Are hormones really just about hot flashes and libido?
In this eye-opening episode of the Wise Divine Women Podcast, Dana Irvine sits down with functional medicine practitioner, yoga instructor, and menopause educator Cindy Dupuie to discuss one of the most important—and misunderstood—topics in women's health: hormone replacement therapy, bone health, brain health, and aging well.
Cindy shares her personal journey into early menopause at age 43 and how her experience led her to become passionate about helping women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. Together, Dana and Cindy explore the evolving science around hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the lasting impact of the Women's Health Initiative study, and why so many women are still struggling to access informed care today.
In this conversation, you'll learn:
✨ Why estrogen affects every organ system in the body
✨ The connection between hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and gut health
✨ How hormone health influences bone density, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function
✨ Why osteoporosis prevention must start before symptoms appear
✨ The importance of strength training, protein, and lifestyle habits during menopause
✨ Common misconceptions about hormone replacement therapy
✨ How to become a stronger advocate for your own health care
✨ Why women need to understand their lab work and ask better questions
✨ The role of functional and integrative practitioners in supporting healthy aging
✨ How community and education empower women through menopause and beyond
Dana and Cindy also discuss the importance of personalized care, looking beyond symptoms, and creating a strong foundation through nutrition, movement, stress management, sleep, and hormone balance.
Instagram @cindy_dupuie https://www.instagram.com/cindy_dupuie/
Website alivingbalance.net https://alivingbalance.net
YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@alivingbalance
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cdupuie/
Course: Grace In Transition for Women Of A Certain Age https://alivingbalance.net/course/
Download Lab Checklist for The Pause Years https://mailchi.mp/ec838eef0e74/lab-checklist
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to women’s health, menopause, and hormonal balance
02:00 - Cindy’s journey from dietetics to functional medicine for women’s wellness
05:00 - How estrogen impacts cell function and overall health
08:00 - The gap in conventional hormone management practices
11:00 - The Dutch Test and hormone monitoring innovations
14:00 - The critical connection between gut health and hormones
17:00 - Why HRT is like the “icing on the cake” in a foundation of health
20:00 - Navigating conversations with healthcare providers about hormone therapy
23:00 - The importance of baseline blood tests for preventative health
26:00 - The impact of hormones on bone density and osteoporosis risk
30:00 - Common barriers in accessing hormone care in the U.S. and Canada
33:00 - Strategies for women over 60 to maintain vitality and independence
37:00 - The role of lifestyle factors (stress, sleep, exercise) in hormonal and bone health
41:00 - Key lab markers to assess bone health and inflammation
44:00 - The importance of multifaceted approaches: diet, sleep, stress, and hormones
48:00 - Community programs and online courses for women of a certain age
“Take a breath and stay curious” — Embrace continuous learning and compassionate advocacy for your health.
