The No.1 Menopause Doctor: They’re Lying To You About Menopause! Mary Claire Haver

Name: The No.1 Menopause Doctor: They’re Lying To You About Menopause! Mary Claire Haver
Uploaded: 2023-12-18T08:00:23.000Z
Duration: 2 h 50 min 15 s

Menopause and its Impact

In this section, Dr. Mary CLA Haver discusses the impact of menopause on women's health and the lack of awareness surrounding menopausal symptoms.

The Prevalence of Menopausal Symptoms

85% of women in 2023 are experiencing menopausal symptoms.

Only 10.5% of these women are receiving treatment or therapy.

Menopause is comparable to testicles shrinking at age 51 for men.

The Need for Awareness and Support

Women are more likely to be prescribed anti-depressants for menopause than hormone therapy.

Many women are unaware of the symptoms associated with menopause.

There is a laundry list of about 70 categorized symptoms, including brain fog, changes in sexual function, weight gain, and increased risk for depression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and urinary tract infections.

Taking Action for Better Health

Focus on strength training to combat muscle loss during menopause.

Diet plays a crucial role in managing menopausal symptoms.

Menopause affects both men and women as it impacts half of society.

Understanding Menopause

It is important to understand how menopause affects the human body.

Supportive measures should be taken by partners and individuals going through perimenopause or menopause themselves.

Dr. Mary CLA Haver's Journey

Dr. Mary CLA Haver shares her personal journey into specializing in menopause medicine and her motivation behind helping women navigate through this phase.

Finding Her Calling

Dr. Mary CLA Haver initially pursued a career in surgery but discovered her passion for obstetrics and gynecology after delivering her first baby.

She transitioned from private practice to academia to have the opportunity to conduct research, teach, and care for patients.

Recognizing the Knowledge Gap

As Dr. Mary CLA Haver aged alongside her patients, she realized there was a lack of education and knowledge about menopause.

Weight gain was a common concern among her patients, leading her to delve deeper into understanding menopause.

Pursuing Further Education

Dr. Mary CLA Haver went back to school to study nutrition as she believed it played a significant role in menopausal weight gain.

Traditional medical training provided limited knowledge about nutrition and its impact on the body.

Developing the Galveston Diet

Using her newfound knowledge in nutrition and inflammation, Dr. Mary CLA Haver developed the Galveston Diet as a program for her patients.

The diet aimed to address not only weight gain but also other menopausal symptoms affecting multiple organ systems.

Raising Awareness

Through social media, Dr. Mary CLA Haver realized that many women were suffering silently from various menopausal symptoms.

She recognized the need for increased awareness and support for women going through menopause.

Timestamps are approximate and may vary slightly depending on the video source.

The Impact of Menopause on Women's Health

In this section, the speaker discusses the significance of menopause and its impact on women's health. They highlight the need to raise awareness about menopause as it affects a large portion of the female population.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause affects approximately one-third of the female population worldwide.

It is not an optional phase; all women go through it.

Estrogen receptors are present in every organ system, so declining estrogen levels during menopause can lead to a wide range of symptoms and health issues beyond hot flashes and night sweats.

Mental health, capabilities, skin, bones, kidneys, and other organ systems can be affected by menopause.

Age Range for Menopause

This section focuses on the typical age range for menopause and how it varies from person to person.

Average Age Range for Menopause

The average age of menopause (one year after the last menstrual period) is 51 in the US and most of Europe.

Perimenopause, which is when symptoms start due to declining estrogen levels, can begin 7 to 10 years before menopause.

Normal menopausal age range is between 45 to 55 years.

Possible Age Range for Perimenopause

Considering that perimenopausal symptoms can start 7 to 10 years before menopause, it is reasonable for a woman as young as 35 to experience some symptoms related to perimenopause.

Understanding Gonads and Female Reproductive System

This section explains gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females) and how they function in the female reproductive system.

Gonads and Reproductive Process

In males, the testes produce genetic material (sperm) continuously from puberty until death.

In females, the ovaries contain eggs that develop while in the womb and are meant to last until menopause.

Eggs remain dormant until puberty when ovulation starts, leading to monthly hormonal cycles and menstruation.

Decreasing Egg Supply and Hormonal Changes

This section discusses how a woman's egg supply decreases over time and the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause.

Decrease in Egg Supply

By age 30, a woman is down to about 10% of her initial egg supply at birth.

By age 40, it decreases to about 3%.

Fluctuations in periods and symptoms start occurring as the quantity and quality of eggs decline.

