Podcasts about hormone repair manual

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and the bestselling author of Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women. She currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.  Key Topics: - Misconceptions about women's metabolic health - The connection between metabolism and female reproductive hormones - How our relationships impact metabolic health - How the birth control pill negatively impacts overall health and suppresses hormone function - The PCOS epidemic and the connection to insulin resistance Head to larabriden.com for more. Join Erin's monthly mailing list to get health tips and fresh meal plans and recipes every month: https://mailchi.mp/adde1b3a4af3/monthlysparksignup Preorder Erin's new book, Live Beyond Your Label, at erinbkerry.com/upcomingbook/

There are different stages in the life of a woman. While I'm still in the reproductive years, I know the perimenopause/menopause stage is on the horizon. As I learn about how God created the female body, I am fascinated! The later season of womanhood can be one that women approach with fear and dread, but do we have to? While reading Hormone Repair Manual by Dr. Lara Briden, I gleaned so much information on that coming season of life as well as things I can do today to set myself for future health success. Join me as I discuss the importance of... Nervous System Regulation Exercising, Stregnth Building, and Getting Outside Getting Sunshine Nourishing Your Body with Whole Foods Prioritizing Good Sleep   Resources Referenced: Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden Period Repair Manual by Lara Briden A Christian Woman's Guide to Health and Hormones by Sarah Boots Color Analysis: Use this link for 10% off https://cal.com/radiant-woman-co/brettnay10-color-analysis   Follow my  journey by subscribing to this podcast. You can also follow me on Instagram, YouTube, and www.nohighercalling.org Subscribe to the NHC email at www.nohighercalling.org 

Pope Leo’s brothers in the US react to his elevation to the Papacy. (0:57) If you’re not Catholic why does it matter if someone else has access to contraception? Dr. Susan Caldwell shares why she stopped prescribing birth control. (9:02) New research points to the perimenopause symptoms 30-35-year-olds are experiencing. (26:16) Getting to know Pope Leo day 1 – Pope speaks in English & delivers his first homily. (41:34) Resources mentioned : Full text of Pope Leo XIV’s first homily https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/263981/full-text-pope-leo-xiv-s-homily-at-mass-with-the-cardinal-electors-in-the-sistine-chapel Study that young women are suffering menopause symptoms https://news.med.virginia.edu/research/young-women-suffering-menopause-symptoms-silently-study-reveals/ https://www.drsusancaldwell.com/ Find a NaPro Fertility Specialist Near You https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc NaPro Telemedicine https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/ Hormone Repair Manual: https://www.larabriden.com/hormone-repair-manual/ Period Repair Manual: https://www.larabriden.com/period-repair-manual/

Let's be real—how often do you stop to think about how hormonal birth control affects your body, metabolism, and overall health? It's something many women take without fully understanding the long-term impact.In today's episode, Lara Briden joins me to dive into the technical side of hormonal birth control and its effects on muscle growth, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic function. We'll explore how synthetic hormones interfere with ovarian function, why they might be hindering your fitness progress, and the connection between birth control and conditions like insulin resistance and gut health.We'll also break down how the hormonal IUD and other methods can disrupt your natural cycle and what alternatives you can consider for better hormone balance and overall well-being. Plus, Lara shares insights on how to transition off birth control safely and what to expect when your body resets.Lara Briden is a Naturopathic doctor and leading expert in women's hormone health. She's the author of Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual and has spent over 20 years working with women to optimize their hormonal health.We Also Discuss:(00:16) Birth Control and Muscle Growth Study(06:40) Benefits of Non-Hormonal Birth Control(19:00) Copper IUD and Hormonal Birth Control(33:16) Understanding Body Literacy and Exercise(42:28) Optimizing Training Based on Menstrual Cycle(46:33) Metabolism and Cycle Synchronization(58:18) Metabolic Flexibility and Muscle Growth(01:10:27) Women's Health and Metabolism RepairThank You to Our Sponsors:Broads: Broads gives you structured, progressive training and a powerhouse community to keep you strong, consistent, and unstoppable. Join today at broads.app and use code PODCAST for 20% off your first month!Legion: Use code Tara20 for 20% off your first order and double loyalty cash back any order after that when you shop at LegionAthletics.comFind more from Tara: Website: https://www.taralaferrara.com/Instagram: @taralaferrara @broads.podcast @broads.appYoutube: Tara LaFerraraTiktok: @taralaferrara Find more from Lara Briden:Website: https://www.larabriden.com/Instagram: @larabriden

Why do women need cycles? What’s the big deal with shutting off the system with birth control or thinking it’s a relief or normal to not have a cycle. Cycles play a pivotal role in stress. (2:06) Dr. Susan Caldwell answers questions on: preparing to get pregnant, carnivore diet’s benefit for hormones, hormone replacement, and does birth control fix low iron? (24:50) Preparing for Holy Week (40:52) Resources mentioned : Dr. Susan Caldwell’s website: https://www.drsusancaldwell.com/ How to Get Pregnant episode: https://omny.fm/shows/trending-with-timmerie-catholic-principles-applied/how-to-get-pregnant-shia-lebeouf-becomes-catholic Yuka app on scanning food & body products: https://yuka.io/en/ Hormone Repair Manual: https://www.larabriden.com/hormone-repair-manual/ Episode on how the Carnivore Diet treats PCOS: https://relevantradio.com/2025/02/depression-carnivore-fertility/ Significance of Holy Thursday with Fr. Robert Spitzer https://omny.fm/shows/trending-with-timmerie-catholic-principles-applied/god-s-love-for-us

Lara Briden is a naturopath, women's health speaker, and author of the books Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women, published by Pan Macmillan.[4] She has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, and travels widely to speak on women's health. https://www.larabriden.com/ Hey, check out my website: "Coupon Queen Pin " with this link: https://gadgitgyrl001.wixsite.com/couponqueenpin Email: budgetnynja@gmail.com Instagram: @t.h.a.godmother X: @couponqueenpin #podcasting #spotify #podcasts #podcastersofinstagram #podcastlife #podcaster #youtube #radio #realitytv #love #life #itunes #podcasters #music #applepodcasts #it #podcastshow #health #goodrx #newpodcast #motivation #spotifypodcast #applepodcast #education #couponqueenpin

Send us a textIn this episode of the Hotflash inc podcast, host Ann Marie McQueen is joined by naturopathic doctor and women's health expert, Lara Briden. With decades of clinical experience, she is the author of three books: Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and her newest release, Metabolism Repair for Women. Lara's work focuses on empowering women with evidence-based knowledge to navigate their hormonal health, including through perimenopause and menopause. Together, they unravel the intricate world of estrogen, its role in women's lives and how it connects to the challenges and opportunities of midlife health. From estrogen metabolism to hormone therapy myths and best practices, Lara provides actionable insights and science-backed advice to empower women on their health journeys.Key topics: Why estrogen is both celebrated and misunderstood.The evolution of hormone therapy and what's changed since the Women's Health Initiative.How progesterone fits into the midlife health equation.The relationship between estrogen metabolism, gut health, and lifestyle factors like diet and alcohol.Lara's perspective on a renewed need to find  balance in modern hormone therapiesExplainer: Dr Ray Peat, who passed away in 2022,  was an American biologist and researcher, and he believed metabolism was a foundation of health – helping to spawn the pro-metabolic movement. He was a progesterone researcher who believed estrogen is an inflammatory stress hormone that causes more health problems than it helps. The term we spoke about where you feel you need more and more of something that is actually making you feel worse is tachyphylaxis, and it's something that the British Menopause Society issued a warning about in 2023.When Lara mentions a “four-fold” increase in dementia risks, she is referring to studies associated with heavy, long-term use. Other studies have found lower risks. If you are concerned about whether the medication you are taking is anti-cholinergic, and by how much, check out the Anticholinergic Burden Calculator. Thank You To Our Sponsors For Making This Episode Possible:Timeline: Use code HOTFLASH33 for 33% off your order of Mitopure at Timeline Nutrition.The Hotflash inc Podcast has been selected by our panelist as one of the Top 60 Menopause Podcasts on the web.Guest linksWebsite: larabriden.comInstagram: @larabridenX: @LaraBridenJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

In this episode of Untidy, Matty and Hannah reissue an enlightening conversation with Naturopathic doctor and women’s hormone specialist, Dr Lara Briden, while they take a little break over the holidays. Author of ‘Period Repair Manual’ and ‘Hormone Repair Manual’, Dr Briden is a women’s health activist, and passionate about helping women feel empowered when it comes to their bodies. In this interview, we dive deep into a discussion about the contraceptive pill. Whilst being revolutionary for women when it first came out, Dr Briden shares up-to-date knowledge on the potential implications. We also discuss the pros and cons of various contraceptive options, perimenopause, and how menopause is not the big bad wolf that it is often made out to be. You can learn more about Dr Lara Briden, read her blog and purchase her books at www.larabriden.com. Find her on Instagram @larabriden. Links mentioned in the interview:‘The Pros and Cons of the Copper IUD’ ‘The Pros and Cons of Hormonal IUDs’ Podcast on the development of Male Contraceptives Listen to more:Check out Untidy’s other episode with Lara, ‘Your monthly report card with Dr Lara Briden’. If you enjoy this episode of Untidy, please support the show by subscribing in your podcast app and tapping the ‘+ follow’ button. You can also find us and subscribe on YouTube! That way, you’ll never miss an episode. Help us to keep building this supportive community – subscribe, share an episode with a mate, and chuck us a 5-star review. Thank you for listening, contributing and supporting our independent production! You’re the best! Untidy is made for you – the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess we call parenthood! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email hello@untidypodcast.com. Your stories and ideas to help us shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of The Macro Hour, Nikkiey Stott sits down with Lara Briden, naturopathic doctor and author of The Period Repair Manual, to dive deep into the world of hormonal health and its critical role in women's well-being. Lara shares her expertise on navigating hormonal imbalances, understanding your cycle, and reclaiming control over symptoms like irregular periods, PMS, and perimenopause. With practical advice and actionable insights, this conversation sheds light on how nutrition, lifestyle changes, and natural interventions can transform your hormonal health. Whether you're struggling with symptoms or simply want to optimize your body's rhythms, this episode is packed with empowering knowledge to help you take charge of your health.Follow Lara on social media: @larabridenExplore her blog and podcast: www.larabriden.comDiscover her books: The Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual & Metabolism Repair For Women Click To Watch A Free Macro TrainingClick To Apply For Our ProgramsIf you've got a story about how The Macro Hour Podcast has positively impacted your life, we'd love to hear from you! Fill out this short form for a chance to be featured!Wanna collaborate with WarriorBabe? Click HERE! Follow Nikkiey and WarriorBabe's Socials:WarriorBabe - Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | WebsiteNikkiey - Instagram | Facebook | TikTok Welcome to The Macro Hour Podcast, where we talk about mindset, methodology, and tactics that will help you lose body fat, build muscle, be strong, and feel insanely confident. We've got a no-bullshit, no-nonsense approach with a lot of love and heart to help you reach your goals.

How to naturally repair your body and period after birth control. Naturopathic Doctor Lara Briden joins Trending with Timmerie (2:18)  Metabolism repair and weight loss. (24:39) Dr. Briden answers questions on sugar addiction and hyperthyroid activity.  (40:57) Resources mentioned :  https://www.larabriden.com/   Period Repair Manual https://www.larabriden.com/period-repair-manual/   Hormone Repair Manual https://www.larabriden.com/hormone-repair-manual/   Metabolism Repair https://www.larabriden.com/metabolism-book/   Endocrine disruptor https://relevantradio.com/2024/10/endocrine-disruptors/   Birth Control's impact on fertility  https://relevantradio.com/2024/01/miscarriage-birth-control-2/   Local Fats Website https://localfats.com/ The 30-Day Thyroid Reset Plan: Disarming the 7 Hidden Triggers That are Keeping You Sick https://www.amazon.com/30-Day-Thyroid-Reset-Plan-Disarming-ebook/dp/B0786RSGYR   

In today's episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, Dr. Carrie Jones sits down with Dr. Lara Briden to dive into the vital connection between metabolism, metabolic flexibility, and women's health during the perimenopausal transition. You'll hear them discuss: 1. Metabolic flexibility versus metabolic inflexibility 2. Reasons your metabolic health is declining 3. How to test your metabolism 4. The science behind perimenopause weight gain 5. Nutritional approaches to support your metabolic health 6. 5 nutrients your metabolism needs 7. Practical strategies for managing insulin resistance Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor, author, and women's health activist with over 25 years of experience in women's health. She has a strong background in science, sits on several advisory boards, and is the lead author of a couple of peer-reviewed papers about polycystic ovary syndrome. Her books, the Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women, are practical guides to improving health through nutrition, supplements, and body-identical hormones. Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs - https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide

What's up with my metabolism? Has my metabolism slowed down because of menopause? In this episode with Lara Briden ND, we discuss her research into metabolism, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and the bestselling author of Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and The Metabolism Reset—practical guides to treating women's health with nutrition, supplements, and body-identical hormones. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (1997) and the University of Calgary (evolutionary biology), Lara serves on several scientific advisory committees. In this episode, we discuss: - What is metabolic inflexibility?- How does insulin resistance affect women's health differently from men's- What are the common signs of metabolic dysfunction? - The relationship between metabolic dysfunction, insulin resistance, and menopause- The role of gut health in supporting the metabolism- Small, practical changes to repair your metabolism. Connect with Lara ⁠WEBSITE⁠ ⁠INSTAGRAM⁠ ⁠THE METABOLISM RESET⁠ SEXY AGEING RESOURCES    Sexy Ageing Fitness and Lifestyle APP: ⁠https://getstarted.sexyageing.com/⁠  Book:⁠ My Menopause Memoir⁠ ⁠Download your FREE Menopause Symptom Tracker HERE ⁠  ⁠BENABLE ONLINE SHOPPING⁠: Use this invite code to set up your own account for free "SA7YX"  CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIALS  ⁠Instagram⁠  ⁠TikTok⁠  ⁠The Sexy Ageing Facebook Community⁠

This week, I welcome back to the podcast for the third time, the most world renowned naturopathic doctor Lara Briden. Lara is the author of the Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual, and in this episode we talk in great detail about her latest book, Metabolism Repair for Women. This is a compassionate science-based guide to balancing insulin, facilitating weight loss, and most importantly, improving and optimising health. Laura and I first up delve into what metabolism actually means. We discuss metabolic flexibility, how if you have metabolic inflexibility and what this actually means for health. We also talk in quite a lot of detail about what the key movers and shakers are in terms of the metabolic hormones and how you can talk to your doctor or healthcare provider about assessing those.  This is a really illuminating and fundamental conversation to be having with Lara, and I know that you are going to absolutely love every minute of this episode. Metabolism Repair for Women is available to purchase here. Find out more about Lara Briden here.

Endocrine disruptors and side effects. What is birth control?  How does it work? Women's health and fertility/infertility specialist Dr. Susan Caldwell joins Trending with Timmerie. (0:44) Listener Question on perimenopause and staying healthy. (20:55) The emotional and medical fallout from egg freezing and IVF. The truth about its low success rate (26:06) Question on endometriosis surgery and followup care. (43:09) Resources mentioned :  Dr. Caldwell's Website: https://drsusancaldwell.com/   Scandinavia research – couples likely to divorce after failed IVF attempt  https://obgyn.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/aogs.12317/abstract;jsessionid=15C5E2D0FEEDCE75FDF9374F26F76BD3.f03t02   Past Episodes with Dr. Caldwell: https://relevantradio.com/?s=Susan+Caldwell  Femmenessence MacaLife For all seasons fertility to Perimenopause https://femmenessence.com/collections/all-products    Hormone Repair Manual https://www.amazon.com/s?k=hormone+repair+manual+lara+briden&hvadid=701894967569&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9021469&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=1087844870923928281&hvtargid=kwd-1240154193484&hydadcr=15554_13558538&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_4zrbxwb91w_e   Fertility care  find a NaPro doctor  https://fertilitycare.org/find-a-mc   NaPro Telemedicine https://naturalwomanhood.org/find-a-doctor/telehealth/   Shiloh - A Post-IVF Ministry https://www.shilohivf.com/about   Emily Chapman – Healing when you can't have children adoption?  https://relevantradio.com/2023/10/healing-when-you-cant-have-children/   NaPro Fertility Surgeon on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/napro_fertility_surgeon/

Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and the bestselling author of Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women. She currently has a consulting room in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. She is internationally recognized as an expert in women's hormonal health and how to recover from hormonal dysfunction that masks itself as a range of other diseases and disorders that are dangerously treated in the allopathic western medical system. Dr. Briden Website (00:00) - (01:05) - The Importance of Menstrual Health (04:20) - Lara Bryden's Journey in Women's Health (07:20) - Understanding Ovulation and Hormonal Health (12:05) - The Menstrual Cycle as a Vital Sign (18:49) - Common Period Problems and Underlying Health Issues (19:17) - Signs of Anovulation (24:32) - Multiple Cycles and Their Implications (30:09) - The Rise of PCOS and Environmental Factors (34:46) - The Impact of Hormonal Birth Control (35:23) - Transitioning Off Hormonal Birth Control (43:55) - Dietary Interventions for Menstrual Health (59:12) - Supplements for Menstrual Health (01:05:19) - Navigating the Medical System for Women's Health RADICALLY GENUINE PODCASTDr. Roger McFillin / Radically Genuine WebsiteYouTube @RadicallyGenuineDr. Roger McFillin (@DrMcFillin) / XSubstack | Radically Genuine | Dr. Roger McFillinInstagram @radicallygenuineContact Radically GenuineConscious Clinician CollectivePLEASE SUPPORT OUR PARTNERS15% Off Pure Spectrum CBD (Code: RadicallyGenuine)10% off Lovetuner click here—-----------FREE DOWNLOAD! DISTRESS TOLERANCE SKILLS

I am excited to connect with Dr. Lara Briden today! She is one of my favorite naturopathic doctors and the author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has 25 years of experience in women's health, and she currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Dr. Briden is a wealth of information! She brings a fresh perspective and a positive voice to the health and wellness space, and I often recommend her book, Hormone Repair Manual, to my clients and patients.  Today, she and I dive into her background as an evolutionary biologist and discuss how she became passionate about supporting women and advocating for them throughout their lifetime. We talk about perspectives on aging, what the second puberty (perimenopause) is, and the impact of histamine, mass-cell granulation, and estrogen. We discuss fat redistribution in middle age and the loss of insulin sensitivity. We speak about how using alcohol impacts brain health, sleep, the gut microbiome, appetite, cravings, and hinders estrogen metabolism. We also touch on ways to address dysfunctional uterine bleeding in middle age and explain how to advocate for your health, how middle-age impacts the nervous system, and the role of inflammatory foods, including dairy.  I hope you enjoy our discussion as much as I did! Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Briden talks about her background as an evolutionary biologist and how she changed her career and became an advocate for women's health. Many women fear the process of aging. Dr. Briden and I talk about women's mindsets and their perspectives on aging.  Why is there so little awareness about perimenopause? Dr. Briden defines menopause and discusses the timeframe in which some women experience perimenopause symptoms. How can ongoing hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause, or second puberty, increase the likelihood of women having issues with a histamine response? Dr. Briden talks about fat redistribution in middle age and explains why women need to stay on top of it from a metabolic perspective. How can our modern-day lifestyle make the metabolic shift women experience in menopause even more challenging? Dr. Briden talks about natural treatments and hormone therapies to lighten the flow of the extremely heavy periods that some women experience during perimenopause. Dr. Briden discusses the connection between cow dairy and an inflammatory reaction in some people. Women need to understand what happens in their bodies when they have either a partial or a full hysterectomy. Dr. Briden talks about estrogen and brain health. How does alcohol affect the body? What are the best options with the fewest side effects for hormone therapy for women? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website  Connect with Dr. Lara Briden On her website   On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaraBriden  Dr. Briden's blog  Dr. Briden's podcast Books mentioned: Period Repair Manual (for women in their 20s and 30s) by Dr. Lara Briden Hormone Repair Manual (for women of 40-plus) by Dr. Lara briden Free download of the first two chapters of both Dr. Lara Briden's books The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer's Disease by Lisa Mosconi, PhD

In this Mini Motivation Episode, host Amelia Phillips and naturopathic doctor Lara Briden answers the question of whether we should consider taking hormones to manage our peri or menopausal symptoms. If so, what symptoms will it help with? Which brands are best? Should we take progesterone, oestrogen, testosterone or all of them! And what are the risks associated? Also are there any lifestyle changes we should make first? About the guest: Lara is a naturopathic doctor with more than 25 years of experience in women's health, running her clinic in Christchurch New Zealand plus a global speaker on womens hormone health. She has published three very popular books Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and hot off the press just published The Metabolism Reset. These are practical guides to better health using nutrition, supplements, and (where needed) body-identical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a number of peer-reviewed papers. New Release Book: The Metabolism Reset: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-metabolism-reset-lara-briden/book/9781761265846.html  Book: The Hormone Repair Manual (amazing for peri and menopause): https://www.booktopia.com.au/hormone-repair-manual-lara-briden/book/9781760980078.html  Book: The Period Repair Manual: https://www.booktopia.com.au/period-repair-manual-lara-briden/book/9781760559540.html  Follow Lara on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/  About the host: Amelia Phillips is a registered exercise scientist and nutritionist with a career spanning 26 years in health. She's a registered exercise scientist, nutritionist and researcher (with a Masters of Human Nutrition). She was the co-founder of health tech company 12WBT which grew from start-up and more recently Inner Vitality, an 8 week online program using biomarkers and personalised health that she runs with an Integrative GP.  Amelia also consults to health companies, presents and appears in the media, most recently on the Ch9 show Do You Want to Live Forever. Amelia had four kids in five years and is dedicated to empowering women to build a life after kids on the foundation of health (mental and physical), connection and purpose.  If you have a question for Amelia, reach out via Insta @_amelia_phillips, email ap@ameliaphillips.com.au  Find out more at www.ameliaphillips.com.au Find out more about Inner Vitality, a new approach to your health: https://innervitality.ameliaphillips.com.au/pages/  CREDITSHost: Amelia Phillips                                                                                                        Guest:   Lara Briden                                                                                                                Audio Producer: Darren RothMusic: Matt Nicholich                                                                                                      Production Partner: Nova Entertainment Pty Ltd Healthy Her acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Lara Briden is a renowned naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of "Period Repair Manual," "Hormone Repair Manual," and her latest book, "Metabolism Repair for Women." With over 25 years of experience in women's health, Lara has dedicated her career to helping women understand and navigate hormone-related health issues. She's also a respected figure in the scientific community, sitting on several advisory boards and authoring peer-reviewed papers.In this conversation, Lara and I discuss metabolic flexibility and insulin resistance, the foundational elements of metabolic health, signs and symptoms of metabolic inflexibility, health implications of long-term metabolic inflexibility, common misconceptions about blood sugar, societal pressures surrounding weight loss, the need to address underlying health issues to improve overall well-being and metabolic health, and more. Enjoy the episode!To learn more, visit https://nicolejardim.com/podcasts/mastering-metabolic-health-dr-lara-briden/.Podcast Production Support: Amazing Gains | https://listenerstoclients.comMentioned in this episode:Join the Fix Your Period CollectiveAre you ready to transform your menstrual health? Get started with the Fix Your Period Collective by taking my new and improved period quiz, which will translate your responses into a personalized period dashboard that gives you all the answers and solutions you've ever wanted for your cycle and hormone problems. Get started at https://fixyourperiod.com/quiz/.FYP Collective

