First, kudos to Simon for being one of the few men interested in bringing attention to women’s issues, particularly one unique to older women! thank you! Second, you’d think insurance companies would want to help women who are suffering from menopausal symptoms. I rarely ever had occasion to visit my doc, even for my annual exam. But when I turned 51, I started getting all the symptoms without really putting it all together. I had the hot flashes and night sweats, and HRT will make you drop dead in your boots, right, so I was ready to tough it out. But then I had horrific knee pain, in both knees, go see the sports doc. Terrible anxiety, go see a shrink. Can’t sleep, go see the sleep doc. Lady parts don’t work, go see the gyn, who finally put it all together and got me on the estrogen/progestogen patch. All my symptoms went away in 2 days, and I feel like a million bucks now. I cleaned up my diet to get back those few percent increase of whatever horror hrt is supposed to cause, lost 20 pounds, blood sugar and cholesterol numbers are all great now. Best shape of my life at age 53.
I have been on hrt for the past year. It's life changing for me. I use the brand name estrogen patch to prevent the side effects on the skin. Oral progesterone. And compounded cream testosterone. I did a ton of research and told my doctor what I wanted. I find most physicians are not well educated on hrt. Find the solutions you need and advocate for yourself. On a scale of 1 to 10, I fell 20 on the ridiculous symtoms scale. Life was unbearable. This was one of the best conversations on hrt. Thank you for the enjoyable listen.
Stopped dairy and noticed flushes stopping after 6 weeks. Didn't realise this would happen. Became vegan for ethics and accidentally discovered the health benefits.
The same happened for me when I went on keto diet. Turns out that hot flashes are linked to blood sugar control. So perhaps both of our diets controlled blood sugar (mine def did because it’s only
Great interview, I would love to see more like this. Menopause is such an important phase of life for so many people, and yet we spend so much time talking in synonyms or passing around anecdotes and horror stories between women. Good quality, accessible expert advice is lacking so these interviews are very helpful. I think it's time to just get it all out in the light, hear from experts and approach it pragmatically and from a researched centred mindset.
QUESTION. Greetings from Canada! Excellent podcast, well done you! Question for future episodes?? 1) Effect of HRT on Brain tumor? I cannot find any research on this. I have a fatal, non malignant brain tumor, in brain's third ventricle, blocking cerebral fluid. I cannot find ANY studies on HRT and brain tumors. I've had brain surgery to reduce it, but I'm worried about my tumor growing rapidly on HRT. 2) HRT and HyperPARAthyroidism. THis condition occurs markedly in menopausal women, why? and does HRT prevent this? Can't find studies. 3) I've been Plant Based my entire life - for 54 years! I've been youthfu, healthy, and active my entire life, never drank any alcohol, or coffee! But despite this, menopause has been absolute HELL for me. This caught me COMPLETELY off guard, as my lifestyle seemed protective for 48 years... until menopause. I'm curious about the "genetics of menopause" why some women, despite doing EVERYTHING right... suffer terribly.. I am now 54 and considering HRT. 4) I wish you would have talked about available research studies for women to participate in, world wide, or how we get more research studies to happen? Thanks for this valuable interview!
Taking this information to yet another doctor who will hopefully align with treating me as a whole person (addressing nutrition, sleep hygiene, mild depression and thyroid issues). Also, several of our American insurance companies are now denying HRT and classify treatment and place in the same class as plastic surgery/elective. Unbelievable and frustrating. Does it have to be this challenging to get quality care for menopausal women? Thank you for this conversation. Sharing it with all my sisters.
Thank you so much Simon! This was such a well prepared for interview on your part, as usual! As someone who is hoping to talk to my GP soon about my hormonal changes, I feel like I can walk in with more confidence and understanding. Thank you also to Dr Susan Davis for taking the time to share her knowledge!
In evolution and biology there is a trade off to having the hormones of a 25 yr old, so having those hormone levels isn’t necessarily ideal for longevity, maybe the answer would be on the post menopausal levels of hormones… as in the grandma hypothesis (see orca whales and other animals where longevity improves reproductive fitness and survival of kin)
wonderful discussion, thank you. Could you possibly take this conversation further and perhaps discuss maintaining fitness in the phase of life. And possibly include remaining or even becoming athletic through post menopause. It can be very challenging to remain atheltic once those wonderful hormones have left the show, and along with aging too.
Hello Simon, there's a harsh saying that a woman dies twice - 1st time when she reached menopause, 2nd time physical death. The menopause discussion wouldn't be complete without discussing mental/emotional aspects of it with psychiatrist or/and psychotherapist or CBT specializing in menopause. Also, please consider discussion with highly qualified sex therapist on mature sex after meno/andro pause. I heard sometimes the reason sfor lower libido could be mental/emotional /psychological blocks. Thanks.
I have to stop this to say: WHY DID NO ONE EVER TELL ME ABOUT THIS!!! I had monthly depression - took me until 30ish to figure it out. No, life is *not* horrible and hopeless, this week, you're having depression per PMS. +/-5 days later, my period starts and the dark time recedes (Rarely any pain though.. that's all I heard about.) I had horrible post partem depression. The only thing that kept me going was understanding my baby was better with me, than without. I never talked about how I felt bc I was afraid I'd be hospitalized and not be with her but I was absolutely miserable. Perimenopause was by far the worst depression for years. I'm out the other side looking back. Glad I made it through... but I grieve for lost *years* of being a functional human being.
