January 27th - Dr. Mindy Pelz LIVE | New Science + Q&A
Resetter PodcastPublished on January 28, 2026
Summary authored by editor@wellifi.com
TLDR Summary
Dr. Mindy Pelz discusses the benefits of fasting for postmenopausal women, emphasizing the role of ketones as an alternative energy source for the brain. With proper nutrition and fasting protocols, women can enhance their cognitive function and overall health during menopause.
Key Points
- Postmenopausal women often thrive on fasting protocols.
- Fasting can improve mental clarity and cognitive function.
- The brain uses both glucose and ketones as energy sources.
- Decreased estrogen can lead to insulin resistance and cognitive decline.
- Incorporating ketones through fasting may protect brain health.
- Proper nutrition is essential during fasting to maximize benefits.
Understanding the Impact of Fasting on Menopause and Brain Health
Welcome to our latest blog post! Today, we're diving into an enlightening discussion led by Dr. Mindy Pelz, focusing on the connection between fasting, menopause, and brain health. Dr. Pelz shares insights from her clinical experience and recent studies, highlighting the benefits of fasting for postmenopausal women and the role of ketones in brain function.
The Power of Fasting for Postmenopausal Women
Dr. Pelz begins by discussing her observations in her clinic, where she noted that postmenopausal women tended to thrive on fasting protocols. Not only did they experience significant weight loss, but many reported improved mental clarity and cognitive function. This led her to explore the relationship between fasting, ketones, and brain health.
The Role of Ketones as Brain Fuel
According to Dr. Pelz, the brain primarily uses glucose and ketones for energy. As women enter postmenopause, their bodies become less efficient at processing glucose due to decreased estrogen levels, leading to increased insulin resistance. This inefficiency can contribute to cognitive decline, including symptoms of foggy thinking and increased risk for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Research Insights on Ketones and Menopause
In a conversation with Lisa Moscone, author of The Menopause Brain, Dr. Pelz learned that the brain's reliance on glucose diminishes during menopause. This opens the door for ketones to become a more vital energy source. Interestingly, as the brain undergoes changes during menopause, it even produces ketones as a byproduct of breaking down white matter.
Fasting Protocols and Brain Health
Dr. Pelz emphasizes that incorporating fasting can help increase ketone production, which may protect the brain and enhance cognitive function. She recommends different fasting windows, such as:
- 15-hour fasts for general health
- 24-hour fasts for those experiencing significant brain fog
- 3-day water fasts for deeper detoxification and ketone production
Addressing Myths Around Fasting and Menopause
Dr. Pelz also addresses some common misconceptions about fasting among menopausal women, particularly from other experts who advise against it. She argues that with proper nutrition, including healthy fats and proteins, fasting can be beneficial rather than harmful.
Supplementing with Nutrients
In her discussions, Dr. Pelz frequently mentions the importance of supporting the body during fasting with nutrient-rich foods. She encourages the inclusion of:
- MCT oil
- Collagen
- High-protein meals post-workout
Conclusion
In conclusion, fasting appears to offer numerous benefits for postmenopausal women, particularly in enhancing brain health through ketone production. As Dr. Pelz passionately advocates, understanding and aligning our lifestyle choices with our body's natural processes can lead to improved health outcomes as we age.
For more insights and guidance, consider joining Dr. Pelz's community or exploring her resources on fasting and menopause.