Join us in this eye-opening episode as we sit down with the renowned naturopathic doctor,  Lara Briden, a leading expert in women's health, to delve into the fascinating world of hormonal cycles and their profound impact on fertility and overall well-being. In this conversation, Dr. Briden sheds light on the often-overlooked significance of ovulation in the menstrual cycle and the alarming prevalence of anovulatory cycles among women today. She explains that conditions like endometriosis are fundamentally linked to immune dysfunction influenced by estrogen levels, while PCOS manifests as a metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance and androgen excess. Delving deeper into these conditions, Dr. Briden passionately advocates for natural approaches to tackle them, steering away from common treatments that might merely address symptoms without addressing the root causes. She shares invaluable insights on nurturing gut health, regulating blood sugar levels, and incorporating beneficial supplements like inositol and zinc into one's daily routine. Tune in to this episode and discover a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate your hormonal journey with confidence, empowering you to make informed decisions about your fertility, well-being, and overall health. Key Topics: ●      ​​The Vital Role of Ovulation in Healthy Hormonal Cycles ●      Endometriosis: Unraveling the Link to Immune Dysfunction and Estrogen ●      Demystifying PCOS: A Metabolic Perspective on Insulin Resistance and Androgen Excess ●      Natural Approaches to Addressing Hormonal Imbalances ●      Embracing Ovulation and Holistic Solutions for Hormonal Health Lara Briden Bio:Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual— practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones.  With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author on a couple of peer-reviewed papers. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Where to find Dr. Lara Briden: -       Website: https://www.larabriden.com/ -       Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/ -       Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LaraBriden/ -       Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@larabriden -       Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaraBriden -       Podcast: Lara Briden's Podcast -       Books: https://www.larabriden.com/lara-briden-books/   How to connect to Lorne Brown online and in person (Vancouver, BC) Acubalance.ca book virtual or in person conscious work sessions with Dr. Lorne Brown Lornebrown.com   Conscious hacks and tools to optimize your fertility by Dr. Lorne Brown: https://acubalance.ca/conscious-work/   Download a free copy of the Acubalance Fertility Diet & Recipes and a copy of the ebook 5 Ways to Maximize Your Chances of Getting Pregnant from Acubalance.ca   Connect with Lorne and the podcast on Instagram: @acubalancewellnesscentre @conscious_fertility_podcast @lorne_brown_official     DISCLAIMER: By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use it as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others. This podcast offers information to help the listener cooperate with physicians, mental health professionals or other healthcare providers in a mutual quest for optimal well-being. We advise listeners to carefully review and understand the ideas presented, and to consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. Under no circumstances shall Acubalance, any guests or contributors to the Conscious Fertility podcast, or any employees, associates, or affiliates of Acubalance be responsible for damages arising from the use of the podcast.             

#243: Tired of confusing advice about PCOS and metabolism? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lara Briden, a naturopathic doctor and the bestselling author of The Period Repair Manual, The Hormone Repair Manual, and her new book, Metabolism Repair for Women. We'll dive deep into the naturopathic approach to reversing PCOS, explore how to improve your metabolism for better overall health, and get Dr. Briden's take on the latest PCOS research.  This episode is for you if: - You want to improve your metabolism but traditional diets haven't worked for you - You're looking for natural approaches to managing PCOS that don't rely on birth control - You're interested in learning more about PCOS through the eyes of a Naturopathic Doctor Dr. Lara Briden has over 20 years of experience helping women with PCOS regulate their cycles, improve their metabolism, and ditch birth control (if that's their goal!). Her new book, The Metabolism Reset, is out now on major outlets including Amazon. For more resources, visit her website (https://www.larabriden.com/). Our previous episode with Dr. Lara Briden: https://pcosweightloss.org/period-repair-pcos-weight-loss/ Download The Cysterhood App, the largest community of PCOS women learning to lose weight & reverse symptoms with daily meals & workouts designed for PCOS! What's Your PCOS Type? - Take the quiz! Supplements for Women With PCOS (https://ovafit.org/metabolism-plus/) Ovasitol: 15% OFF (https://ovafit.org/ovasitol/) CONNECT WITH US: Website (https://pcosweightloss.org/) Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/pcos.weightloss/) Tik Tok (https://www.tiktok.com/@pcos.weight.loss) Pinterest (https://www.pinterest.com/pcosweightloss/) While Tallene is a Registered Dietitian and Sirak a Personal Trainer, this podcast provides general information about PCOS. It is not meant to serve as fitness, nutrition or medical advice related to your individual needs. If you have questions, please talk to a medical professional. For our full privacy policy, please click on the following link: (bit.ly/PCOSPrivacyPolicy) Links included in this description may be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide, we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our channel so we can continue to provide you with free content each week!

In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked topic of vaginal health with Dr. Moira Bradfield Strydom, the founder of Intimate Ecology. Dr. Strydom, a naturopath specialising in vaginal health, provides invaluable insights into common issues such as bladder weakness, vaginal dryness, and infections that many women face, especially as they age. We discuss the importance of understanding and maintaining vaginal health, debunk misconceptions, and offer practical advice for prevention and treatment. Key Points: Vaginal Health: Explanation of the vaginal microbiome and its importance. Differences between the vaginal microbiome and the gut microbiome. Common changes and issues in vaginal health during peri-menopause and menopause. Bladder Issues: Common bladder issues in women over 40. Vaginal Infections: Common types of vaginal infections and their symptoms. Prevention and treatment methods. The role of hygiene and lifestyle in maintaining vaginal health. General Advice for Vaginal Health: Principles of health and longevity applicable to vaginal health. Importance of hydration, nutrient status, and good quality fats. Specific recommendations: nourishing oils, flax seeds, seabuckthorn oil, fennel oil, and strain-specific probiotics. Clothing and Vaginal Health: Recommendation for natural fibers like cotton and bamboo for underwear. Seeking Support: Importance of consulting healthcare professionals: GPs, naturopaths, gynecologists. Encouragement to start conversations about vaginal health. Additional Resources: Book recommendation: "The Hormone Repair Manual" by Lara Briden. This episode highlights the crucial aspects of vaginal health, especially for women over 40. Dr. Strydom's insights and advice aim to empower women to take charge of their vaginal health, break the stigma, and seek the necessary support. Join us in normalising the conversation around vaginal health. Share this episode with others, and let's drive change together. Remember, your vaginal health is just as important as the rest of your health. Join host Shelley Craft as she guides you through this exciting new offering from The Aging Project, aimed at helping you age well and live a longer, healthier life.

You may be struggling with metabolic dysfunction but don't even know it.  Subtle symptoms of metabolic dysfunction can present as everyday frustrations… but they grow into some big chronic issues if they're not addressed.  Low energy. Brain fog. Menstrual cycle irregularities.  Cravings, crazy mood swings, consistent hunger throughout the day...  Any of these sound familiar to you?  If so, don't worry– metabolic dysfunction can be reversible (and quickly!) with the right tools in place.  Naturopathic Doctor Lara Briden joins the show again to help you make a few changes ASAP so you can improve your symptoms in just a few weeks– and they may even help change your weight on the scale! Her science-based recommendations are here to help you move toward a healthier and happier future. Check out the podcast here so you don't miss a tip on overcoming metabolic obstacles and becoming the best version of YOU! Dr. Lara Briden Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women. She lives in New Zealand where she currently works with women to help them manage and overcome PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health concerns. IN THIS EPISODE How hormones impact women's metabolic health The dangers of having metabolism dysfunction Insulin resistance and managing hypoglycemia  Why are women more affected by metabolic dysfunction?  Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction as a society-wide problem Addressing “metabolic obstacles” and how to overcome them Circadian alignment for optimal metabolism  Research-backed recommendations for managing and preventing metabolic dysfunction  About Dr. Lara's newest book, Metabolism Repair for Women  View the podcast page here: https://drmariza.com/episode590 RESOURCES MENTIONED Get FREE Bonus Chapters from Lara's Three Best Selling Books Get Dr. Lara's Book:  Metabolism Repair for Women Dr. Lara's Website  Dr. Lara's Instagram  RELATED EPISODES  #302: How To Have Healthy Hormones in Your Forties with Lara Briden #535: How To Effectively Reset Your Metabolism, Lose Weight, And Upgrade Your Hormones #531: How To Create Metabolism-Loving Meals That Can Fix Your Blood Sugar and Ward Off Chronic Disease #501: Six Powerful Ways Metabolic Dysfunction Impacts Women's Health Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How are metabolism, health, and menopause linked? Listen as Dr. Lara Briden shares insights from her new book, Metabolism Repair for Women.Episode SummaryIn this episode, we hear from Dr. Lara Briden, naturopathic doctor and celebrated author of “Period Repair Manual.” Dr. Briden joins Fempower Heath to discuss metabolic health in light of her newest book, "Metabolism Repair for Women." Known for her thorough and research-based approach to women's health, Lara shares her expertise on the often misunderstood topic of metabolic health—particularly its significance during the perimenopausal and menopausal stages of a woman's life.Discussed in this episode:The connection between metabolic health, general health, mental health, and women's hormonesWhy metabolism health is not just about weight loss but about overall energy and well-beingHow hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can lead to insulin resistance How hormonal birth control can have different metabolic effectsWays to manage and improve metabolic health during perimenopause and menopauseThe potential metabolic benefits of a low-carb diet and its role in reducing cravings for carbohydrates"What's happening metabolically in the brain at menopause is potentially going to have long-term consequences."​​ - Dr. Lara BridenRelated to this episode:Resources on Perimenopause and MenopauseCheck out Dr. Lara Briden's books: Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for WomenLearn more about Dr. Lara Briden and follow her on InstagramIf you're passionate about advancing women's health, there are many ways you can support the Fempower Health Podcast. Here's how:Subscribe and Listen: Tune in to new episodes every Tuesday by subscribing to the Fempower Health Podcast on iTunes or Spotify or your favorite podcast platform. Your regular listenership is invaluable!Leave a Review: Help us grow by leaving a review on iTunes or Spotify. Your feedback not only supports us but also helps others discover our podcast.Share with Others: Spread the word by sharing episodes with friends, family, or anyone interested in women's health. Every share helps!Engage with Our Community: Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and

Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.comCurranz Supplement: Use code MIKKIPEDIA to get 20% off your first order - go to www.curranz.co.nz  or www.curranz.co.uk to order yours This week on the podcast Mikki chats to women's health expert, naturopath Dr Lara Briden about her new book The Metabolism Reset (also called Metabolism Repair for Womenl). This book explores various aspects of metabolic dysfunction, including IR, fatty liver and blood sugar problems and why it's so important for general health. Mikki and Lara talk about this in relation to Lara's book but also their own clinical practice, so it's a good ‘fly on the wall' discussionLara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Reach Lara at www.larabriden.com, IG: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/Lara's books  https://larabriden.com/lara-briden-books/Lara's previous appearance on Mikkipedia https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/33  and https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/248  Contact Mikki:https://mikkiwilliden.com/https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutritionhttps://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/https://linktr.ee/mikkiwilliden

Are you done having kids? Or just needing a pause from the potential of another one right now? Not quite ready for the snip? Or uncertain if hormonal birth control is suitable? So many questions that shouldn't be answered by Google, so this week we bring in the expert, Lara Briden - also known as the period revolutionary - to answer all the questions on contraception.Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual, Hormone Repair Manual, and Metabolism Repair for Women. She has more than 25 years' experience in women's health including PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.You can connect with Lara via her website or instagramIn this podcast we discuss:When women start thinking about contraception after having a babyWhat are the clues that ovulation has occurred, and when might this happenThe forms of contraception available to women - including the pill, mini pill, mirena, copper IUD as well as pros and cons of eachThe forms of contraception available to men, and why it is important that the male partner take on some of the responsibilityWhether a vasectomy is a good option when you know you're done having kids, and a less permanent option on the horizonHow long before trying to conceive a woman should stop hormonal birth controland so much more!Today's episode was brought to you by Saya. We are often asked to recommend natural skincare that actually works, and Saya is a brand that we absolutely love and ticks all the boxes. Saya embodies the fusion of botanical wisdom and technology, combining only the best of Australian natives and botanicals with powerful active ingredients. Supported by research, backed by science, optimising skin health. The results? Skincare that works. Which is absolutely what you want when you may only get a few minutes to tend to yourself!You can use the code BOOBTOFOOD for 20% off their motherhood collection until Wednesday 22nd May 2024. Visit www.sayaskin.comFollow us on instagram @boobtofood to stay up to date with all the podcast news, recipes and other content that we bring to help make meal times and family life easier.Visit www.boobtofood.com for blogs and resources, to book an appointment with one of our amazing practitioners and more.Presented by Luka McCabe and Kate HolmTo get in touch please email podcast@boobtofood.com

Save 20% on all Nuzest Products WORLDWIDE with the code MIKKIPEDIA at www.nuzest.co.nz, www.nuzest.com.au or www.nuzest.comThis week on the podcast Mikki facilitates a discussion between Dr Nicky Keay and Dr Lara Briden about hormones, HRT and women's health, after crowd sourcing questions from social media. It's an in-depth and engaging discussion of current issues, beliefs around HRT and their recommendations.Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Reach Lara at www.larabriden.com, IG: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/Lara's books The Period Repair Manual and the Hormone Repair Manual https://larabriden.com/lara-briden-books/Nicky Keay is a medical doctor with expertise in the field of exercise endocrinology. Graduating from Cambridge University, she is an Honorary Clinical Lecturer in the Division of Medicine, University College London. Nicky's clinical and research endocrine work is particularly with exercisers, dancers and athletes, with a focus on relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) and with women experiencing perimenopause and menopause.Nicky's website: https://nickykeayfitness.com/about/Nicky's book: Hormones, Health and Human Potential can be found at https://nickykeayfitness.com/new-book/Nicky's previous Mikkipedia episode on Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (RED-S) https://share.transistor.fm/s/33bba7b1 and hormone health https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/111 Lara's previous appearance on Mikkipedia https://podcast.mikkiwilliden.com/33 Contact Mikki:https://mikkiwilliden.com/https://www.facebook.com/mikkiwillidennutritionhttps://www.instagram.com/mikkiwilliden/https://linktr.ee/mikkiwillidenCurranz supplement: MIKKI saves you 25% at www.curranz.co.nz or www.curranz.co.uk off your first order

Perimenopause? She's menopause's sister and is our topic for today. The transitional time between your regular fertile/cycling years and your non-menstruating years (menopause) can illicit changes in your hormones and the way you feel normally starting in your late 30s or 40s. Listen to this episode to hear about:- What perimenopause is- What are the phases of perimenopause- What you can do now to prepare your body for perimenopauseI referenced Dr. Lara Briden's book, Hormone Repair Manual, to build my notes for this episode. Great reference... check it out. Limited time offer: APPLY FOR MY COACHING BETA GROUP- Who's this beta group for? Menstruators with period pain, missing or irregular periods, bleeds that are less than two days or more than seven days, or another hormone/menstrual cycle related concern- What is it? A $0 three-month hormone coaching package where you and I work together 1:1- When does it close out? As soon as all ten slots are filled. - More questions? Check out www.bridgetwalton.com/coaching to learn about what the package includes. - Final note: any optional testing and supplements will be at your expense. Connect with Bridget on Instagram Learn more at bridgetwalton.comIf you're interested in working with Bridget 1:1 to overcome your period pain and irregular cycles and take charge of your fertility, click this link to connect and set up a discovery call. If you want to support this podcast, follow this link to Buy Me a Coffee. Your support will help cover the cost of: podcast hosting platform fees, equipment, and (coming soon!) transcription services.

Today we're actually replaying Dr Lara Briden's first episode with us, How to Feel Better in Perimenopause, because it's the most popular episode we've ever shared, listened over 3500 times, and shared widely, and because we receive more questions about perimenopause than anything else. In the conversation Lara demystifies this major transition that happens in our bodies in the years that lead up to menopause, when many people are left wondering if they're going crazy, experience symptoms which can seem to come out of nowhere; including anxiety, depression, irregular cycles, insomnia, night sweats, hot flushes, migraines and more.Lara is a naturopathic doctor and the author of The Hormone Repair Manual, Every Woman's Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40, a practical guide to navigating the change of perimenopause and relieve symptoms with natural treatments such as diet, nutritional supplements, and bioidentical hormone therapy.We explore:The four phases of perimenopause and how to navigate them, including the ‘waiting room' where your periods are very irregular, but you haven't yet reached the 12 month pint which defines the beginning of menopause. The science behind this life transition and the hormonal events that can drive symptoms like irregular / heavier cycles, sleep disturbance and hot flushes. Lara's rescue prescription for peri-menopause and how it can help you to look after your whole being, and especially your brain and nervous system - Lara assures us that there is always a way to feel better. ---The Menstruality Podcast is hosted by Red School. We love hearing from you. To contact us, email info@redschool.net---Social media:Red School: @red.school (https://www.instagram.com/red.school)Lara Briden: @larabriden (https://www.instagram.com/larabriden)

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author on a couple of peer-reviewed papers. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.On this episode we discuss with Lara all things periods and perimenopause. What is perimenopause? The nine symptoms you need to know!Is midlife really from 37? What is going on hormonally and how this affects our entire body systemDealing with heavy periodsSupplementing our hormones Taking the contraceptive pill  Dealing with stress, does perimenopause affect our ability to cope the same as before? Alcohol use and the real truth you need to know!  All things ‘sorting your sleep out' including dealing with night shifts! All this and so much  more! LINKS:Website Hormone repair manual book The Lara Briden Podcast - Everything women's health in under 15 minutesGraph of hormonal changes of perimenopauseGraph of menstrual cycle     Get 10% off Katie's Breastfeeding & Lactation: the fundamentals online course today with code POD10 at checkout. Support the show Please support the show via Patreon or BuyMeACoffee MERCH here! Music Joseph McDade Like this podcast? Leave us a review here Want more from Katie and Rachel? Katie's website Rachel's website DisclaimerThe information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical or legal advice; instead, all information available on this site are for general informational purposes only. The Midwives' Cauldron podcast reserves the right to supplement, change or delete any information at any time.The information and materials on the podcast is provided "as is"; no representations are made that the content is error-free. Whilst we have tried to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information we do not warrant or guarantee the accurateness. The podcast accepts no liability for any loss or damage howsoever arising out of the use or reliance on the content.

Ladies, are you ready to unlock the secrets of your hormonal health? This episode will walk you through ovulation's profound impact on our well-being, and the intricacies of conditions like PCOS and endometriosis. From debunking misconceptions about hormonal birth control to celebrating the natural rhythms of our cycles, this episode of Biohacking Bestie with guest Lara Briden is an invitation to cherish our hormonal prowess.We even delve into the realm of fertility awareness and how personal health knowledge can enrich our relationships and how to navigate perimenopause with grace and vitality. Tune in to embrace a revolutionary perspective on women's health and discover actionable advice that can change your life.Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author on a couple of peer-reviewed papers.She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.What we discuss: (03:56 - 05:07) Achieving Symptomless Menstrual Cycles (10:37 - 11:39) Connection Between Health and Menstruation(14:30 - 16:04) Importance of Ovulation and Hormones (19:58 - 20:49) Comparing Birth Control and Vasectomy(25:23 - 25:47) Importance of Understanding Menstrual Cycle(33:54 - 34:54) Diagnosing and Treating PCOS(36:44 - 37:59) Healing PCOS vs. Reversing It(40:05 - 41:06) Understanding Endometriosis Diagnosis and Symptoms Thank you to our sponsors: Fatty15: go to https://fatty15.com/aggie to get 15% off ARMRA: Go to https://tryarmra.com/aggie to get 15% off Find more from Aggie: Start optimizing your health: https://biohackingbestie.com/Get daily Biohacking Bestie tips: https://www.instagram.com/biohackingbestie/Get a 7-Day FREE meal plan: https://www.fitasfuck.co/mealplanFind more from Laura: Website: https://www.larabriden.com/Podcast: https://www.larabriden.com/podcast/Books: https://www.larabriden.com/period-repair-manual/ | https://www.larabriden.com/hormone-repair-manual/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Sig in this episode as she dives into the world of women's health with bestselling author Lara Briden,and a naturopathic doctor.Lara's expertise shines through her famous books, "Period Repair Manual" and "Hormone Repair Manual," where she shares valuable insights on achieving better periods and maintaining healthy hormones using natural treatments.Key Discussion Points:Discover practical advice and tips suitable for every age and situation.Learn how natural treatments can support women in maintaining healthy hormones.A success story from practice, showcasing the positive impact of natural treatments on women's health.The importance of evidence-based natural treatments in improving women's health.Holistic approaches to women's health, considering diet, lifestyle, and natural therapies.Tune in for a conversation that blends Lara's extensive experience, scientific background, and patient-centered approach to empower women on their journey to natural well-being.Lara's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/Sigi's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sigfisher/Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womensfitnessacademy_aus/Watch our episodes on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6sMl76TpWV9sE5kchn6EgQ