Amazing episode! Cleared a lot of confusion I was having on the topic. I've been reading about estrobolome, estrogen reactivation and reabsorption and how diet could modulate estrogen blood levels. But I've seen gastroenterologists saying there's no such thing as estrogen reabsorption in the gut and neither can we regulate our hormones through diet (something Dr Davis has also stated). I'm just curious about the conflicting information. Would be an interesting topic to cover.
I am on my second round o the interviews with Dr Davis. Thank you so much Simon for approaching this topic as it is so hard to find information that is trustworthy and evidence based! I appreciate all your so called dumb questions because there is really no such thing. Cheers keep up the goog work. Lisa
Thank you for covering this issue. I'm about 9 years into menopause now. Losing weight seems an impossible battle, despite all the exercise (primarily running) I do.
@@livinlavidaplantbased I need running (and walking) for my mental health as much as physical. My cortisol levels are fine according to my last bloodwork.
@Betty Amber congrats on finding what works for you. I've been a vegan for 2 years now and the idea of eating animal flesh is now repulsive to me. I can't help but think of how those poor creatures are treated in feedlots and slaughterhouses. Eating vegan has helped with so many issues I had, particularly arthritis. But I'm sure I'm eating too much sugar and oil. Need to cut out the vegan "junk" foods.
@@arleenm7367 glad you found something that helps with your mental health. Personally, I had to stop running. It was just too hard on my joints, and cortisol was through the roof. I brisk walk and weight train. Try to incorporate strength training a few times a week. it sounds like you have pinpointed where the problems may be with your diet. I've been vegan for almost 6 years and stick to whole foods. I do buy vegan products now and again, but those are not staples in my diet. Takes time, and I totally agree I won't ever go back to eating meat either. :)
@@arleenm7367 running and walking outdoors is so beneficial to your mental and cardiovascular health. A couple of things that might help are strength training, but you have to lift heavy and consistently, it won’t change your body over night but it will eventually. Muscle is metabolically active and is crucial to maintain for menopausal women as we suffer sarcopenia. Secondly get rid of all ultra processed food even if it’s vegan it’s still junk. I highly recommend Simons book. You can do it ❤
Excellent episode! So much information 🙏🏽 Personally going plant-based and making lifestyle changes at 50 I believe was part of the reason I have had an easier time of it.
@@workhardplayharderx2yes, BHRT progesterone. It helped with my mood but I didn't get results with my weight, sleep, acne, night sweats etc. Until I changed my diet and lifestyle 😊
I would really like you to do one on endometriosis and how it influences the endocrine system and how nutrition affects this disease. thank you for this episode, it is extremely informative for my future.
Diet and lifestyle can really help or hurt as far as influencing symptoms too. I spent several years with horrible symptoms and recently I completely changed my diet and tracking lifestyle better and it's reduced a lot of that and it's more tolerable now. High nutrition and getting rid of inflammatory foods, etc. Is big in helping. I heard recently that if men's testicles were shrinking and going away we would of had better focus and resolution by now which is humorous, true and a bit sad.
@@TheProofWithSimonHill As a Naturopath i found some of her comments confronting but at the same time good medicine is all about good evidence so this was very informative for me . I have texted a few of my clients on this as i am not against Hormone replacement but want to give them some background so they can make some informed decisions . I am finding your fact finding podcasts to be standing out amongst all the hype . Keep it coming !!
Excellent talk on menopause Thank you for asking all these questions Simon, all the info I have gotten over the years has been mostly from alternative sources with little evidence based knowledge… you guys should put this on a book and translate it to multiple languages… I say this while sitting in Colombia but actually living in Canada where another great team (dr Pryor and CEMCOR at the university of British Columbia) have put some similar info but focusing a lot on progesterone out there… I am one of those women battling alone trying to get to what should I do and this is the one talk I needed to hear… thanks a million truly and I hope many women get this info ASAP all over the world… I hope the work each one of you is doing continues to be supported and wish you guys the best…
I have to comment again because this episode is so good and thorough! I have saved it and sent the link to friends who are in different conditions compared to me. I am 58 now and have taken Tibolon since 10 years and it works PERFECTLY for me❣️And girl can I tell you that I notice the lack of clarity & focus when forget to take it (with me when on holidays…) UGGH! I plan to take it as long as I can and it does work for me! Btw: It is about 600,-CHF (Switzerland) per year, fully covered by medical insurance.
Thank you so much for this Simon! Yours is one of my favorite channels and podcasts on Spotify. You are always so professional, calm, thorough and helpful. I appreciate the long format episodes rather than the cliff-notes versions many other content creators put out. It is very noble of you to use your space to help share the knowledge, educate us and give us tools to make the best versions of ourselves. Many blessings for you and yours!
Thanks Simon this was a game-changer! As a plant-based Dietitian who specifically helps women in mid-life release weight, I see all symptoms being reduced when women start to eat more plants. AND had definitely seen the women who are at a healthy body weight have an easier transition. Hearing Dr Davis's response to your question about waving a magic wand just confirmed what I see - thank you!
Thank you for this. Due to the BRCA1 mutation I’ll be having ovaries out and entering surgical menopause in the next few months. I actually listened to this episode right before my first surgical oncologist visit and had a much better idea of what to ask him regarding hormone replacement therapy for afterwards. I hope my WFPB diet and regular exercise will do good things for my breast cancer risk also. These topics have been taboo for too long despite the huge number of people they affect. I appreciate you putting this out in the world (and in the same week as a New York Times article exploring how the news on the Women’s Health Initiative got twisted so badly).
I had my ovaries out two years ago, also BRCA 1 and 2 positive and my mom had ovarian cancer. I’m 50 now an adopted WFPD two years ago. I strongly believe my WFPD contributes to my overall health and well being. I really didn’t experience all the negative symptoms we all read about and that I worried about. I also began meditating which I recommend. I never when on any HRT. I wish you well on your path. ❤
Holy crap, so much of this i didnt know ! Thats terrible that in so many years, and going through menopause myself ....this is information i really could have done with ... In fact THATS exactly why im here ....ive had health issues develop since my menopause i just cant solve. Insomnia, sweats, anxiety, putting on weight even though i eat half of what i used to and even more healtheir . My body shape has totally shifted ....losing muscle, gaining a round belly.... and i just dont get it. Ive stayed about the same wejght for 30 years, always strong....but i feel like my body has started crumbling slowly away. It doesnt work as smoothly as it used to. And all doctors want to do is give me ever increasing meds. I dont want to end up taking 15 medications a week like my mother. I have a gut feeling its a metabolic or systemic malfunction or deviation that has set off these changes as they started in the same year. And i know they will keep compounding if i dont stop it. But no doctor wants to discuss this avenue. Its maddening . Years ago i asked about HRT as i was having symptoms and menopause had happened. And the doctors said exactly what Dr Davis said, "Just give it a few months and see how you go ". Got told this twice, by then my lack of sleep was affecting my mood, my energy levels, my memory, my tolerance, my relationship, my work . My body started changing which made me feel worse. Ive tried meds, meditation , various antiinflamatory diets, fasting, wondering if im prediabetic, or got a food intolerance. Im at my wits end . For someone who could still climb fences and run after my dogs and was strong and flexible....in three years ....ive gone to shit . Im so grateful you did this interview . Im not saying that i think hrt is gonna be my magical cure.....but at least im better informed now, and i can push to give it a try . Armed with knowledge about the options available to try . Thankyou so much . Im gonna reccomend this to every woman i can .
Hope you're experiencing the relief of bioidenticals! I started almost month ago and it fixed almost everything from insomnia to my neck herniation pain! Look up study on hormones with regards to myelin sheath! They use hormones to cure MS! I don't have MS, but I had a total shutdown of so many things. 300+ functions hormones regulate. I was catapulted into menopause at age 49 by surgical removal of a complex cyst and fibroid. The surgeon put me on oral synthetic estradiol which was awful and helped me to end up with non alcoholic fatty liver. He was against combo treatment and knew nothing about bioidentical. He is 77 years old and old school doctor. I finally was so desperate after five years, I looked for obgyn who offered bioidenticals. He tested my hormones through saliva and sent prescription into compounding pharmacy. Cream is an absolute miracle!
this seems to be all over the media. i see 3 pieces in the nytimes today alone! my partner is going through this. so much appreciate Simon's amazing interview style.
Great interview and highly interesting. I will take my time and also go through part 2. Your time stamps are enormously useful for re-listen to details again!
Brilliant listening to whole podcast while walking, finishing with dumbells. 54.11 age come late April 2023 to qualify Menopause. This year notice mental physical energy a lot lower, no amount of Mediterranean style diet boost my energy. Wake 4x nightly. Mood meh but exercise definitely helps. Strength, muscle nose dive. Waistline EXPANSION, hearing this I breathe with relief its nothing I am doing wrong. Don't drink alcohol. Assume Prof Susan Davis been on abc radio and Jean Hails Clinic?!?! Thankyou 👏👏👏
Just finished this epic episode on the podcast. Thank you so so much. I feel so empowered hearing Dr Davis’ knowledge and really appreciate you asking so many important questions.
Great podcast! I learned so much. Would have liked to hear more about post menopausal living because that is where I am. I have shared with family and friends! Thanks Simon! p.s. where is Drew? Miss your episodes with him
Fantastic! So much thoroughly explained information! I especially appreciated her break down of ‘bio-identical HRT’ and she even mentioned Tibolone! So grateful for this episode! 🙏
Great interview and good conversation to have. But domething she said threw me off. Yes, its not natural for so many women to live into their 80s and 90s than before. But menopause and being a grandmother has always come much earlier than that in historical as well as indigenous societies usually in the 40s and early 50s. A large amount of people did live to that age. There are several cultures that have rituals welcoming women into the Circle of Elders and that's at menopause. She needs to do more research on that. And also on how women who live in cultures that see menopause as a positive transition tend to experience it much better. Menopause is definitely a biological and hormonal phenomenon but cultural attitudes also influence the experience and that should be explored as well.
I thought I was going through perimenopause a couple years ago (prematurely), even got diagnosed with anemia, then started eating more and more plant-based and everything seems to have settled down (knock on wood). That would be an interesting study on perimenopausal women!
I was sure to be suffering from burn out 5 years ago and tried to hide it. I do not remember when I got the idea of requesting HRT. My gyn was positiv but has no clue what to use and how much. Nonetheless I was back to my normal feisty self within 5 days, dropped 30 pounds in 7 months and never ever will get rid of estrogen (progesteron added) replacement willingly.
You did a fantastic job of asking questions, so empathetic and genuinely curious. You cleared a lot of confusion. At about minute 26:10 there was still something I didn't understand. It's about whether women in (peri)menopause can still conceive. Susan said that the ovaries can still switch on and off. Sure, during perimenopause I understand that, but why in the year after menopause? I thought menopause was when the ovaries just stopped producing eggs. Obviously you don't know until a year after menopause that that was a woman’s last period and they should therefore continue to use contraception, but the fact that she can still get pregnant doesn't make sense to me
It's because you don't know your date of menopause until you haven't had a period for 12 months. Only then can you give certainty that you have had your last period 12 months ago. So therefore, it is only after your are menses free for 12 months that you for sure know your ovaries have stopped. Thus, if you get to 10 months without a period and assume your ovaries have stopped, but alas then next week you get a period, and then find out that your ovaries are still active. That's one big oops if you had been sexually active prior, thinking you were safe, yet the ovaries still have some life in them. Don't assume your ovaries have stopped working, until at least 12 months after your last period. You just never know when those sneaky ovaries might decide to release those last eggs. Hope this helps explain why you should still be concerned about contraception until at least 12 months after your last period
I’m 63 years of age post menopausal have never taken HRT but would like to - have I left it too late? I would love a consultation with Professor Davis I live in Sydney - why so so many doctors know so very little about HRT most still stifled by the old flawed Women’s Health Initiative study
I look forward to listen to the whole episode! So a woman can start on HRT after menopause (in postmenopause) and be on it until she dies, if I understand correctly?
My mom was born when my grandmother was in her mid 40s and my grandmother never had a cycle after her birth. My mom started going through peri menopause in her early 40s. My sister will be 40 this summer (I'm 34) and I'm so curious to see what her experience is.
At about the 58 minute mark, there is discussion on a study done where oral estrogen made a difference in belly fat and appetite. Is the recommendation then for oral HRT? I have heard that oral is less safe as it is metabolized through the liver. So my naturopath recommends instead getting estrogen as a cream, the patch, or pellets. Any feedback you can provide? Progesterone, however, is taken orally and this is safe.
Is there any guidance for a person with a very strong family history of breast cancer (mother, sister, maternal aunt) and no known genetic markers for breast cancer. My OB won't offer me HRT. Should I (and others) pursue it?
Testosterone and estrogen cream from a compound pharmacy has not only helped my libido but also the dryness. I also take an oral progesterone, which was a game changer for hot flashes. In the follow up episode the doctor doesn't sound particularly positive about compound pharmacy prescriptions. There are pellets available here in the states for estrogen and testosterone, but I chose cream. The patch option doesn't offer testosterone. So what options does the doc recommend for testosterone? Also there are people who have claimed that testosterone can increase the size of the clitoris. I apply the cream to the outer labia, wondering if the doctor can talk about this? Thank you so much for your podcast and the work you do.
First, kudos to Simon for being one of the few men interested in bringing attention to women’s issues, particularly one unique to older women! thank you! Second, you’d think insurance companies would want to help women who are suffering from menopausal symptoms. I rarely ever had occasion to visit my doc, even for my annual exam. But when I turned 51, I started getting all the symptoms without really putting it all together. I had the hot flashes and night sweats, and HRT will make you drop dead in your boots, right, so I was ready to tough it out. But then I had horrific knee pain, in both knees, go see the sports doc. Terrible anxiety, go see a shrink. Can’t sleep, go see the sleep doc. Lady parts don’t work, go see the gyn, who finally put it all together and got me on the estrogen/progestogen patch. All my symptoms went away in 2 days, and I feel like a million bucks now. I cleaned up my diet to get back those few percent increase of whatever horror hrt is supposed to cause, lost 20 pounds, blood sugar and cholesterol numbers are all great now. Best shape of my life at age 53.
I have been on hrt for the past year. It's life changing for me. I use the brand name estrogen patch to prevent the side effects on the skin.
Oral progesterone. And compounded cream testosterone. I did a ton of research and told my doctor what I wanted. I find most physicians are not well educated on hrt. Find the solutions you need and advocate for yourself. On a scale of 1 to 10, I fell 20 on the ridiculous symtoms scale. Life was unbearable. This was one of the best conversations on hrt. Thank you for the enjoyable listen.
At 50yo I went vegan. Hot flushes and night sweats stopped almost immediately. Such a relief 😌
Stopped dairy and noticed flushes stopping after 6 weeks. Didn't realise this would happen. Became vegan for ethics and accidentally discovered the health benefits.
