Menopause Expert: Belly Fat Grows During Menopause! Your Estrogen Levels Are Controlling You & This Hormone Is Quietly Killing Your Sex Life!

In this episode of the podcast, Dr. Sarah Zal, a Harvard-trained physician and hormone expert, speaks about the significant number of women who do not receive adequate treatment and care for perimenopause and menopause, often overlooking over 100 symptoms associated with these life stages. Dr. Zal explains that hormonal imbalances are common, particularly with cortisol, which can lead to various health issues including depression and weight gain, particularly around the abdomen.

Dr. Zal also addresses childhood trauma, citing the ACE score as a valuable measure of an individual's risk for chronic diseases and its relation to hormonal health. She emphasizes how trauma manifests in adults, affecting their hormonal balance and mental health. Sharing her personal experience, she reveals her journey toward healing through lifestyle changes rather than pharmaceuticals, acknowledging the importance of understanding and connecting with one's innate healing capabilities.

The conversation moves towards the concept of precision medicine as a method that personalized treatment rather than generalizing based on average responses. Dr. Zal discusses the inadequacies of conventional medicine in addressing the unique health challenges faced by women.

Dr. Zal provides practical strategies for balancing hormones and enhancing overall health, such as hormone optimization through lifestyle adjustments, nutrition, and stress management techniques. She urges listeners to pay attention to their metabolic health, including balance in sleep, exercise, and a healthy diet. Additionally, she discusses the connection between female hormones and the aging process, emphasizing the need for women to advocate for proper care during menopause.

Toward the end, the discussion also explores societal constructs around gender roles and their impact on women’s health, stress levels, and wellbeing. Dr. Zal points out that while navigating hormonal health is complex, empowering women and closing the knowledge gap in healthcare can significantly improve outcomes. She argues for systemic change to better support women's health needs, including proper recognition during their health transitions.

Key Takeaways

• Hormonal imbalances, particularly with cortisol, significantly impact women's health, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
• Trauma, as measured by the ACE score, can lead to greater risks for various chronic diseases and hormonal issues.
• Much of conventional medicine's approach overlooks the specific needs of women's health, especially regarding hormonal care and treatment.
• Women should advocate for personalized healthcare solutions and seek preventative measures that address lifestyle, nutrition, and stress management.
• There is a critical need for systemic change in how women's health issues are understood and treated in society.