38. The Fiber Fix: Heal Hormones, Boost Detox, and Balance Naturally
What if the key to resolving your hormonal imbalance, easing perimenopause symptoms, and supporting detoxification was as simple as eating more beans?
In this episode, Kate is joined by renowned nutritionist and biochemist Karen Hurd—affectionately known as “The Bean Queen”—to explore how soluble fiber plays a vital role in removing toxins and excess hormones from the body. This deep-dive into the biochemical detox process is packed with actionable wisdom, from understanding bile recirculation to rebuilding adrenal health, and what your caffeine habit has to do with hot flashes and energy crashes.
Karen’s powerful origin story, which began with saving her daughter from pesticide poisoning, led her down a path of uncovering life-saving truths about the liver’s detox systems, hormonal regulation, and how soluble fiber can change everything—especially for women in midlife.
Whether you’re considering HRT, struggling with symptoms of estrogen dominance, or just looking for one thing to do to feel better—this is a can’t-miss conversation.
What You’ll Learn:
The three detox systems of the body and how they work
How soluble fiber helps remove excess hormones and toxins
Why your caffeine habit could be hurting your adrenals
A biochemical explanation for hot flashes and hormonal swings
Why Americans are fiber-deficient—not protein-deficient
Simple steps to safely introduce more beans into your diet
How fragrance, caffeine, and even chocolate impact hormone health
The hidden risks of hormone replacement therapy
Guest Bio:
Karen Hurd, MS, MPH, is a biochemist, nutritional consultant, and functional health pioneer known for her groundbreaking work on the role of soluble fiber in detoxification and hormonal health. Her practice was born out of personal crisis: when her 18-month-old daughter was poisoned by an organophosphate, conventional medicine gave up. Karen turned to science, food, and fierce maternal determination to save her child’s life—and succeeded. She’s been teaching and practicing for over 30 years and is the creator of the Bean Protocol. Learn more at karenhurd.com.
Resources + Links:
Karen’s Courses by Condition: karenhurd.com
Follow Karen’s podcast interviews on women’s health and detox protocols via her site
Email Kate:
[email protected]
Kate’s books and programs: healwithkate.org
Health Disclaimer:
The information shared on Everyday Ayurveda with Kate is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or wellness routine.
Connect with Kate: https://www.healwithkate.org
Summer Self Care Workshop: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/courses/summer-self-care-workshop
Summer Bundle: https://courses.ayurvedicliving.institute/bundles/SummerBundle
Thanks to our Sponsors:
This episode is brought to you by Osi Oils — one of my favorite daily rituals.
These handcrafted, organic oils are rooted in Ayurvedic tradition and thoughtfully formulated to support your skin, your senses, and your dosha. Whether you’re nourishing your face with their gorgeous Glow Face Oil (my personal go-to), caring for your nasal passages with their Nasya Oil, or balancing your constitution with a dosha-specific body oil, Osi Oils is the kind of ritual that gives back.
✨ Listeners get 20% off at osioils.com with the code AYURVEDA20.
Netherlands