Have you been told that perimenopause and menopause are medical conditions? Interested in ancestral research or heard myths like “women weren't required after the child-rearing years and the problems exist because we're living longer?”Worried about hormone replacement and what to take and when? Did you know that this is a time in your life when a rewiring of the brain is occurring? Symptoms off the charts and want the biggest go-to changes that can be made to move the needle and have a smoother sailing transition?Want to know why you're so dang sensitive to everything all of a sudden (cue the glass of wine and zero sleep that night thanks to heart palpitations? Lara Briden joins me on the show, author of the best-selling books Period Repair Manual, and Hormone Repair Manual, and women's health naturopathic Dr for over 20 years, talks us through some of the trials, tribulations of the stages we move through in menopause, and speaks not only as a world-renowned doc on the subject, but as a woman saying “it's great on the other side, don't worry!”It's such an empowering hour on the subject and I hope you enjoy it. Alexx xHave a friend who needs this show? Share it with them on socials and tag @lowtoxlife so I can share it too! Connect with Lara's work here: https://www.larabriden.com/about/With her books here: Period Repair Manual is every woman's guide to better periods using natural treatments. It contains advice and tips for every age and situation.Hormone Repair Manual is every woman's guide to healthy hormones after 40 using natural treatments. It covers perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.And on Instagram here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual.  She has more than 20 years‚ experience in women's  health and currently has a consulting room in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone and period related health problems. In this episode Katherine and Lara Briden explore: How the menstrual cycle can be a strength for women The impacts of not ovulating The ways that pain can present during a period cycle How oral contraception can affect hormones and the body The link between mental health and hormonal contraception Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - PCOS The increase in cases of Endometriosis   Links: Website Instagram Facebook Twitter Youtube LinkedIn The Shift Season 1

This is a special and thought-provoking conversation. I'm excited to bring on Kristin Hauser again (see Ep 18 for part 1) to deepen into talking about the experience of motherhood, womanhood, and womb vitality. Each sub-topic is so rich and could be expanded on a lot. In this episode, we talk about: What Kristin's integration and shifting as a mother of 3 looks like now, and how she's set up structure/support to make life more easeful How she maintains and carries her self-care practices throughout the season of early motherhood, and her devotion to nourishment What welcoming in more support has looked like for her How women have an innate and instinctive knowing and "North Star" to guide us, if we can trust it How different the evolution of a first-time mother is from those with older/multiple kids, and what experience can bring The menstrual cycle as a psychospiritual journey, and how we exchange Jing and Yin for spiritual expansion and to bring in children Jing is our Essence and genetic material, and there's different schools of thought in relation to how it gets used up or its potential to be replenished Pregnancy as a state of excess and how it can shift certain patterns in women (autoimmune conditions, painful cycles, yin deficiencies) Kristin's experience of a healing, regenerative 3rd pregnancy "We offer our Jing, or Essence...and in return, we also get closer to that Essence of who we are, each time [pregnancy]" How trauma depletes us further and uses our resources vs. an untraumatized pregnancy/birth experience - how it impacts your long-term vitality and how that Jing gets preserved or not, or how you come closer to or further away from your soul Essence How many women who miss out on an undisturbed, physiological birth are seeking to re-imprint that missed experience of altered states of consciousness through plant medicine The impact of powerful plant medicines on women's hormonal health, and learning about re-building from women who have experience with these medicines without burnout "The big issue is that we are not being initiated into the blood rites, or initiated into what the menstrual cycle can really offer us" Ways to find more balance in our Yang culture: "For mothers, their stress hormones are higher than anyone" Complications during the birth process can make it difficult for women to tap into the Yin state of their physiology, but we can re-build/restore/re-pattern (especially during the postpartum time) How we can use the postpartum time to restore our Yin and to not get stuck in those Yang states of physiology. It's a practice that expands during the early mothering years. "How can I choose to be in relationship to the pleasure of motherhood and the pleasure of my day to day life that can help sustain me over time?" Orienting more towards states of pleasure rather than dysregulation, overwhelm, and exhaustion in motherhood Staying in victim-mode obstructs mothers from fully healing their depletion, because it drains your vitality when you are disconnected from your own source of agency. Questioning the narrative around "vitality lost" and shifting the focus on areas that are going well Her stories about her mother Book suggestions Kristin Hauser is an acupuncturist, Herbalist and Somatic Sex Educator. Her practice is focused on women's hormonal, sexual and pelvic health, fertility through postpartum. You can visit Kristin and her body of work/offerings at www.wombmedicine.com and on IG @kristinhauser Resources Mentioned: "Hormone Repair Manual" - Lara Briden "Getting to Zero" - Jayson Gaddis "The Myth of Normal" - Gabor Mate ------------------------ Thanks so much for listening. Here are some ways you can support this podcast: - Leaving a review (on Apple podcasts) if you are enjoying it - Read my book Pelvic Awakening: Connecting to Your Female Center for Transformation, Healing + Joy - Check out my Learning Library for womb massage workshops, pelvic care training + more...

Welcome to the SYNC Your Life podcast episode #132! On this podcast, we will be diving into all things women's hormones to help you learn how to live in alignment with your female physiology. Too many women are living with their check engine lights flashing. You know you feel "off" but no matter what you do, you can't seem to have the energy, or lose the weight, or feel your best. This podcast exists to shed light on the important topic of healthy hormones and cycle syncing, to help you gain maximum energy in your life.  In today's episode, I'm covering the topic of weight gain caused by hormone imbalance. In this episode, we talk about the most common root causes of weight gain in women, estrogen and insulin, and what to do to lose the weight and stabilize your metabolism.  I reference the following previous episodes: Prioritizing Protein: Interview with NPC Bodybuilder Mindy Irish Why Women Need to Prioritize Protein  Regulating Blood Sugar Interview with Kelsey Jack Tracking Your Menstrual Cycle I also mention Dr. Lara Briden's books, Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual, and Dr. Stacy Sims book, Roar. You can find a SYNC Scope here. The DUTCH test can be obtained for $100 by visiting: Dutchtest.com/patients Use the code: jsW100 If you feel like something is "off" with your hormones, check out the FREE hormone imbalance quiz at sync.jennyswisher.com.  To learn more about the SYNC Digital Course, check out jennyswisher.com.  Let's be friends outside of the podcast! Send me a message or schedule a call so I can get to know you better. You can reach out at https://jennyswisher.com/contact-2/. Enjoy the show! Episode Webpage: jennyswisher.com/podcast 

PCOS affects 1:10 women. But is it this common? That's why I wanted to bring in a guest expert on PCOS, Dr. Lara Briden. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones.Her podcast is here.  Topics We Discuss: 1. PCOS is a metabolic disorder, not just a reproductive issue (a heterogeneous condition).2. What is PCOS? How do you diagnose it?3. Hypothalamic amenorrhea vs PCOS?4. Signs of high androgens5. Root causes of PCOS and how they drive treatment Be sure to subscribe to this podcast on iTunes and leave us a rating and a review! This episode is brought to you by:Well Woman MD: Integrative Women's Health And Fertility. Welcome to Well Woman MD, a modern integrative medicine practice where we discover the root cause of your health concern. Well Woman MD. Taking a holistic and integrative approach to your health and wellness.Follow me on IG, @wellwomanmdFollow me on TIkTIK Jennifer Roelands MD, OB/GYN (@wellwomanmd) | TikTok

Welcome to the SYNC Your Life podcast episode #107! On this podcast, we will be diving into all things women's hormones to help you learn how to live in alignment with your female physiology. Too many women are living with their check engine lights flashing. You know you feel "off" but no matter what you do, you can't seem to have the energy, or lose the weight, or feel your best. This podcast exists to shed light on the important topic of healthy hormones and cycle syncing, to help you gain maximum energy in your life.  In today's episode, I'm interviewing Dr. Paige Gutheil, Osteopathic Family Physician, on the topic of women and hormones. We dive into why exercise and nutrition research has primarily only been done on men, what women need during the various hormone transitions in life, stress and its impact on the body, and cycle syncing.  Dr. Paige Gutheil, or Dr. Paige to most, is an osteopathic family physician, teacher and founder of the industry-disrupting holistic healthcare collaborative, Signature Primary Care and Wellness. There she partners with her patients directly, providing comprehensive primary care and integrative health memberships.  She has empowered and equipped thousands of patients to stop feeling “sick and tired of being sick and tired” with her Signature Whole Health tools and support systems.  A well-respected leader at the healthcare system, professional organization and University levels, she has proven herself an impactful mentor of healthcare professionals and students. Dr. Paige is the recipient of many industry-leading awards from organizations such as Pfizer and Ohio University. An engaging and dynamic speaker, Dr. Paige is sought after to teach about such topics as student and physician wellness, her Signature Whole Health approach to patient care and the power of sleep and spirituality in medicine. You can connect with Dr. Paige within her FREE ridiculously positive, drama-free healthcare community off social media at https://signaturehealthclub.com/.  She also hangs out on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/drpaigedo and of course has tons of information on her website www.drpaige.com.   In this episode, I mention Dr. Lara Briden's books, Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual.    I also mention my previous podcast episode on the 4-Legged Hormone Chair, found here.   If you feel like something is "off" with your hormones, check out the FREE hormone imbalance quiz at sync.jennyswisher.com.  To learn more about the SYNC Digital Course, check out jennyswisher.com.  Let's be friends outside of the podcast! Send me a message or schedule a call so I can get to know you better. You can reach out at https://jennyswisher.com/contact-2/. Enjoy the show! Episode Webpage: jennyswisher.com/podcast 

#261 Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and body-identical hormones. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (1997) and the University of Calgary (evolutionary biology), Lara serves on several scientific advisory committees including The Centre for Ovulation and Menstruation Research (CeMCOR) at the University of British Columbia. She is a popular speaker and has delivered keynote presentations for the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA), the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS), the University of Otago, Endometriosis New Zealand, Endometriosis Association of Queensland (QENDO), and the Evolutionary Health Society of New Zealand (EHA). Lara currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone and period-related health problems. Kira Sutherland is a Naturopathic Sports Nutritionist to some of the world's best athletes. She also lectures and mentors upcoming practitioners in the field of sports nutrition, and offers online courses for supporting athletes, trainers, and sports enthusiasts how to nourish the body to achieve peak performance and fitness. Using her 25+ years of clinical experience she has combined her knowledge of Naturopathic medicine with education in sports nutrition to create a truly wholistic approach to optimising performance for athletes and those striving for optimum health - especially women. Having lectured both within Australia and internationally on all things Naturopathic and sports nutrition, she is passionate about teaching people to take care of their bodies for the long term, not just treating them in the present moment. Kira believes that the role of a practitioner is to empower and teach clients to take care of themselves, to give them as much knowledge as possible. In this episode we cover The missing health science for mid-life women and the science sex gap  The dynamics between insulin, mitochondria, and cellular metabolism How the nutritional advice often suggested for men and young women does not always apply to mid-life women The role of muscle and mitochondria in health and metabolism Updated weight loss strategies for women over 40 If the ketogenic diet or intermittent fasting is appropriate for this demographic The metabolic Health and Vitality for Women Over 40 online course. How you access it? And so much more

#260 Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and body-identical hormones. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (1997) and the University of Calgary (evolutionary biology), Lara serves on several scientific advisory committees including The Centre for Ovulation and Menstruation Research (CeMCOR) at the University of British Columbia. She is a popular speaker and has delivered keynote presentations for the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association (AIMA), the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS), the University of Otago, Endometriosis New Zealand, Endometriosis Association of Queensland (QENDO), and the Evolutionary Health Society of New Zealand (EHA). Lara currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone and period-related health problems. Kira Sutherland is a Naturopathic Sports Nutritionist to some of the world's best athletes. She also lectures and mentors upcoming practitioners in the field of sports nutrition, and offers online courses for supporting athletes, trainers, and sports enthusiasts how to nourish the body to achieve peak performance and fitness. Using her 25+ years of clinical experience she has combined her knowledge of Naturopathic medicine with education in sports nutrition to create a truly wholistic approach to optimising performance for athletes and those striving for optimum health - especially women. Having lectured both within Australia and internationally on all things Naturopathic and sports nutrition, she is passionate about teaching people to take care of their bodies for the long term, not just treating them in the present moment. Kira believes that the role of a practitioner is to empower and teach clients to take care of themselves, to give them as much knowledge as possible. In this episode we cover The missing health science for mid-life women and the science sex gap  The dynamics between insulin, mitochondria, and cellular metabolism How the nutritional advice often suggested for men and young women does not always apply to mid-life women The role of muscle and mitochondria in health and metabolism Updated weight loss strategies for women over 40 If the ketogenic diet or intermittent fasting is appropriate for this demographic The metabolic Health and Vitality for Women Over 40 online course. How you access it? And so much more  

In this episode, The BePure Podcast takes a deep dive into how hormonal contraception - like the pill - affects our bodies with Dr. Lara Briden. The period revolutionary, Dr. Lara Briden, is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and supports those with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Join us for the next weekly dose of wellness with world leading experts by hitting the 'subscribe' button. Make sure to follow The BePure Podcast's social community @bepurewellness and head to bepure.co.nz to learn more. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-bepure-podcast/message

To kick off Season 6 of The Merry Menopause Bookclub Podcast my wonderful  guest today is Naturopathic Doctor Lara Briden. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Lara practices in  Christchurch, New Zealand, treating women with symptoms of PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, Perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Lara joins me to talk about the second of her two brilliant books Hormone Repair Manual which is about navigating and relieving the symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause, but I urge you to also check out her first book Period Repair Manual.Join us as we discuss:-How our Periods play an integral part of our Perimenopause.Want to know if you are in Perimenopause?Perimenopuase and The PillThe 9 common symptoms of Perimenopause.Perimenopause and drivingLara defines MenopauseMenopause is part of our evolution, it's not an accident of living too long! It's important that we change the narrative and understand that we are meant to go through this!Early human groups wouldn't have survived without the survival tactics of it's Menopausal members. Why Perimenopause is a tipping point for our long term health. Insulin intolerance and sensitivityMetabolic healthThe importance of ovulationUsing your period as a barometer as to what is happening to your bodyWhy your 65 year old self will seriously thank you for the positive changes you make in your 40s.I ask Lara about the period I had after 450 days of being period free!Annovulatory Menstrual Cycles - why we all need to know about them . Why Lara calls Perimenopause Secondary PubertyAnd the 9th symptom is….. Onset of night sweats, in particular premenstruallyLara's book choice is the wonderful Circe by Madeline MillerFind out more about Lara here 

Dr. Toni chats with Dr. Lara Briden, ND, about: the misconceptions around PCOS; how the pill masks your symptoms and may not be the answer; what happens to your hormones in perimenopause; and what to do to start to take back control of your hormonal health. Dr. Lara is the best-selling author of two books: The Period Repair Manual and The Hormone Repair Manual. She was also an expert featured in the movie, "The Business of Birth Control". The post Episode 142: PCOS, the Pill and Perimenopause: a Conversation with Dr. Lara Briden appeared first on The Perimenopausal Mamas Podcast.

Why is it important to know when you are ovulating? In this episode, Dr. Jerilynn Prior and Dr. Lara Briden return to the podcast to discuss why ovulation, rather than the period, is the main event of the menstrual cycle. They share how the ovulation phase is crucial to your overall health (not just fertility), and how to address hormonal imbalance. Listen to this interesting discussion where they reveal important health facts women of all ages need to know.   What you'll learn: What happens hormonally during ovulation? Why is it so important? What is the meaning of ovulation and anovulation? Can you have anovulation with regular periods? Female hormones (estrogen vs progesterone) and how they impact ovulation How to track ovulation  What are the signs that you are not ovulating? How to know if you are making too much estrogen What is a normal luteal phase? Can you take birth control as a teenager?* “What matters [for women's health] is releasing an egg and making progesterone— and making it for long enough to counterbalance the effects of estrogen. [Both] are meant to be coordinated. They have fundamentally different actions on different tissues.” - Dr. Jerilynn Prior Related to this episode: Resources to support Menstrual Health** Similar episodes on the Spotify Podcast Playlists: Women's Health Foundations and Menstrual Health Share the article: Women's Health and the Ovulation Cycle For Healthcare Providers: Managing Menorrhagia Without Surgery (CeMCOR) Why Is “The Pill” Harmful for Bones in Adolescent Women? (CeMCOR) Follow #RighttoOvulate on Instagram Get Dr. Lara Briden's Books: Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual If you enjoyed this episode and want to support this women's health podcast, leave a review for Fempower Health on iTunes or Spotify! Support Fempower Health:  Follow @FempowerHealth on Instagram for the latest updates, tips, and news in women's health. Tell your friends about the podcast and share this episode!   About Dr. Jerilynn Prior Jerilynn C. Prior BA, MD, FRCPC (former ABIM, ABEM) is a Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. She has spent her career studying menstrual cycles and the effects of the cycle's changing estrogen and progesterone hormone levels on women's health.  She is the founder (2002) and Scientific Director of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR). She is also Director of the BC Centre of the Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos) that is studying osteoporosis, fractures, and bone mineral density and has followed over 9000 adult women and men across the country for over 19 years, plus about 1,000 younger women and men aged 16-24 for two years. About Dr. Lara Briden Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual— practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones.  With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. *The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for information purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor. Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions.  **Contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links**

I am excited to connect with Dr. Lara Briden today! She is one of my favorite naturopathic doctors and the author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has 25 years of experience in women's health, and she currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Dr. Briden is a wealth of information! She brings a fresh perspective and a positive voice to the health and wellness space, and I often recommend her book, Hormone Repair Manual, to my clients and patients.  Today, she and I dive into her background as an evolutionary biologist and discuss how she became passionate about supporting women and advocating for them throughout their lifetime. We talk about perspectives on aging, what the second puberty (perimenopause) is, and the impact of histamine, mass-cell granulation, and estrogen. We discuss fat redistribution in middle age and the loss of insulin sensitivity. We speak about how using alcohol impacts brain health, sleep, the gut microbiome, appetite, cravings, and hinders estrogen metabolism. We also touch on ways to address dysfunctional uterine bleeding in middle age and explain how to advocate for your health, how middle-age impacts the nervous system, and the role of inflammatory foods, including dairy.  I hope you enjoy our discussion as much as I did! Stay tuned for more! IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN: Dr. Briden talks about her background as an evolutionary biologist and how she changed her career and became an advocate for women's health. Many women fear the process of aging. Dr. Briden and I talk about women's mindsets and their perspectives on aging.  Why is there so little awareness about perimenopause? Dr. Briden defines menopause and discusses the timeframe in which some women experience perimenopause symptoms. How can ongoing hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause, or second puberty, increase the likelihood of women having issues with a histamine response? Dr. Briden talks about fat redistribution in middle age and explains why women need to stay on top of it from a metabolic perspective. How can our modern-day lifestyle make the metabolic shift women experience in menopause even more challenging? Dr. Briden talks about natural treatments and hormone therapies to lighten the flow of the extremely heavy periods that some women experience during perimenopause. Dr. Briden discusses the connection between cow dairy and an inflammatory reaction in some people. Women need to understand what happens in their bodies when they have either a partial or a full hysterectomy. Dr. Briden talks about estrogen and brain health. How does alcohol affect the body? What are the best options with the fewest side effects for hormone therapy for women? Connect with Cynthia Thurlow Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website  Connect with Dr. Lara Briden On her website   On Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaraBriden  Dr. Briden's blog  Dr. Briden's podcast Books mentioned: Period Repair Manual (for women in their 20s and 30s) by Dr. Lara Briden Hormone Repair Manual (for women of 40-plus) by Dr. Lara briden Free download of the first two chapters of both Dr. Lara Briden's books The XX Brain: The Groundbreaking Science Empowering Women to Maximize Cognitive Health and Prevent Alzheimer's Disease by Lisa Mosconi, PhD

Welcome to the SYNC Your Life podcast episode #56! On this podcast, we will be diving into all things women's hormones to help you learn how to live in alignment with your female physiology. Too many women are living with their check engine lights flashing. You know you feel "off" but no matter what you do, you can't seem to have the energy, or lose the weight, or feel your best. This podcast exists to shed light on the important topic of healthy hormones and cycle syncing, to help you gain maximum energy in your life.  In today's episode, I'm giving an overview of perimenopause. What it is, what to expect, and how to come through it with good energy. In this episode, I reference the following previous podcast episodes: How to Find a Functional Practitioner Estrogen Dominance Proper Testing I also reference Dr. Lara Briden's two books, Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. If you feel like something is "off" with your hormones, check out the FREE hormone imbalance quiz at sync.jennyswisher.com.  To learn more about the SYNC Digital Course, check out jennyswisher.com.  Let's be friends outside of the podcast! Send me a message or schedule a call so I can get to know you better. You can reach out at https://jennyswisher.com/contact-2/. Enjoy the show! Episode Webpage: jennyswisher.com/podcast 

In today's episode we are joined by Dr. Laura Briden to discuss hormonal health, importance of ovulation (the main event), irregular periods, PCOS and Endometriosis.We dig into how Dr. Briden defines PMS, how our bodies are resilient and how to fuel our bodies to minimize PMS symptoms, tips to manage PCOS, the difference between PCOS and Endometriosis, and so much more!  Dr. Briden's background of evolutionary biology and naturopathic medicine inform her unique perspective on these fascinating topics, which can be found on full display in her latest book, "Hormone Repair Manual: Every Woman's Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40".Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Learn more and connect with Dr. Lara Briden: WebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitterYouTube Videos Referenced:SIBO and Endometriosis Part 1SIBO and Endometriosis Part 2The Importance of Progesterone Learn more and purchase her books:Period Repair ManualHormone Repair ManualJoin our private FitMom Lifestyle community HEREWant to schedule a strategy call with us? Schedule HERETo connect with Liz Roman click HERETo connect with Becca Chilczenkowski click HERERead More on FitMom Lifestyle HERECheck out Liz's NEW COOKBOOK, FitCookery HERECheck out our PLANNER, Win The Day HEREThis episode is brought to you by FitMom Lifestyle Marketing and Production by brandhard Want to check out some of our favorite supplements like the Daily Greens, Digestive Enzymes, and some of the best tasting protein to help you recover from your workout (Fruit D Loop is one of our favorites) visit 1stPhorm now.Looking for high quality supplements at a discount? Purchase through our Wellevate account HEREStay SALTY with our favorite electrolyte packets, LMNT! LMNT is a electrolyte drink mix that is formulated to help anyone with their electrolyte needs and is perfectly suited to folks following a keto, low-carb, or paleo diet AND it is soo tasty - great for flavoring water and helping you drink more! Our favorite flavors include Watermelon, Raspberry, Mango Chili, Grapefruit and Citrus!Please do us that favor and share this with your friends and family so we can reach more lives!

