Ep 79: Hormones Without the Hype - What Runners Need to Know, with Dr. Chhaya Makhija & Dr. Michelle Quirk of Mindful Marathon

Hormones are often talked about online in ways that can feel confusing or overwhelming for runners. In this episode of the Mindful Marathon Podcast, I’m joined by endocrinologist Dr. Chhaya Makhija to bring clarity to the conversation. Dr. Makhija blends traditional endocrinology with lifestyle medicine, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness to help people take control of their hormonal health and prevent chronic disease.

Together, we discuss what runners actually need to understand about hormones like insulin, cortisol, and estrogen, and what is often overhyped.

We also talk about the relationship between life stress and training stress, fueling for metabolic health, and how hormonal changes during midlife can influence energy, recovery, and performance.

This episode is a reassuring and practical conversation designed to help runners take a long-term, whole-person approach to health.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The hormones that matter most for runners

• The connection between stress, cortisol, and recovery

• Common hormonal myths in the running world

• Hormonal changes during perimenopause and midlife running

• Why bone health matters for runners

• Lifestyle habits that support long-term hormonal health

• When runners should consider speaking with their doctor

You can connect with Dr. Makhija on her website. https://unifiedendocrinecare.com/

And on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/chhayamakhijamd/

Follow Coach Michelle on Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/Mindful.Marathon 

If you have questions about your own training, reach out on Coach Michelle's website, and let's explore working together for personalized support. https://mindful-marathon.com 

*** The information contained in this podcast is intended to serve as educational information and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should consult your primary care physician before undertaking any fitness regimen or exercise, which can pose serious health risks if undertaken or performed improperly. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in the videos is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/advanced practice provider. ***