153 A Novel Approach to Supporting Hormones in Perimenopause and Menopause
51m
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Thyroid Mystery Solved: Hashimoto's and Hypothyroidism Revealed
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The Case:
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Justine is 44 and dealing with sudden abdominal weight gain.
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She is also experiencing brain fog which is causing her stress. Her PMS is getting worse and she just doesn’t feel like herself.
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She saw her gynecologist who suggested birth control and antidepressants.
Medications are often the solution offered by traditional medicine but Justine wasn’t interested in going directly down that path. So, she came to me. I noted that she was still getting her regular cycle but suspected that the hormonal changes of perimenopause might be at play here.
The Journey to Hormone Balance
My first step in helping Justine manage her changing hormones was to explore the connection between her symptoms and her hormonal changes. I reached out to Emily Sadri who is an expert in Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and achieving hormonal harmony. You may remember Emily from past episodes, including 141 on Semiglutide (like Ozempic) and Weight Loss and 107 on Birth Control Use with Thyroid Issues.
The Fundamentals: Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
Despite the fact that half the population goes through menopause, there’s very little information available (and as Emily pointed out, this really should be something taught in school). So, let's lay the foundation with a basic understanding of hormones. Emily does a great job of explaining this in the episode. She shed light on the lifespan of hormones, highlighting that girls typically begin menstruating around the age of 11, which signifies a culmination of a year-long process where the brain and ovaries coordinate to initiate this significant change. Intriguingly, she drew parallels between menopause and puberty, suggesting that they are two sides of the same hormonal coin.
Emily went on to discuss a fascinating aspect of hormonal decline, indicating that there's approximately a 10-year period before menopause when significant hormonal changes occur. She mentioned that the average age of menopause in the United States has been decreasing, from 51 to possibly 49, although precise data can be challenging to obtain due to various factors like contraceptive methods and hysterectomies. She stressed the unpredictability of when an individual might stop menstruating, emphasizing the importance of tuning into one's body and being attentive to subtle changes. Furthermore, she pointed out the availability of straightforward methods to test estrogen and progesterone levels, which can provide valuable insights into hormonal health. This knowledge gap in medical education, particularly regarding hormone testing, was an eye-opener for both of us during our conversation.
One of the most important things to note, with regards to Justine’s case, is the concept of hormonal acceleration, commonly observed between ages 41 and 43, where hormones can undergo rapid changes, often triggered by life events and stress, making it crucial for women to recognize the connection between these symptoms and hormonal fluctuations.
Deciphering Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormones are the invisible architects of our well-being, influencing energy levels, sleep patterns, and even our emotional states. Achieving the right hormonal balance is paramount for optimal health. One of the ways that women may choose to do this is with Hormone Replacement Therapy also known as HRT. At its core, HRT involves replenishing hormones that our bodies may no longer produce in sufficient quantities. Emily goes into a lot more detail in this episode, so I encourage you to give it a listen.
Why You May Want to Consider Replacing Hormones
As with everything to do with our bodies, we are all different. When it comes to replacing hormones, the choice is up to the individual woman going through menopause. Emily and I discussed several reasons women may want to consider HRT. Here are a few:
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Hormonal Decline: This could be at any time during the 10-year period prior to menopause when there's a significant hormonal decline. Women may experience various symptoms during this time.
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Acceleration of Symptoms: As mentioned, between the ages of 41 and 43, there can be an acceleration of symptoms. This acceleration can manifest as a sudden and pronounced change in hormonal symptoms.
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Stress-Related Symptoms: Stress can play a role in exacerbating hormonal symptoms. Emily mentions that women who have had babies in their early 40s often experience an acceleration of symptoms, possibly due to both age and the stress of childbirth.
Exploring the Varieties of Hormone Replacement Therapy
We dove deep into the various options for HRT, including a frank conversation about the biased studies that have left a lot of women fearing HRT. If you are considering it but have some concerns, I highly recommend you listen to this conversation.
