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: hello@ayurvedicliving.institute
  
• 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.

Resources & Links:

• Visit Acknowledge Farms: https://acknowledge.co
• Follow on Instagram: @acknowledge_wellness
• 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 Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by Acknowledge, makers of full-spectrum hemp tinctures grown on a regenerative organic farm. Try the Sleep tincture with code KATE30 for 30% off your first order.