The Dr. Brighten Show: Empowering Conversations on Women’s Health and Hormones
Join Dr. Jolene Brighten for expert insights, real-life strategies, and uplifting stories designed to help you thrive—body, mind, and spirit.
Latest Episodes
How Stress Causes Brain Damage: The New Science of Cortisol, Trauma, and Women’s Brains | Dr. Jessica Peatross
Most people think of traumatic brain injury (TBI) as something caused by a fall, car accident, or physical impact. But new research is redefining TBI entirely — and it has major implications for women. Emotional trauma, chronic stress, and prolonged cortisol elevation can create measurable changes in the brain that mimic the neurological patterns traditionally seen after concussions. In this …
The Hidden Brain Risk Every Woman Over 30 Needs To Know | Max Lugavere
Women make up two out of three cases of Alzheimer’s disease, yet most are never told why—or what they can do to protect themselves long before symptoms appear. In this powerful conversation, Max Lugavere breaks down the misunderstood early drivers of cognitive decline, the role of metabolic health, how environmental toxins contribute to neurodegenerative diseases, and the research showing that …
Why your PCOS Got WORSE after 30 and How to FIX it | Dr. Fiona McCulloch
PCOS symptoms often intensify after 30 due to compounding insulin resistance, adrenal stress patterns, and brain–ovary signaling changes. As estrogen and progesterone begin subtle shifts in the mid-30s, many women experience more anovulatory cycles, higher cortisol responses, and worsening androgen symptoms. Dr. McCulloch explains how: This episode takes a whole-system view of PCOS across the lifespan and reframes the condition …
Articles
Bacopa Monnieri Benefits: Memory, Mood, Sleep, Hair & Brain Health
If you’ve ever looked into natural remedies for improving focus, learning, or mental clarity, chances are you’ve come across Bacopa monnieri, also known as brahmi. This ancient Ayurvedic herb is a homeopathic medicine that people have turned to for hundreds of years to naturally support brain function, mood, and even hair health. As you'll learn more about below, today, bacopa …
How Do You Stop Craving Sugar? Causes & Solutions Backed by Research
Do you ever find yourself rummaging through the pantry for something sweet after dinner, or feel that irresistible pull toward chocolate, especially before your period? Sugar cravings can feel powerful, and for women, they’re often tied to hormonal shifts that affect their mood, metabolism, and even brain chemistry. Managing a “sweet tooth” can be very tough to deal with, but …
Extreme Fatigue in Perimenopause: What’s Really Going On—And What Helps?
Perimenopause fatigue is a hormone-driven exhaustion caused by fluctuating estrogen and progesterone, disrupted cortisol patterns, and poor sleep quality. During perimenopause, hormonal changes can turn your once-reliable energy levels into an unpredictable rollercoaster. And the cause isn't just getting older, nor is the solution simply needing more sleep. To help cope with this type of exhaustion, you have to address …
Supplements for Menopause Belly Fat
Struggling with stubborn belly fat during perimenopause or menopause? You’re not alone. Even active, health-conscious women notice their waistline changing as hormones shift. Estrogen decline, cortisol spikes, and insulin resistance make it easier to store fat around the middle and harder to burn it off. The good news? Specific supplements for menopause belly fat can help with changing hormones, support …
Saffron and PMDD: Natural Relief for Mood Swings, Anxiety & PMS
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is more than just “bad PMS.” It’s a severe and even debilitating condition that affects women's moods, energy, and mental clarity in the two weeks leading up to their period. While antidepressants are often prescribed, more women are exploring natural PMDD solutions that support both mood and hormone balance—without harsh side effects. One of the most …
Best Saffron Supplement for Mood, Anxiety, ADHD & PMS
If you’ve been looking for a natural way to support your mood, reduce anxious feelings, or even sharpen your focus, you may have heard about saffron. This vibrant red spice—yes, the same one used in paella and Persian dishes—has been used medicinally for centuries. In recent years, researchers have uncovered saffron extract benefits that extend far beyond the kitchen — …
Featured Products
Adrenal Support
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Prenatal Plus
A complete women’s formulation with active B Vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to support women wanting to become pregnant, currently pregnant or nursing. This formulation was designed to provide comprehensive thyroid support through pregnancy and postpartum with the perfect balance of iodine and selenium. Our nutrient dense formula provides support for baby’s bone, brain, and overall development. We’ve designed this formula to meet the needs of both pregnant and breast feeding mothers.
What others say
Dr. Brighten's work is so important for women's health. Whenever women with thyroid, menstrual or fertility issues come to work with Dr. Brighten they find have better periods, feel better, they have more energy and in many cases they are able to reverse their conditions. I highly recommend Dr. Brighten's work.Dr. Izabella Wentz, Thyroid Pharmacist, NYT Best Selling Author of Hashimoto's Protocol
Dr. Jolene Brighten is a powerful force supporting women’s health and well-being. In a world where oral contraceptives are doled out like candy, Dr. Brighten guides women through reestablishing hormonal balance and reclaiming their lives. This book will help countless women in great need.Maya Shetreat-Klein, MD, author of The Dirt Cure
If you are a woman and you are dealing with hormone issues, adrenal issues or a thyroid condition then this is your go-to doctor. Her clinic will help you restore your hormones, get your energy back and improve your period. I have been recommending my readers to her for many years because she gets the results that you are desiring.Dr. Mariza Snyder, Best Selling Author
Dr. Jolene Brighten and her women health clinics help women address their hormone imbalances and autoimmune disease by getting to the root cause.Dr. Trevor Cates, Spa Doctor, Best Selling Author
Dr. Brighten is someone I look to help me often with patients that I have questions about with women's health issues. I find that her wisdom and knowledge of women's health is unparalleled. I really value her expertise.Dr. Alejandra Carrsaco Functional Medicine MD