Why Be Normal?

Why “Normal” Lab Results Might Be the Reason You Still Feel Off

Live Better Without Surgery Podcast – Episode 8 | Featuring Merin Kinikini, DNP, NP, RD

Listen to the Episode

Available on: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube

Overview

Do your labs say you’re “normal,” but you still feel tired, foggy, or not like yourself?

In this episode, Dr. Joe Albano sits down with Merin Kinikini, DNP, NP, RD, to explore why “normal” doesn’t always mean optimal—and how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) could be the missing link in your wellness journey.

Learn how hormone optimization can:

Restore energy and focus
Improve sleep and mental clarity
Support long-term health and bone strength
Prepare your body for better results from regenerative treatments like PRP and stem cells

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

The difference between “normal” and “optimal” hormone levels
Why BHRT is foundational to regenerative medicine
Common symptoms of hormone imbalance in men and women
How compounding pharmacies personalize treatment
The long-term benefits of hormone optimization for brain and bone health
What to expect from the BHRT process at Albano Clinic

Timestamps

00:00 – Intro
01:02 – Hormones first: Why BHRT is foundational to regenerative medicine
05:10 – “Normal” labs vs. “Optimal” function
06:47 – Symptoms of hormone imbalance
08:07 – Long-term benefits: Alzheimer’s, osteoporosis & more
09:02 – Bioidentical vs. synthetic hormones
11:13 – What is a compounding pharmacy?
14:27 – When to start BHRT
16:28 – What the BHRT process looks like at Albano Clinic
17:51 – Simplifying supplements
20:09 – Why we treat you, not just your labs

Book a Consultation

You don’t have to settle for “fine.” If your labs are normal but you still feel off, it might be time to consider hormone optimization.

👉 Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific goals and find the safest, most effective path forward.

Let’s explore how you can live better without surgery. 🌟

Episode Details

Host: Joe Albano, MD
Guest: Merin Kinikini, DNP, NP, RD
Podcast: Live Better Without Surgery
Produced by: The Albano Clinic
Length: 37 minutes
Released: May 7, 2025