below. https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025

https://tamistackelhouse.com/fibromyalgia-podcast/ If you've ever wondered why your fatigue, pain, or brain fog feels bigger than it should — this episode is for you. Melissa sits down with Tami Stackelhouse, award-winning author, founder of the International Fibromyalgia Coaching Institute, host of the Fibromyalgia Podcast®, and executive producer of the feature documentary INVISIBLE. Tami shares her journey from diagnosis to remission and the holistic framework she teaches women to reclaim their lives from chronic pain. Together, they unpack: What fibromyalgia really is (and why it's so often misunderstood). Why it overlaps with autoimmune and hormonal conditions like Type 1 diabetes and perimenopause. The role of hormones, thyroid, and adrenal health in managing pain and fatigue. The "Book of You" method — Tami's personal system for tracking symptoms and breakthroughs. How listening to your body with compassion (instead of judgment) can change your healing journey. You'll walk away to understand why tracking your symptoms matters, how small daily choices add up to big changes, and why self-compassion might be your most powerful medicine.   Follow Tami Stackelhouse IG - @fibrocoach Website: https://tamistackelhouse.com/ Podcast:  Fibromyalgia Podcast   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If you're questioning whether you're asking too much or too little from your doctor, you're not alone. Get the support and clarity you deserve inside the Type 1 In Midlife Community  Join us in the circle for a 14-day free trial https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025 In this solo episode, I'm taking you inside my most recent endocrinology appointment—the good, the frustrating, and the moments that reminded me why self-advocacy matters so much for women with type 1 diabetes in midlife. I share how my A1C dropped after switching to manual mode on the Omnipod 5, why I pushed for a full thyroid panel, the weight gain that didn't make sense, and the classic "you're in menopause… it's normal" remark that lit a fire in me to dig deeper. I talk through how I track symptoms before appointments, what labs I insist on, what truly drives inflammation in this season of life, and how to collaborate with your doctor even when they don't always understand your hormonal reality. This one is honest, empowering, and filled with the reminders we all need: we know our bodies, our data matters, and our care should reflect the full picture—not just numbers on a screen. Don't brush off what's changing. Pay attention, act, and surround yourself with women who understand both diabetes and midlife hormones. Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Have you ever wondered how your dental health connects to your hormones, your immune system, or even your blood sugar? My guest today, Dr. Toni Engram, is here to pull back the curtain on the powerful — and often overlooked — mouth-body connection. Dr. Engram is a biological dentist, integrative health coach, and owner of Flourish Dental Boutique in Richardson, TX. After walking through her own journey with autoimmune disease, she realized traditional dentistry often misses the deeper story of what's happening in the body. In this conversation, we dive into: How oral inflammation and toxins can impact hormones, gut health, and blood sugar. What it means to choose a biological dentist — and what "SMART Certified" and "IAOMT-accredited" really mean. Safer options for amalgam removal, root canals, and cavity prevention. How breathing patterns, jaw tension, and sleep affect stress and glucose levels. And simple steps you can take to support your oral health naturally — especially during perimenopause and beyond. If you've ever had metal fillings, dental anxiety, or autoimmune flares you can't quite explain — this episode will connect some dots you didn't even know were there. Listen now to learn how your mouth can become a mirror for your whole-body health.   Connect with Dr. Toni Engram Flourish Dental website IG @drtoniengram TikTok Twitter YouTube LinkedIn   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Diagnosed at age 12, Kaycee Parker has lived with type 1 diabetes for over 30 years—and she's turned her experience into encouragement for others. A writer with a storyteller's heart (she jokes it's her Irish heritage), Kaycee blends her love of faith and food into a message of hope, balance, and grace. In this heartfelt episode, Kaycee joins Melissa Slemp to share: The story behind her new cookbook, Diabetic Meals Made Easy Why it's not a "low-carb only" cookbook, but a blood sugar–friendly one for everyone How to pair foods for steadier numbers—and less stress at mealtime The biblical principle that inspired her approach to food and stewardship Her new Ultimate Blood Sugar Logbook and how tracking can help you find your patterns with peace, not perfection Kaycee reminds us that food isn't something to fear—it's a daily opportunity to honor God, nourish our bodies, and enjoy life. 📖 Get Kaycee's Books: Devotions on Diabetes Diabetic Meals Made Easy Connect with Kaycee Parker: Follow Kaycee: @devotionsondiabetes on IG and Facebook ·       Visit her website http://devotionsondiabetes.com/     Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.        

