In this episode, Dr. Andy Galpin reveals his latest research on hormone-based birth control and its effects on the sex hormones and gut microbiome of female athletes. They delve into the challenges of women-specific research and the quest to untangle the web of how exercise and birth control influence overall health. This conversation sheds light on the need for more comprehensive data on women in sports, the physiological nuances of performance, and the importance of resilience. He also discusses his approach to life, emphasizing the avoidance of dependency on routines for peak performance. The episode is a thought-provoking exploration of the intricacies of female athletic health, emphasizing the movement from good to great, and the necessity of listening to one's body for optimal personal performance and wellbeing. Become a Member to Receive Exclusive Content: renamalik.supercast.com Schedule an appointment with me: https://www.renamalikmd.com/appointments ▶️Chapters: 00:00 Lab projects 00:27 Female athletes & birth control study 01:05 Hormones and libido discussion 02:01 Exercise impact on gut microbiome 03:03 Menstrual cycle's effect on studies 04:00 Keeping research notes 04:48 Daily non-negotiables 06:41 Changing the world with data 09:07 Listening to your body Don't forget to check out Dr. Andy Galpin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drandygalpin/?hl=en X: https://twitter.com/DrAndyGalpin?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe3R2e3zYxWwIhMKV36Qhkw Let's Connect!: WEBSITE: http://www.renamalikmd.com YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@RenaMalikMD INSTAGRAM: http://www.instagram.com/RenaMalikMD TWITTER: http://twitter.com/RenaMalikMD FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/RenaMalikMD/ LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/renadmalik PINTEREST: https://www.pinterest.com/renamalikmd/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/RenaMalikMD ------------------------------------------------------ DISCLAIMER: This podcast is purely educational and does not constitute medical advice. The content of this podcast is my personal opinion, and not that of my employer(s). Use of this information is at your own risk. Rena Malik, M.D. will not assume any liability for any direct or indirect losses or damages that may result from the use of information contained in this podcast including but not limited to economic loss, injury, illness or death. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices