The Longevity Link

31 Episodes
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By: Christine Givant

Welcome to the Longevity Link-Your trusted connection to the latest insights on living a longer, healthier, more vibrant life. This podcast is hosted by Chris Givant, who has spent the last 25 years as compounding pharmacist immersed in all aspects of longevity, wellness, lifespan and most importantly health span. The Longevity Link is your go-to resource for cutting-edge science-backed information on health span-because it's not just about adding years to your life, but life to your years. Whether you're looking to optimize your workouts, improve your sleep, rethink your relationship with alcohol, or navigate the ever-evolving world of supplements, nutrition, and...

Couples and Low Sex Drive: Why it Happens and How to Get it Back with Dr. Brooke Leverone
#14
07/21/2025

On this episode of The Longevity Link host Chris Givant discusses low libido with Dr. Brooke Leverone. Dr. Leverone explains that low libido and low frequency of sex can happen to most couples at some point. Causes range from hormones, past traumas, stress, medications, health issues, relationship issues/resentments, familiarity, social media, and even the use of porn.

Chris and Dr Leverone also discuss sex-less relationships and state if both partners are satisfied with the dynamic and have other sources of intimacy such as cuddling, holding hands or hugging, then a couple can still enjoy a healthy...


Unlocking Hormonal Health: A Deep Dive with Dr. Jeanette Gray
#13
07/08/2025

In this episode of the Longevity Link podcast, host Chris Givant welcomes hormone expert Dr. Janette Gray MD to discuss the complex world of hormones and how they impact our health. The conversation delves into the benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly for women facing menopause or perimenopause. Dr. Gray shares insights from her extensive experience, aiming to debunk myths and provide clarity on HRT's role in enhancing both lifespan and healthspan. Through her 'Wellness Wheel' concept and personal anecdotes, Dr. Gray emphasizes the importance of considering lifestyle choices alongside medical treatments for optimal health.

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Why Zone 2 Training is the Cardio Sweet Spot
#13
06/23/2025

In this insightful podcast episode, Chris dives into the world of Zone 2 training and why it's increasingly important for healthy aging and effective workouts. She emphasizes the significance of working out smarter, not harder, and how understanding heart rate zones can help enhance workout efficiency.

Zone 2 cardio, characterized by 70-80% of maximum heart rate, uses oxygen and fat stores as primary energy sources. By understanding these zones, individuals can optimize their workouts for better gains, longevity, and overall health, especially as they age. Don't end of in the 'garbage zone' of Zone 3 as it's been referred to...


Wide Awake and Exhausted: What to Do About Insomnia
#11
06/09/2025

Struggling to fall asleep...or stay asleep? You're no alone. In this debut episode of The Longevity Link, were taking a deep dive into one of the most common and frustrating health challenges of our time: Insomnia.

You'll learn the difference between acute vs chronic insomnia, why it's more than just a nuisance, and how it can impact your long-term health and longevity if left unaddressed. More importantly-this episode is packed with real, actionable strategies to h help you sleep better starting tonight.

We also explore CBT-I (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia), which experts now...


Dopamine Discipline: How to Peak and Avoid the Crash
#10
05/26/2025

In this episode, explore the intriguing world of dopamine, a critical neurotransmitter influencing our motivation and mood. Host Chris Givant delves into the role of dopamine in our pleasure and reward systems, explaining its significance in activities ranging from everyday tasks to momentous achievements. Discover how dopamine is not just about feeling good but is essential for sustainable effort and happiness over time. Learn why balancing your dopamine levels is crucial, and get tips on avoiding the pitfalls of dopamine 'dumps' while maintaining healthy baseline levels for optimal motivation and mental wellbeing.


Caffeine: Good or Bad? The Truth May Surprise You
#9
05/12/2025

In the latest episode of Not Your Mother’s Hormones, host Chris Givant dives deep into the complex world of caffeine. This episode challenges common myths, explores caffeine’s effects on the brain, and uncovers surprising health benefits. Chris explains caffeine’s role in blocking adenosine, its reinforcement of the brain's reward pathways, and dispels the misconception that caffeine directly provides energy. This enlightening discussion includes guidelines on consumption for optimal alertness without affecting sleep. Connecting the dots between caffeine's widespread use and the body's intricate responses, listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of how to leverage caffeine for longevity and we...


3 Common Nutrient Deficiencies (Even if You're Eating Healthy)
#8
04/28/2025

In this podcast episode, compounding pharmacist Chris Givant discusses a prevalent issue: the widespread epidemic of nutrient deficiencies. Despite eating a healthy diet, many people are still deficient in essential nutrients like Vitamin D, potassium, and magnesium. The reason? Changes in soil quality, increased toxins in the food supply, and the prevalence of chronic diseases. Givant emphasizes the need for supplementation to fill these gaps, as current food sources may not provide adequate nutrients.

These nutrients are essential in the fact that our bodies either don't make them or don't make enough of them AND your body...


Mitochondrial Magic-Unlocking Longevity with Urolithin A 4/14/2025, 1:20:56 PM
#7
04/14/2025

In this podcast episode, Host Christine Givant introduces the upcoming transition from focusing on hormones to embracing the wider theme of longevity and healthspan. Not Your Mother's Hormones is becoming The Longevity Link to better explain the breadth of content.

In today's episode Chris emphasizes the importance of mitochondria and highlights the role of Urolithin A, a compound that supports mitochondrial health and function. Mitochondrial decline, a key factor in aging, can be mitigated by a process called mitophagy, which remove old and damaged mitochondria and replaces it with healthy, active mitochondria. Chris expresses excitement about Urolithin...


Insulin Resistance and 'Skinny Fat': Why You Might Not Know You're Metabolically Unhealthy
#6
03/31/2025

In this episode of "Not Your Mother's Hormones" (soon to be changed to "The Longevity Link" )host Christine Givant RPh takes a deep dive on insulin resistance and its role in various health issues such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. By decoding the complexities of metabolic health, listeners can learn how lifestyle changes, especially in diet, can significantly impact their overall well-being. She reveals shocking statistics that illustrate the vast majority of Americans have some level of insulin sensitivity and even more importantly, most people don't know they have it. She explains the term "skinny fat" and why just...


Ozempic and Beyond: The Truth About GLP-1's for Weight Loss and Beyond
#5
03/17/2025

Announcement: 'Not Your Mother's Hormones' will be rebranded to 'The Longevity Link' in order to better encapsulate the content being provided this season. We are touching on a broader range of topics that embrace healthspan, lifespan and longevity. Look for the change soon!

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine Givant explores the incredible potential of GLP1 agonists, a class of drugs that includes popular treatments like Ozempic and Mounjaro (semaglutide and Tirzepatide).

Initially used for diabetes management, these drugs have been shown to support weight loss in a dramatic fashion and...


The Toxic Truth: Microplastics, Nanoplastics and Your Health
#4
03/03/2025

In the latest episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine Givant explores the pervasive presence of microplastics, nanoplastics, and chemicals like BPAs in our environment and their potential impact on health. She delves into the alarming statistics surrounding our consumption of these materials, highlighting their presence in everyday items and the challenges of totally avoiding them. The episode aims to educate listeners on ways to mitigate exposure and offers real life suggestions by discussing possible detox methods, all while stressing the importance of staying informed to make empowered health decisions for oneself and loved ones.

You...


Longevity Playbook: Training For a Vibrant Final Decade of Life
#3
02/12/2025

Christine Givant, a compounding pharmacist, specializing in healthy aging, wellness and hormones, introduces the Centenarian Decathlon in the second season of her podcast. This episode delves into the importance of preparing for longevity through targeted physical training and maintaining health span.

You will be introduced to the concept the Centenarian Decathlon coined by physician Dr Peter Attia MD. Key insights from Dr. Attia are shared, highlighting that longevity is less about fighting diseases once they appear and more about preventing them from happening through targeted and directed exercises and lifestyle choices.

Pushing back the time...


Sweet Lies: The Truth About Sugar and How to Outsmart It
#2
01/27/2025

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Hormones, Compounding Pharmacist Christine Givant exposes the Food Industry and how they incorporate salt, fat and sugar to engineer the "Bliss Point". The Bliss Point is het combination of these ingredients that make the food the most craveable and difficult to resist.

Christine explains the brain chemistry involved and why this addiction to sugar is creating a sick society full of chronic diseases such as diabetes. She also presents some "hacks" to both decrease cravings and decrease the glycemic jump post high sugar or carb foods. Several supplements are presented...


Alcohol Uncovered: What do the Latest Studies Really Show?
#1
01/15/2025

In the first episode of season 2 of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones' we tackle the question: Is drinking alcohol really all that bad for you? This conversation revolves around alcohol and its implications on health and wellness. It provides insights into the meaning of a standard unit of alcohol in the U.S. and defining what constitutes a light, moderate, or heavy drinker.

Christine the Hormone Queen delves into the latest studies and helps to break down the often confusing evidence regarding alcohol and it's effects on your brain, your cardiovascular system, and on the risk for cancer. <...


Is There a Link Between Menopause and Alzheimer's Disease?
#17
11/12/2024

This is must know information! The episode begins by examining the potential link between menopause and Alzheimer's disease. Pharmacist Christine Givant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, discusses how menopause, and specifically low estrogen, impacts the brain, not just the ovaries, and may increase one's vulnerability to Alzheimer's Disease.

The research done by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a leading neuroscientist and leading expert on women's brain health, is referenced extensively to provide scientifically backed insights. You will learn the difference between a genetic mutation and a genetic risk factor and what you may be doing to increase...


Heart Disease Not Cancer as Your Chief Concern in Menopause
#16
10/25/2024

Christine talks heart health in this episode and explains why it should be a woman's main health concern...even over cancer. It's an eye opening episode and is part of a movement to educate women on Heart Health. Christine shares information from preventive cardiologist, Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum who states 80% of heart disease can be prevented but the vast majority of women don't know they have it. This episode could save your life or the life of a woman you love!


5 Menopause Myths That May Be Hurting You
#15
10/13/2024

In the latest episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine Givant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, tackles the prevalent misconceptions surrounding menopause and hormone therapy. She emphasizes that while menopause is inevitable, its symptoms and health risks like cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and weight gain are not. By employing strategies such as stress reduction, improved sleep, hormone balancing, and resistance training, women can mitigate these effects. Christine challenges common myths, particularly the unfounded fear that hormone therapy causes cancer, and urges women to explore safe, evidence-based options for maintaining vitality and health during menopause.


Testosterone and Women: Busting the Myths
#13
09/27/2024

Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen, addresses the issues women face due to low testosterone levels, contrasting the disparity in FDA-approved hormone treatments available for men versus women.

She debunks myths surrounding testosterone replacement therapy for women, explaining its benefits for libido, cognition, cardiovascular health, and overall well-being. Chris emphasizes the need for balanced hormone therapies and criticizes the inefficiencies and risks associated with testosterone pellets, advocating instead for topical applications and highlighting the importance of seeking quality compounding pharmacies and knowledgeable functional medicine practitioners.

www.nymhormones.com

christine@nymhormones<...


Prostate Health, Erectile Issues & More - Men's Wellness with Dr. Adam Silberman
#13
09/13/2024

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' host Christine Givant dives into men’s health and wellness with special guest expert Dr. Adam Silberman. They discuss basic and advanced labs and screenings every man should have their doctor run. Dr. Silberman shares insights on cardiovascular & prostate health along with strategies to optimize muscle mass and weight. Listeners will learn about testosterone replacement therapy, Alzheimer's prevention, and how to keep and maybe even grow more hair! It's the perfect roadmap to help you and the significant men in your life to navigate aging and maintain vitality. Don’t miss...


Can't Lose Weight? Fixing Your Broken Metabolism
#12
08/30/2024

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Hormones, host Christine Givant discusses the alarming rates of obesity and being overweight in America with Pharmacist and Chief Clinical Officer Matthew Montes de Oca. They delve into metabolic dysfunction, a major culprit behind these statistics, and explore the concept of meta inflammation. The conversation highlights the importance of managing diet, hormones, and physical activity to combat this issue and involving pharmaceutical interventions as well. The episode also delves into the widely popular GLP-1 agonists to assist with weight loss. Drugs like Ozempic (semaglutide) have been in the news and on social...


Navigating Depression in Perimenopause & Menopause
#11
08/15/2024

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother’s Hormones', Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen, delves into the significant issue of depression and anxiety during perimenopause and menopause. She explains the common symptoms including sadness, irritability, and physical manifestations like fatigue and weight changes. Christine stresses the importance of early detection and treatment to prevent recurring depressive episodes, highlighting the impact of personality traits, social factors, and hormone fluctuations on mental health. She also emphasizes the need for adequate social support and a positive attitude towards aging to mitigate risks. As always, Chris presents various many options to po...


"Inflammaging": The Silent Dangers of Chronic Inflammation
#10
08/02/2024

Chronic low-level inflammation, or 'inflammaging,' can accelerate aging and increase the risk of chronic diseases, as explained by Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen. From low sex drive and weight gain to cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's, inflammation impacts numerous facets of health in a major way. Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as improving diet, reducing stress, increasing physical activity, and balancing hormones can help control inflammation and enhance overall well-being.


Low Thyroid: Rising Cases and Missed Diagnoses
#9
07/13/2024

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine Givant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, dives into the critical role the thyroid plays in our overall health. Christine explains common symptoms of thyroid dysfunction such as fatigue, weight gain, and hair thinning, and how they are often mistaken for menopause or aging. She discusses the importance of proper testing and diagnosis, highlighting the shortcomings of conventional medical practices. Listeners will learn about the intricate feedback loop involving T3 and T4 hormones and the impact of low thyroid on various bodily functions.


