Book a FREE functional health discovery call HERE. Many women in midlife are silently battling anxiety, fatigue, and mood swings while doing all the “right” things—working hard, leading, caring for everyone else. But few realize how closely mental health and nutrition are connected.  In this episode, Tanya opens up about her decades-long struggle with anxiety and disordered eating and how undernourishment disrupted her body’s ability to make key neurotransmitters. She unpacks how protein and amino acids become the building blocks for mood, energy, and hormones—and why digestion, gut health, and liver function all play a vital role in restoring balance.  Key Topics Covered: Tanya’s personal journey with anxiety and bulimia How amino acids become neurotransmitters and hormones The gut-brain-liver connection in mood regulation Protein needs for women in midlife Nutrients essential for neurotransmitter synthesis  How stress and cortisol disrupt serotonin production Faith-based mindset: nourishment as stewardship Resources & References: Frontiers in Endocrinology, 2019 – The Tryptophan Pathway and Serotonin PubMed: Dietary Protein and Brain Serotonin Synthesis ResearchGate: Gut-Brain Axis and Mood Regulation Cleveland Clinic: Understanding Serotonin   I hope this episode blesses you! Xoxo, Tanya Episode Resources: Episode Catalog   My trusted Supplement Dispensary: Aligned Vitality Fullscript Dispensary My trusted Telehealth Peptide Provider:  EllieMD_Tanya Engesether *I do get a small commission when you use one of the above affiliate links. 3 Ways To Connect With Me: 1️⃣COACHING: Are you READY to Lead Well, Live Well and BE Well? Book a FREE discovery call with me to find out more about functional health coaching. It’s the accountability and guidance you need to reclaim your health and happiness! ➡︎ https://gracefilledleader.com/coaching   2️⃣ FACEBOOK: Become part of our Supportive Facebook Group. Connect, share, and learn with others navigating life and leadership ➡︎ https://gracefilledleader.com/community   3️⃣ CONTACT: Leave me a question or comment ➡︎ https://gracefilledleader.com/contact   "Yes! Finally, a podcast helping others become the thriving leaders they’re meant to be outside of hustle-culture! This is an amazing resource! Thank you so much for sharing and helping us become Spirit-driven, peaceful leaders!"    If you can relate, please consider rating and reviewing my show! It helps me reach more people – just like you – to help them change their future. Don’t forget to follow the show so you don’t miss any episodes! And, if you’re feeling really generous, I’d be SO honored if you would share this podcast with someone.   Click here to view our privacy policy.   Reminder:  The information you hear on this show is not meant to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.  It is for educational purposes only. Always consult with your own health practitioner before you make any changes to your health.