Are you a slave to cravings? In this episode of The Cycle Code, we’re cracking the craving conundrum by looking at a surprising source: your menstrual cycle. We explore the fascinating hormonal shifts that happen during ovulation; specifically the surge of estrogen and the dip of progesterone and how this can leave you with a high-stakes need for dopamine and a weakened internal "brake" to resist those sugary, salty, and carb-heavy temptations.

Tune in to learn how to understand your body's signals and build a personalized strategy to manage cravings, rather than just endure them.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The Ovulation Hormonal Rollercoaster: How the natural rise of estrogen and the dip of progesterone during your cycle create a perfect biological storm for cravings.

• The Dopamine Connection: We dive into how estrogen can boost your brain’s pleasure-seeking drive, making you more susceptible to foods that provide a quick dopamine hit.

• The Progesterone "Brake": Learn why the drop in progesterone can feel like your body has less willpower to resist temptation, and how this is a normal part of your cycle.

• Actionable Strategies: Simple, practical tips to manage cravings, including:

  • Mindful Cycle Tracking: A powerful tool to recognize your patterns and remove the guilt.

  • Nutrient-Dense Dopamine Boosters: Healthier ways to get a dopamine fix, from specific foods to simple activities.

  • Supporting Your "Brake": Foods and habits that can help promote a sense of calm and stability.

  • Pre-emptive Planning: How to set yourself up for success by stocking your kitchen with the right foods before the cravings strike.

• Healthier Swaps: We share examples of what your body might actually be craving instead of the junk food you reach for, and offer delicious, nutrient-rich alternatives.

Mentioned in this Episode:

• Foods to Boost Dopamine: Almonds, avocados, bananas, lean protein, and leafy greens.

• Foods to Support Your "Brake" (Magnesium-Rich): Dark chocolate (70%+), nuts & seeds, and those greens!

• Craving Swaps:

  • Instead of Candy: Try dark chocolate, Greek yogurt with berries, or roasted chickpeas.

  • Instead of Chips: Try lightly salted nuts, olives, or homemade kale chips.

  • Instead of White Bread/Pasta: Try whole-grain toast with nut butter or oatmeal.

Connect with Us:

• Website: www.thegoldilocks.life

• Instagram: @thegoldilockslife

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to The Cycle Code to never miss an episode!

In this deeply personal episode, I share my journey over the past year, navigating the complex world of alcohol, from exploring sobriety to embracing moderation. I open up about the reasons for this self-exploration, the challenges I faced, and the questions I had to answer to find a path that feels authentic. We discuss the importance of listening to your body, redefining your relationship with alcohol, and the incredible power of community support.

In this episode, we talk about:

• The personal "why" behind exploring a change in your relationship with alcohol.

• The difference between sobriety, moderation, and the "sober curious" movement.

• Helpful tips for anyone considering a similar journey.

• The value of finding a supportive community that understands your unique path.

Resources:

• Sober Mom Life: https://thesobermomlife.com/

• Sober Powered: https://www.soberpowered.com/

• Lighthouse Sobriety: https://lighthouserecoverytx.com/

Recommended "Quit Lit" Books:

• This Naked Mind: Control Alcohol, Find Freedom, Discover Happiness & Change Your Life by Annie Grace

• Quit Like a Woman: The Radical Choice to Not Drink in a Culture Obsessed with Alcohol by Holly Whitaker

• The Sober Diaries: How One Woman Stopped Drinking and Started Living by Clare Pooley

I'd love to follow you!! @thegoldilockslife

Questions or Support, please email me at: stacy@thegoldilocks.life

You go to the doctor with a problem, and you walk out with a prescription. But are you getting to the root of the issue?

In this episode, we talk about the "Goldilocks Method"—a way to find a balanced approach to your health that’s not too much, not too little, but just right. We break down the difference between the traditional "treatment-focused" model and the powerful world of preventative and holistic care.

Are you ready to stop just treating symptoms and start taking control of your health?

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why the "band-aid approach" of Western medicine can fall short for chronic issues.

• How to blend the best of both worlds, using the power of medical advances with the wisdom of holistic care.

• The essential questions you need to ask your doctor to get the answers you deserve.

• The signs of a great healthcare provider who will be a true partner in your health journey.

Subscribe to The Goldilocks Life for more insights on finding your unique path to well-being.

Submit your questions to: stacy@thegoldilocks.life

Follow us @thegoldilockslife