Hormonal Changes and Organ System Impact

Estrogen plays a crucial role in various body systems as an anti-inflammatory hormone.

The muscular-skeletal syndrome of menopause is gaining attention, including issues like frozen shoulder, generalized aches, and pains.

Many physicians are not aware of these impacts beyond hot flashes and night sweats.

Understanding Perimenopause Stage

This section explains what happens during the perimenopausal stage when estrogen levels start dropping.

Chaotic Nature of Perimenopause

During perimenopause, estrogen surges become irregular or closer together, leading to disruptions in menstrual cycles.

Individual experiences vary greatly during this stage; some women may have irregular periods while others experience heavy bleeding.

Three Stages of Menopause

This section provides an overview of the three stages of menopause: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

Perimenopause Stage

Perimenopause is the stage when estrogen levels start to drop, leading to disruptions in menstrual cycles.

Symptoms can be highly individualized and chaotic, with periods of feeling fine followed by periods of symptoms.

Testosterone levels also decline during this stage, impacting muscle mass, sexual function, and strength.

Menopause and the Medical System

In this section, the speaker discusses menopause and how it is perceived in the medical system. They highlight the lack of understanding and support for women going through menopause, as well as the limitations of current medical practices.

Menopause and Evolutionary Advantage

The majority of mammals do not go through menopause and continue to ovulate until they die.

The "grandmother hypothesis" suggests that there was an evolutionary advantage for women to stop ovulating at some point.

Modern medicine has extended human lifespan, leading to longer periods of post-reproductive life.

Definition of Menopause

Menopause is defined as when a woman over the age of 45 has not had a period for a year.

However, certain factors like hysterectomy or contraceptive methods can complicate this definition.

Postmenopause

Postmenopause refers to the period after menopause where symptoms may persist but fertility ends.

Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and brain fog may improve, but other aspects continue to progress.

Dissatisfaction with Current Answers

Many women feel let down by both the medical system and society regarding their experiences during perimenopause and postmenopause.

Lack of clear answers and contradictory information lead to frustration among women seeking help.

Lack of Support in Medical System

The speaker acknowledges that even as a doctor, she felt let down by the medical system's approach to menopausal care.

Traditional training often overlooks menopausal issues, resulting in inadequate knowledge among healthcare providers.

Women's Experiences Ignored

A story is shared about how women's complaints during midlife were dismissed as being whiny without proper investigation or understanding.

The Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 led to misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), impacting menopausal care.

Limited Options for Women

The speaker highlights that HRT can be safe and effective for the majority of women, but it is no longer widely available due to misconceptions.

Only a small percentage of women receive treatment or therapy for menopausal symptoms.

Personal Skepticism

The speaker admits to feeling let down and skeptical about the medical system's approach to menopause, especially considering her own experiences.

Bias against weight and lack of understanding about menopause were prevalent during her training.

Women's Experiences with Menopause

In this section, the speaker discusses how women often struggle to find answers and support during their menopausal journey. They share personal anecdotes and highlight the need for better education and resources.

Lack of Answers for Women

Many women, including successful individuals with access to resources, struggle to find reliable information about menopause.

Relying on internet searches often leads to contradictory information and confusion.

Disappointment in Medical System

The speaker believes that both the medical system and society fail to adequately address women's needs during perimenopause and postmenopause.

Women's value and worth in medicine are not given enough attention.

Inadequate Menopausal Training

Despite being proud of her training, the speaker admits that she was not well-prepared as a menopause provider for many years.

Traditional medical training does not sufficiently cover menopausal issues, leading to a systemic problem.

Dismissive Attitude towards Women

An anecdote is shared about how women's complaints were dismissed as whiny without proper investigation or understanding.

This attitude further contributes to the lack of support for women going through menopause.

Impact of Misinformation

The Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 had significant implications on hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and menopausal care.

Misinterpretation of the study's results led to a decline in HRT availability, limiting treatment options for women.

Need for Change

The speaker emphasizes the importance of reevaluating menopausal care and providing better education and resources for healthcare providers.

Understanding women's experiences during menopause is crucial for improving their quality of life.

The Impact of Menopause on Women's Health

This section discusses the health implications of menopause for women, including increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and insulin resistance. It also highlights the changes in cholesterol levels, skin, hair, teeth, and inner ear that can occur during menopause.

Health Implications of Menopause

Women going through menopause often visit multiple specialists and take various medications to manage symptoms.

Restoring hormone balance can have a significant positive impact on women's overall well-being.

