624. How Therapy Changed My Hormones

Here’s the truth about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). HRT is often used to manage symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, particularly during menopause. These hormones can be administered via oral tablets, skin patches, gels, creams, and vaginal rings.  As with most things, my general approach is to prioritize natural methods first, as the body is inherently designed to produce and regulate hormones. That being said, there are definitely cases where additional tools, including HRT, may be helpful for a period to help the body function better. Here are some common HRT side effects: headaches, breast pain, nausea, mood changes, weight gain, skin irritations, and more. When thinking long term - what is the plan for managing your health not just now, but in the future? These initial side effects can sometimes turn into bigger issues down the road.  The decision to use HRT is highly personal and should be made with full awareness of the benefits, risks, and alternatives. If you’ve had questions about HRT or how to regulate hormones naturally, I’d love to help.  We can take a look at your hormone levels with an at-home dried urine test. I am actually doing a FREE DUTCH TEST GIVEAWAY in my free 5 day hormone jumpstart which starts next week. I will also be giving away herbal tinctures too!  Join the free 5 day hormone jumpstart: https://dr-beth-westie.mykajabi.com/free-5-day-metabolism-boost-hormone-balance-reset  

Did you know that dopamine plays an important role in managing ADHD symptoms?  On a recent live coaching call, I spoke with Elizabeth about dopamine, ADHD, gut health and what we can do to optimize wellness in each of these categories.  Dopamine, “the feel-good” neurotransmitter, is often dysregulated in individuals with ADHD, creating issues with attention, motivation and impulse control.  Here’s my dopamine to-do list:  Regular Dopamine Detoxes: Yes, to increase dopamine we need to make sure our dopamine receptors are available and our brain has a chance to detox and reset.  Anti-inflammatory Diet: Avoiding inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, and sugar can help reduce brain inflammation and support dopamine production. Quality Sleep: deep, uninterrupted sleep is crucial for overall brain health. Establishing Routine: Your brain responds to routine although routine may not be as exciting in terms of dopamine.  We also discussed testosterone and adrenal health, specifically the role of stress. Listen to the full episode for all the details!  Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected]   

I used to believe that fat loss and stress management were two separate parts of my health journey.  That was until I understood how the female body works…  Stress plays a major role in fat storage for better or worse. Simplified, less stress can lead to less fat, and more stress to more fat.  Let’s talk about fitness and workouts specifically. Here’s the workout protocol I follow for fat loss:  Daily Walks before or after breakfast - casual pace for nervous system regulation Weight lifting (higher intensity in my estrogen phase/first half of my cycle)  Yoga (primarily in my progesterone phase/second half of my cycle)  170g of protein (I’m 6’2”, so your protein goals will probably be different)  If your cortisol is completely off track (either too high or too low), it’s important to focus on that first, so that your workouts aren’t working against you. If you’d like to check your levels, you can get started with a DUTCH test.  DUTCH Test: https://drbethwestie.com/dutch-hormone-testing/

Gina Mundy is an attorney that specializes in childbirth cases. For over two decades, she has analyzed the mistakes that are made during labor and delivery. Drawing on this knowledge, she has authored the bestselling book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby.  Rather than merely getting involved after an unfortunate mistake was made, Gina has taken a proactive approach by getting involved before childbirth.   Throughout her career Gina has traveled nationwide, engaging with healthcare professionals such as doctors, nurses, and midwives to explore all aspects of labor and delivery. These interactions have provided her with invaluable insights, enabling her to appreciate the diverse perspectives prevalent in different regions of the country. Meeting with experts from various states, she has explored and analyzed the myriad of issues that can arise during labor and delivery, impacting both mother and baby.  Gina has conducted extensive research, meticulously analyzing, and dissecting countless studies pertaining to childbirth. This rigorous process was essential in equipping her with the necessary knowledge to undertake lengthy cross-examinations of a diverse array of experts. Through these examinations, she skillfully discerns their opinions on the errors that have occurred during labor and delivery. This has sharpened her knowledge allowing her to become highly proficient in the nuances of childbirth. In her capacity as legal counsel, Gina has closely worked with delivery teams whose care has been questioned following adverse outcomes. She has spent thousands of hours meticulously scrutinizing cases, conducting interviews with delivery teams, and thoroughly examining medical records to gain an in-depth understanding of every decision made during labor and delivery. Website: www.ginamundy.com Amazon Book Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C9KFNPNQ Instagram: @GinaMundy  https://www.instagram.com/ginamundy/ Facebook: Gina Mundy, Author https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093989808329 Linked In: Gina Mundy https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-mundy-70318554/ Twitter: @ginamundy_  https://twitter.com/GinaMundy_  