If you are exploring the options of HRT, there are two main types of HRT to consider:
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Bioidentical Hormones: Bioidentical hormones are hormones derived from plant sources, such as soy or yams, and are designed to have the same molecular structure as hormones naturally produced by the human body, like estrogen and progesterone. They are used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) because they can be customized to address an individual's specific hormonal imbalances and symptoms. Customization ensures a more tailored and effective treatment under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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Synthetic Hormones: Synthetic hormones, unlike bioidentical hormones, have a molecular structure that is not identical to hormones naturally produced by the body. These hormones are often used in conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) but may come with more standardized dosages and less flexibility in addressing individual hormonal needs. The use of synthetic hormones can sometimes lead to side effects or limited effectiveness since they don't precisely match the body's natural hormones.
Striking the Balance: Three Approaches to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
There are three primary approaches to hormone replacement therapy (HRT), each with its own delivery methods and timing. The first approach is called "static continuous," where individuals take a small amount of estrogen and progesterone every day. This can be administered through methods like patches, transdermal creams, or even oral forms. It's often used to alleviate symptoms and can be suitable for post-menopausal individuals.
The second approach involves taking estrogen daily but adding progesterone for only 12-14 days each month. This approach is essential for those with a uterus to reduce the risk of endometrial cancer associated with unopposed estrogen. Some women prefer this method as they find progesterone can make them feel sleepier or moodier when taken continuously.
The third approach is less common but involves a transdermal method that mimics the natural menstrual cycle. It starts with low hormone doses from days one to five, gradually increasing from days five to twelve, then slightly decreasing on days 13 and 14. With the introduction of progesterone, there's another peak around day 21, followed by a decline. Because this approach mirrors the natural hormonal fluctuations of a menstrual cycle it is known as "rhythmic hormone replacement" or "physiologic restoration." The physiological protocol is more complex and requires thorough testing but aims to replicate the peaks and troughs of estrogen and progesterone that play crucial roles in processes like heart health, inflammation and bone turnover.
Exploring Natural Alternatives
We can’t talk about hormone intervention without exploring the role food, supplements, and lifestyle might play in the solution. Emily's insights into alternative approaches, such as lifestyle modifications and natural remedies to manage hormone-related symptoms, align perfectly with our collaborative perspective. Dietary adjustments, stress management techniques, and regular exercise all play a role in promoting hormonal well-being, as Emily elaborated in this episode.
To Be Continued…Case Not Closed
My conversation with Emily was so enthralling that we lost track of time and just kept chatting away. I want to share the entire conversation with you because the information is so important and valuable to all women. However, I know how busy you are and I didn’t want to drop an extra-long episode on you.
So, please join us again next time as we continue to unravel the mysteries of menopause. We’ll dive deeper into the PR protocol, and I’ll share how Justine and I solved her health mystery.
Eliminating Hormone Health Mysteries
Like Justine, many women suffer through perimenopause and menopause because they don’t have the information or a place to ask questions. Let’s change that. You can start by sharing this episode and the next with any woman in your life over 40 who has not experienced menopause. This may be the missing clue in your (or someone else’s) health mystery!
Links:
Resources mentioned
Thanks again to my guest Emily Sadri. You can connect with her on Instagram or check out her website.
Related Podcast Episodes:
141 The Honest Truth about Semaglutide for Weight Loss and Thyroid Health
107 Demystifying Prolonged Use of Birth Control Pills + Thyroid Connection
129 How to Lose that ‘Menopot’ and Sail Through Menopause
096 Demystifying Hormones for Perimenopause and Menopause
110 Demystifying Hormones for Perimenopause and Menopause (Part 2)
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As soon as you find out that you have a thyroid issue, or that you’re diagnosed with Hashimoto's, your instinct is to learn as much as you can. As the internet becomes more and more crowded with information, it can be so difficult to find useful information. And, it can be hard to determine who to trust as you try to navigate your way to overcoming your Hashimoto’s and hyperthyroid symptoms.
I know because I was once in this position and because I’ve spent the last decade helping Hashimoto’s and hypothyroid patients regain their health.
A lot has changed in this time - and more changes are coming (more on that at the end of these show notes) but over the years, I’ve discovered that there are 5 key drivers of success when it comes to overcoming your thyroid issues and Hashimoto’s symptoms. I share them in this episode along with a big announcement about this show and support for anyone dealing with autoimmunity, Hashimoto’s, and hypothyroidism.
The 5 Keys to Overcoming Hashimoto’s
These five proven strategies have made a huge difference for me and many of my clients struggling with Hashimoto's.