Menopause is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Estrogen plays a crucial role in reducing inflammation in bones, joints, and muscles.

Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) is a common condition during menopause due to estrogen deficiency.

It takes about two years of therapy to treat frozen shoulder effectively.

The Importance of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

This section emphasizes the benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women going through menopause. It discusses how HRT can reduce the risk of all-cause mortality and various diseases when initiated early in perimenopause or within the first ten years of menopause.

Benefits of HRT

Observational studies show that women on HRT have lower all-cause mortality rates.

Starting HRT early in perimenopause or within the first ten years of menopause offers an opportunity to decrease the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and dementia.

Estrogen is better at prevention than cure; starting HRT later may not provide the same benefits.

Timing for Initiating Hormone Replacement Therapy

This section discusses when to consider starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the importance of monitoring symptoms and hormone levels. It emphasizes that women should have the choice to start HRT if they experience symptoms or notice changes in their bodies.

Initiating HRT

Monitoring hormone levels and considering HRT can begin in a woman's late 30s.

If a woman experiences symptoms or notices changes in her body, it may be an indication to start considering HRT.

Symptoms such as sleep disturbances, aches and pains, mental health changes, and gut health issues can be associated with menopause.

Women often feel that something is wrong even before being able to pinpoint specific symptoms.

Understanding Menopause from Others' Perspectives

This section highlights the challenges women face during menopause and how it can affect their relationships. It emphasizes the need for better understanding and support from those around them.

Challenges Faced by Women Going Through Menopause

Menopause can lead to behavioral changes that may be misunderstood by others.

Lack of awareness about perimenopause/menopause can result in misdiagnosis or labeling of other health conditions.

Women going through menopause may experience struggles with emotional labor and organizational responsibilities.

Menopause can contribute to divorce rates but also empower women to prioritize their well-being.

The transcript provided does not cover the entire video.

New Section

In this section, the speaker emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about menopause and perimenopause. They also discuss the need for better support in the medical system and highlight the significance of strength training for women's health.

Importance of Normalizing Conversations about Menopause

It is crucial to talk openly about menopause with family members and loved ones to create awareness and understanding.

By making menopause a normal part of conversation, individuals going through it will feel less isolated and more supported.

Support in the Medical System

The medical system needs to provide comprehensive support for women going through menopause.

This includes not only hormone therapy but also other forms of support such as cognitive behavioral therapy.

Women's health should be prioritized, including addressing sleep issues and focusing on strength training for longevity and functionality.

Stigma Associated with Menopause

There is shame and stigma associated with aging, particularly for females.

The loss of fertility during menopause adds another layer of stigma.

Funding for research studies on women's health is significantly lower compared to other areas, which further perpetuates the lack of attention given to menopause.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the inadequate funding allocated to women's health research, specifically related to menopause. They highlight the need for more investment in understanding and supporting women during this stage of life.

Inadequate Funding for Menopause Research

Women's health research receives significantly less funding compared to other areas.

The National Institutes of Health allocates around 15 billion dollars for women's health research, while fertility-related studies receive a majority share.

Menopausal research only receives a fraction of the funding, despite its impact on the lives of 1.2 billion women worldwide.

Lack of Education and Support for Menopausal Women

Many menopausal women lack access to education and support.

Approximately 85% of women who seek help from healthcare providers are turned away with unanswered questions.

Only 10% of women have discussions about hormone replacement therapy, and misconceptions about its risks further deter them from seeking help.

Importance of Intervention and Support

It is crucial to intervene and provide support for menopausal women to improve their quality of life.

By addressing menopause-related issues, such as depression and physical health, women can lead longer and healthier lives.

The number of women affected by menopause is significant, with millions entering perimenopause or postmenopause each year.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses the mental health implications associated with menopause. They highlight the increased risk or worsening of conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and suicide during this stage. The potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy in managing mental health are also mentioned.

Mental Health Implications

Menopause can lead to an increase in mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, and suicide.

Women may experience new onset or worsening symptoms during this stage.

Hormone replacement therapy can be a powerful adjunctive tool in managing mental health conditions during perimenopause and menopause.

Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy

Hormone replacement therapy has shown to be effective in preventing new onset depression when started during perimenopause.

It is not currently advocated as primary therapy for depression but can be a valuable addition to treatment.

Suicide rates may increase during menopause, particularly among Caucasian women.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses inflammation and its connection to menopause. They explain the difference between acute and chronic inflammation and highlight how the lack of estrogen during menopause can lead to increased chronic inflammation.