On today's podcast, I talk with my friend Angelique, a nationally board certified health coach, about her own journey with adenomyosis, uterine fibroids, and ultimately a hysterectomy. She also talks about how she managed post-op movement while being the caretaker for her husband. Her story is a powerful one, and I am so thankful to her for sharing with all of us.Resources Mentioned:Pearl Women's Center website: https://www.pearlwomenscenter.comLara Briden's books: Period Repair Manual & Hormone Repair Manual (she also has a podcast! Listen here: https://www.larabriden.com/podcast/)Book: The Body Keeps the ScoreSelf Compassion Practices by Dr. Kristin Neff: https://self-compassion.orgSaboteurs quiz by Positive Intelligence: https://www.positiveintelligence.com/saboteurs/More questions for Natalie or Angelique?Email them to hello@trainernatalie.comPlease remember that that what you hear on this podcast is not medical advice. but remember to always do your own research and talk to your provider before making important decisions about your healthcare. If you found this podcast helpful, please consider leaving a 5-star review in your favorite podcast app, it helps other people find the show. Thanks so much for listening. I'll catch you next time!Come say hey on social media:Instagram: @trainernataliehFacebook: @trainernataliehTwitter: @trainernataliehSign up for my newsletter here: https://sendfox.com/trainernatalie

No woman should be left to silently suffer the potentially debilitating symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. There are lots of options available to us - both naturally in the form of diet, lifestyle, stress management ​ and also in the form of HRT or what is now known as MHT - Menopause Hormone Therapy. ​ Today I'm not talking for or against MHT and I talk about why it doesn't have to be an either / or scenario. ​ I want to give you the facts so you can make informed decisions about what is right for YOU and YOUR body. No one knows your body better than you do and you also have your own personal threshold of what symptoms you're prepared to put up with. ​ We talk about the different types of Hormone Therapy, what type of Hormone Therapy is appropriate for the different stages of perimenopause and menopause ​ - the benefits and also the downsides or risks associated. ​ In this episode we talk about:  Diet and lifestyle considerations, whether you're choosing to use MHT or not Who MHT is suitable for and when it's appropriate to use it Why MHT should never be one size fits all. We look at the 3 different options available, depending on where you're at in your peri/menopause journey The risks and downsides of MHT. Links and resources: Brands of body identical MHT available in Australia and New Zealand(With full credit to Dr Lara Briden and her amazing book Hormone Repair Manual)  Body identical estradiolClimara patchEstradot patchEstraderm patchEstrogel gelSandrena gelVagifem LowEstrofem tablet Body identical estriolOvestin pessary  Body Identical progesteronePrometrium capsuleUtrogestan capsule Join our free Hormone Hub Facebook Community - https://www.facebook.com/groups/thewellbalancedwoman For more about me and what I do, check out my website https://kyliepinwill.com Make sure you hit SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss a thing!  And, if you enjoyed this episode, please leave me a rating and a review? Thanks!

Dr. Jerilynn Prior and Dr. Lara Briden are back on the podcast. In this episode, they discuss why ovulation, rather than our period, is the main event of the menstrual cycle. It is an important and interesting discussion shedding light on important concepts that impact women of all ages.   We cover the following: What happens during ovulation and why is it so important? What is the meaning of ovulation and anovulation? The importance of estrogen and progesterone and how they impact ovulation How ovulation tracking works Is it possible to have regular cycles and not ovulate? What are the signs that you are not ovulating? How to know if you are making too much estrogen What is a normal luteal phase? Can you take birth control as a teenager? “What matters is releasing an egg, making progesterone, and making it for long enough to counterbalance the effects of estrogen. They are meant to be coordinated. They have fundamentally different actions on different tissues.” - Dr. Jerilynn Prior Resources: Curated resources to support Menstrual Health Spotify Podcast Playlist on Women's Health Foundations and Menstrual Health Blog Posts from CeMCOR: For Healthcare Providers: Managing Menorrhagia Without Surgery Why Is “The Pill” Harmful for Bones in Adolescent Women? Follow #RighttoOvulate Dr. Lara Briden's Books: Period Repair Manual  Hormone Repair Manual If you liked this episode and you're feeling generous, don't forget to leave a review on iTunes or Spotify! And be sure to: Follow Fempower Health on Instagram for updates and tips. Tell 2-3 of your friends about this episode!   **The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for information purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor. Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions.  **Contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links** About Dr. Jerilynn Prior Jerilynn C. Prior BA, MD, FRCPC (former ABIM, ABEM) is a Professor of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, BC. She has spent her career studying menstrual cycles and the effects of the cycle's changing estrogen and progesterone hormone levels on women's health. She is the founder (2002) and Scientific Director of the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research (CeMCOR). She is also Director of the BC Centre of the Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study (CaMos) that is studying osteoporosis, fractures and bone mineral density and has followed over 9000 adult women and men across the country for over 19 years, plus about a 1000 younger women and men aged 16-24 for two years. About Dr. Lara Briden Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual— practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones.  With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal.  She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.

Today's episode is all about hormones, periods, and perimenopause…Oh, my! We know what you're thinking when you see the word “menopause”. Our guest Dr. Lara Briden, naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual, shares with us the definition of perimenopause and how it can relate to you in the postpartum period.Together with pelvic floor and women's health expert Dr. Marcy Crouch and motherhood and mental health expert Alyson Hempsey, Lara shares everything you need to know about why and how your hormones are changing, the dreaded hair loss that often occurs after having a baby, and what we can do to manage the symptoms of perimenopause, also known as “Second Puberty”. Lara discusses the similarities of perimenopause to the postpartum period, and shares really interesting facts about women's susceptibility to autoimmune conditions. We ALL know that our hormones change during pregnancy and postpartum. Lara has tips for you to help manage these changes, and offers suggestions on when it's time to talk to your provider. You don't want to miss this episode!Selected Links From the Episode:Want to know more about the postpartum period and mental health? Check out this episode.Learn about how these hormone changes impact your motherhood journey in our episode about matrescence. If you would like to learn more about maternal mental health, navigating matrescence, and learn how to reclaim your identity in motherhood, Alyson's SOULtime guide is for you!Want more support, Mama?-Sign up for Early Access to Dr. Marcy's Postpartum courses- Use code "NMLB" for $5 off Alyson's SOULtime guideConnect With Us:We love to hear from you! Share your birth and postpartum stories or just say hi!Website | Send us an email | Instagram | Subscribe | Support the Show WE'RE DOING A GIVEAWAY!Steps to enter:1. Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. That's it!WHAT YOU GET IF YOU WIN1. Dr. Marcy's Postpartum and Delivery Prep Courses2. Alyson's e-book, "SOULtime: A Guide on Reclaiming Your Identity in MotherhoodSupport the show

 In this episode Dr. Becky Campbell chats with naturopathic doctor, Dr. Lara Briden. She is the author of best selling books, Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has 25 years of experience in women's health and currently treats women with PCOS, PMS, Endometriosis, Perimenopause and other period and hormonal related health problems. Lara informs us on different complications that arise from the use of birth control and the common health challenges when coming off it. We also talk about progesterone deficiency, hormone replacement therapy and more.    TOPICS: Meet Dr. Lara Briden (01:05) Complications with birth control (03:56) Coming off of birth control (14:15) Progesterone and progestin (20:26) Signs of progesterone deficiency (24:54) Hormone replacement therapy (31:18) Non-hormonal birth control options (37:07)   MORE FROM THE HEALTH BABES:   Did you know? You have a chance to win 1 of 2 prizes, with a giveaway in every episode! Leave a review to win, and don't forget to subscribe for future episodes! Find more from Dr. Lara Briden at larabriden.com Follow Lara on Instagram @larabriden Check out Lara's blog HERE Listen to the Lara Briden Podcast Purchase The Period Repair Manual   Find more from Dr. Becky Campbell and Dr. Krystal Hohn at DrBeckyCampbell.com Consult with us one on one HERE   Follow Dr. Becky and Dr. Krystal on Instagram @drbeckycampbell and @drkrystalhohn, follow the Health Babes Podcast @healthbabespodcast Find us on Facebook, on Pinterest, and on YouTube   Get resources on how best to support your thyroid HERE Wondering if you have histamine intolerance? Take THIS QUIZ and receive a free histamine guide Get answers to your health questions HERE   Wondering if you have histamine intolerance? Take THIS QUIZ and receive a free histamine guide Get answers to your health questions HERE