@@skippy6462 same for me. Health is a bonus but ethics was the priority. Interesting that dietary changes had such a positive impact on our symptoms.
The same happened for me when I went on keto diet. Turns out that hot flashes are linked to blood sugar control. So perhaps both of our diets controlled blood sugar (mine def did because it’s only
Sumon, you are a star! So endearing to see a young man showing such maturity and understanding on a uniquely female topic! Thank you ❤
Great interview, I would love to see more like this.
Menopause is such an important phase of life for so many people, and yet we spend so much time talking in synonyms or passing around anecdotes and horror stories between women.
Good quality, accessible expert advice is lacking so these interviews are very helpful.
I think it's time to just get it all out in the light, hear from experts and approach it pragmatically and from a researched centred mindset.
Thank you so much too for covering this topic!
Wow!!!🤯❤. Best conversation I have heard on Menopause. So much knowledge! Thank you for this. Looking forward to part 2.😊
QUESTION. Greetings from Canada! Excellent podcast, well done you! Question for future episodes?? 1) Effect of HRT on Brain tumor? I cannot find any research on this. I have a fatal, non malignant brain tumor, in brain's third ventricle, blocking cerebral fluid. I cannot find ANY studies on HRT and brain tumors. I've had brain surgery to reduce it, but I'm worried about my tumor growing rapidly on HRT. 2) HRT and HyperPARAthyroidism. THis condition occurs markedly in menopausal women, why? and does HRT prevent this? Can't find studies. 3) I've been Plant Based my entire life - for 54 years! I've been youthfu, healthy, and active my entire life, never drank any alcohol, or coffee! But despite this, menopause has been absolute HELL for me. This caught me COMPLETELY off guard, as my lifestyle seemed protective for 48 years... until menopause. I'm curious about the "genetics of menopause" why some women, despite doing EVERYTHING right... suffer terribly.. I am now 54 and considering HRT. 4) I wish you would have talked about available research studies for women to participate in, world wide, or how we get more research studies to happen? Thanks for this valuable interview!
Taking this information to yet another doctor who will hopefully align with treating me as a whole person (addressing nutrition, sleep hygiene, mild depression and thyroid issues). Also, several of our American insurance companies are now denying HRT and classify treatment and place in the same class as plastic surgery/elective. Unbelievable and frustrating. Does it have to be this challenging to get quality care for menopausal women? Thank you for this conversation. Sharing it with all my sisters.
The most powerful message was in the last 3 minutes of this vdo. I am so thankful for it. She is incredibly insightful, knowledgeable and passionate.
I think it make a huge difference what is going on in the rest of your life while going through menopause.
Thank you so much Simon! This was such a well prepared for interview on your part, as usual! As someone who is hoping to talk to my GP soon about my hormonal changes, I feel like I can walk in with more confidence and understanding. Thank you also to Dr Susan Davis for taking the time to share her knowledge!
In evolution and biology there is a trade off to having the hormones of a 25 yr old, so having those hormone levels isn’t necessarily ideal for longevity, maybe the answer would be on the post menopausal levels of hormones… as in the grandma hypothesis (see orca whales and other animals where longevity improves reproductive fitness and survival of kin)
wonderful discussion, thank you. Could you possibly take this conversation further and perhaps discuss maintaining fitness in the phase of life. And possibly include remaining or even becoming athletic through post menopause. It can be very challenging to remain atheltic once those wonderful hormones have left the show, and along with aging too.
@@TheProofWithSimonHill Yes, I'm hoping to hear this as well.
Hello Simon, there's a harsh saying that a woman dies twice - 1st time when she reached menopause, 2nd time physical death. The menopause discussion wouldn't be complete without discussing mental/emotional aspects of it with psychiatrist or/and psychotherapist or CBT specializing in menopause. Also, please consider discussion with highly qualified sex therapist on mature sex after meno/andro pause. I heard sometimes the reason sfor lower libido could be mental/emotional /psychological blocks. Thanks.
I am blown away by all the clarity I have now on what I'm going through ❤❤❤
I have to stop this to say:
WHY DID NO ONE EVER TELL ME ABOUT THIS!!!
I had monthly depression - took me until 30ish to figure it out. No, life is *not* horrible and hopeless, this week, you're having depression per PMS. +/-5 days later, my period starts and the dark time recedes (Rarely any pain though.. that's all I heard about.)
I had horrible post partem depression. The only thing that kept me going was understanding my baby was better with me, than without. I never talked about how I felt bc I was afraid I'd be hospitalized and not be with her but I was absolutely miserable.
Perimenopause was by far the worst depression for years. I'm out the other side looking back. Glad I made it through... but I grieve for lost *years* of being a functional human being.
Amazing episode! Cleared a lot of confusion I was having on the topic. I've been reading about estrobolome, estrogen reactivation and reabsorption and how diet could modulate estrogen blood levels. But I've seen gastroenterologists saying there's no such thing as estrogen reabsorption in the gut and neither can we regulate our hormones through diet (something Dr Davis has also stated). I'm just curious about the conflicting information. Would be an interesting topic to cover.
You did a great job, Simon! She's a wealth of knowledge. I'm only a half hour in, but looking forward to the rest.