Understanding Inflammation

Inflammation can be categorized as acute or chronic.

Acute inflammation is a necessary response for healing and fighting infections or injuries.

Chronic inflammation is a low-grade, ongoing process that can contribute to various health issues, including autoimmune diseases.

Menopause and Chronic Inflammation

Menopause leads to a significant decrease in estrogen levels, which results in increased chronic inflammation.

Estrogen acts as an anti-inflammatory hormone, so its decline removes this protective effect.

Managing inflammation becomes crucial during menopause to promote overall health and well-being.

New Section

In this section, the speaker discusses dietary considerations for reducing inflammation during menopause. They emphasize the importance of following an anti-inflammatory diet by avoiding sugar and making informed choices while grocery shopping.

Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Following an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce inflammation during menopause.

Besides avoiding sugar, it is essential to make informed choices while grocery shopping.

The speaker recommends teaching principles of anti-inflammation nutrition for better management of menopausal symptoms.

Importance of Vitamin D and Fiber in Menopause

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of vitamin D and fiber in menopause.

Vitamin D Deficiency

About 85% of women in menopause are deficient in vitamin D.

Vitamin D deficiencies are linked to chronic diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and mental health issues.

Regularly checking vitamin D levels and supplementing or consuming foods rich in vitamin D is crucial.

Benefits of Fiber

Fiber slows down glucose absorption into the bloodstream, keeping insulin levels lower over time.

There are two types of fiber: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber feeds the gut microbiome while insoluble fiber aids digestion.

Consuming enough fiber-rich foods helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which has numerous positive effects on overall health.

The Role of Fasting for Inflammation

This section focuses on the role of fasting in reducing inflammation.

Benefits of Fasting

Fasting can help reduce neuroinflammation and systemic inflammation.

It may lead to lower insulin levels overall.

The recommended fasting method is 16 hours of fasting followed by an 8-hour eating window (168).

Incorporating Fasting into Daily Life

Start with a trial period of about six weeks to allow your body to adapt gradually.

Begin by pushing back your breakfast time by 15-minute increments until you reach your desired fasting window.

Individualize fasting based on personal preferences and needs.

Fiber-Rich Foods

This section highlights various fiber-rich foods that can be easily found in supermarkets.

Examples of Fiber-Rich Foods

Avocado, chia seeds, nuts, berries, cruciferous vegetables, apples, asparagus, tomatoes, spinach, and celery are all fiber-rich options.

Lean meats do not contain much fiber; fruits, vegetables, and seeds are better sources.

Effects of Fasting

The speaker shares personal experiences and observations regarding the effects of fasting.

Personal Observations

While fasting, the speaker experiences increased clarity of thought and productivity in the morning.

Fasting allows for focused research and effective communication with followers.

Breaking the fast may result in a decrease in mental sharpness.

Individualized Approach to Fasting

This section emphasizes the importance of individualizing fasting practices.

Tailoring Fasting to Personal Needs

Different individuals may benefit from different fasting durations or patterns.

It is essential to consider personal preferences and potential triggers for eating disorders when deciding on a fasting routine.

Give yourself a six-week trial period to allow your body to adapt gradually.

The Effect of Fasting on Brain Function

This section discusses the impact of fasting on brain function and the use of ketones as an alternative energy source.

Fasting and Brain Performance

Fasting can improve brain function due to increased focus and alertness.

The brain tends to work better when in a fasted state, possibly due to increased oxygen or nutrient availability.

Animal studies have shown that animals tend to perform better in mazes when fasted compared to after being fed.

Ketones as an Energy Source

Ketones can be used as an alternative energy source for the brain, especially during fasting or following a ketogenic diet.

While glucose is the preferred fuel for the body, ketones have been found to enhance cognitive performance in animal studies.

Researchers studying Alzheimer's and dementia have observed that ketones are naturally utilized by the brain for fuel.

The Galveston Diet Components

This section explains the three components of the Galveston Diet - time-restricted eating, utilizing ketones for fuel, and focusing on specific nutrients.

Time-Restricted Eating

The Galveston Diet emphasizes time-restricted eating, where food consumption is limited to certain hours of the day.

By implementing this approach, individuals can optimize their metabolism and promote weight loss.

Utilizing Ketones for Fuel

The Galveston Diet recognizes that our bodies naturally switch from using glucose to burning fat for fuel during periods of fasting or low carbohydrate intake.