Today's guest is Dr. Matt Rieder, a Doctor of Physical Therapy and owner of Renew Strength and Wellness. Matt jokes that he "gets hurt a lot", on the amateur level, but turned that experience into a career helping others put themselves back together. A lifelong athlete and exercise enthusiast, he believes the human body can stay strong, flexible, pain-free, and ready for anything, no matter your age. When he's not working with clients, you'll find him climbing, running, weightlifting, scuba diving for giant fossilized shark teeth, hiking, camping, or writing. During his Army days, he was stationed on Oahu, Hawaii, where he loved surfing the North Shore. Matt's passion is teaching people to heal themselves through movement and helping them rediscover confidence in what their bodies can do. Topics We Cover What "frozen shoulder" really means (and what's actually happening inside your shoulder) Why middle-aged women—especially those with Type 1 diabetes—are more susceptible The role of estrogen in inflammation and tissue healing Posture, mobility, and how our modern lifestyles set us up for shoulder pain How to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system (and what good physical therapy should look like) The three phases of frozen shoulder: inflammatory, frozen, and thawing Why "resting" doesn't equal recovery The mindset needed to heal and stay strong Key Takeaway Frozen shoulder is not a life sentence, it's a signal. With the right help, movement, and mindset, you can recover fully and return to doing what you love.   Connect with Matt Rieder Website: http://www.renewstrengthandwellness.com/ Instagram: @renewstaug   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Ever wake up to a CGM alarm at 2 a.m. and wonder why you're high (or low) even after doing everything "right"? In this solo episode, Melissa breaks down how perimenopause, pump settings, and shifting hormones can turn sleep into a nightly puzzle—and what to do about it. You'll learn: Why melatonin, estrogen, and cortisol can all mess with your sleep How nighttime insulin settings and the dawn phenomenon play a role Real-life lessons from Melissa's switch to Omnipod 5 manual mode Simple, science-backed ways to improve sleep quality tonight   Whether you're waking up high, sweating through the night, or just tired of feeling tired, this episode helps you reconnect the dots between hormones, blood sugar, and deep rest. In our Type 1 in Midlife Circle, we're using the Greene Climacteric Scale to measure and track symptoms together — so no woman must navigate this season alone. Don't brush off what's changing. Pay attention, act, and surround yourself with women who understand both diabetes and midlife hormones. Join us in the circle for a 14-day free trial https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025 to start using this tool for yourself.   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Menopause isn't the end—it's a new beginning, especially when we learn how to influence the way we age. In this episode, Melissa sits down with Zora Benhamou. Zora is a gerontologist, biohacker, and host of the Hack My Age podcast, where she helps women break menopause stigma and ageist stereotypes. At 55, she's a digital nomad and passionate educator who inspires women in peri- and post-menopause to thrive with practical tools, bio hacks, and expert insights. She's the creator of HackMyAge.com, author of The Longevity Master Plan and Eating for Longevity, and founder of the Biohacking Menopause community. With a Master's degree in Gerontology from USC and additional training in menopause, sports nutrition, and breathing techniques, Zora brings a holistic, science-backed approach to women's health and aging well.   Zora shares why menopause should be seen as a time of opportunity, not decline, and how women with type 1 diabetes can harness biohacking tools, lifestyle choices, and hormone support to age stronger. What you'll learn in this episode: Why aging is inevitable, but suffering is optional How chronic inflammation accelerates aging (and what to do about it) The truth about hormone replacement therapy and informed choice Why stress can be as harmful as poor diet or lack of exercise How continuous glucose monitors reveal hidden insights—even for non-diabetics Practical hacks like timing food, movement, and sleep to support your future health This is an empowering conversation that will change how you think about aging, hormones, and diabetes.   Connect with Zora Benhamou: Website hackmyage.com IG @hackmyage   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