Today on the podcast, we have one of our most loved returning guests; naturopathic doctor and best-selling author Lara Briden. If you have had the pleasure of listening to Lara on one of our previous podcasts, you know she is an absolute wealth of knowledge for all things women's reproductive, menstrual, and hormonal health. As a woman, listening to her illustrate the inextricable relationship between female reproductive health, mental health, and hormone systems, there is a sense of belonging and reclamation for the natural cycles that have been medically interrupted.   Over the years, we've had Lara on the podcast talking about period repair, PCOS, Hypothalamic Amenorrhea, and all they encompass; Today, Lara is joining us to talk about the transitions into perimenopause and menopause. Lara's enlightened wisdom reminds us that menopause is not something to dread or treat as a medical 'condition' to be corrected; but rather a gateway and rite of passage to be honoured and exalted.    In this beautiful conversation with Tahnee, Lara dispels menopausal fallacies replacing them with profound knowledge and biological facts about what this sacred transition within the female body/psyche represents. Lara reframes the metabolic/hormonal shifts between the reproductive years and perimenopause,  details the best diet/herbal medicines for menopause, and offers a beautiful evolutionary perspective of menopause across time and cultures. "How the perimenopause transition is going for a woman depends on a lot of factors. Your stress, your adrenal system, your stress support system, how stable it is, how strong your circadian rhythm is, how well-nourished you are, how your immune system is. All of those things, including, unfortunately, how many environmental toxins you have been exposed to. Any of those negative things can increase the symptoms of the perimenopause transition".    - Lara Briden    Tahnee and Lara discuss: Menopause. Perimenopause. Contraceptive drugs The reproductive years. Pill bleeds are not periods. The phases of perimenopause. The transition into menopause. Herbal medicine for menopause. Hormone therapy for menopause. Why alcohol and menopause don't mix. The difference between progesterone and progestin. Bone density loss with perimenopause/menopause. The hormonal shifts during perimenopause/menopause. At what age do women start getting symptoms of menopause?   Who Lara Briden? Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual andHormone Repair Manual. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. She has 25 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.   CLICK HERE TO LISTEN ON APPLE PODCAST    If you're wanting to enrich your knowledge and dive deeper into Lara's work, make sure you check out the resources below linking to Lara's websites, books and previous podcasts.      Resources: Dr. Lara's website Dr. Lara's Instagram Dr. Lara's Facebook Lara Briden Forum The Period Repair Manual-Lara Briden Period Repair with Lara Briden (EP#21) The Power of Menopause with Jane Hardwick Collings (EP#77) Is It PCOS or Hypothalamic Amenorrhea with Lara Briden (EP#99)   Resources Mentioned In The Podcast:   The Power of Eating Enough - Lara Briden Blog Post The Difference Between Progesterone and Progestin - Lara Briden Blog Post The Slow Moon Climbs - The Science, History, and Meaning of Menopause (book mentioned by Lara in podcast)       Q: How Can I Support The SuperFeast Podcast? A: Tell all your friends and family and share online! We'd also love it if you could subscribe and review this podcast on iTunes. Or check us out on Stitcher, CastBox, iHeart RADIO:)! Plus we're on Spotify!   Check Out The Transcript Here:   Tahnee: (00:00) Hi everyone, welcome to the SuperFeast Podcast. I am here with Lara Briden, she is one of our friends of the podcast. It's our third episode with us today, really excited to have her here. And we're speaking about perimenopause and menopause, really in reference to her book, the Hormone Repair Manual, which if you're my age and over, I'm in my mid 30s, highly recommend getting a copy. It's actually a really good, fun read and really interesting just thinking about preparing for this stage of life. So thank you for joining us on the podcast again, Lara. I'm so happy to have you here.   Lara Briden: (00:34) Thanks for having me. Looking forward to our chat again.   Tahnee: (00:39) Yeah, another one. And we've been sort of all over the world. I think we've done a lot of stuff on menstruation really when you've been on with us, but I was really excited when I saw you publish this. It was last year, wasn't it?   Lara Briden: (00:48) Yeah. Came out early last year.   Tahnee: (00:50) Yes. I think I've had it for quite a while. And I guess from I think women hit this, I hit middle 30s and was like, "I don't have much information about menopause and I've only had these sort of anecdotal stories from family and friends about what happens to women and it's usually pretty negative. It's not really framed up in a positive way." And then I was telling you we had Jane Hardwicke Collings on the podcast and she spoke a lot around the spiritual side of things and these important transitions that we have in our lives. And it just made me a bit more interested and excited about what's coming.   Tahnee: (01:28) I think reading your book, yes, obviously it's a complex time, but just how you mapped out the stages and took something that can feel really sort of dark and unknown and maybe even a little bit scary and... I don't know, I think it just made me feel a little bit more confident and reassured, so thank you for that.   Lara Briden: (01:43) That's sweet. I had one review say, "Yeah, made me feel like everything's going to be okay." Which is-   Tahnee: (01:53) I think it's like with pregnancy, because I'm pregnant right now and you hear about birth growing up and it's always people's hectic horror stories. It's always like, "Oh and you have to carry a baby around this and that." And I think when you actually go through it, it's like, "That's actually really magical and quite beautiful." I mean, I know it's not for everybody, but that's been my experience and it's reframed a lot of that for me. And I think, just this book started that journey for me. So hopefully menopause is a fun experience. But I thought that idea of it being predictable was really interesting that you speak about early in the book, in the sense that there's a rhythm or a pattern that unfolds.   Lara Briden: (02:33) There's a sequence of events, it's not just chaos. It's portrayed as this hormonal chaotic time. That's not actually what's happening, it's a sequence. We'll start with this, it's second puberty. So we have first puberty, which we know is temporary, which we know is turning one thing into another thing. That's what perimenopause is. It's at the other end, it brackets our reproductive years. And it's second puberty, it's the end of periods.   Lara Briden: (03:08) The other good thing about that is it's temporary. And also, I guess the thing I want to say is that writing this book and going through menopause myself, I've reframed actually how I think about female physiology. I now have this sort of view that we have our basic female physiology, which starts at in childhood, we have low hormones, and then we go through 35 to 40 years at the most of our reproductive years, which is amazing. As you know I'm a huge fan of ovulation and periods and pregnancy and all of that's amazing and that helps us make hormones and build metabolic reserve.   Lara Briden: (03:44) But then that has to end, this is the thing about reproductive years, that is, there's an end point. And then we revert back to our more baseline female physiology. So for me, that's sort of really normalised it. It's far from being, "Oh, I'm longer a woman." No, it's the opposite. This is the basic female physiology and then I'm just thankful to have had, in my case about 38 years of periods, I guess.   Tahnee: (04:12) That's a really interesting way to think about it, I guess, because it's almost like this heightened state through these reproductive years, which are so intensive, really in many ways on us and then having this stability afterwards.   Lara Briden: (04:27) The reproductive years are a special time and that's true whether you have pregnancies or not, actually I would say. I mean, obviously pregnancies are a very special part of that, but even for women like myself who did not have pregnancies, it's still those years of ovulating and it's amazing. It also just, for example, having menstrual cycles and pregnancies increases our metabolic rate, increases our demand for calories. So when we exit that, come up the other end, our metabolism shifts, and that's always portrayed as a bad thing. You start to gain weight with menopause. But again, I've sort of reframed it as we need fewer calories in a way. And so from a-   Tahnee: (05:07) Less resources.   Lara Briden: (05:08) Yeah. From an evolutionary perspective, I might jump to that because as you know, I might have mentioned on the podcast before, before I became a naturopathic doctor, I was an evolutionary biologist and I see a lot of things through that lens. Menopause is particularly fascinating from an evolutionary perspective because all the evidence is now that even in ancient times, even in prehistoric times, there were women who made it through to 80 years old. Contrary to the mistaken belief that we all died by 40, that is not the case at all. A lot of people died young because of injuries and unfortunately childhood mortality and death in childbirth as well. There's lots of hazards before modern medicine, but it was always still possible and not uncommon for individuals to live to 80.   Lara Briden: (06:04) And actually what some of the research shows and in my book, I quote another book called The Slow Moon Climbs, where she builds the case that a longer human lifespan for both sexes evolved because of beneficial selection pressure on women in their post reproductive decades. So basically it's about the fact that 50 something, 60 something women are so productive for their group. They gather more food than any other demographic and they share it and they also need less themselves. So that's the perfect member of a society. They're helping everyone, they're gathering food. They're very lean, efficient machines themselves because they don't need as much energy. And it's a good thing, it's like a superpower. It's that reframing of the shift in metabolism as certainly beneficial for our ancestors.   Lara Briden: (07:00) It's a little bit trickier now in our modern world where we live with so many surrounded by sugar and processed foods. That's what you would call an evolutionary mismatch with our ancient metabolism. We can explore that a little bit, but just the basic message being, menopause is meant to happen. It evolved, it's not an accident of living too long. It's something, if we're lucky enough to live this long, that we do as women. I think understanding all of that just changed it all for me personally, I just feel far from feeling like I'm done. I feel now this is the next exciting chapter where you get to do lots of things.   Tahnee: (07:43) Well, I want to bookmark a little bit there because there's a couple things I want to drill down on. I think that piece around the mismatch evolutionarily is really interesting, but I just want to go back a little bit to what you said about, which I guess it's lining up, if you think about how we live now, back in those days it would've been that support of the older, wiser, probably more hands on members of society to the reproducing ones. And I think now we've got this interesting cultural thing where even with myself, I work full time, I have a kid, I'm going to have another kid. And I can see how that drains women as well as they head into their perimenopausal and menopausal years. I wonder if you've noticed that in your clinical work, is there's this extra pressure now on women during their reproductive years and how that affects menopause.   Lara Briden: (08:40) Oh yeah. Well, there's so many reasons. Couple things I'll say so that'll answer your question about clinically what I'm saying. If I could just allow me for a little bit to talk about the evolution a little bit more and restore of humans because I've [crosstalk 00:08:55]. So what we know now about hominids, well, ancient human groups is that we had to have a lot of... To do what we did and spread over the world and be so successful, there always had to be a high ratio between adults and children, which is very interesting. You had to have what they call, I think they called them alloparents. So you had to have non reproducing adults basically who would support and help the reproducing women do what they had to do.   Lara Briden: (09:28) And that's actually what enabled women, the reproducing members of society, to make babies every three years, back to back like that. Because you can imagine a individual human, a woman in the wild, there's no way you could raise baby after baby with no help. [crosstalk 00:09:46] And a husband isn't enough, one person isn't enough. You have to have aunts and uncles, grandmothers. And so there's that.   Lara Briden: (09:57) So obviously yes, I think to speak to your question, young mothers are under a lot of pressure now that they wouldn't have been. And that is a drain on their stress response system. That's certainly not ideal, in terms of stress level throughout the reproductive years. A lot of what happens at perimenopause, you know how in my first book I talk about the period as the monthly report card, perimenopause is like the final exam. It's everything that's been happening, what amount of metabolic reserve you were able to build up through... When you get to your early 40s, because for a lot of us, the change does start in our early 40s. It's not somewhere off in your mid 50s. I mean, that's a mistaken understanding that a lot of women have, like, "It's happening now." Not now for you, but for a lot of women, by 40, 42, 43, 44, 45, that's pretty common to start to get some of the neurological symptoms.   Lara Briden: (11:05) And the way that is going to be will depend on a lot of factors and certainly your stress, your adrenal system, we call it naturopathically, or your stress support system, how stable that is, how strong your circadian rhythm is, how well nourished you are, how your immune system is. All of those things, including unfortunately, how many environmental toxins you might have been exposed to. Any of those negative things can increase the symptoms of the perimenopause transition.   Lara Briden: (11:40) Because I'm convinced from a biology evolutionary point of view and also as discussed in the book that I mentioned, low Moon Climbs, the actual transition of perimenopause to menopause, historically would've not been symptomatic. There's no reason that we would've... The body should be able to make that change symptom free. Obviously you stop ovulating and stop having periods, that's what happens, but there's no reason that should go along with distressing, sleep or hot flushes or all the things that can happen. Just as there's no reason periods should be... Periods are not painful inherently. They are commonly painful, but that's a mismatch a lot of the time with our modern food supply and other things going on.   Lara Briden: (12:30) So that's the idea of evolutionary mismatch. I think actually to perimenopause and perimenopause symptoms is the classic example of evolutionary mismatch. This idea that symptoms arise from a mismatch between our ancient physiology and our modern environment. And not just food, not just environmental toxins, but circadian rhythm would come into that a lot, disrupted circadian rhythm. On the topic of environmental toxins, there's actually a bit of interesting research. I do include it in the book just only like one sentence [crosstalk 00:13:00].   Tahnee: (13:00) Lead stuff?   Lara Briden: (13:00) Yes.   Tahnee: (13:01) Yeah. I was going to ask about [crosstalk 00:13:03].   Lara Briden: (13:03) Good eyes. There's like one sentence about that, but possibly, and this is just one example of the way environmental toxins can affect us, but there's some research to suggest that some of the neurological symptoms of the perimenopause transition, so that would include anxiety, sleep disturbance, potentially hot flashes, may arise at least in part from the release of lead from our bones. It's sounds awful, but this is the case. That we've accumulated through a lifetime and now with increased bone turnover with dropping oestrogen levels, more of that lead is liberated into the bloodstream.   Lara Briden: (13:44) And so for example, just to give you... When I was a kid, we had leaded petroleum or leaded gasoline. Obviously the society has been trying to reduce lead exposure, but some of us, especially born in the '60s and '70s, were exposed to more. And with heavy metal toxins, as you probably know, the body sequesters it, so it's like, "Oh, this is bad." Puts it in the bones, which takes it out of circulation for a while, but eventually comes back. So that's an intriguing bit of research to kind of wonder if without body burden of lead, what would... I think there's other factors too. I don't think that would mean we're all of us symptom free, but it's an intriguing-   Tahnee: (14:26) It could be a tipping point or something.   Lara Briden: (14:27) Yeah. It's a factor.   Tahnee: (14:30) I found that really interesting too. And even just because you hear about osteoporosis in sort of menopausal years, but I think, I didn't really understand that it was just that turnover process was heightened and faster, I suppose.   Lara Briden: (14:43) Yes, it's an increased bone turnover. Which is real, and a lot of that's comes from losing oestrogen and progesterone to some extent.   Tahnee: (14:50) So that's happening in the body anyway. We have osteoblast clast going around and [crosstalk 00:14:56].   Lara Briden: (14:55) Yes, the turnover is always happening. Yes, exactly.   Tahnee: (14:57) So can you explain, is the difference with menopause is as the progesterone and oestrogen drop-   Lara Briden: (15:04) Yes.   Tahnee: (15:04) Is that just completely affecting the speed of that process, is that [crosstalk 00:15:09]?   Lara Briden: (15:09) So there's more osteoclast activity or the cells that kind of chew up bone. Osteoclasts are suppressed by oestrogen, not completely, but... So as you know, we're always, from peak bone density, peak bone mass around age 30, we, everyone, men and women, it's downhill from there basically. We're losing bone mass incrementally, continuously, and that's normal. But the idea is we want to have hopefully strong enough bones to last into our 80s or 90s. At some point we're not going to need our bones anymore. But around the later phases of perimenopause when oestrogen drops, because I just point out oestrogen is actually high in the early phases, which is interesting. But around the later phases and into after your final period, it is true, there is acceleration of that bone loss for at least about five years. And it's real, I think it's just, it's a lot of it your outcome.   Lara Briden: (16:15) And then, the concern is because you're not going to break bones from osteoporosis in your 50s, it's actually, what's going to happen when you're 75, 80. So it's all about this prevention for down the road, so it's about assessing risk. What other risk factors for low bone density might you have? A good example is eating disorders like undereating as a young woman is not good. There's some evidence that hormonal birth control actually impairs bone density, smoking. These are some of the obvious ones, smoking's [crosstalk 00:16:48] not good. So if you have any of those risk factors and then plus, especially if you have an earlier then for the sake of bones, there is a real argument to be made for taking oestrogen potentially long term to protect bones. So I'll just acknowledge that.   Lara Briden: (17:04) There's also lots of other ways to help bones. The muscle and bone are just connected like hand in hand. So maintaining strong muscles is a excellent way to maintain bone health. And we are unfortunately with the final phases of menopause or perimenopause and dropping oestrogen levels, we tend to lose muscle mass, which it's real. It's like you lose your bum, you just start to not have... You can maintain muscles, but you have to work at it. And well, it's a sad reality. And I guess just also speaking back to our ancestors, they didn't work at maintaining muscle exactly. They were walking around carrying [crosstalk 00:17:49]. Yeah. Carrying bundles of food and babies and-   Tahnee: (17:52) Children.   Lara Briden: (17:52) Yeah.   Tahnee: (17:53) Yes. 20 kilos to laugh that to me at the moment, people like, "Look at your arms." I'm like, I would, I have a 20 kilo child. I think that's a really interesting piece with our modern society. And we seem to keep looking back at this mismatch, but we would've been so much more active and just incidentally active through our day to day lives [crosstalk 00:18:17].   Lara Briden: (18:17) They didn't exercise.   Tahnee: (18:18) Yeah. They're not working out at the gym or anything.   Lara Briden: (18:20) No. [crosstalk 00:18:22]   Tahnee: (18:23) And I think that that losing that throughout our whole lives, it's a challenge, and for younger people.   Lara Briden: (18:29) Younger people. Sure.   Tahnee: (18:29) But I notice you mentioned walking, that's something you do a lot and-   Lara Briden: (18:33) Yeah.   Tahnee: (18:34) Some of the women I know who've had easier transitions movement does seem to play a part in that for them the more active jobs or people who walk a lot or do those more active things.   Lara Briden: (18:45) For sure. I love the fact that you use the word movements rather than exercise. I'm a convert to saying movement because of the inherent sort of just joyfulness of it. You're not, as you say, working out, it's not a chore. You're moving your body. So I would emphasise, it's pretty important to find a style of movement that is enjoyable because that's the way you're going to do it on a regular basis. Not to be healthy, not to specifically to build bone, but because it feels good to move your body.   Tahnee: (19:19) You actually like to do it. And I think that was interesting because you had some research around, I think it was yoga and hot flashes, which I hadn't heard and thought was super interesting, but I know yoga's not for everybody because some people it's too much stretching. Because sometimes I think resistance training can be better for like what you're talking about, holding muscle mass and strengthening bones and things. But I thought that was an interesting study because I hadn't heard of that symptom.   Lara Briden: (19:45) A lot of things affect hot flashes actually, because there are nervous system symptoms. So there's lots ways to help to stabilise. The nervous system is recalibrating. We can launch into that now, but I'll just say a word for... I love yoga and I agree [crosstalk 00:20:01].   Tahnee: (20:00) I love it. I'm a yoga [crosstalk 00:20:02].   Lara Briden: (20:01) You either love it or you don't. If you don't, that's fine, but it has a lot of things going for it. You do build muscle with yoga, especially if you're doing some of the stronger squats and lunges and things. And also as I talk about in the book, it's so good for the nervous system. It's this combination of actually arms above the head, controlled breathing, long exhales. That's really good for the vagus nerve as you probably know. And it's very stabilising for the nervous system. So I love it. I acknowledge not everyone feels the same, but I'm in the camp of how do people survive without yoga? [crosstalk 00:20:36]   Tahnee: (20:36) No, trust me, that's me too. But one thing I've noticed with, I don't know, I used to teach a lot of menopausal women and they seem to have, you mentioned it in the book, a lot of energy. And I do find sometimes I feel like they actually don't connect to the... They seem to enjoy moving more.   Lara Briden: (20:58) Okay. More vigorously maybe sometimes [crosstalk 00:21:01].   Tahnee: (21:01) Which is something interesting because I teach a lot of Yin and slower. I did used to teach hectic stuff too, but it was just interesting when I was watching how different people responded to practices. And look, it could be a nervous system thing too, like you're talking about. I thought that was an interesting chapter. I guess just thinking about how much, I mean, that affects all of us, like heart rate variability and all of these things. But I thought that was really interesting in relation to peri and menopause. So can you talk a little bit about that side of things?   Lara Briden: (21:33) Oh, about the nervous system [crosstalk 00:21:35]. Yeah. So let's talk about that. Perfect, because I mentioned about recalibration of the nervous system. And we'll get our terms straight too. So perimenopause is the lead up to menopause basically. I mean, there's different ways. Menopause itself as a word has different definitions depending on who you ask. But the definition I use comes from the professor who helped me with my book, Jerilynn Prior. She is in the camp that defines menopause as the life phase that begins one year after your final period. So she would call that menopause is the next 30 years going forward from perimenopause.   Lara Briden: (22:22) Some people define it differently. Some people call that post-menopause I'm with her, that menopause is all of those decades that come after. Whereas perimenopause is the change and that's where the symptoms come from. Most of the symptoms are temporary. With the, we probably won't get to it today, but just acknowledging that longer term symptoms with menopause or post menopause depending on how you want to define it, would be things like vaginal dryness and that whole syndrome that goes along with low oestrogen and how that affects the pelvis and bladder. And so that's obviously [crosstalk 00:22:57].   Tahnee: (22:56) Not the prolapse sort of.   Lara Briden: (22:58) That sort of thing. So that's-   Tahnee: (23:00) And you speak to that in the book.   Lara Briden: (23:01) I do. There's a chapter section on that. That's not temporary, but a lot of the other symptoms are temporary, especially the neurological symptoms of which most symptoms of premenopausal are neurological, and they arise from the recalibration process. So just as first puberty is, as you can imagine, a recalibration of the brain. The brain undergoes pretty major changes in first puberty, obviously. And the immune system undergoes changes with first puberty. The same happens with second puberty or perimenopause. So a brain rewiring, that's what I call chapter to seven in the book, is rewiring the brain.   Lara Briden: (23:44) The other system that undergoes quite a profound recalibration is the immune system. And that's why there's such thing as perimenopausal allergies and an increased likelihood of autoimmune flare. And the other system that undergoes a recalibration is the metabolic system and cardiovascular system all around a shift to insulin resistance, unfortunately, which also affects the brain.   Lara Briden: (24:09) But in answer to your question about the nervous system, I'll just talk about the nervous systems. So nervous system symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats. Night sweats are usually first, premenstrual night sweats, first in terms of sequence of symptoms to arise. And then sleep disturbance is quite a common one, increased likelihood of anxiety and depression, dialled up premenstrual mood symptoms potentially, and migraines. Did I already say migraine?   Tahnee: (24:44) No.   Lara Briden: (24:45) [crosstalk 00:24:45] No, increased frequency of migraines. I just had a patient the other day actually with classic. She said she'd had maybe two migraines in her first puberty and then they went away completely. And then they came back at 42, 43, they started coming back. And so I can talk about some of the underlying physiology that's contributing to that.   Tahnee: (25:07) Well, I just think it's super interesting because I guess reading the book that I noticed a lot of it seemed to come back to that nervous system piece around there's all the sleep symptom and that's really, if we work on regulating nervous system that helps. The hot flash if we work on [crosstalk 00:25:25]. And I guess one of the things I hear a lot from people is, how do I fix my hot flashes? Or how do I fix my insomnia? How do I fix my... And it's like the symptom becomes the focus instead of really drilling down to that root cause around well, maybe there's this imbalance in the activation of the nervous system.   Lara Briden: (25:43) Right. Or just the general strategy of supporting the nervous system rather than having to eliminate that [crosstalk 00:25:50].   Tahnee: (25:49) Yeah. Like focus on cooling down or eating [crosstalk 00:25:53].   Lara Briden: (25:55) For sure. And one thing before I launch into the nervous system and the physiology underlying that, I do just want to point out while I'm thinking of it, there's no diagnostic test for this. This is a little bit... This is worth mentioning-   Tahnee: (26:13) Like it's subjective kind of?   Lara Briden: (26:15) Because it's such a classic story, as women start having night sweats, increased migraines, they feel different. They're like, "Ooh something's happening? Could this be perimenopause?" And then the answer is probably yes. But they go to the doctor and they're like, "Oh, your blood tests are fine." That means nothing. That means absolutely nothing. And same with DUTCH testing or any kind of... There's no diagnostic test for perimenopause. It's purely based on context and symptoms. By context, meaning if you're older than 35, and symptoms and ruling out other causes. For example, thyroid disease can look and feel a lot like perimenopause, but it's something different. Although you can have both happening at the same time, which is confusing.   Lara Briden: (27:08) But I will say just to be clear, so I'm talking about a normal perimenopause, a normal progression where your symptoms might start in your late 30s or early 40s, but you're heading to a final period anywhere between 45 to 55, that's normal. Period stopping due to early menopause at like 35, that's different, and that can be diagnosed by blood tests. We'll leave the early menopause thing. I talk about it in the book, but we'll just leave that separately because obviously that's a whole other conversation.   Lara Briden: (27:45) Today we're talking about the normal timing of things. So what's happening with the nervous system is the sequence of events. Like I said, there's a logical sequence of events, it's not just random chaos. The first thing that happens is start to make less progesterone because we're having shorter luteal phases, your listeners know what I'm talking about, so we're-   Tahnee: (28:13) Yeah, I think so. I mean, the book has that beautiful graph I think. That visual was really good to show my husband. [crosstalk 00:28:20] But so we get that big curve of progesterone and sort of [crosstalk 00:28:26].   Lara Briden: (28:27) In the ovulatory cycle when we're healthy, when we're younger than 40, if we're not on hormonal birth control, we should be having every month, a couple weeks of strong progesterone production. And that helps to lighten periods, that is usually quite good for mood. Although there's a little bit of nuance around that, but generally progesterone for most women is a little bit tranquillising. Well, you've got lots of it right now. Second trimester pregnancy is usually quite tranquillising. I mean, again, it can vary as other factors.   Lara Briden: (29:00) But with on the journey to perimenopause, we just start, our ovulation just becomes less robust. It's nothing you've done wrong. In my first book, I talk about all the ways to promote healthy ovulation and we still want to do that. And in my new book, I have a chapter called cycle while you can. You still want to ovulate as best you can for as long as possible and always remove any obstacles to ovulation, but also accept the fact that ovulations are becoming less robust. Eventually they're going to stop, that's normal.   