1. Diet: Balancing Blood Sugar Is Key
It all starts with food! While everyone's needs are unique, there's one common thread: balanced blood sugar. Eating a balanced diet with all the macronutrients – carbs, proteins, and fats – is crucial. Avoid blood sugar spikes by avoiding excessive carbs at once and pair your meals with protein and healthy fats. Remember, stress can be physical too! Unbalanced blood sugar creates stress on the body, hindering progress.
2. Clean Eating: Ditching Chemicals and Going Organic
Our world is full of chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. Research shows these chemicals can negatively impact our health. So, the cleaner you eat, the better. Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods straight from the earth. Consider going organic, especially for the "Dirty Dozen" – the foods most heavily laden with pesticide residues (check the Environmental Working Group's list). Organic meats and dairy are also beneficial to avoid added hormones and antibiotics.
3. Identify and Address Food Sensitivities
Gluten is a common culprit for many with Hashimoto's. Not everyone needs to be gluten-free, but some may have the DQ2 and DQ8 genes, making gluten processing difficult. When you consume gluten, even without immediate symptoms, the immune system attacks it. This can lead to accidental attacks on the thyroid due to molecular similarities between gluten and thyroid molecules (cross-reactivity).
I personally struggled with gluten for years, but identifying it as a trigger made a significant difference. Consider exploring food sensitivities to see what might be hindering your progress.
4. Targeted Supplements for Personalized Support
Supplements can be extremely helpful, but a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. Our immune triggers and thyroid types vary. However, some supplements have been particularly beneficial for me and my clients:
- SPM (Specialized Proresolving Mediators): Helps reduce inflammation and calm the immune system.
- Glutathione: An amazing antioxidant that supports detoxification and promotes immune balance. I recommend the APEX Trizoma Glutathione brand for its liquid form and good taste.
- Vitamin D: Another immune balancer and natural anti-inflammatory. I recommend Designs for Health's Vitamin D Synergy or Vitamin D Supreme.
- Remember: These are just a few suggestions. It's important to find what works best for you.
5. Calm the Nervous System
The nervous system has a powerful influence on the immune system. A calmer nervous system translates to a more balanced immune system. Here are some ways to achieve this:
- Meditation
- Movement
- Visualization
- Reframing negative thoughts
- Releasing negativity
- Setting positive intentions
- Affirmations
- Faith
- Mantras
- Self-worth exercises (like clearing feelings of "not enoughness")
I find meditation and movement particularly helpful. Experiment and find what works for you.
Bonus Tip #1: Building a Morning Practice Can Make a Big Difference
Mornings can be tough, but incorporating a self-care routine can shift the entire day. I recommend starting your day a little earlier, even before the kids wake up (believe me, I get it, I'm not a morning person either!).
The book "The Miracle Morning" by Hal Elrod offers great tips on establishing a morning practice and provides ideas to optimize your early-start time. It’s hard to believe but the benefits of improved sleep quality and stress reduction outweigh the initial sacrifice of a little extra sleep.
Bonus Tip #2: Increase Your Capacity to Receive
This may sound surprising, but it's incredibly powerful. We all want optimal health, vibrant energy, and freedom from Hashimoto's. But sometimes, we struggle to allow ourselves to truly receive these things.
My question for you is, can you allow all of the things you picture when you see yourself in optimal health? Take a moment and really feel this question in your body. How much good health can you really receive without feeling like, ‘Oh, gosh, this is too much’? All the things that you want to be able to do when you are feeling better; when you have more energy; when you lose that weight – how much of that joy can you actually allow and take in?
This might feel like a strange concept, but explore it. Notice any tightness or resistance in your body when you imagine complete freedom from symptoms. Do you feel undeserving of such good health?
We often have subconscious beliefs about deservingness. We may feel good things like joy, love, and health need to be earned. This can block our ability to receive the very things we desire.
You’ve heard the stories about lottery winners who lose their winnings quickly. This is often due to a deep-seated feeling of not deserving it. They sabotage their own success.
The same can happen with health. If you don't feel deserving of good health, your nervous system won't feel safe receiving it. This can lead to unconscious sabotage of your healing journey.
Learning to receive is crucial for overcoming Hashimoto's and any chronic health issues. I have entire programs dedicated to overcoming these blocks: "Clear Your Thyroid Blocks" and my signature program "Thyroid Mystery Solved." You can find more information on my website … which brings me to my important announcement!
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