Karen examines the use of kava supplements, exploring their potential benefits for anxiety and their serious risks, including liver toxicity. She highlights key studies on kava's effectiveness, explains its traditional use, and warns of its interactions with medications. She also shares a list of alternative supplements that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression without the significant risks associated with kava. 

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen kicks off 2025 by examining the science behind New Year's resolutions. She explores why we make them, who is most likely to set goals for the new year, and the reasons resolutions often fail. She also shares practical tips for improving success rates, such as setting small, meaningful goals, using habit trackers, and practicing self-compassion after setbacks.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen settles the great debate: should you sleep with or without underwear? She explores the health benefits and potential drawbacks of both choices. From reducing the risk of infections to promoting vaginal health, she provides research-backed insights to help you make the best decision for your body.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen discusses the dangers of cold-related illnesses and how to stay safe during the winter months. She explains the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chillblains, and trench foot. Learn practical tips for dressing warmly, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and recognizing early warning signs of these conditions to prevent severe complications.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen addresses bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that affects many women. She explains its symptoms, causes, and risk factors, while offering practical solutions for both treatment and prevention. From prescription antibiotics to boric acid suppositories and probiotics, Karen shares a comprehensive approach to managing recurrent BV.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen shares a collection of grounding techniques to help listeners manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen sheds light on iron deficiency anemia, covering its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. She explains the stages of anemia development, common risk factors, and how to recognize signs like fatigue, pale skin, and brittle nails.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen discusses hormone pellet therapy, one form of bioidentical hormone replacement that is designed to produce consistent, long-term hormone levels. She outlines how these tiny pellets are inserted under the skin and can be used to minimize the symptoms of menopause and hormone imbalance—exploring the benefits, possible side effects, and risks associated with them. She also gives tips on what to expect with the treatment and suggestions for finding a trusted provider.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen takes on the topic of inositol supplements, particularly their benefits for managing metabolic and mood disorders. She explores the science behind inositol, a substance naturally found in the body, and how it can support insulin regulation and neurotransmitter balance.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen answers the question: "What type of magnesium should I take if I decide to take a supplement?" She explains magnesium's essential role in health, touching on its benefits for brain, heart, and muscle function, and highlights the widespread issue of magnesium deficiency, often due to processed food diets.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Karen covers the topic of estrogen loss during perimenopause and its effects on skin health, particularly facial skin. She explores how declining estrogen levels lead to reduced skin elasticity, collagen loss, and increased dryness, and discusses the benefits of using topical estrogen creams to counteract these effects. She also reviews the history of estrogen in skincare, recent studies on its effectiveness, and shares her own experience with adding estrogen cream to her facial care regimen.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.