Lara Briden: (29:35) So with this reduction in progesterone, with shorter luteal phases, maybe a shift to having more anovulatory cycles or cycles where you don't ovulate, but still bleed, we make less progesterone. And that feels like trouble sleeping, increased migraines, increased anxiety potentially, and heavier periods as well, which we might not go into today. We'll see if we have time. But there can be heavy periods going along with all of this. So we lose progesterone, which is one of the reasons taking progesterone, not a progestin in the pill, but natural progesterone can be actually very helpful.   Lara Briden: (30:18) At the same time, we're getting in the early phases of perimenopause. And there's four phases, which I give a little chart in the book. But in the earlier phases, which in total last four or five years, we're also getting potentially oestrogen higher than ever before, up to three times higher than before and spiking up and down. And you can't really that with a blood test, because it's all over the place. But you know from symptoms and from some of the testing research that professor Prior has done, you can see this big oestrogen spikes. And along with oestrogen spiking up high can come this whole immune system reaction that I talk about in the book of high histamine and which is also very-   Tahnee: (31:04) Muscle reaction.   Lara Briden: (31:04) Very muscle activation and this in part is the perimenopausal allergies and it's headaches and irritability and hives sometimes or urticaria sometimes. There's definitely an immune thing going on that can feel terrible. And that I have noticed sometimes gets called oestrogen dominance, although I don't really use that word. But that's that kind of high oestrogen immune stimulated picture with very little progesterone sometimes to counterbalance that. And so that's the first phases and that is not pleasant. Sorry, so that affects the nervous system. That's where some of the other anxiety symptoms come from is that high oestrogen, high histamine plus then estrogen's on a rollercoaster. Then you get some oestrogen withdrawal symptoms leading up to the period, which also doesn't feel very good. That's where the night sweats come from is oestrogen dropping from high to low. So lowest [crosstalk 00:32:02].   Tahnee: (32:01) Kind of addictive. I just want to quickly dive in because I thought that was interesting. I'd never thought of it that way. It's a first.   Lara Briden: (32:10) Yeah. Oestrogen is addictive [crosstalk 00:32:11] for the brain.   Tahnee: (32:11) So when we're swinging, that's this kind of the low is like a withdrawal. [crosstalk 00:32:18]   Lara Briden: (32:17) Yeah. We get oestrogen withdrawal. Yeah, for sure. It's not pleasant. And just to reassure, it was perfect timing with your question, because I was about to say that once we get into that menopause phase, stable, low oestrogen... Not no oestrogen, we still make actually quite a lot of oestrogen still, but we don't get hot flushes and night sweats because it's not the like up and down crashing down part of the oestrogen roller coasters. So a lot of it comes from oestrogen withdrawal and also the oestrogen addiction side of things. It's worth mentioning that if women do take oestrogen therapy... And I think it's fine to take it. I just want to say, in general pro hormone therapy, not everyone needs it, but I think it's reasonable to take that.   Lara Briden: (33:09) Just one thing to understand, that if and when you decide to stop it, you have to taper down oestrogen. I've had patients who they want to take a break and so they've just stop it immediately, and of course get hot flushes back because you're going through oestrogen withdrawal. That doesn't really tell you anything about your underlying need for it, if you know what I mean.   Tahnee: (33:30) Okay. So that makes sense. It's like, you're got to be gradual in changing the body biochemistry [crosstalk 00:33:37].   Lara Briden: (33:36) When you're coming off hormone therapy, you can go on it more-   Tahnee: (33:39) Aggressively?   Lara Briden: (33:40) Rapidly. No, not aggre... No, I always think start low actually. I don't know if we'll have time today to go into all my thoughts about hormone therapy, but if [crosstalk 00:33:46].   Tahnee: (33:46) I think you really talk a lot about that option in the book and I think it's probably something better discussed clinically I think with a practitioner appointment and [crosstalk 00:33:57].   Lara Briden: (33:57) So read book and we'll talk, because I think we want to talk more about the nutrition side of things and-   Tahnee: (34:02) Yeah. I guess the distinction I thought was interesting in the hormonal chapters or sort of, was around the, so you're distinguishing between body identical, bio identical and then the more chemical like synthetic hormones, I suppose. Do you mind just giving us some distinctions around?   Lara Briden: (34:18) Yeah. So just very broad strokes. And I agree, because I think we should focus more on the nutrition side of things today. But I will say, put this simply, so-   Tahnee: (34:27) Good luck.   Lara Briden: (34:30) There's a confusion happening, which is that up until about eight years ago in Australia, it's different in different countries, but I remember exactly when body identical hormones went mainstream in Australia, it was 2016. So that's seven years ago. No, six years ago.   Tahnee: (34:48) Five or six.   Lara Briden: (34:49) How many years ago? I don't even know. With the pandemic, we're like, "Wait, how many years..."   Tahnee: (34:53) "Have I been?" I think it was five because my daughter was born in 2016 and she [crosstalk 00:34:58].   Lara Briden: (34:57) Okay. So it's only five years ago. Five or six years. [crosstalk 00:35:00] That's when body identical also called bioidentical hormones became mainstream. So until that point, which is not that long ago, the only way to access hormones that are actual hormones, actual estradiol, identical to the hormones we make, the only way to access those was compounded. You have to see an integrative doctor. So we have to be a special route to get to those hormones. And now they're pretty much mainstream, and I talk about it in the book, you have to ask for them by brand name. Not all the hormone therapy products on the market are bioidentical, but some of them are, and doctors do know now that it's safer and it's better.   Lara Briden: (35:51) And the real advantage, one of the big differences is that body identical or bioidentical, means the same thing, progesterone is safer for the breasts. So progestins, not progesterone, but the progesterone analogue drugs are not safe for the breasts. And that's actually where a lot of the breast cancer risk came from was the progestin part. So real progesterone in Australia is called Prometrium. This is the brand name in the US. It's Utrogestan in New Zealand and the UK. So hopefully there's a lot more detail in my book, but I hope that clears things up for some people listening.   Tahnee: (36:30) Well, I think that was interesting because you talk about women who've been on the pill until their 50s or some, and then they're like, "Oh I want to go back on the pill, because I got..." [crosstalk 00:36:43].   Lara Briden: (36:44) Don't do that. And then I say, "Yeah, no, no, exactly." And then [crosstalk 00:36:49].   Tahnee: (36:49) In the book you were like, "No," but they were yes in... Anyway, I thought it was an interesting, because I might have mentioned this another time [crosstalk 00:36:54]. But I had a professor who was doing all this research into how the pill's so great because it stops us having periods and blah, blah, blah. This is when I was 18, so this was a long time ago. But he made the point that if you're on the pill, it's mimicking preg... So he was coming-   Lara Briden: (37:10) No.   Tahnee: (37:11) Yes, I know. It's very [crosstalk 00:37:13].   Lara Briden: (37:12) Keep going. Yeah, yeah.   Tahnee: (37:14) But he was like, "It's just like these, our ancient ancestors, how they had lots of babies and they never were bleeding and blah, blah, blah." And so 18 year old Me's like, "Okay, this is making sense." And anyway, long story, but I feel like there's a little bit of that lingering sense of the pills keeping everything in balance and if I go off that it's going to... I hear that a bit in the world when I talk to people and yes, I'm curious if you could talk about how the pill relates to perimenopause and menopause.   Lara Briden: (37:42) Very good question. There's a whole section about that in my book. Again, I'll try to be concise here so we have time for some of the other things too. Just quickly to answer to what this professor was saying to you, which is that the pill mimics pregnancy, which is absolute standard narrative that we've been fed, not my strong word, but that's been out there-   Tahnee: (38:07) Well, this was in university biology course on human reproduction. It's a big thing to teach a bunch of kids.   Lara Briden: (38:13) Yeah. So the problem with that version of things, is that contraceptive drugs, just if we name them, let's say the drug called levonorgestrel and most pills or ethinyl estradiol, that's the synthetic oestrogen. They are not the same as the oestrogen and progesterone you make during pregnancy or during menstrual cycles. In terms of mimicking pregnancy, I mean only very superficially, not in terms of what that means physiologically for the body because the hormones of pregnancy are actually quite beneficial and particularly on the breasts.   Lara Briden: (38:53) And as you know, pregnancies in general, have a risk reduction effect for breast cancer long term. And part of that is the progesterone exposure because real progesterone that you make during pregnancy, that you make during a menstrual cycle, that you can take as Prometrium arguably has a risk reduction effect for breast cancer, whereas progestin increase the risk. So that's just one example of how progestins are different from progesterone. I have a blog post called the crucial difference between progesterone and progestin. So you can look at it there. So an answer to-   Tahnee: (39:28) I think you had the diagram in your book with the two different molecules as well.   Lara Briden: (39:32) Yeah, they're different. So an answer to your question, what does the pill mean for perimenopause? Well, it masks it for one thing. So as we talked about, we'll have to refer, you can put the show notes back to our first episode where I'm sure we had a little discussion about why pill bleeds are not periods. That's true in our 40s as well. So if you're having regular pill induced bleeds, you'll keep having those even after your body went through menopause. It doesn't delay it. If anything, the pill brings menopause a little sooner, it doesn't stop menopause. What will happen is if you've been on the pill and having those bleeds, then when you stop it, you'll be instantly into menopause, over the oestrogen cliff, which is probably why you asked that question thinking, but that's an example of oestrogen withdrawal going straight over. It's like... It's potentially not good.   Lara Briden: (40:32) And so in the patient story that I think you were mentioning from the book, she's like, "Oh, I need to go back on the pill is this is awful." And I'm like, no, well you might as well go on to modern menopause hormone therapy, which is body identical, which is at least giving you real hormones and safer than the pill because the pill is hormone therapy. It's a big dose of synthetic, almost like an old school type of hormone replacement therapy that's not even as good as what they give menopausal women now. So it always feels like a bit of a cruel thing that now finally menopausal women get access to natural hormones conventionally. The young women are still put on these horrible synthetic hormonal drugs that don't have...   Tahnee: (41:19) Very not good for us.   Lara Briden: (41:21) Yeah. So I have a chapter in Hormone Repair Manual called cycle while you can, making the argument. And I quote, professor Pryor, she said, "The 40s is not a time to take the pill because if you need something, you might as well take real progesterone to get those benefits rather than..." Yeah.   Tahnee: (41:39) Well, I thought that was an interesting point you made, I think it was in that chapter around just to have as many cycles as you can leading up to menopause and even pregnancies and things like how biologically we would've probably had babies until we couldn't. And that's actually quite potentially helps smooth that transition. Again, this is sort of [crosstalk 00:42:04]   Lara Briden: (42:04) Good eye. You have a good memory for all those parts of book. Yeah, it's true. Because-   Tahnee: (42:08) Not as much as I usually do, pregnant brain.   Lara Briden: (42:12) No, I'm impressed by those little parts that you remembered from the book, but yes, that's another example of evolutionary mismatch is our prehistoric ancestors. Well, and even historic, to some extent, would've had quite a different life menstrual history in that likely they would've kept having babies and breastfeeding and severe periods. Potentially what perimenopause would've looked like for them was you have your last baby at 42 or 43 or something, and then you breastfeed for three years and then you just never get your period back. It's just kind of a slow glide into... You come from the low oestrogen stage of breastfeeding into... And so there's no oestrogen withdrawal. You don't necessarily, they wouldn't have been going through these crazy up and down oestrogen roller coasters that we modern women do. So that's another explanation potentially for why they wouldn't have had the symptoms. I say wouldn't have, I mean, they don't have. In modern, I mean, the information we have is modern day hunter gather people like the Hadza don't report symptoms. They report stopping their periods at 45, but they're generally happy about it.   Tahnee: (43:30) Well, I've often fed this to my husband and it's something I think about with all stages of our biological shifts through life, but it shouldn't probably be as hectic as it is. You think about puberty, you think about pregnancy. Some people I talk to, they just have the most awful time. And I think, there has... And I guess that comes back to what you were talking about at the beginning around that mismatch around how we live and what we eat.   Lara Briden: (43:59) And environmental toxins. I mean, we really can't underestimate, environmental toxins are affecting our menstrual cycles and our perimenopause experience, unfortunately. And that's not-   Tahnee: (44:10) On pregnancy too, I'm sure.   Lara Briden: (44:13) ... women's fault. This is why I talk in the book and I'm starting to talk more about our environment, including our food environment, because we're like animals inside an environment. Certainly in terms of diet, we're eating because that's what's around us. I mean, it's not all about making the wrong choices, it's-   Tahnee: (44:34) It's what's available.   Lara Briden: (44:35) Yeah.   Tahnee: (44:37) Well, so on diet, I think in terms of what women... Because I noticed the piece on soy as well, which was interesting because I think we all grow up hearing soy good for menopause and don't really... Thought that was an interesting... You sort of debunked that.   Lara Briden: (44:52) Well, it's not oestrogen. This is the thing with phytoestrogens is their antiestrogen in young women, which can be good. That's not a bad thing. I actually think phytoestrogens are great. And they're somewhat pro oestrogen with menopause, just very briefly on phytoestrogens, and I do talk about it in the book, we're calibrated to them actually. Our ancestors, there's some research to suggest that especially those of us with agrarian ancestors, so ancestors eating grains and legumes, women evolved a higher level of estrodiol, ramped up our oestrogen to sort of overcome the anti antiestrogen effect from phytoestrogen.   Lara Briden: (45:41) So in that sense, we're calibrated to have those in our diet and phytoestrogens actually do have quite a stabilising beneficial effect on all stages of female hormonal health. In part with menopause, one thing they do that's very beneficial is they help to, this is a little bit technical, but they increase something called SHBG or sex hormone binding globulin, which actually helps to prevent some of the testosterone dominance and insulin resistance that can also happen, that I talk about in the book. So just to say, no, soy is not a substitute for oestrogen therapy or anything like that, but phytoestrogens generally are probably quite good for the perimenopause [crosstalk 00:46:26].   Tahnee: (46:26) Which would explain, I guess, why all those herbs that you use in those periods are very estrogenic.   Lara Briden: (46:32) And linseeds. That kind of thing can be very beneficial. So I certainly in trying to debunk that soy is oestrogen, would never want to take away from the fact that phytoestrogens broadly speaking are quite good for us. Yep.   Tahnee: (46:48) And I guess you did speak specifically to the isolates if I'm remembering correctly. So I'm probably putting words in your mouth.   Lara Briden: (46:54) Yeah. No, no. It's [crosstalk 00:46:57]. It's good to [crosstalk 00:46:57].   Tahnee: (46:57) But it's an interest. I do think like with that herbal piece, because there's... I mean, you mentioned black cohosh and there's a few talked about for sleep, which is one of my favourite herbs.   Lara Briden: (47:07) I love it.   Tahnee: (47:08) Yeah, it's a beautiful one. But I thought that was interesting because a lot of women, I think lean toward herbal therapy in the sort of, I guess alternative space. Can you speak a little bit to [crosstalk 00:47:20]?   Lara Briden: (47:19) Yeah. So herbal medicine can be very helpful. So I would say in the perimenopause space... So let's say if we're in the earlier phases of perimenopause, when oestrogen, as we've said is high, going high and then spiking low. There's different strategies to try to help with that. We're trying to stabilise the immune system, so stabilise histamine, that herbal medicine can be very helpful for that. We're trying support the gut so that the high oestrogen can clear safely through the gut, herbal medicine and supplements can help with that. And then there's the whole during the recalibration of the nervous system is where adaptogens can be quite helpful. So I don't name a lot of them, I don't go into a lot of the detail in the book, but things like Ashwagandha. A lot of those have anxiolytic kind of like, I mean calming, tranquillising-   Tahnee: (48:16) Effects. Yeah.   Lara Briden: (48:17) ... stabilising the nervous system. So there's a role for, I use herbal medicines quite a lot. I mean, I guess I do talk about how I've never seen that black cohosh as a standalone single intervention.   Tahnee: (48:33) Yeah. Well you mentioned you don't really use it, [crosstalk 00:48:35].   Lara Briden: (48:36) I've just never seen that it's... But I think as part of the whole programme, including diet, which we can talk about, and no alcohol, which we'll have to talk about, then I think adaptogen type herbal medicines can be part of that for sure and helpful. And phytoestrogen herbal medicines can be helpful in terms of stabilising the oestrogen roller coaster, sheltering from the spikes and at the same time helping with SHBG levels. And so it's lots of mechanisms by which phytoestrogens are helpful.   Tahnee: (49:10) It sounds like it's sort of a tapestry in a weave of maybe using the herbs, but also lifestyle changes. And maybe if we can talk a bit about diet and the alcohol is interesting because of the histamine. So let's jump into that.   Lara Briden: (49:23) Let's do my two big things. For my patients, this is basically what I say. If you could do these two things, there's a 50% chance that's all you're going to need to do. And then's 50% chance you might need some adaptogens or you might need some hormone therapy eventually or different options. But the two things are take magnesium because it's-   Tahnee: (49:45) I was about to say.   Lara Briden: (49:46) ... so stabilising and so-   Tahnee: (49:48) Nervous system, everything.   Lara Briden: (49:49) The nervous system loves it. And in the book, you'll see I talked about using of the magnesium taurine formulas, which is very easy to get in Australia. Taurine is an amino acid but it's also a neurotransmitter that's very calming. It's one of my favourite things for perimenopause, obviously, because I talk about it so much in the book. So, magnesium.   Lara Briden: (50:12) And then the second thing I would have to say quit alcohol. I mean, not forever potentially, but during the thick of it. If you're in that more intense part of perimenopause, phase two heading into phase three, approaching your final period, just removing alcohol entirely can be a game changer. There's several mechanisms by which that helps. I think definitely you talked about alcohol itself destabilises muscles and causes a histamine release. Also alcohol is just, well to put it bluntly, it's toxic to the nervous system, so there's that. I mean, it's just not friendly. It causes intestinal permeability, actually quite profound intestinal permeability when drinking, short term after alcohol intake and depending on the number of drinks.   Lara Briden: (51:14) And then also there's some research around habitual or even just moderate alcohol intake, sort of weakens the circadian rhythm response. So this is where alcohol can disrupt sleep. Not just the night you've had it, but more broadly. So I would invite people if you haven't before, try quitting it for a month and see what happens to your sleep, because it can be really quite interesting.   Lara Briden: (51:43) And the other thing about alcohol, I always try to mention this because for some reason, this is not common knowledge, but alcohol is conclusively linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Now, the risk is not enormous. I don't want to scare people, but it's very robust in terms of the research is very clear. It's not, oh, we need more research, it's it definitely increases the risk of breast cancer. And as much as oestrogen therapy does in fact, moderate alcohol intake, five or six drinks in a week increases the risk of breast cancer as much as oestrogen therapy does. So it's quite a strong effect.   Tahnee: (52:32) And a fairly, I mean easy one to... I guess it's that sort of thing around a lot of women probably reach for a glass of wine as a nervous system thing. And it's really about reframing how you manage that.   Lara Briden: (52:46) They do, and I see on social media, a lot of messaging around wine for menopause or kind of... It makes me sad because I feel like that's damaging messaging potentially.   Tahnee: (53:05) Magnesium for menopause has more [crosstalk 00:53:07]?   Lara Briden: (53:10) Yeah. This has a better reason to it, I think.   Tahnee: (53:10) I noticed you spoke about neurotransmitters a bit, and that was a super interesting thing around you spoke about it earlier, the brain changes. But you mentioned glycine and a couple of others as well for... And I guess I'm hearing a lot, like the liver needs supporting. Is that sort of a fair thing to say? Because I mean, thinking about histamines, they all end up affecting the liver, and just thinking about these hormonal clearing through the blood, that's going to have to happen with all these changes. It seems like this organ gets to work a bit harder at this time. Is that something-   Lara Briden: (53:40) I mean, generally broadly, yes. And also, I think when we say liver and natural medicine, we do also mean other things too.   Tahnee: (53:49) I'm even thinking Chinese medicine.   Lara Briden: (53:51) Yeah. But from a Chinese medicine perspective actually encompass, definitely actually that's one of the main angles is using another really nice herb is herbal medicine is bupleurum, which I also love for [crosstalk 00:54:02], which is a cooling... I mean, that works on the liver in a TCM perspective. But the liver, I mean maybe correct me or you can agree with this or not, but from a TCM perspective, liver also includes the digestion, the gut and definitely that's... And the whole histamine system is probably sort of liver related I guess if we're trying to sort of put that across the two medical traditions, trying to connect [crosstalk 00:54:30]. Because from a Western medical perspective, liver means different things, but yes, all that kind of stuff.   Lara Briden: (54:37) And also just to bring into it, and we're not going to have time to go into this in detail, but I will just say there's this shift to insulin resistance that happens in the later phases of perimenopause and that can actually cause fatty liver. So that can actually... Now we're talking real liver things. And so I guess one of my takeaways might be if you're 40 something or late 50s or early 50, or at any age after that really, and noticing a significant thickening around the waist, especially if you've got higher cholesterol and fatty liver, and it's really time to find out if you have insulin resistance or not. I've written about that in the book and how testing... You have to test, not just for glucose, because that won't tell you, but you have to try to test insulin if your doctor will do it and then reverse that and [crosstalk 00:55:32].   Tahnee: (55:32) Of your diet, are you recommending more of a paleo-ey kind of a-   Lara Briden: (55:41) I mean, I lean that angle, but I guess I would say what seems to work is finding a way to feel satisfied with the meals, which always involves mostly about protein. Getting satisfied, having a functioning digestion and yes, liver to some extent. And then being able to, because you feel better and you're on magnesium and feeling better. That's when it's time to say no to both alcohol and concentrated sugar. So I mean-   Tahnee: (56:11) Dessert.   Lara Briden: (56:13) Dessert, [crosstalk 00:56:13] like a soft drink and fruits. This always becomes a tricky topic as people think... I talk about high dose fructose and how that research is really clear that that's bad for insulin sensitivity. And then people are like, "Well, do you mean fruit is bad?" It's like, no. So whole fruit is fine, just to be clear, but desserts, full on ice cream and fruit juice and date balls and-   Tahnee: (56:37) I'm pregnant. I know all about dessert.   Lara Briden: (56:38) Yeah. The thing is, even then it's a nuanced conversation because some people can have desserts and get away with it. And it depends on your insulin sensitivity. It depends on so many things. And then there's different desserts. There's lots of really delicious treat, things you can make with low sugar. They don't have to be... So I don't want to make a blanket statement [crosstalk 00:57:03].   Tahnee: (57:02) Demonising it, but-   Lara Briden: (57:03) No, no, no. I mean, but it is [crosstalk 00:57:07].   Tahnee: (57:06) Well, I think what you're really pointing to is you want to avoid these things that are going to spike the blood sugar dramatically. Because if you don't have the capacity to process-   Lara Briden: (57:15) It's partly about spiking the blood sugar, it's actually more about some actual physiological damage that high dose fructose does to the liver. That's kind of how we got on this topic actually.   Tahnee: (57:25) Do you mean the actual molecule fructose?   Lara Briden: (57:30) Above a certain threshold. So it's really-   Tahnee: (57:33) And that's what you're looking at [crosstalk 00:57:34].   Lara Briden: (57:37) The threshold is different for different people, and at different ages, and in different situations. And some people, especially people who are very active and have a healthy gut and liver and everything's good. They can probably have fruit juice and it's fine, it's not a problem. But for people with insulin resistance, because there's been a lot of confusion. I just get that from my own patients. They might be for example, very scared to eat potatoes because they've heard that that's... but still then hungry, so then bingeing on like a date bar, slice paleo dessert after dinner. That is-   Tahnee: (58:18) Backwards.   Lara Briden: (58:19) That's back to front. This is where I talk about getting full. I have a new blog post called the power of eating enough, which is protein. I actually mentioned potatoes by name because they're actually quite filling.   Tahnee: (58:28) It's a good starch. Yeah.   Lara Briden: (58:29) They're quite good. And then feeling good and then being like, "No, I'm not going to have that fruit juice. I'm not going to have that SoBe. I don't need that. I might have a little dark chocolate or some fresh fruit or some frozen berries or something. And that's enough for me."   Tahnee: (58:46) So that's drilling down on getting tested if you can around insulin.   Lara Briden: (58:50) Yes.   Tahnee: (58:50) And that's really, you're looking at symptoms of weight gain and you said this in the book a lot, specifically this middle area, this-   Lara Briden: (58:57) Yes. Specifically that apple shaped around the middle. And just to point out for everyone listening, some thickening around the waist is inevitable with menopause. So that's just-   Tahnee: (59:10) So don't get too stressed out.   Lara Briden: (59:12) It's just a fact. I mean, it's a hormonal... How it's interesting actually, because I heard this interview. There's a scientist who just did this quite groundbreaking study debunking the idea that our metabolism reduces with age, which was quite controversial. But I heard an interviewed by a friend of mine actually. And he said specifically, he gave the example, he said, "Well, there can be other things going on. Like for example, at menopause, there's a whole hormonal redistribution of fat. So this is a change in body shape." This is what I'm saying, this is inevitable to some extent. So young women have an hourglass. Well some, the kind of normal healthy figure is hourglass figure. That's estrodial, that's oestrogen fat on the bum and a narrow waist. That is what that hormonal profile does.   Lara Briden: (01:00:05) When we shift with menopause, even on hormone therapy actually to some extent, there is a shift, we never take as much estrodiol as you would've or we made when we're 25, you wouldn't do that. And then we get this shift to what I talk about in the books, sort of a testosterone dominance. It's a shift to a more male body shape, and it's going to happen to some degree to everyone. So don't worry about it too much. But if there's significant waking happening around the middle and progressing more to a strong apple shape, that is insulin resistance. I hope that... Yeah.   Tahnee: (01:00:43) And I mean, the other thing you mentioned getting looked at and tested is Hashtimoto's autoimmune, which I thought was really interesting because I've had a few friends who have had that be triggered by pregnancy or maybe postpartum and I thought it was interesting that you [crosstalk 01:00:59].   Lara Briden: (01:00:58) That's a hormonal transition state. I don't know how much more time we have, but I'll just say-   Tahnee: (01:01:03) Well, we don't have much, but I've wanted to say that word that you said in the book, it's... What did you call that [crosstalk 01:01:10].   Lara Briden: (01:01:09) Critical window.   Tahnee: (01:01:10) Critical window, yes. Here it is, critical window for health. I thought that was a super important concept.   Lara Briden: (01:01:16) So this it's a critical window. Perimenopause is a critical window for health because it's a hormonal transition like puberty, postpartum. Postpartum is another critical window and perimenopause. And what that means by critical window is if things start to go off the rails health wise during a critical window, you're potentially going to skew a lot more in a bad direction than if things go a little bit off the rails when you're in a more stable state, if that makes sense