I am on my second round o the interviews with Dr Davis. Thank you so much Simon for approaching this topic as it is so hard to find information that is trustworthy and evidence based!
I appreciate all your so called dumb questions because there is really no such thing.
Cheers keep up the goog work. Lisa
This Dr, chefs kiss.
Thank you for covering this issue. I'm about 9 years into menopause now. Losing weight seems an impossible battle, despite all the exercise (primarily running) I do.
Pls, stop running, at this age, we need to approach the exercise we do differently. You may have high cortisol levels preventing your fat loss.
@@livinlavidaplantbased I need running (and walking) for my mental health as much as physical. My cortisol levels are fine according to my last bloodwork.
@Betty Amber congrats on finding what works for you. I've been a vegan for 2 years now and the idea of eating animal flesh is now repulsive to me. I can't help but think of how those poor creatures are treated in feedlots and slaughterhouses. Eating vegan has helped with so many issues I had, particularly arthritis. But I'm sure I'm eating too much sugar and oil. Need to cut out the vegan "junk" foods.
@@arleenm7367 glad you found something that helps with your mental health. Personally, I had to stop running. It was just too hard on my joints, and cortisol was through the roof. I brisk walk and weight train. Try to incorporate strength training a few times a week. it sounds like you have pinpointed where the problems may be with your diet. I've been vegan for almost 6 years and stick to whole foods. I do buy vegan products now and again, but those are not staples in my diet. Takes time, and I totally agree I won't ever go back to eating meat either. :)
@@arleenm7367 running and walking outdoors is so beneficial to your mental and cardiovascular health. A couple of things that might help are strength training, but you have to lift heavy and consistently, it won’t change your body over night but it will eventually. Muscle is metabolically active and is crucial to maintain for menopausal women as we suffer sarcopenia. Secondly get rid of all ultra processed food even if it’s vegan it’s still junk. I highly recommend Simons book. You can do it ❤
Excellent episode! So much information 🙏🏽 Personally going plant-based and making lifestyle changes at 50 I believe was part of the reason I have had an easier time of it.
@@workhardplayharderx2yes, BHRT progesterone. It helped with my mood but I didn't get results with my weight, sleep, acne, night sweats etc. Until I changed my diet and lifestyle 😊
You still are estrogen deficient and the long term effects are unavoidable. It does not matter if you have no symptoms.
I am vegan for 8 years now but i do have severe symptoms so not sure if it the solution but I do belief it’s healthy ofcourse
I would really like you to do one on endometriosis and how it influences the endocrine system and how nutrition affects this disease.
thank you for this episode, it is extremely informative for my future.
Diet and lifestyle can really help or hurt as far as influencing symptoms too. I spent several years with horrible symptoms and recently I completely changed my diet and tracking lifestyle better and it's reduced a lot of that and it's more tolerable now. High nutrition and getting rid of inflammatory foods, etc. Is big in helping. I heard recently that if men's testicles were shrinking and going away we would of had better focus and resolution by now which is humorous, true and a bit sad.
Excellent presentation. Brought me up to speed on several things -very engaging.
@@TheProofWithSimonHill As a Naturopath i found some of her comments confronting but at the same time good medicine is all about good evidence so this was very informative for me . I have texted a few of my clients on this as i am not against Hormone replacement but want to give them some background so they can make some informed decisions . I am finding your fact finding podcasts to be standing out amongst all the hype . Keep it coming !!
Excellent information & conversation. Thank you for covering this extremely important topic!
Thank you Simon for shedding light on this subject and going out of your comfort zone. This needs to be talked about more. 😊
Excellent talk on menopause Thank you for asking all these questions Simon, all the info I have gotten over the years has been mostly from alternative sources with little evidence based knowledge… you guys should put this on a book and translate it to multiple languages… I say this while sitting in Colombia but actually living in Canada where another great team (dr Pryor and CEMCOR at the university of British Columbia) have put some similar info but focusing a lot on progesterone out there… I am one of those women battling alone trying to get to what should I do and this is the one talk I needed to hear… thanks a million truly and I hope many women get this info ASAP all over the world… I hope the work each one of you is doing continues to be supported and wish you guys the best…
Great episode. So vital for women over 55!!
I loved this interview. Dr. Susan Davis is so informative and is a fountain of knowledge! Please have her back.
I have to comment again because this episode is so good and thorough! I have saved it and sent the link to friends who are in different conditions compared to me. I am 58 now and have taken Tibolon since 10 years and it works PERFECTLY for me❣️And girl can I tell you that I notice the lack of clarity & focus when forget to take it (with me when on holidays…) UGGH! I plan to take it as long as I can and it does work for me! Btw: It is about 600,-CHF (Switzerland) per year, fully covered by medical insurance.
Thank you so much for this Simon! Yours is one of my favorite channels and podcasts on Spotify. You are always so professional, calm, thorough and helpful. I appreciate the long format episodes rather than the cliff-notes versions many other content creators put out. It is very noble of you to use your space to help share the knowledge, educate us and give us tools to make the best versions of ourselves. Many blessings for you and yours!