Therapy isn't just about sorting through emotions; it impacts hormones and your body chemistry! I've experienced this firsthand over the past decade. Confronting the tough stuff, like stress-induced physical symptoms, led me to therapy. Through modalities like EMDR, I began rewiring my brain and addressing deep-rooted trauma, gradually regaining control over my body and mind. Years later, I'm now facing some new challenges, therapy once again became my lifeline. This time, it's about rebuilding physical strength and managing autoimmune flare-ups. As I unpacked my stress and mental challenges, I noticed a positive shift in my hormones. Therapy isn't necessarily the easy way out, but it's so often overlooked on the hormone journey. Let this be a sign to give therapy a try. I've become a bit of a therapy junkie myself - listen to the episode for all the deets!    Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected] 

Tracy, a new mom, shares her struggles with irregular menstrual cycles, low prolactin, and low progesterone levels since giving birth to her son two years ago. This conversation covers a range of topics from breastfeeding to gut health, and how new mother's can support their hormones.  Key topics:  Nutrient Depletion: We discuss how hormonal imbalances could be due to nutrient depletion postpartum Gut Health: Gut health is linked to hormone balance - I recommend focusing on reducing sugar and processed foods to support gut health. Breastfeeding and Menstruation: Tracy's irregular menstrual cycles could be related to genetics and breastfeeding. Things often don't adjust until after the baby is weaned!  Balanced Diet and Supplements: It's important to prioritize protein intake, stay hydrated, get quality sleep, and use mineral supplements like Shilajit to replenish the body.  Patience and Incremental Changes: Be patient and focus on making small, sustainable changes over time rather than expecting immediate results.  Setting Goals: We also discuss setting realistic goals and benchmarks.  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02

You’ve tried every diet out there and followed it to a “T”. But the belly fat won’t budge. And the symptoms won’t go away. That’s because your nutrition is not aligned with your hormone cycle! Yes, I’m looking at you too, ladies in menopause! Here’s what we cover in this episode:  The female hormone cycle, basal body temperature and how nutrition helps The estrogen phase and cooling foods The progesterone phase and warming foods Recommendations for getting started  By nourishing your body with the right foods at the right times, you’re laying the foundation for long term hormone balance. I've got a free guide to help you get started: Getting Started Guide

In this episode, I discuss strategies for reducing stress and avoiding panic attacks with Christianna, a grad student balancing work and life. We talk about the importance of scheduling breaks, focusing on nutrition, and using adaptogens like ashwagandha. Christianna shares her struggles with managing Hashimoto's, PCOS, and endometriosis, and the overwhelm that comes with it all. We explore ways to integrate self-care into a busy schedule and acknowledge the courage it takes to prioritize your own health.  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02

It’s time for a personal update! While I usually focus on health education, I wanted to share a bit more about my personal life because that’s where we all get the most support right? The lives of other women battling the same things we are.  Recently, my dad landed in the hospital. It was a serious deal - respiratory failure, sepsis, the works. Easter plans? Canceled. Instead, we visited Dad in the ICU, hooked up to all the machines - honestly, it hit me harder than I expected.  It’s been weeks of hospital visits, canceled plans, and emotional whiplash. But amidst the chaos, I've been reminded of a thing or two. Healing isn't linear, ladies. And I've had to cut myself some slack, dialing down the perfectionism.  Grab a cup of coffee and join me for the full update!  Hang out with me:  Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or [email protected]   

In this episode, I had a chat with Erika who shared her struggles dealing with postpartum health issues, like a painful fibroid and PMS. Erica has been frustrated because her doctors weren't really listening to her concerns. They kept pushing birth control and ibuprofen as a quick fix, ignoring her struggles.  I kept thinking to myself, I've been there too.  Advocating for yourself and finding a healthcare provider who really listens to you is ESSENTIAL. I talked through some practical tools like seed cycling and tinctures to help balance her hormones and reduce inflammation. We also talked about how to approach doctors who aren't being helpful. Here is your permission to be firm about what tests you need and to stand up for yourself if you are being ignored or gaslight. Click play to join the conversation!  You are invited to sign up for your own session here: https://calendly.com/drbethwestie/podcast-live-coaching?month=2024-02