In today's episode, we speak with Dr. Lara Briden, an evidence based naturopathic doctor whose work focuses on the menstrual cycle and why it serves as an important health marker for all females. Today's conversation focuses on the different types of amenorrhea or the loss of menstruation: why they occur, the symptoms of each, and how to set yourself on the path to treatment.You can find Dr. Lara Briden at https://www.larabriden.com/ and be sure to check out her best selling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual for more in depth information on these topics. Please note that this podcast is created strictly for educational purposes and should never be used for medical diagnosis and treatment.***If you would like to work with Kyla, click here: https://nutritional-revolution.com/about/kyla-channell/To book a free 15 Minute Consultation with any of our practitioners, click here: https://nutritional-revolution.com/coaching/If you're interested in sponsoring Nutritional Revolution Podcast, shoot us an email at nutritionalrev@gmail.com. Interested in a healthy meal delivery service? Try Trifecta Nutrition by clicking HERESee you in the next episode!***Mentioned:Period Repair Manual: https://amzn.to/3fImnreHormone Repair Manual: https://amzn.to/3tLzTT8Lara Briden's Forum: https://www.larabriden.com/forum-discussion-board/

In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Lara Briden - a world-renowned hormone expert. She's here to share her expertise on how to repair your hormones and your period.   Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years of experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormones and period-related health problems.   Whether you're struggling with PMS, menopause, or any other hormonal issue, this episode is a must-listen! Dr. Briden shares her top tips for balancing your hormones naturally, as well as what to do if you're dealing with a more serious hormone issue.   If you're ready to get your hormones back on track, tune in now! You won't regret it.   You'll learn: - How to repair your hormones and your period naturally - What to do if you're struggling with a hormone issue - The top tips for balancing your hormones naturally - How to get your hormones back on track - Types of treatments might be offered to women in traditional and modern medicine and naturopathic medicine   So what are you waiting for? Press play and join us on this exciting episode of the Hormone Prescription Podcast!   [01:14]  She has a very kind of global evolutionary view of hormonal function, which really matches mine. So I love talking to her. She's a big thinker and she likes to help women to understand what their hormones mean on a bigger picture than just every day, regulating their period and, uh, producing reproduction.    [02:15]  We met recently when we did the event with Dr. Cabeca and I have looked at your beautiful book, hormone repair manual, which I love, and you have some really unique concepts that I know everybody's gonna really appreciate hearing about.    [03:12]  I came to just discover that women's bodies and women's hormones respond so well to nutritional interventions, even more so than I had been taught to expect when I went through naturopathic college. So out of that, well, some of my first work was in Canada.    [04:38]  And you call Perimenopause the second puberty.   [04:58]  If you're 41, 42, 43, you are in the territory of perimenopausal second puberty, and it's the, our hormones winding down, although as we'll talk about they don't do so in a, you know, quiet quietly kind of way.   [05:56] Very off the early phases of per menopause is actually high levels of estrogen spiking up to three times higher than we had in our twenties and thirties. And that's that kind of high estrogen exposure combined with low progesterone.    [07:09] When you say primarily neurological, what kinds of things would women be experiencing?    [07:19]  Other neurological symptoms include sleep disturbance. That's a big one in our forties for some women and migraines.    [08:38] And that kind of lack of stress tolerance and stress resilience I find is so subtle and so pervasive. And that we, women, tend to blame ourselves. It's almost like the price that men go through where they kind of lose their edge, but we go through it usually a decade or even more, but ahead of time.   [09:16] So there's a lot going on, and it's understandable that you might think I've just, I'm doing too much and that's, that's a factor, but there is also this hormonal factor and this brain rewiring factor.   [10:04] Can you talk a little bit about what types of treatments might be offered to women in a traditional medical practice for this time of life or these symptoms we've just talked about and why that might be a good idea or a bad idea?   [10:32] So, you know, the conventional approach is just to shut that down. I would argue, and I know you and I are on the same page about a lot of things like this is not the time to be shutting down the ovaries.   [11:17] You're including bone health and brain because our female hormones are quite beneficial for lots of different systems. And so, yeah, I would say there's a lot more to do acknowledging that sometimes symptoms can, can seem quite strong or be, be quite strong.    [12:24] And so that could be a nice treatment, especially in the earlier phases of perimenopause when there's still quite a lot of estrogen, but very little progesterone that in fact, that the fact that we lose progesterone before we lose estrogen, is where a lot of the symptoms early symptoms come from.   [12:55] So can you talk about how vital these menstrual cycles are for us to create this reserve? Because once we stop cycling, yeah. We don't have it anymore. So what are we building up?   [13:34] Estrogen is also this, we're talking about estradiol now, which is our main estrogen that the ovaries make. It's also very good for the cardiovascular system. It's excellent for the brain.    [14:39] Estradiol is anabolic and helps to build muscle. So these are all, you know, strong benefits and there's evidence, several lines of evidence that con the contraceptive, you know, the estrogen and the contraceptive drugs in the pill does not have the same benefits. And then there's the progesterone that we've just talked about.    [15:32] And then, and actually losing progesterone, as I mentioned, is one of the reasons the neurological symptom's startup in our early forties, but the other couple benefits of real progesterone for general health is that it modulates immune functions so can help to reduce the risk of autoimmune disease.    [16:34] 35 to 40 years of menstrual cycles is important, not just for making a baby, but also to help to reduce the risk of dementia, cardio, heart disease, diabetes, and breast cancer and osteoporosis sorry, and breast cancer.    [17:45] And the concept that a man only needs, uh, testosterone for reproduction, nobody would buy that. No, but I really feel like as women, we are reduced in our reproductive capacity when it comes to our hormones and, you know, really that's how I was taught in medical school and residency. It's like, we're just little men.    [19:12] And actually we know from some of the research that, that deposit, the pregnancy hormone deposit into the bank account of long term health is also very good. I think you get a big dose of estrogen and progesterone with pregnancy.    [19:52]  I'm envisioning, you know, it's like getting an inheritance from your ancestors only it's your kids. So don't see your kids never, ever, never give you anything. Yeah. They gave you the opportunity to build hormonal reserves.   [10:09] I'm wondering if you can talk a little bit about that you have in the book, the meaning of menopause through an evolutionary lens, which probably everybody, most people listening haven't heard.   [20:22] So, you know, I've been looking at health and biology through the lens of evolution for a long time and researching the book and reading about this aspect of menopause was quite meaningful for me, both kind of intellectually, but also personally, because I'm now I'm about to, I think I have graduated to menopause.    [21:12] And part of that from me is the meaning through an evolutionary lens, which just means the most, a lot of there's several lines of evidence to suggest that menopause is not new menopause is not an accident of living too long that our ancestors should they be lucky enough to survive childhood and young adults, hood and childbirth and all the hazards that our ancestors faced, should they be lucky enough to survive all those things?    [22:07]  And I just love this, that a longer human lifespan may have evolved or been selected for because of how advantageous or beneficial post reproductive women were to their groups, to their family groups.    [23:05] We tend to think of our shift in metabolism with menopause as a, you know, a bad thing that creates weight gain. But I do also like to reframe it for our ancestors, that would've been a good thing that we could get away with fewer calories potentially.    [23:51] And yes, we also have, we have accumulated wisdom, but we also have this emotional equanimity, and we have gifts that we need to give.    [24:28] it obviously works from a survival standpoint to, in certain, you know, species to have older females around and just, this is where I sort of mean by the meaning of menopause, you know, it's um, yeah, it's important. It's been important for humans   [25:13] Perimenopause can be so hellacious that by the time it's over, you're like, please just stop. That was me just stop. But I went through that phase kind of before I knew what I knew.    [25:50] So it's important that women don't fear unnecessarily at the same time. It's not your, you know, if you do encounter symptoms, it doesn't mean you've done something wrong necessarily. Like there's a lot of variability, both genetically and for different reasons of who experiences were symptoms versus not so bad.    [26:36] You know, once you get true into your potentially, you know, mid fifties and beyond, there's still a few things to keep track of with your health, but overall things should be a lot more stable.   {27:26]  I think this is a critical window for health. It's also a window of opportunity to do something about that and feel better.    [28:05] What are some of your favorite actions to help your patients at that time so that they really can protect their brain?   [28:13] We'll just let's list it in quick, like just obvious things like moving your body, cuz actually movement and building muscle is really good for the brain, which seems a little counterintuitive, but the research is very solid on that. I talk about magnesium, which is a simple supplement, but the brain loves it. [29:03] Estrogen supports the brain in lots of different ways. I think women can get a, can survive that drop in estrogen if they don't have insulin resistance or if their brain is healthy in other ways.    [29:55]  There's been some new research that one of, one of the proposed mechanisms that estrogen is good for the brain. And I'm sure it's just one of many, but one is that estrogen helps.    {31:36]  Like there could be a problem with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome even years before blood sugar blood glucose goes high into the diabetes range. So there's different ways to test it.   [33:05] I mean screening tests, fasting glucose and fasting insulin. If they're elevated, then you kind of know, you know, and the A1C, but if not, you can do the tolerance test just like when you are pregnant.   [33:43] But it also, as we've been talking about, impacts the brain. It has a big risk factor for cardiovascular risk, even to some extent for breast cancer and osteoporosis, like all the risks, all the things that we're worried about. And it's common as you, I don't know if you said this statistic already, but for people over 40 or 50, especially like this is about one and two people, probably about one and two of your listeners or like definitely have insulin resistance.    [34:30] And also as you know, like a lot of environmental toxins increase risk of insulin resistance. So there are things working against us, especially for anyone with a genetic predisposition.    [35:22] Would've been actually a superpower for those women because they could have, they had a, they were like lean. They didn't, you know, they could just sort of survive on less basically cuz they, we had have a, you know, reduced requirement for calories with menopause, arguably.   [36:12] My first step is satiety. So this often involves pro well not often. This is about protein. Protein is our primary appetite from a biology perspective.    [37:06] So actually what happens is our appetite is geared such that we will keep eating until we get enough amino acids that day, every single day and, and the body is so full of protein that it doesn't care.    [37:56]  I mean a hundred calories snack, snack bags, you know, they'll be like only a hundred calories in this bag, but your body will not be satisfied.    [38:17] So step one for my patients is to reach that protein requirement. It's a lot higher for people than they realize. I think especially women tend to under protein, maybe not always, but also this is a cruel irony, but insulin resistance increases the requirement for proteins.    [39:08]  Like wait until your stomach acid kicks in. Like you're actually hungry, which I think for a healthy person is going to be around nine or 10:00 AM.   [40:28] Magnesium actually just helps with sugar cravings. It just makes you feel good, satisfied. And then you can easily just say, no, I'm not going to have that dessert.   [41:36] women always, we always feel like we have to explain ourselves, you know, but men might be like, I don't want that. I'm not going to have that. I, I don't have, you know, no reason given it's like, I'm not going to eat that. It's like just, you know, be like that, just don't explain yourself.   [42:13] hormone replacement therapy and you were touching on the fact that it can actually increase insulin resistance.   [42:36] So estradiol, especially, I mean, I would say estrogen therapy helps to improve insulin resistance and weight loss. Like was very little doubt about that in my mind. I know some bizarrely, somehow estrogen gets blamed for weight gain or well, okay. It depends on what we're talking about.    [43:31] Obviously testosterone has many benefits for women. We do have some, when we're in our reproductive years, we get this really intriguing little boost up in testosterone just before ovulation that some of these sports people are studying, because women get this surge in kind of confidence and performance around that time.   [44:30] The argument is, you know, with P C O S, which comes first, the insulin resistance or the high androgens, the research actually suggests high androgens come first, generally with that condition.    [45:29] But what happens is when estradiol and progesterone drop away, we lose out on the beneficial antiandrogen effect of those two hormones. So the androgens, the testosterone shines through and that is potentially contributing to insulin resistance.    [46:21]  I just, you know, the data says that 50% of women in menopause are deficient and testosterone, but I'd say in the women I work with, it's more like 90%, and it's just so vital for brain function.    [46:50]  but I'm just curious for myself, what dose of testosterone might you prescribe? Like, just for example, like just for someone who I guess it   [47:01] Depends on a transdermal, it depends on what they're we test don't guess of course, yes.   [47:07] So at the hormone club, which is our telemedicine solution for women in 47 states in the US to get, uh, by identical hormone therapy, we test, right. So we do the Dutch test, the dried urine metabolite test and see where their levels are.    [47:42] how closely do you look at S H B or sex hormone binding globulin, because this is another, and this is just a, a background thing. It's on a blood test. It's actually quite important. I think for women in general, to have that in a good range, it tends to drop at menopause.    [48:25] So it is important to know that because then your free fraction will be higher, kind of one of know what you're, what you're dealing with.    [48:40] I'm one wondering if you can share with everyone just some of your daily practices that help you to keep your hormones balanced and your health in tiptop shape.   [48:59] And then I guess the other things for health are like, we didn't talk a lot about it today, but just quit alcohol basically or seriously think about quitting it or reducing it dramatically, even though it's nice. It's lovely to have a beer with dinner. That would be my preference, but it's not worth it. Especially during the tumultuous rewiring phase of per menopause.   [50:12]  I know you have a free download of the first two chapters of the period repair manual and hormone repair manual, both. And we will have the link in the show notes.    Free download to the first two chapters of Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual by Dr. Lara Briden: https://www.subscribepage.com/larabriden   Q & A Episode each month Submit your questions here (leave me a voicemail): https://bit.ly/AskDrKyrin    Join The Hormone Bliss Challenge 

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years of experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Lara emphasizes that healthy nutrition and diet are important for women to maintain good health throughout the different reproductive cycles of life. She also talks about the different female disorders from endometriosi to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and their effects on the hormonal balance in women. Period Repair Manual is a guide to better periods. It explains how to use natural treatments such as diet, nutritional supplements, herbal medicine, and bioidentical hormones and provides advice and tips for women of every age and situationHormone Repair Manual It's a practical guide to feeling better in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. It explains how to navigate the change of perimenopause and relieve symptoms with natural treatments such as diet, nutritional supplements, and bioidentical (body-identical) hormone therapy.With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal.The paperback and ebook versions of both her books are currently available on Amazon.Things you'll learn:Common period and hormone disorders and how they affect hormonal balance What is the perfect diet for healthy periods and hormonal disorders?How to maintain a healthy vagina 

This episode is an introduction to menopause with naturopathic doctor, women's health activist, and bestselling author of Hormone Repair Manual, Dr Lara Briden. In this interview, Petra shares stories from her personal experience of perimenopause and Dr Lara Briden reflects on menopause comments from Petra's Instagram followers. The goal of the conversation? To demystify a topic that has only recently been gaining more mainstream attention, and to give women, in particular, a more positive and hopeful lens on the experience. Song credit: Korimako, Performed by Aro, Written by Emily Looker and Charles Looker and published by Songbroker. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our idea of a healthy lifestyle consists of farm-fresh produce, vegetable-rich diets, and regular exercise. This notion of healthy living may hold to an extent, but nutrition goes beyond the diet and workout programs influencers show on social media. As human beings with different bodily conditions, it is essential to practice critical thinking before jumping onto the latest diet trends. Attractive as their promises may appear, you may draw the short end of the stick if you practice a diet without being well-informed. In this episode, Dr Mikki Williden shares the importance of having the right balance with regard to nutrition. She also delves into common misconceptions about diet and lifestyle. Ultimately, Dr Mikki details the strategies you may employ to optimise your health, especially during these trying times. Remember, nutrition is not about eating less, but having the right balance! If you are looking to start your diet journey or if you want to learn more about living healthy, this episode is for you!   Here are three reasons why you should listen to the full episode: Learn more about nutrition and the importance of proteins in your diet. Enable yourself to think critically amid the various trends regarding nutrition. Discover strategies for optimising your health especially during the pandemic. Get Customised Guidance for Your Genetic Make-Up For our epigenetics health programme, all about optimising your fitness, lifestyle, nutrition and mind performance to your particular genes, go to  https://www.lisatamati.com/page/epigenetics-and-health-coaching/. Customised Online Coaching for Runners CUSTOMISED RUN COACHING PLANS — How to Run Faster, Be Stronger, Run Longer  Without Burnout & Injuries Have you struggled to fit in training in your busy life? Maybe you don't know where to start, or perhaps you have done a few races but keep having motivation or injury troubles? Do you want to beat last year's time or finish at the front of the pack? Want to run your first 5-km or run a 100-miler? ​​Do you want a holistic programme that is personalised & customised to your ability, goals, and lifestyle?  Go to www.runninghotcoaching.com for our online run training coaching. Health Optimisation and Life Coaching Are you struggling with a health issue and need people who look outside the square and are connected to some of the greatest science and health minds in the world? Then reach out to us at support@lisatamati.com, we can jump on a call to see if we are a good fit for you. If you have a big challenge ahead, are dealing with adversity or want to take your performance to the next level and want to learn how to increase your mental toughness, emotional resilience, foundational health, and more, contact us at support@lisatamati.com. Order My Books My latest book Relentless chronicles the inspiring journey about how my mother and I defied the odds after an aneurysm left my mum Isobel with massive brain damage at age 74. The medical professionals told me there was absolutely no hope of any quality of life again. Still, I used every mindset tool, years of research and incredible tenacity to prove them wrong and bring my mother back to full health within three years. Get your copy here: https://shop.lisatamati.com/collections/books/products/relentless. For my other two best-selling books Running Hot and Running to Extremes, chronicling my ultrarunning adventures and expeditions all around the world, go to https://shop.lisatamati.com/collections/books. Lisa's Anti-Ageing and Longevity Supplements  NMN: Nicotinamide Mononucleotide, an NAD+ precursor Feel Healthier and Younger* Researchers have found that Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide or NAD+, a master regulator of metabolism and a molecule essential for the functionality of all human cells, is being dramatically decreased over time. What is NMN? NMN Bio offers a cutting edge Vitamin B3 derivative named NMN (beta Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) that can boost the levels of NAD+ in muscle tissue and liver. Take charge of your energy levels, focus, metabolism and overall health so you can live a happy, fulfilling life. Founded by scientists, NMN Bio offers supplements of the highest purity and rigorously tested by an independent, third-party lab. Start your cellular rejuvenation journey today. Support Your Healthy Ageing We offer powerful third-party tested NAD+ boosting supplements so you can start your healthy ageing journey today. Shop now: https://nmnbio.nz/collections/all NMN (beta Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) 250mg | 30 capsules NMN (beta Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) 500mg | 30 capsules 6 Bottles | NMN (beta Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) 250mg | 30 Capsules 6 Bottles | NMN (beta Nicotinamide Mononucleotide) 500mg | 30 Capsules Quality You Can Trust — NMN Our premium range of anti-ageing nutraceuticals (supplements that combine Mother Nature with cutting edge science) combats the effects of aging while designed to boost NAD+ levels. Manufactured in an ISO9001 certified facility Boost Your NAD+ Levels — Healthy Ageing: Redefined Cellular Health Energy & Focus Bone Density Skin Elasticity DNA Repair Cardiovascular Health Brain Health  Metabolic Health My  ‘Fierce' Sports Jewellery Collection For my gorgeous and inspiring sports jewellery collection, 'Fierce', go to https://shop.lisatamati.com/collections/lisa-tamati-bespoke-jewellery-collection. Resources Gain exclusive access and bonuses to Pushing the Limits Podcast by becoming a patron!  Track your blood glucose in real time with Levels Health.  Connect with Mikki: Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Podcast | Website Listen to FITTER Radio The Peter Attia Drive Podcast The Human Upgrade with Dave Asprey   Hormone Repair Manual: Every Woman's Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40 by Lara Briden   Episode Highlights [04:48] Nutrition in the Academe  Anyone in the nutrition space can call themselves a nutritionist even without experience.   Mikki noticed that most people with a high comprehension of nutrition do not necessarily have degrees in nutrition.  Critical thinkers tend to have a high capacity for understanding how nutrition works. There are limitations for those studying nutrition through university programs. Universities tend to teach students an established way of analysing problems. [07:08] Nutrition in the Field of Medicine Most general practitioners do not have in-depth knowledge about nutrition, which has given them a bad reputation at times. The study of nutrition can range from diet to nutrient medication and even to gene interactions. General Practitioners may not know more specialized information about nutrition. According to Mikki, we may have grown up thinking that our doctor's decisions are absolute. You are always free to take ownership of your health. Mikki recommends Lara Briden's book, Hormone Repair Manual. Learn more about this by tuning in to the full episode. [13:57] Proteins: A Double-Edged Sword Amino acids, which build up proteins, act as signalling molecules to turn on the mTOR pathway. The mTOR pathway regulates growth, particularly cell proliferation, in animals and humans. The mTOR pathway is vital to human growth and metabolism, but too little or too much activity can be detrimental. Long-term continuous activity in the mTOR pathway drives cancer cell proliferation and metabolism. [20:05] The Scary Thing About Cancer The terrifying fact about cancer is that it can affect anyone.  Cancers can target different areas of the body, which require specific treatments and protocols. Early detection and diagnosis of cancer will give us the chance to fight back. However, different cancer tests also vary in sensitivity levels. Some are more sensitive than others. [23:06] Why Proteins? Keeping your blood sugar in check is a priority, especially for individuals with metabolic dysregulation. If you practice a low protein diet, your body will naturally crave more carbohydrates. To prevent unnecessary intake of carbohydrates, keeping a balanced high-protein diet will be a good step.  [25:56] Should You Fast? For individuals at the heavier side of the weight spectrum, fasting can help with their therapy. People on the leaner side of the spectrum, on the other hand, should refrain from prolonged fasting. It may result in loss of muscle mass. Exercise and fasting provide ‘good stress,' which can upregulate the body's antioxidant system, anti-inflammatory systems, and NPK signalling pathways. However, too much stress can break down the body. Always remember to do both in moderation. The body needs a period of recovery and feeding to reap the benefits of exercise and fasting. [32:32] Considerations for Fasting According to Prof Layman and Dr Phillips, two solid inputs of proteins help stimulate muscle protein synthesis a day.   Teenagers and young adults require around 15-20 grams to maximize muscle protein synthesis. Meanwhile, middle-aged to older individuals need 40 grams of protein for optimal muscle protein synthesis. Extreme fasting can pose a high risk of accelerating muscle breakdown. Getting the right amount of protein for muscle synthesis is important because our bone health also gradually degenerates as we age.  Falls and trips are one of the top causes of mortality in older adults. Our foot and ankle muscles should be strong enough in and around to prevent such accidents.  [36:30] Checking Your Bone-Building Markers  Fasting or insufficient food intake after exercise is also detrimental to bone health. The body's bone-building markers are low during the period after exercise. Factoring in your day's program for your carbohydrate intake can be beneficial. Bone marker retention improves with high omega-three intake.   [39:57] The Truth About Oils Vegetable oils are usually dubbed as “bad” oils since they upregulate inflammation in the body. Processing may heat these oils and destabilize them, which leads to oxidation of the oils.  Oxidized oils are atherogenic. This means that they promote the thickening or hardening of arteries due to fatty plaque build-up. Placing oils in plastic containers, such as in commercially available oils, can also cause plasticizers to seep into the oil. A high seed oil diet also means a lot of processed or refined carbohydrate content from the preservatives. [44:42] Strategies for a Healthy Nutrition Going organic is a privilege. Depending on a person's access and budget, there will be times when commercial, processed food will be the only way to go. In cases like this, keeping things in moderation will be key. Personality has an impact on becoming successful. Success follows if you live a balanced lifestyle. Becoming self-aware is a good step towards a more balanced, healthy life.  [55:12] Optimising Health During the Pandemic Mikki laments the lack of discussion about health in the context of COVID-19. Advocacy plays a heavy role in policymaking during this pandemic.  Resiliency and protection from the virus still depend on how fundamentally healthy you are. COVID-19 is seen from an epidemiological or immunological point of view. However, the pandemic also has influenced social and cognitive aspects of life.  People should exercise critical thinking instead of blindly following mandates. 7 Powerful Quotes [06:30] (On nutrition in the academe) ‘It's like having done study to work out that you have a super good brain. You are able and capable of doing it, but it has taught you to think in one particular way.'   [20:20] ‘It feels like you get ahead in terms of different treatments, different protocols sort of coming out. But then, every cancer is so different, like a completely different disease.'   [24:15] ‘This is what the research tells us: that you don't have to use research, you just sort of intuitively know if you're propping up your energy because you're trying to rescue your blood sugars on an hour by hour basis. The thing that your body wants is carbs. And it's actually the last thing that it needs.'   [27:24] On repeated and heavy stress on the body: ‘Coming from an ultramarathon background — for health, for toughness, for the sporting endeavor, for the goals and the bloody adventure — yes. For health? No.'   [30:01] ‘If you think about energy expenditure and energy input, if you've got a high energy expenditure, it likes a high energy input to keep those those metabolic pathways nourished, if you like. But then, you move into a phase of low energy output and low energy intake, and again, your body quite likes it, too. It's good to give your body a bit of a rest.'   [41:15] Whenever you put fat in plastic, it just means that the plasticizers from the container can seep into that food source. That's why I recommend that anyone with any sort of leftovers or whatever, if it's a steamer that they're using a plastic container, put down some baking paper, put something down so there's a barrier between the plastic [and food].'   [48:33] ‘Mum would not be here if I hadn't, and we as a family, hadn't sacrificed one hell of a lot to get back and on a day to day basis, ongoing. That's what you do for your loved one. For me, it's important to get the people to understand this is a journey.' About Mikki Mikki Williden, PhD, is a registered nutritionist, who has been helping individuals achieve peak health and performance since 2006. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition. She also has a Bachelor of Physical Education from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. In 2003, Mikki donned First Class Honors in her Master in Science degree, where she focused on the development of childhood obesity prevention. By 2011, she obtained a PhD degree with her thesis in health and productivity. Mikki has a regular column in Bite Magazine, which is part of the New Zealand Herald. She also co-hosts a weekly endurance sports podcast called “Fitter Radio.” Through her podcast, she works together with notable figures in New Zealand and helps them achieve their nutrition-related goals.  To learn more about Mikki, drop a visit to her website or connect with her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.  Enjoyed This Podcast? If you did, be sure to subscribe and share it with your friends! Post a review and share it! If you enjoyed tuning in, then leave us a review. You can also share this with your family and friends so they can know how to optimise their health and improve their lifestyle. Have any questions? You can contact me through email (support@lisatamati.com) or find me on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. For more episode updates, visit my website. You may also tune in on Apple Podcasts. To pushing the limits, Lisa

A major transition happens in our bodies in the years that lead up to menopause, a kind of ‘second puberty'. Many people are left wondering if they're going crazy as they experience a vast range of physical and neurological symptoms which can seem to come out of nowhere; including anxiety, depression, irregular or heavier cycles, heart palpitations, insomnia, night sweats, hot flushes, migraines, and breast pain. Today the “Period Revolutionary” Lara Briden joins us to demystify perimenopause. Lara is a naturopathic doctor and the author of The Hormone Repair Manual, Every Woman's Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40, a practical guide to navigating the change of perimenopause and relieve symptoms with natural treatments such as diet, nutritional supplements, and bioidentical hormone therapy.We explore:The four phases of perimenopause and how to navigate them, including the ‘waiting room' where your periods are very irregular, but you haven't yet reached the 12 month point which defines the beginning of menopause. The science behind this life transition and the hormonal events that can drive symptoms like irregular / heavier cycles, sleep disturbance and hot flushes. The rescue prescription for peri-menopause and how it can help you to look after your whole being, and especially your brain and nervous system - Lara assures us that there is always a way to feel better. ---Registration is open for our 2022 Wild Power Immersion is now open. You can join here: https://www.wildpower.online. ---The Menstruality Podcast is hosted by Red School. We love hearing from you. To contact us, email info@redschool.net---Social media:Red School: @red.school (https://www.instagram.com/red.school)Lara Briden: @larabriden (https://www.instagram.com/larabriden)

Dr Claire & Caroline talk to Lara Briden Naturopathic doctor and author of Hormone Repair Manual about histamine intolerance, iodine, insulin resistance, cutting out alcohol and acceptance.Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

A lot of us just aren't really all that in love with our periods.They might feel inconvenient, painful, and maybe even cause suffering. So many women experience difficulties with periods, but so much of it still feels mysterious and misunderstood.You don't have to suffer in silence, and today Dr Lara Briden is here to help you find your voice.Lara is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years of experience in women's health and treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone and period-related health problems.Lara's aim is to normalise female physiology and dispel the idea that women's health is something complicated and mysterious. Today, she's here to empower you with answers about your own body, health, and hormones, and the knowledge that very simple changes can often create powerful positive changes for your period.Looking for a supported way of becoming the intuitive, body-literate, and empowered woman that you have the potential to be? My Natural Woman Cycle Guide is a holistic guide to eating, living, and connecting with your cycle for a nourished body and mind month-to-month - https://chloecollins.com.au/naturalwomanWhere you can connect with me:

In this episode, I welcome an old friend of the podcast Dr. Lara Briden a Naturopathic Physician based in New Zealand who is a world-renowned expert on the hormone health and endocrine related women's health concerns. You can find her at www.larabriden.com Dr. Briden was on episode #9 speaking on endometriosis and episode 38 on androgen dominance and she comes back this week to speak about Female Hormones after 40 the subject of her latest book Hormone Repair Manual, every woman's guide to hormones after 40. Dr. Briden has many accolades including: Member of the Scientific Advisory Council for the Centre for Menstrual Cycle and Ovulation Research at the University of British Columbia Member of the Endometriosis Special Interest Group (ESIG) of Endometriosis New Zealand Member of the editorial board of Vital Link, the official naturopathic medical journal of the Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors In this episode we do a deep dive into female hormones after 40 which Dr. Briden calls ‘' The second puberty. We discuss including cultural and anthropological aspects of perimenopause and menopause. We discuss the four phases of perimenopause and how it may start as early as 35 for some We have deep discussion progesterone, testosterone, estrogen/estradiol and discuss some of the concerns of treatment and how support may play a role in brain health, metabolic health, and cardiovascular support. Which women are most likely in need of support. See below for show links and show outline: As is a tradition , a donation is made the first 100 plays of our podcast are dedicated to a unique charity. Dr.Bridens episode is dedicated to Vitamin Angels. Show outline: (0:00) Show intro (3:00) opening (4:51) The cultural and personal experience of menopausal transition (13:23) The four phases of perimenopause (22:37) Progesterone deep dive (28:11) Different Progesterone Forms and why form matters. (35:12) Androgens in perimenopause and relative androgen dominance (39:06) Sex Hormone Binding Globulin levels (SHBG) why raising SHBG is important in perimenopause (41:47) Estradiol: what happens to it during perimenopause. Why is it so unpredictable? (46:24) Estrogen and disease risk (47:23) Estrogen Therapy, when is indicated (49:40) Treatment Philosophy (55:11) Closing thoughts References in episode: The Slow Moon Climbs: The Science, History, and Meaning of Menopause Swan Study: The Study of Women's Health Across the Nation (SWAN) is a multi-site longitudinal, epidemiologic study designed to examine the health of women during their middle years https://www.swanstudy.org/ Dr. Jerilynn Prior http://www.cemcor.ubc.ca/researchers/publications Briden/Prior paper on PCOS --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/adam-rinde/message

In this episode, co-host Naomi Whittel is joined by Dr. Lara Briden to discuss hormonal health, menopause and more. Dr. Briden's background of evolutionary biology and naturopathic medicine inform her unique perspective on these fascinating topics, which can be found on full display in her latest book, "Hormone Repair Manual: Every Woman's Guide to Healthy Hormones After 40".Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Learn more about Dr. Lara Briden: https://www.larabriden.comLearn more about co-host Naomi Whittel:https://naomiw.com

For full show notes, resources mentioned, and transcripts go to: www.drmindypelz.com/ep97/ To enroll in Dr. Mindy's Fasting membership go to: resetacademy.drmindypelz.com In this episode, we dive into hormonal changes and the effect hormones and missing hormones have on brain health. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years of experience in women's health and currently has a consulting room in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormones- and period-related health problems. Please see our medical disclaimer. 

Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.  With this being the #1 most downloaded episode and Menopause Awareness Month, I wanted to share it again!In this episode, Dr Briden covers:Stages of perimenopause and menopauseTruths about HRT and why they are no longer called thatSymptoms women tend to fear and solutions for eachWhy women can and should embrace this stage of lifeIf you liked this episode and you're feeling generous, don't forget to leave a review on iTunes!Referenced in the podcast & related episodes:Period Repair ManualHormone Repair ManualDr Carissa | Managing Menopause SymptomsJenn Salib-Huber | Perimenopause & MenopauseDr. Jaclyn Tolentino | The Optimal Way to Treat Hormone ImbalanceSupplements and Over-the-counter products can be found in the Fempower Health storeAnd be sure to:Follow Fempower Health on Instagram for updates and tips.Subscribe to the podcast and tell your friends!Shop the Fempower Health store, which has many products discussed on the podcast.Sponsors:Embr - use code HOTFLASH25 for $25 off through October 31, 2021.ReceptivaDx the sponsor of all of Season 2.  Provide code FEMPOWER-HEALTH for $75 off.**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for information purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Contains affiliate links

If You Want To Take On Your 40's With Hormone Harmony, You Should: Change your mindset, believe your body works for you, and be willing to make changes as your body changes Stop resisting menopause as a sign of age and instead embrace the biological aspect of this new phase Get tested for insulin resistance if you can, improve your gut function, and decrease your stress   While your hormones may be changing in your 40's, that does not mean you have to suffer. If you can adopt a great mindset, believe that your body works for you, and are open to making changes as your body changes, you could be entering one of the best times of your life. By creating a mindset of living your best life and adopting practices to help support the changes your hormones are going through, you can set yourself up for hormone harmony for as long as possible.   Thrive in Your 40's and Beyond With Dr. Lara Briden Lara Briden is a dear friend, fellow hormone expert, naturopathic doctor, and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years of experience in women's health and currently has a consulting room in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormones and period-related health problems.   Live Your Best Life Navigating your hormones in your 40's and beyond can seem a bit intimidating. The truth is, your symptoms could be showing up a lot earlier than you think, which is why it is essential to equip yourself with the knowledge you need to help your hormones during this transition. Unfortunately, our modern world has changed the way we experience perimenopause and menopause. But the good news is that you don't need to suffer through symptoms or ‘feel old'. All you need is the information necessary to help yourself live your best life.   Adapting to a New Normal During this time of transition, your brain, along with your hormones, is recalibrating to your new hormonal state. Helping your brain and your hormones complete this transition is key to improving your metabolic flexibility and lessening your symptoms.  Dr. Briden and I want to challenge you to stop looking at menopause as ‘aging', because this was always your body's plan. Instead, we want you to make changes in harmony with the changes your body is making to welcome this new phase of your life as the most successful and progressive. Perimenopause and menopause can be the best time of your life if you are able to adapt to your new needs and support your body in your 40's and beyond. Are you ready to have healthy hormones in your 40's? Share what steps you are taking with me in the comments section of the episode page.   Quotes: “Women in their 50's, 60's, and 70's gather more food and get more stuff done than any other demographic.” (13:40) “When I look back at 30-40 years of menstrual cycles and making lots of estrogen and progesterone, and that was a very special time, but it had to end.  It is not meant to last forever.” (15:25) “I know there are at least a few people listening who are going ‘I don't want to hear that, it's not what I want to hear'. But it's just really an important message.”  (32:57) “The stakes are high. This is not just about feeling better and not having night sweats or hot flashes. This is actually about your brain health for the next few decades.” (37:00) “It becomes a vicious cycle, which can be corrected, so it's not like it is all hopeless. But the correction starts by identifying what is going on, and that starts by diagnosing insulin resistance.” (39:14)   In This Episode Understanding the connection between puberty, your ancestors, and menopause (6:30) What you should expect to experience as your hormones are transitioning (12:00) Debunking the myths around hormone replacement and the benefits of hormone supplements during perimenopause (18:42) The role of estrogen in relation to your ovaries and recommendations to support it during the ‘grand finale' (28:14) How insulin resistance can factor into your perimenopause and menopause symptoms (35:44)   Resources Mentioned: The Essential Oils Menopause Solution Get the First 2 Chapters of the Hormone Repair Manual Free Here The Hormone Repair Manual by Dr. Lara Briden Dr. Lara Briden Website Follow Dr. Lara on Instagram | Facebook | Twitter   Other Resources: Check out the full show notes page Keep up with everything Dr. Mariza Follow Dr. Mariza on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube Podcast production & marketing support by the team at Counterweight Creative   Related Episodes:  Essentially You Episode #42: What Happens To Your Hormones In Your Forties and How Progesterone Can Help with Lara Briden Essentially You Episode #299: How I Significantly Boosted My Metabolism By Working Out Less and Optimizing My Blood Sugar

Not gonna lie, the day I learned about what I'd actually been doing to my body for nearly 20 years as I naively took the contraceptive pill, I was kind of pissed off. For too many years women (and girls) have been taking the contraceptive pill without so much as an actual clue about what it's really doing to our bodies, to our hormones and the sometimes-detrimental effects on our physical and emotional health. Often unknowingly we are shutting down an entire system of our body for years and even decades at a time. In this episode I unpack that with the very best in the business, the much loved Lara Briden. Lara is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual  and after this ep I guarantee you're going to want to get your hands on a copy of those books ladies! LARA BRIDEN Website:  www.larabriden.com TIFFANEE COOK Linktree: https://linktr.ee/rollwiththepunches Website:  www.rollwiththepunches.com.au LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/tiffaneecook/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/rollwiththepunchespodcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/rollwiththepunches_podcast Instagram: www.instagram.com/tiffaneeandco --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/roll-withthepunches/message

Lara has an evolutionary biology background and a strong science base for her work; we talk about her recommendations for women entering perimenopause and menopause (or as Lara calls it, Second Puberty). This is full of so many practical take home tips, includingWomen's thoughts about going into menopause (and Chapter 2 of Lara's book, The Hormone Repair Manual)Grandmother HypothesisWhat happens to our hormones as we head into perimenopauseWhat changes occur (and what to expect)Problem with alcoholFasting and ketogenic diets for menopauseThe brain and menopauseLara's top supplements and dietary tipsLinks:The Slow Moon Climbs https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691171630/the-slow-moon-climbsSubclinical magnesium deficiency https://openheart.bmj.com/content/5/1/e000668Lara's paper on the evidence for using progesterone for treating PCOS https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1740675720300165Lara's books The Period Repair Manual and the Hormone Repair Manual https://larabriden.com/lara-briden-books/Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and bestselling author of the books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual — practical guides to treating period problems with nutrition, supplements, and bioidentical hormones. With a strong science background, Lara sits on several advisory boards and is the lead author of a 2020 paper published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. She has more than 20 years' experience in women's health and currently has consulting rooms in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems.Reach Lara at www.larabriden.com, IG: https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/Twitter: https://twitter.com/LaraBriden

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and author of the bestselling books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. She has more than 20 years’ experience in women’s health and currently has a consulting room in Christchurch, New Zealand, where she treats women with PCOS, PMS, endometriosis, perimenopause, and many other hormone- and period-related health problems. Today we talk all about menopause, and why the years leading up to menopause shouldn’t be “horrible.” Discover how to balance and manage your hormones during this normal and natural phase of life! Today’s episode is sponsored by the Fertility Awareness Mastery Online Self-Study Course. The most in-depth and comprehensive online fertility awareness self-study program available. Click here to join now! Topics discussed in today's episode: Why did Laura choose to write Hormone Repair Manual What is menopause and perimenopause Why Lara calls menopause the second puberty Permimenopause symptoms and how to feel better How does stress effect women as they get older Connect with Lara Briden: You can connect with Lisa on Facebook, Instagram and on her website. Resources mentioned: Period Repair Manual Hormone Repair Manual FFP 180 | Managing Painful Periods | Dysmenorrhea | Endometriosis | Dr. Lara Briden, ND FFP 086 | Hypothalamic Amenorrhea | Period Repair Manual | Healthy Hormones | Dr. Lara Briden FFP 007 | What the pill really does to your hormones | PCOS & Menstrual Irregularities | Dr Lara Briden The Fifth Vital Sign: Master Your Cycles & Optimize Your Fertility (Book) | Lisa Hendrickson-Jack Fertility Awareness Mastery Charting Workbook Fertility Awareness Mastery Online Self-Study Program Related podcasts & blog posts: FFP 363 | Menopause & The Essential Oil Solution | Dr. Mariza Snyder FFP 333 | The Wisdom of Menopause | Empowerment During Perimenopause and Beyond | Alexandra Pope FFP 280 | Hormones, Menopause, and Using the Keto Diet to Manage Symptoms | Dr. Anna Cabeca FFP 109 | The Reality of Aging & Fertility | IVF & Assisted Reproductive Technology | The Future of Fertility Treatments | Dr. Marjorie Dixon FFP 038 | Using Fertility Awareness to Navigate Through Perimenopause and Menopause | Lisa Leger Join the community! Find us in the Fertility Friday Facebook Group. Subscribe to the Fertility Friday Podcast in Apple Podcasts! Music Credit: Intro/Outro music Produced by J-Gantic A Special Thank You to Our Show Sponsors: Fertility Friday | Fertility Awareness Programs This episode is sponsored by my Fertility Awareness Programs! Master Fertility Awareness and take a deep dive into your cycles and how they relate to your overall health! Click here to apply now! The Fertility Awareness Charting Workbook This episode is sponsored by my new book the Fertility Awareness Mastery Charting. Click here to buy now.

Welcome back to The Simplicity Sessions, I'm delighted that you’ve joined us today. My name is Jenn Pike, your host, registered holistic nutritionist, medical exercise specialist, the best-selling author of the Simplicity Project, and the creator of the women's revolutionary health program, The Hormone Project. This is a conversation with Dr. Lara Briden, naturopathic doctor, women’s health activist, and best-selling author of Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual which provides practical solutions for period and hormone problems. Lara is also lead author of a 2020 medicinal journal peer-reviewed paper which we will link in the show notes. Her newest book, Hormone Repair Manual delves into Perimenopause, how to prepare your body and how to understand the changes that you're going to go through. Lara is currently consulting in Christchurch, New Zealand, working to provide solutions for conditions such as PCOS, PMS, Endometriosis, and Perimenopause. You can find links to Dr. Lara Briden’s multi-platform publishings, as well as social / websites below in the ‘Connect with us’ section of the show notes. You will also find below-linked info about our partners and recommended products to try. If you have a question for me and my team, send it on over to hello@jennpike.com or via Instagram at @jennpike and I'll do my best to share helpful insights, thoughts and advice. Here are the main topics of today’s episode: Introducing our guest, Dr. Lara Briden Jenn’s seasonal recommendations What is Perimenopause? and the emotional terrain Puberty perceptions - ‘Age is but a number’ Four phases of perimenopause Natural cycles, contraceptives and hormone therapy Hormonal vs copper IUD How we can support ourselves through each phase Recommendations Connect with us - Thank you for joining us today. If you could do me the honor of hitting the subscribe button, leaving a review and sharing this podcast with a friend or on social media tagging me when you do @thesimplicityproject on Facebook, @jennpike on Instagram, @simplicityjenn on Twitter, I would be forever grateful. To connect with Dr. Lara Briden and find direct links to read her books, Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual, as well as her peer-reviewed paper, go to her website https://larabriden.com. To follow Lara - Instagram @larabriden and Twitter @LaraBriden You can connect to this episode on iTunes, Spotify, or Stitcher by searching The Simplicity Sessions, or visiting www.jennpike.com/podcast. Join our growing community via Facebook The Simplicity Sessions Community. Online work with Jenn: Register for my signature program The Hormone Project and work with me 1:1 to support your health, hormones, and more via the following link www.jennpike.com/thehormoneproject. Sign up for The Synced Program to learn how to tune your body to the lunar cycle and acquire a multidisciplinary approach to balance your body in less than 30 minutes a day! Interested in registering for the upcoming Audacious Women program? Send us a message via our website at https://jennpike.com/contact/ To learn more about the products mentioned in this episode, visit the link I’ve shared on my Instagram @jennpike. There you can discover where you can purchase these products and how you can start to make them part of your everyday simplicity approach. Learn more about the products I recommend and some of our amazing partners Saint Francis Herb Farm Sinafect for acute sinusitis and nasal allergies. And while Sinafect® is recommended for allergy-related acute sinusitis, Oréganum Plus plays a key role in treating chronic sinusitis. You can use the code JENNPIKE15 at check out and save 15% off your order. Saint Francis Herb Farm Allergy Relief with Deep Immune provides symptom relief plus addresses the underlying cause of an overactive immune system without drowsiness or dryness side-effects. Skin Essence is Canadian-founded, organic, non-GMO, not animal-tested- this company is one that we love and have around the house. The E-cream is a delicately balanced skin balm that contains a wide variety of plant extracts that offer excellent calming, soothing, and anti-inflammatory benefits. E-Cream is ideal for helping to soothe and reduce the effects of eczema, redness, sunburns, insect bites, and dry/itchy skin. The extracts and essential oils used in the Light Oil formula contain natural healing, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to keep the skin clean and clear, preventing breakouts. If it’s your first time ordering from Skin Essence, use my code JENNPIKE20 for 20% off. Use code JENNPIKE15 at check out and save 15% off your order for every order after that. GoodJuju makes all-natural, plastic-free home & body products that are good for you, and good for the planet. Use code JENNPIKE at check out and save 10% off your first order Quotes “Perimenopause is what I call in my book, Second puberty as it's a time of transition...It's temporary, It's not about aging. It's actually just a hormonal event that we're hardwired to do.” “I look at these transitionary years - perimenopause into menopause as being some of the wisest that we could be living with the most wisdom of our bodies and really like how much we can gain from that.” “The test for premature or primary ovarian insufficiency is a high FSH reading on a couple of, at least a month apart, two readings over 40. “Having your uterus removed, doesn't bring menopause. There's no periods, obviously, because there's no uterus, but there's still all this PMS or definitely women still go through the normal high estrogen phases of perimenopause, even if they don't have a uterus, which I think is an important part of the conversation because a lot of women have this surgery and are not actually told that that is the case.” “ Phase One ...The assessment for perimenopause is to have three out of nine symptoms (listed in my book) because there is no blood test or otherwise that can diagnose perimenopause.” “Phase Two is when you start to get irregularity, more than usual in your cycle” “Phase Three is when women start to have their first big gaps, like they might go at least 60 days without having a period that's phase three and each phase can last a few years.” “Phase Four is when you've had what you think might be your final period.” “The first two phases are a time of basically high fluctuating estrogen and very little progesterone or relatively little progesterone. And then phase three and four, the phase of more lower estrogen and also lower progesterone and a shift to insulin resistance” “...the official guidance, and I think this is accurate is if you've been more than a year without a period, and then you do get some bleeding, you should check with your doctor” “ How we actually can be supporting and setting our bodies up for moving through these different phases and the transition feeling more supportive, as opposed to like somebody just pulled the rug out from underneath us, which I think is what happens unfortunately, to so many women. And so you talk in the book about insulin resistance, about supporting our nervous system, our relationship to our circadian rhythm and, too light and dark,and really taking care of ourselves, food wise and with supplements.” “So in the later phases of perimenopause when estrogen starts to go down in phase three and four, we, most of us shift to reduced insulin sensitivity, because estrogen in particular enhances insulin sensitivities. It’s just part of the process.” “ Now is the time actually, especially in the later phases of perimenopause, now is the time. If you have any capacity to do it, you know, to carve out some more space for movement, for sleep, for rest, because if you do it now, then you improve your chances of having vital health into your fifties, sixties, and seventies” “Reducing, removing the alcohol is really important” “The circadian rhythm part of the brain, which is a part of the brain in the hypothalamus is affected very much by menopause and perimenopause. Which is one of the reasons sleep disturbance is common in perimenopause.” “I would say the combination of magnesium tarring, bright light in the morning and no alcohol for 50% of those women, that's all they have to do. They don't even have to go as far as progesterone or estrogen or anything like that. So the results can be quite dramatic actually. With just a few simple interventions and lifestyle being the base and the foundation of that” “Dementia starts around the time of our last period. And it's really to do with this rewiring of the brain. It's an energy crisis of the brain when estrogen drops, our brain energy drops by 25%, which sounds bad, it doesn't feel great. So the different ways to mitigate that, I think estrogen can mitigate that to some extent, estrogen therapy. Also other ways would be to not have insulin resistance, like to identify it and reverse it. I really can't emphasize enough now is the time to do that. And it's for brain health, long-term potentially plus for all the other things, but that's, for me, that's a big motivator.” “ What can happen with perimenopause is actually about the recalibration of the immune system and the loss of progesterone and how that increases our risk of auto-immune disease, similar to postpartum flare of autoimmune thyroid disease.” “ We want to make sure that we are actually feeding and nourishing and supporting our bodies.” “Magnesium and taurine is my baseline. That's part of what I call the basic action plan for the rewiring of the brain. Beyond that, of course, it's going to be other things looking at B vitamins, especially B12, in which B12 deficiency is not uncommon and really needs to be identified. I talk about zinc and its benefits for particularly the hippocampus and the stress response system.”

Gush. In this ep we just about die of excitement because we get to interview the incomparable Dr Lara Briden! We cover SO much in this episode and Lara shares SO much wisdom and gold. Lara is at the absolute forefront of advocacy for women's health and is a world leading expert on all things hormones, fertility and PCOS. If you listen to any episode – listen to this one!! Topics included are: - The types of PCOS - The truth about hormonal contraceptives - What needs to happen on a public health level to slow down the rates of PCOS - What Lara looks at in an initial consultation with a woman with PCOS - PCOS misconceptions - The effect of emergency contraceptives You can find Lara on Instagram @larabriden and you can check out her INCREDIBLELY INFORMATIVE blog at www.larabriden.com where you will also find her absolute BIBLES of hormone knowledge – the Period Repair Manual and the Hormone Repair Manual. Make sure you follow us on Instagram @thepcosgirls and come and join the conversation in our private podcast community at www.facebook.com/groups/thepcosgirls Mel and Brig xo

#202 Lara Briden first worked as a researcher and evolutionary biologist at the University of Calgary.  She then went on to graduate as a naturopathic doctor from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM). In her twenty plus years of practice Lara has learned that period problems respond incredibly well to nutrition and other natural treatments. Period problems can be fixed without the band-aid solution of hormonal birth control. Her mission is to bring that message to women everywhere. To empower women to have easy, symptomless periods and join the worldwide "period revolution." Lara’s books Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual provide practical solutions for period and hormone problems. Lara has also published the peer-reviewed paper The central role of ovulatory disturbances in the etiology of androgenic polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—Evidence for treatment with cyclic progesterone. In this episode we cover Why Lara wrote the book The Hormone Repair Manual What perimenopause is and why Lara calls it our second puberty Why perimenopause is a critical window for health Why our brain reorganises during this time How ovulation impacts perimenopause and menopause What happens to our hormones and physiology during perimenopause Hormone therapy How metabolic flexibility helps And so much more

Dr. Lara Briden is a naturopath doctor, women’s health activist, and best-selling author of two books which I and countless others use as a foundation for natural management of hormones. She is a long-time friend of PCOS Diva and has contributed her uniquely accessible wisdom in many ways. Her new book, The Hormone Repair Manual, is for those of us born before 1984 though it’s food for thought for all of us. Dr. Briden’s advice can help us approach perimenopause/menopause or “second puberty” with grace and ease. She describes this time as a hormonal recalibration and an opportunity to thrive in all new ways. Listen in or read the transcript as we discus how to approach menopause as well as: - How to talk to your doctor about possible treatments - Why progestins of hormonal birth control are NOT the same thing as progesterone - Benefit of keeping your cycle going as long as possible - Insulin resistance management tips - Why a vegetarian diet may not be the right choice

If there's one thing that can make all the difference to your health and wellbeing in your 40s, it's understanding hormone repair in perimenopause. When I came across the book Hormone Repair Manual by Lara Briden, I immediately emailed an invitation to the podcast to her to talk about it, as the book is one of the best I've read so far on hormones in perimenopause.