Thank you Simon!!! Women need this clear, credible and up to date information and I am very grateful for your time covering this important topic
Thank you both!💚
Thank you so much for interviewing Dr. Davis. Really appreciate her expertise and knowledge in this field and grateful for what she had to share 🙏🏻
Thank you, thank you for sharing this important topic! There is so much ignorance and misinformation out there on menopause. Wonderful job, Simon.
Thanks Simon this was a game-changer! As a plant-based Dietitian who specifically helps women in mid-life release weight, I see all symptoms being reduced when women start to eat more plants. AND had definitely seen the women who are at a healthy body weight have an easier transition. Hearing Dr Davis's response to your question about waving a magic wand just confirmed what I see - thank you!
Thank you for this. Due to the BRCA1 mutation I’ll be having ovaries out and entering surgical menopause in the next few months. I actually listened to this episode right before my first surgical oncologist visit and had a much better idea of what to ask him regarding hormone replacement therapy for afterwards. I hope my WFPB diet and regular exercise will do good things for my breast cancer risk also. These topics have been taboo for too long despite the huge number of people they affect. I appreciate you putting this out in the world (and in the same week as a New York Times article exploring how the news on the Women’s Health Initiative got twisted so badly).
I had my ovaries out two years ago, also BRCA 1 and 2 positive and my mom had ovarian cancer. I’m 50 now an adopted WFPD two years ago. I strongly believe my WFPD contributes to my overall health and well being. I really didn’t experience all the negative symptoms we all read about and that I worried about. I also began meditating which I recommend. I never when on any HRT. I wish you well on your path. ❤
Holy crap, so much of this i didnt know !
Thats terrible that in so many years, and going through menopause myself ....this is information i really could have done with ...
In fact THATS exactly why im here ....ive had health issues develop since my menopause i just cant solve. Insomnia, sweats, anxiety, putting on weight even though i eat half of what i used to and even more healtheir . My body shape has totally shifted ....losing muscle, gaining a round belly.... and i just dont get it.
Ive stayed about the same wejght for 30 years, always strong....but i feel like my body has started crumbling slowly away. It doesnt work as smoothly as it used to.
And all doctors want to do is give me ever increasing meds.
I dont want to end up taking 15 medications a week like my mother.
I have a gut feeling its a metabolic or systemic malfunction or deviation that has set off these changes as they started in the same year. And i know they will keep compounding if i dont stop it.
But no doctor wants to discuss this avenue. Its maddening .
Years ago i asked about HRT as i was having symptoms and menopause had happened.
And the doctors said exactly what Dr Davis said, "Just give it a few months and see how you go ".
Got told this twice, by then my lack of sleep was affecting my mood, my energy levels, my memory, my tolerance, my relationship, my work . My body started changing which made me feel worse. Ive tried meds, meditation , various antiinflamatory diets, fasting, wondering if im prediabetic, or got a food intolerance.
Im at my wits end .
For someone who could still climb fences and run after my dogs and was strong and flexible....in three years ....ive gone to shit .
Im so grateful you did this interview .
Im not saying that i think hrt is gonna be my magical cure.....but at least im better informed now, and i can push to give it a try . Armed with knowledge about the options available to try .
Thankyou so much . Im gonna reccomend this to every woman i can .
Hope you're experiencing the relief of bioidenticals! I started almost month ago and it fixed almost everything from insomnia to my neck herniation pain! Look up study on hormones with regards to myelin sheath! They use hormones to cure MS! I don't have MS, but I had a total shutdown of so many things. 300+ functions hormones regulate. I was catapulted into menopause at age 49 by surgical removal of a complex cyst and fibroid. The surgeon put me on oral synthetic estradiol which was awful and helped me to end up with non alcoholic fatty liver. He was against combo treatment and knew nothing about bioidentical. He is 77 years old and old school doctor. I finally was so desperate after five years, I looked for obgyn who offered bioidenticals. He tested my hormones through saliva and sent prescription into compounding pharmacy. Cream is an absolute miracle!
Yes, and thank you Simon for asking all the right questions. Deeply appreciate it.
this seems to be all over the media. i see 3 pieces in the nytimes today alone! my partner is going through this. so much appreciate Simon's amazing interview style.
This was so very good.
Great interview and highly interesting. I will take my time and also go through part 2. Your time stamps are enormously useful for re-listen to details again!
Yay!!! Just started perimenopause and getting myself educated on what to expect. Thank you Simon!
Brilliant listening to whole podcast while walking, finishing with dumbells. 54.11 age come late April 2023 to qualify Menopause. This year notice mental physical energy a lot lower, no amount of Mediterranean style diet boost my energy. Wake 4x nightly. Mood meh but exercise definitely helps. Strength, muscle nose dive. Waistline EXPANSION, hearing this I breathe with relief its nothing I am doing wrong. Don't drink alcohol. Assume Prof Susan Davis been on abc radio and Jean Hails Clinic?!?! Thankyou 👏👏👏
Just finished this epic episode on the podcast. Thank you so so much. I feel so empowered hearing Dr Davis’ knowledge and really appreciate you asking so many important questions.
WOW 😮 such detail . Great questions , great answers . Thanks for asking for us all . Really , really enjoyed it all . Learnt so much .
Well done !