Some individuals may choose to supplement with exogenous ketones, although there is limited literature supporting their use.

Focus on Nutrients

Instead of counting calories, the Galveston Diet encourages focusing on essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamin D, and magnesium.

These nutrients are particularly important for women during menopause, as they tend to be deficient in them.

Rather than solely focusing on macronutrient ratios, the emphasis is placed on ensuring adequate intake of vital micronutrients.

Importance of Protein and Muscle Mass

This section highlights the significance of protein intake and maintaining muscle mass, especially during menopause.

Protein Intake

Protein intake is crucial for maintaining muscle mass, which tends to decline with age and menopause.

The Galveston Diet initially emphasized higher fat intake and lower carbohydrates but has since shifted towards higher protein recommendations.

Adequate protein intake supports muscle growth, recovery from falls, insulin resistance, and overall functionality.

Muscle Mass and Health

Loss of muscle mass during menopause can lead to various health issues such as insulin resistance and increased risk of osteoporosis.

Low muscle mass increases the likelihood of osteoporotic fractures in women.

Maintaining muscle mass through exercise, resistance training, proper nutrition (including protein), and supplementation (such as creatine) can help prevent these health complications.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Menopause

This section discusses hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in relation to menopause and addresses concerns regarding breast cancer risks associated with HRT.

Women's Health Initiative Study

The Women's Health Initiative study aimed to determine if hormone replacement therapy was protective against cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women.

Observational studies suggested that HRT reduced the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

However, a randomized controlled study conducted as part of the Women's Health Initiative raised concerns about an increased risk of breast cancer associated with HRT use.

Benefits of HRT

HRT has been shown to have cardiovascular benefits and reduce the risk of heart disease in observational studies.

The study design of the Women's Health Initiative focused on investigating cardiovascular outcomes, leading to an average participant age of 63 years old.

Hormone replacement therapy may be more beneficial for women in their 60s and 70s when heart disease risk is higher.

Preventive Measures

Preventing osteoporosis and fractures in menopausal women involves various measures such as hormone therapy, exercise, resistance training, protein intake, creatine supplementation, and adequate vitamin D levels.

Adequate nutrition and lifestyle choices can significantly protect against osteoporotic fractures that can lead to severe pain and reduced mobility.

The transcript provided does not specify the language used. Therefore, the summary is written in English.

Hormone Replacement Therapy and Breast Cancer Risk

In this section, the speaker discusses the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and its association with breast cancer risk. They explain the importance of giving women progesterone along with estrogen to protect the lining of the uterus. The relative risk of breast cancer in women on estrogen plus progesterone arm is discussed, as well as the impact of estrogen-only arm on breast cancer risk.

HRT and Breast Cancer Risk

Giving a woman progesterone along with estrogen helps protect the lining of the uterus from unopposed estrogen, which can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.

Estrogen plus progesterone arm showed a slight increase in breast cancer risk compared to placebo after 2 years.

Absolute risk went from four out of a thousand women per year to five out of a thousand women per year.

This represents a 25% relative risk increase.

Estrogen-only arm did not show an increased risk of breast cancer and even had a 20% decrease in relative risk.

Estrogen feeds breast cancer cells but does not cause breast cancer itself.

Highest levels of estrogen are during pregnancy, where it is rare to be diagnosed with breast cancer.

Vaginal Estrogen for Genital Urinary Syndrome

In this section, the speaker discusses genital urinary syndrome of menopause and how vaginal estrogen can help alleviate symptoms. They highlight that vaginal estrogen is safe even for women with breast cancer.

Genital Urinary Syndrome and Vaginal Estrogen

Genital urinary syndrome of menopause affects over 50% of menopausal patients and includes symptoms such as thinning tissue, loss of elasticity, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), painful intercourse, and dryness.

Vaginal estrogen is the most likely treatment to help women with recurrent UTIs.

Vaginal estrogen is safe for everyone, including women with breast cancer.

It is a simple treatment that can alleviate symptoms such as painful intercourse and dryness.

Forms of Hormone Replacement Therapy

In this section, the speaker discusses different forms of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) administration and their popularity in different countries. They also explain the potential risks associated with oral estrogen and how non-oral forms can bypass these risks.

Forms of HRT Administration

Different forms of HRT administration include pills, creams, patches, rings, and pellets.

In the UK, gel or cream forms are popular for HRT administration.

In the US, patches are commonly used for non-oral HRT administration.

Oral estrogen has potential risks such as increased clotting factors in the liver.