Christine's Mailbox: Top Listener Questions
#8
07/02/2024

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine the Hormone Queen addresses some of the many amazing questions she receives regarding hormones. Experience shows that if one person wants to know or needs clarification than others can benefit from the same good question! She's asked about when to start hormones, how do you know if you need hormones, what tests should be run at a minimum, how to find a functional medicine practitioner and much more.

Christine delves into questions on hormone safety and presents data from the recent and extremely large study done on...


Dispelling the Hype: Must-Have Skincare That Actually Works
#7
06/21/2024

In this episode of 'Not Your Mother's Hormones,' Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen, discusses common skin changes women experience during perimenopause and menopause. As estrogen levels drop, issues like thinning skin, sagging, and wrinkles emerge. Chris, a compounding pharmacist specializing in healthy aging and skincare formulation shares insights into effective skincare routines and lets you in on the ingredients that aren't just hype but actually work and have a been deemed safe as well. She also highlights the importance of a healthy microbiome and which sunscreens to use. Tune in for practical tips to regain glowing...


Heal Your Gut, Heal Your Life: The Microbiome Reset
#6
06/10/2024

Heal your gut, heal your life! Discover the transformative power of healing your gut for optimal health. Join Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen, and Dr. Brooke Leverone, a functional medicine expert, as they delve into the importance of the microbiome and its impact on your well-being. Learn how stress, diet, and medications can disrupt the delicate balance of your gut, leading to a host of health issues. Explore practical solutions for healing and revitalizing your gut, including removing the culprits causing the disruption and adding in the options that can truly heal your gut. Gain insights into...


Sticks and Stones and Brittle Bones: The Silent Killer of Osteoporosis
#5
05/24/2024

Osteoporosis, also known as the Silent Disease, affects millions of Americans, with women being four times more likely to develop it than men. This condition, characterized by the thinning of bones, can lead to serious consequences, including an increased risk of fractures. In this podcast episode, Christine Givant, aka Christine the Hormone Queen, explores the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for osteoporosis. She emphasizes the importance of taking control of bone health by eliminating bone-dissolving factors such as excessive alcohol, sugar, salt, and processed foods, and incorporating bone-building practices like resistance training and proper nutrition. Christine also highlights the...


"Not Tonight? Refueling Low Libido"
#4
05/08/2024

Summary 1: In this podcast episode, Christine Givant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, delves into the topic of low libido and offers solutions for women experiencing this issue. In short, she's on a mission to help you get your mojo back. Christine discusses the prevalence of low desire among women and the various causes, including medications, mental health, relationship issues, childbirth, medical conditions, hormone imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and lack of sleep. She emphasizes the importance of addressing these underlying factors and provides tips and strategies for dealing with medication-induced low libido, mental health-related issues, relationship challenges, childbirth-related concerns...


From Flab to Fab! Outsmarting Midlife Weight Gain
#3
04/24/2024

Weight gain is an all too common concern among women during perimenopause and menopause. This episode of Not Your Mother's Hormones delves into the reasons behind this phenomenon and offers practical solutions to address it. Christine Givant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, is a healthy aging pharmacist who's an expert in perimenopause and menopause. Christine emphasizes the importance of nutrition in reducing inflammation and supporting hormonal balance. She outlines specific dietary recommendations, such as incorporating omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin C-rich foods, and gut-healthy options. Alongside nutrition, Hormone balancing, exercise and resistance training are highlighted as vital for...


Fatigue Tsunami-Navigating Fatigue in Peri-Menopause and Menopause
#2
04/11/2024

This podcast episode discusses the common issue of fatigue in women experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The host, Christine Gavant, also known as Christine the Hormone Queen, shares her expertise as a compounding pharmacist specialized in healthy aging. She highlights the various symptoms of fatigue in menopause and its impact on daily life, from difficulty sleeping to anxiety and low sex drive. Christine emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying causes of fatigue, particularly hormonal imbalances. She suggests options for managing this fatigue, including exercise, avoiding stimulants and alcohol, establishing a consistent sleep routine, and practicing complementary therapies like yoga...


Tired of Being Tired? Let's Talk Hormones!
#1
04/05/2024

This episode introduces Christine, the Hormone Queen, who shares her expertise as a compounding pharmacist specializing in healthy aging, perimenopause, and menopause. Providing accurate information and empowering women to make informed decisions about their hormonal health is the goal of this podcast. Christine aims to dispel the misinformation surrounding hormonal changes and offers scientific-based advice backed by her own experiences. She encourages women to join the community at notyourmothershormone.com to connect with others and find support. The importance of replacing and balancing hormones to prevent negative long-term effects and maintain optimal health is emphasized. Perimenopause symptoms such as...