Great podcast! I learned so much. Would have liked to hear more about post menopausal living because that is where I am. I have shared with family and friends! Thanks Simon! p.s. where is Drew? Miss your episodes with him
Fantastic! So much thoroughly explained information! I especially appreciated her break down of ‘bio-identical HRT’ and she even mentioned Tibolone! So grateful for this episode! 🙏
So grateful to both of you for this interview !
Great interview and good conversation to have. But domething she said threw me off. Yes, its not natural for so many women to live into their 80s and 90s than before. But menopause and being a grandmother has always come much earlier than that in historical as well as indigenous societies usually in the 40s and early 50s. A large amount of people did live to that age. There are several cultures that have rituals welcoming women into the Circle of Elders and that's at menopause. She needs to do more research on that. And also on how women who live in cultures that see menopause as a positive transition tend to experience it much better. Menopause is definitely a biological and hormonal phenomenon but cultural attitudes also influence the experience and that should be explored as well.
Great podcast and what an amazing woman Dr Davis is!
I thought I was going through perimenopause a couple years ago (prematurely), even got diagnosed with anemia, then started eating more and more plant-based and everything seems to have settled down (knock on wood). That would be an interesting study on perimenopausal women!
Extremely helpful! Thank you so much. ❤
Thanks for this video, very helpful!
Great interview!
I'm in 2nd year of my menopause, eat healthy and exercise each day helping me
I was sure to be suffering from burn out 5 years ago and tried to hide it. I do not remember when I got the idea of requesting HRT. My gyn was positiv but has no clue what to use and how much.
Nonetheless I was back to my normal feisty self within 5 days, dropped 30 pounds in 7 months and never ever will get rid of estrogen (progesteron added) replacement willingly.
Didn’t know I could love you more….but I do!
👏👏👏
Testosterone is definitely great for libido in women so I am not sure why studies are not clear in this… For me it’s like night and day
I'm curious about the bone loss issue in more detail.
You did a fantastic job of asking questions, so empathetic and genuinely curious. You cleared a lot of confusion. At about minute 26:10 there was still something I didn't understand. It's about whether women in (peri)menopause can still conceive. Susan said that the ovaries can still switch on and off. Sure, during perimenopause I understand that, but why in the year after menopause? I thought menopause was when the ovaries just stopped producing eggs. Obviously you don't know until a year after menopause that that was a woman’s last period and they should therefore continue to use contraception, but the fact that she can still get pregnant doesn't make sense to me
It's because you don't know your date of menopause until you haven't had a period for 12 months. Only then can you give certainty that you have had your last period 12 months ago. So therefore, it is only after your are menses free for 12 months that you for sure know your ovaries have stopped.
Thus, if you get to 10 months without a period and assume your ovaries have stopped, but alas then next week you get a period, and then find out that your ovaries are still active. That's one big oops if you had been sexually active prior, thinking you were safe, yet the ovaries still have some life in them.
Don't assume your ovaries have stopped working, until at least 12 months after your last period. You just never know when those sneaky ovaries might decide to release those last eggs.
Hope this helps explain why you should still be concerned about contraception until at least 12 months after your last period
I’m 63 years of age post menopausal have never taken HRT but would like to - have I left it too late? I would love a consultation with Professor Davis I live in Sydney - why so so many doctors know so very little about HRT most still stifled by the old flawed Women’s Health Initiative study
I look forward to listen to the whole episode!
So a woman can start on HRT after menopause (in postmenopause) and be on it until she dies, if I understand correctly?
My mom was born when my grandmother was in her mid 40s and my grandmother never had a cycle after her birth. My mom started going through peri menopause in her early 40s. My sister will be 40 this summer (I'm 34) and I'm so curious to see what her experience is.
At about the 58 minute mark, there is discussion on a study done where oral estrogen made a difference in belly fat and appetite. Is the recommendation then for oral HRT? I have heard that oral is less safe as it is metabolized through the liver. So my naturopath recommends instead getting estrogen as a cream, the patch, or pellets. Any feedback you can provide? Progesterone, however, is taken orally and this is safe.
Is there any guidance for a person with a very strong family history of breast cancer (mother, sister, maternal aunt) and no known genetic markers for breast cancer. My OB won't offer me HRT. Should I (and others) pursue it?
After listening to this, men must be thanking their lucky stars they’re not women.
Women also like testostorne 4 lots of health bennifits not jst so the hubby gets laid...too bad doc doesnt go further on this...ie streagth energy
Testosterone and estrogen cream from a compound pharmacy has not only helped my libido but also the dryness. I also take an oral progesterone, which was a game changer for hot flashes. In the follow up episode the doctor doesn't sound particularly positive about compound pharmacy prescriptions. There are pellets available here in the states for estrogen and testosterone, but I chose cream. The patch option doesn't offer testosterone. So what options does the doc recommend for testosterone? Also there are people who have claimed that testosterone can increase the size of the clitoris. I apply the cream to the outer labia, wondering if the doctor can talk about this? Thank you so much for your podcast and the work you do.
So the only thing women fell are night sweat, hot flashes no period, sleep disturbanceamd , anxiety and depression .
The world expert in testosterone for women. Evidence based not hyperbole.