If your blood sugars rise the moment stress hits—or you notice your mornings start high for no clear reason—this episode will help you understand why. Dr. Dawn Browning joins me to explore how the nervous system, hormones, and daily stress patterns shape blood sugar balance. Dawn is a research scientist, certified yoga therapist, and Pranayama teacher who has lived with Type 1 diabetes for nearly four decades. She helps women in midlife understand how the nervous system shapes everything from blood sugar to mood to energy—and teaches practical ways to regain steadiness through breath, awareness, and daily rhythm. Dawn often says that Type 1 diabetes has been her greatest teacher, guiding her toward a more mindful, compassionate way of living. We dive into the science behind cortisol, insulin sensitivity, and the power of slowing down—through awareness, breath, and rhythm—to bring steadiness to your day. Whether you live with Type 1 diabetes or experience midlife hormone shifts, you'll walk away with simple, science-backed tools to regulate your energy, mood, and glucose levels—starting with your next breath. In this episode, we cover: The stress–cortisol–glucose connection explained simply How hormonal changes amplify stress responses in midlife What "pranayama" really means and why it's different from breathwork How slow, conscious breathing activates your parasympathetic nervous system Practical rituals to create steadiness through daily rhythm Why perfection and "control" don't serve us—and what to aim for instead   Connect with Dawn Browning  On IG @holsolwellness https://www.holsolwellness.com/ Access her free 4-minute guided breath practice https://www.holsolwellness.com/abundanthealth   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

In this episode, Melissa is joined by Cecily Lopez—a wellness advocate, visual storyteller, and founder of Trinity Grace Photography—who shares her powerful journey of navigating life with type 1 diabetes and thyroid cancer. Cecily opens up about how these diagnoses deepened her self-awareness and taught her to trust her body's signals. Together, Melissa and Cecily explore what it means to be an active participant in your healthcare, the importance of honoring rest, and how cycle syncing can be used as a tool for women living with type 1 diabetes. Cecily reminds us that resilience often begins with listening, listening to our bodies, our intuition, and to the quiet cues that help us better understand our health. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, or navigating perimenopause and beyond, this conversation will inspire you to approach your body with curiosity, compassion, and respect. Topics covered Cecily's late-in-life type 1 diabetes diagnosis and the surprising way it was discovered How thyroid cancer reshaped her health journey and deepened her body awareness Why being an active patient is essential—and how to advocate for the healthcare you deserve The power of community and connection when living with chronic illness An introduction to cycle syncing—how aligning food, exercise, and rest with your cycle can reduce stress and improve blood sugar balance How to work with your body instead of against it through life's transitions Why rest is not weakness but a vital part of resilience and healing   Connect with Cecily Lopez On IG @gratitudegraceandglucose   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Hormone shifts don't always scream — they whisper. If you're living with type 1 diabetes, even subtle changes can throw everything off. In this episode, Melissa dives into why paying attention matters and how to use tools like the Greene Climacteric Scale to get clarity and confidence in midlife. Melissa shares: Why you shouldn't dismiss feeling "off" as just aging A client story of regaining focus, balance, and energy after starting HRT The subtle symptoms that whisper: anxiety, irritability, brain fog, weight gain, slower recovery, and aches and pains Self-check questions to ask: Am I sleeping deeply? Has my focus shifted? Do I feel like myself most days? How the Greene Climacteric Scale helps track patterns, validate your experiences, and start better conversations with your doctor In our Type 1 in Midlife Circle, we're using the Greene Climacteric Scale to measure and track symptoms together — so no woman must navigate this season alone. Don't brush off what's changing. Pay attention, act, and surround yourself with women who understand both diabetes and midlife hormones. Join us in the Circle https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025 to start using this tool for yourself.   