Considering HRT? Read This First!

I want to share some thoughts on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Research shows HRT supports longevity by protecting the heart, bones, brain—and helping women feel better as they age. I encourage you to talk to your doctor about it.

That said, I often meet clients who are using testosterone-only HRT, and that raises concerns.

Here’s why: During peri-menopause, progesterone drops first, causing symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, breast tenderness, irregular periods, and bloating. Later, estrogen declines, leading to hot flashes, night sweats, and brain fog. Supplementing these hormones can help greatly.

While testosterone does play a role in libido and muscle-building, it's produced in much smaller amounts in women. High or unbalanced doses can cause acne, facial hair, balding, and increased risk of heart and metabolic issues.

Why the confusion? Hormone testing is complex, especially for women on birth control, and most hormone research is male-focused. Plus, outdated fears from misinterpreted studies still make some doctors hesitant to prescribe estrogen or progesterone.

If you're on testosterone-only HRT, consider discussing adding estrogen and/or progesterone with your doctor. Focus on treating symptoms, not just lab numbers.

At Home Support for Peri-Menopause:

1. Clean Up Your Diet.  Cut back on caffeine to 1-2 cups in the morning only (Caffeine can stay in your system for up to 7 hours and disrupt your sleep), try to eliminate as many processed foods, and as much sugar and alcohol as possible, be sure you’re eating about 30g of fiber and 30g of protein in the morning, and look at the oils in your food.  Avocado oil, olive oil and coconut oil are high in Omega-3’s, while Canola, Safflower, Sunflower, and Vegetable oils are higher in Omega 6 and 9, which can cause cell damage if consumed in high amounts.

2. Exercise Daily.  Building muscle right now is essential.  Glucose is shunted into your skeletal muscles, so the more you have, the more balanced your blood sugar will be, and you won’t have drastic spikes in cortisol, which cause anxiety and fatigue.

3. Prioritize Sleep.  Aim to go to bed at sundown and wake with the sunrise.  Turn off all screens at least an hour before bed, keep your room at a cool 68 degrees or below, and wear a sleep mask and/or ear plugs so that you can get the rest you need for healthy cell renewal.

4. Consider Supplements.  Vitex (AKA Chaste Tree Berry) can increase progesterone levels to help with sleep, mood, anxiety, and breast tenderness.  Omega 3’s decrease inflammation and aid in cell membrane production so that your cells can send healthy signals to one another.  Magnesium Glycinate helps to regulate your blood sugar for better sleep.  Rhubarb root alleviates hot flashes and night sweats, and Creatinine helps build muscle mass.

5. Eliminate Endocrine Disruptors.  Plastics, fragrances, pthalates, and parabens have no place in your life anymore.  It’s even worthwhile to consider what fibers are in your clothes.  Opt for natural fabrics like cotton and wool over polyester and spandex, especially in bras and underwear.

6. Hydrate!  Aim for 8 cups of water per day to promote healthy digestion and hormone metabolism.

7. Try Acupuncture.  My 3-month hormone balancing program has the power to help you feel like yourself again.  Schedule your free discovery call today!

   
   

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