Non-oral forms like patches or rings bypass the liver and do not have an increased risk of clotting.

Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy

In this section, the speaker discusses potential side effects associated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT). They mention specific issues that may arise with each component of HRT - estrogen, progesterone, androgens. The importance of monitoring patients on low-dose HRT is emphasized.

Side Effects of HRT

Estrogen may cause headaches or worsen migraines in some patients.

Approximately 40% of patients on menopausal hormone therapy may experience unexplained vaginal bleeding. This does not indicate a return of periods but rather stimulation of uterine lining tissue.

The transcript ends here.

Describing Menopause Symptoms and Treatment Options

In this section, the speaker discusses the symptoms of menopause and various treatment options available for women. The importance of individualized approaches and considerations for sexual wellness are also highlighted.

Understanding Menopause Symptoms and Allergic Reactions to Adhesive

Some women may experience an allergic reaction to the adhesive used in patches for hormone therapy. Approximately 10% of women may have this reaction. Alternative forms of treatment need to be explored in such cases.

Individualized Approach to Menopausal Treatment

Finding the right formulation and dosage is crucial when treating menopausal symptoms. Trial and error may be necessary to determine what works best for each individual patient.

Initial Assessment and Blood Work

The initial assessment involves listening to the patient's story, understanding their symptoms, and conducting blood work.

Blood work helps determine if a woman is perimenopausal or postmenopausal, especially if she has had a hysterectomy.

Thyroid function is also checked as some symptoms can mimic menopause, such as fatigue, night sweats, weight gain, etc.

Nutrition deficiencies, vitamin D levels, blood count, and electrolytes are also evaluated through blood tests.

Addressing Sexual Wellness

A discussion about sexual wellness is initiated with patients who are struggling with desire.

Testosterone therapy may be considered for women experiencing a decline in desire.

Different aspects of female sexual function are discussed: relationship disorders, arousal disorders (similar to erectile dysfunction in men), orgasmic disorders, and desire issues related to menopause.

FDA Approved Medications and Hormone Therapy

For arousal disorders in women (similar to maintaining an erection in men), vaginal Viagra may be helpful.

Orgasmic disorders are often overlooked, and about 10% of women may never experience an orgasm in their lifetime.

Testosterone therapy or FDA-approved medications like Addyi and Vyleesi can be considered for addressing desire issues.

Challenges in Accessing Menopause Care

The speaker shares a case study of a patient who experienced various menopausal symptoms but found relief through personalized treatment.

The lack of accessible menopause care is highlighted, with patients having to travel long distances to seek appropriate help.

The speaker mentions maintaining a list of recommended providers on her website to assist women in finding quality menopause care.

Understanding How to Support a Partner Going Through Menopause

In this section, the speaker discusses how partners can support someone going through menopause and emphasizes the importance of open communication and removing the stigma around menopause.

Supporting a Partner During Menopause

Partners may struggle with knowing when and how to help during menopause.

It is important to approach the topic with sensitivity and avoid diagnosing or assuming symptoms.

Look for changes in behavior, resilience, and reactions as potential signs of menopause.

Normalize the conversation around menopause to reduce shame and stigma.

Encourage open communication between partners about what is happening in her body.

Consider involving a healthcare provider in the conversation to better understand treatment options and provide support.

Do Men Experience Anything Similar to Menopause?

This section addresses whether men experience anything similar to menopause.

Men's Experience with Hormonal Changes

While there is no equivalent to menopause in men, testosterone levels do change over time.

Testosterone levels peak at around age 19 and gradually decline until stabilizing at age 35 to 40.

There is variation among individuals regarding testosterone levels within the normal range (236 - 1000).

Some men may choose testosterone supplementation for improved cognition, energy, etc., but it is not equivalent to menopause.

The Overlooked Nature of Menopausal Symptoms

This section highlights how women's experiences with menopausal symptoms have often been dismissed or attributed solely to psychological factors.

Historical Dismissal of Women's Experiences

Women's experiences with menopausal symptoms were often dismissed as psychological rather than physiological.

The notion that "it's all in her head" was prevalent during medical training and practice.

Women were more likely to be prescribed antidepressants rather than hormone therapy for menopausal symptoms.

Fear surrounding the Women's Health Initiative study impacted physicians' confidence in prescribing hormone therapy.

Incorporating Meditation and Self-Care

This section discusses the importance of self-care, including meditation, during menopause.

Self-Care Practices

The speaker recommends using meditation apps like Headspace for mental well-being during menopause.