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Menopause is about more than hot flashes—it also affects vaginal and urinary health. In this episode, Melissa Slemp and Kim Hines get candid about their decision to start vaginal estrogen, even without obvious symptoms, and how it can support long-term wellness. They dive into genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), share the benefits of vaginal estrogen, and highlight proactive steps women can take to protect their health. From intimacy to bladder health, Melissa and Kim answer common questions about safety, cost, diabetes management, and working with your doctor. This conversation is an honest look at why prevention matters, the importance of speaking openly about women's health, and how to confidently explore your options with the right information and support. Melissa and Kim share: Why vaginal estrogen is different from systemic HRT. The common symptoms it can help prevent dryness, painful sex, UTIs, and bladder leakage. Our personal experiences starting it, even without symptoms—as a proactive choice. What we've learned from experts like Dr. Kelly Casperson and Dr. Rachel Rubin. Questions to ask your doctor if you're considering it. Practical tips on application, types available (cream, suppositories, ring), and cost.   Takeaway: Vaginal estrogen isn't just about comfort, it's about prevention, confidence, and quality of life as we age with diabetes and beyond.   Connect with Kim @kimhyneshealth and Melissa @type1.in.midlife on Instagram for ongoing support, inspiration, and opportunities to join their communities.   Two experts we mention: Dr. Kelly Casperson  Dr. Rachel Rubin    Connect with Kim Hynes: Emotional Eats Podcast with Kim Hynes — Kim Hynes Health & Wellness IG @kimhyneshealth Website    Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.

Host Melissa Slemp, a certified hormone health coach and T1D warrior of 43+ years, uncovers what doctors don't always tell us: how perimenopause and post-menopause impact diabetes, weight, mood, and long-term health. Need a place where you feel understood and supported? Come check out our Type 1 in Midlife Community—where we rebuild energy, resilience, and faith together. Join a caring community of women and get expert support to confidently manage diabetes and menopause. Try it free for 14 days! https://www.abundanthealthwithmelissa.com/joingroupcoaching2025   In this conversation, Melissa dives into the importance of hormone replacement therapy for women—especially those living with diabetes. She challenges common misconceptions about menopause, shares the real benefits of HRT, and emphasizes why open conversations with healthcare providers are critical. Drawing from both research and personal experience, Melissa highlights how outdated studies continue to fuel fear and silence around HRT. Her goal: to give women the tools and confidence to make informed decisions about their health. Topics covered: ·       HRT offers far more than hot flash relief—it supports long-term health. ·       Many women with diabetes aren't told about the advantages of HRT. ·       HRT can improve insulin sensitivity, making diabetes easier to manage. ·       Conversations about hormone therapy are often missing in women's healthcare. ·       Personal stories reveal the real impact of low hormones on daily life. ·       The 2002 WHI study created unnecessary fear around HRT. ·       Women must advocate for themselves and seek accurate information. ·       Bioidentical hormones may be a safer, more effective option. ·       It's never too late to explore hormone replacement. ·       Education and awareness are key to empowering women's health decisions. Screenshot this episode and share it on Instagram—tag @type1inmidlife   Hit the subscribe button and rate and review to help this podcast reach more people. Be sure to share this episode. What to do now: *Join the book pre-launch list for early access, bonuses, and 2026 launch updates. Grab my free guide, HRT and Type 1 Diabetes  Everything I wish I knew in perimenopause. *Follow me IG @Type1.in.midlife stay in the loop on upcoming episodes. DM me with any feedback or suggestions on topics you'd like us to cover.   Disclaimer: Nothing you hear on this Type 1 in Midlife Podcast should be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please always consult your medical professional before changing your diet, insulin dosages or health care plan.