In this podcast episode, Dr. Izabella Wentz is joined by Dr. Christine Maren, a board-certified functional medicine physician specializing in women's health and hormones. Dr. Maren shares her expertise on navigating perimenopause, addressing hormonal imbalances, and optimizing health during this transformative phase. They discuss the common symptoms women face, the impact of stress, the importance of strength training, and how bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be a game-changer. This episode is packed with practical strategies to help women feel energized, clear-headed, and confident as they transition through perimenopause.
Show Highlights:
Dr. Christine Maren’s personal health journey and how it shaped her approach to functional medicine.
Common symptoms of perimenopause, including
weight gain, insomnia, mood changes, and brain fog.
The role of
stress in worsening perimenopause symptoms and how it can impact hormone balance.
Understanding the
difference between perimenopause and menopause—when does perimenopause really begin?
How
tracking cycles can help women identify early perimenopause symptoms.
Why some women experience
estrogen deficiency while others have
estrogen dominance during perimenopause.
The importance of
strength training, muscle-building, and protein intake to support metabolism and hormonal balance.
The
truth about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—debunking myths and clarifying safety concerns.
How
birth control pills impact perimenopause and why they may not be the best option for older women.
The
gut-hormone connection and how
fiber, microbiome health, and estrogen metabolism play a crucial role.
Essential
lab tests for perimenopause, including hormone levels, thyroid function, and nutrient status.
The impact of
low estrogen on mental health and why HRT can be the first-line treatment for mood-related issues.
Supplements and natural therapies to
support perimenopause and hormone balance, including
magnesium, creatine, collagen, and fiber.
The role of
weighted vests and walking treadmills in optimizing bone health, metabolism, and overall fitness.
Links and Resources:
Weighted Vest (Amazon)
Walking Treadmill (Amazon)
Connect with Dr. Christine Maren:
Website: DrChristineMaren.com
Instagram: @DrChristineMaren
Facebook: Dr. Christine Maren
Connect with Dr. Izabella Wentz:
Website: ThyroidPharmacist.com
Instagram: @isabellawentzpharmd
Facebook: Dr. Izabella Wentz, Thyroid Pharmacist
Dr. Izabella Wentz’s Programs & Resources:
Hashimoto’s Self-Management Program
Root Cause Reset
Free Root Cause Book
Hashimoto’s Protocol Book
Adrenal Transformation Protocol Book
Fatigue Program
Free Reset Cookbook
Rootcology Supplements (Adrenal Support, Carnitine Blend, Myo-Inositol, Selenium, Magnesium, Protein, Electrolytes, and more)
🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs this information!