Initially skeptical, she found that carving out just a few minutes each day for gratitude and relaxation made a significant difference.

Emphasizes the importance of putting oneself first and taking care of personal needs before attending to other responsibilities.

The transcript provided does not include any additional sections or timestamps beyond this point.

Importance of Sleep and Nutrition

In this section, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sleep and nutrition for overall health and well-being.

The Significance of Restorative Sleep

Disrupted sleep can have negative effects on the body, including increased cortisol levels, insulin resistance, and overall deterioration.

Prioritizing quality sleep is crucial for muscle building, brain function, and overall body restoration.

Sleep Disruption Due to Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can cause sleep disruptions.

Addressing hormonal issues can lead to improved sleep quality.

If sleep disruption is due to hormones, it can be resolved by addressing the underlying hormonal imbalance.

Correlation Between Sleep Apnea and Menopause

There is a correlation between sleep apnea and menopause in women.

Even thin women going through menopause may experience an increase in sleep apnea rates.

Sleep apnea involves breathing interruptions during sleep, leading to reduced oxygen intake and potential health risks.

Exercise Regime and Building Muscle Mass

This section focuses on the speaker's exercise routine and the importance of building muscle mass for overall health.

Transition from Exercising for Weight Loss to Strength Training

The speaker used to focus on exercising for weight loss but now prioritizes strength training.

Resistance training has become a key part of her exercise regime.

She uses a treadmill set at an incline for workouts while working from home.

Importance of Resistance Training for Bone Density

The speaker incorporates resistance training into her routine to improve bone density.

Wearing a weighted vest helps target upper body muscles while walking on an inclined treadmill.

Personal Struggle with Sarcopenia (Muscle Loss)

The speaker has sarcopenia (muscle loss) and a genetic predisposition for low muscle mass.

She emphasizes the importance of focusing on strength rather than being thin.

Building muscle mass becomes more challenging as one gets older, so starting early is crucial.

Nutrition and Meal Timing

This section discusses the speaker's dietary habits and meal timing.

Intermittent Fasting and Meal Break

The speaker typically breaks her fast around noon.

If traveling or on a plane, she may eat earlier to avoid discomfort.

Protein, green vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds are key components of her meals.

Snacking and Protein Focus

The speaker snacks between patients and focuses on protein intake.

She consumes protein bars or shakes to meet increased protein needs for strength training.

Nuts and seeds are consumed throughout the day for their anti-inflammatory benefits.

Dinner Choices

As empty nesters, the speaker and her husband prioritize protein-centric dinners.

They include salmon, burgers, salads with avocado and chickpeas in their evening meals.

Eating is typically finished by 8:00 p.m. to allow for proper digestion before sleep.

Empowering Women in Menopause

In this section, the speaker addresses women going through menopause and emphasizes the need for self-advocacy.

Menopause as an Inevitable Phase

Menopause is inevitable but suffering can be minimized through self-care.

Society often fails menopausal women, so self-advocacy is essential.

Seeking Help and Resources

The medical system may not adequately support menopausal women; therefore, they must take initiative in seeking help.

The speaker provides resources on her website to assist women in advocating for themselves.

Articles to print out and share with doctors

Symptomatic sheets for tracking symptoms

Journals to document experiences

Non-Hormonal Approaches

Hormone therapy is not the only option; exercise, nutrition, stress reduction, and sleep can also be beneficial.

Women should prioritize self-care to improve their quality of life during menopause.

[t=1:14:02s] Pitching and Investing with Light Fund

The speaker announces that founders can pitch their companies to Light Fund, and investors can apply to invest. They provide a website for more information and contact details.

Pitching and Investing Opportunities

Founders can pitch their company to Light Fund.

Investors can apply to invest with Light Fund.

Visit the website lightfund.com for more information about the fund's mission, supported companies, and to get in touch with the team.

[t=1:14:25s] Disclaimer for Investing in Light Fund

The speaker provides a disclaimer regarding investing in Light Fund, highlighting that it is only suitable for sophisticated investors. They emphasize the high-risk nature of the investment and the absence of guarantees.

Investment Disclaimer

Light Fund is regulated by the FCA (Financial Conduct Authority).

Investing in the fund is only suitable for sophisticated investors.

There is a high risk involved, and there is no guarantee of achieving investment objectives.

All investment capital is at risk.

This communication serves as information only and should not be considered investment advice or a financial promotion.

[t=1:14:38s] Sponsorship by Hu and Product Bundle Offer

The speaker mentions being an investor in Hu, a company sponsoring the podcast. They introduce "The Hu Steven Bundle," which includes favorite products from Hu such as protein bars and water bottles.

Sponsorship by Hu and Product Bundle Offer

The speaker is an investor in Hu.

Hu sponsors the podcast.

"The Hu Steven Bundle" includes selected products from Hu:

Black Edition salted caramel flavor protein powder with 17 servings per container.

Favorite water bottle included in the bundle.

Brand new hu Complete Nutrition bars (chocolate flavor) that are highly recommended.

The speaker provides a link in the podcast description to order the Hu products.

[t=1:15:10s] Personal History of Health Complications and Illnesses

The speaker shares their personal history of health complications within their family, including the death of a sibling from leukemia and another sibling's battle with HIV and liver issues. They discuss how these experiences have shaped their perspective on nutrition and healthcare.

Personal History of Health Complications

The speaker is one of eight children.

Their oldest brother died at the age of 9 from acute lymphocytic leukemia.

Another brother had HIV, contracted hepatitis, struggled with alcoholism, and eventually passed away.

The speaker's own experience with menopause made them realize they were neglecting their own health while caring for others.

Another brother was diagnosed with stage four esophageal cancer but survived for a few years before passing away.

These experiences have influenced the speaker's choices regarding nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress reduction, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

[t=1:19:02s] Importance of Menopause Conversations

The conversation shifts to discussing menopause and its impact on individuals' lives. The importance of dismantling stigma surrounding menopause is highlighted.

Importance of Menopause Conversations

Menopause has often been overlooked or stigmatized in society.

Recent times have seen a shift towards more conversations about menopause.

Dismantling stigma is crucial for people to take action and have open discussions about menopause.

Lack of education about menopause during school years is mentioned as an issue that needs attention.

These notes provide a comprehensive summary of the given transcript using timestamps when available.

Understanding and Empathy in Discussing Complex Topics

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of breaking down complicated subjects into understandable terms. They emphasize the need for nuance and empathy when discussing topics like individual symptoms and circumstances.

Importance of Nuance and Empathy

The speaker highlights the significance of having a nuanced and empathetic view when discussing diverse symptoms and circumstances.

They appreciate individuals who have engaged in this conversation with an open mind, recognizing that everyone's experiences are unique.

Encouraging Conversations and Learning

The speaker expresses excitement about having more conversations on similar topics to broaden their understanding.

They encourage listeners to engage in conversations with their loved ones, such as partners, mothers, or sisters, to learn about their experiences.

Breaking Stigma and Supporting Others

The speaker applauds men who actively participate in these discussions, acknowledging that improving the well-being of 50% of the population benefits society as a whole.

They emphasize that men can play a role in supporting women by reducing stigma and advocating for better understanding of women's health issues.

Book Recommendations and Pre-orders

In this section, book recommendations are provided along with information on pre-order availability.

Book Recommendations

The speaker recommends two books: "The Galveston Diet" (currently available) and an upcoming book titled "The New Menopause."

They mention that "The Galveston Diet" has been out for some time while "The New Menopause" is available for pre-order.

Pre-order Information

Listeners are encouraged to pre-order "The New Menopause" from various book retailers. The expected release date is May, but exact details may vary.

Closing Tradition and Leaving a Question

This section discusses the closing tradition of leaving a question for the next guest and presents the question left by the previous guest.

Closing Tradition and Question

The speaker mentions that there is a closing tradition on the podcast where each guest leaves a question for the next guest without knowing who it will be.

The previous guest's question is revealed: "If you had one last conversation with someone you love, what would you say to them that they haven't already heard?"

Expressing Love and Gratitude

In this section, the speaker reflects on the importance of expressing love and gratitude to loved ones.

Importance of Love

The speaker emphasizes that there is nothing more important than love and shares personal experiences with their family members.

They express gratitude towards those they love.

Product Recommendation - Eight Sleep

This section introduces a product recommendation called Eight Sleep.

Introduction to Eight Sleep

The speaker shares their discovery of a life-changing product called Eight Sleep, which focuses on optimizing sleep quality.

They highlight temperature as an important factor in achieving better sleep and recommend checking out Eight Sleep for its temperature control features.

Podcast Sponsorship and Listening Recommendations

The speaker mentions that Eight Sleep is a podcast sponsor and provides exclusive holiday savings.

They suggest exploring other episodes of the podcast, linking to a related episode in the description.

Timestamps are approximate and may vary slightly.