I’m talking with Suzanne Gilberg Lenz about how women can use botanicals, hormones, and smarter lifestyle strategies to navigate perimenopause and menopause with more support. Suzanne brings her experience as a physician and menopause expert to explain which herbs may help with sleep, mood, blood sugar, hot flashes, and nervous system regulation. We also dig into why symptoms like severe hot flashes should not be brushed off, and why the right support can make a real difference for your health now and in the years ahead.
(00:11) Why combining conventional medicine like hormone replacement therapy with natural plant botanicals can offer a more holistic approach to midlife care.
(00:51) The incredible preventative health advantages of addressing perimenopause symptoms in your late 30s rather than waiting until your late 50s.
(01:43) How selective estrogen receptor modulators like Siberian rhubarb safely target the brain and bones without causing unwanted proliferation in the breast or uterus.
(03:16) The optimal timing and unique mechanisms of adaptogens, like using sedating ashwagandha at night and activating rhodiola earlier in the day.
(04:34) Why a history of hormone-mediated mood disorders during puberty or pregnancy predicts a higher likelihood of experiencing anxiety in perimenopause.
(05:10) How to choose the right botanicals for sleep, including passionflower and saffron, while understanding the negative impacts of alcohol and late-day cortisol spikes.
(06:34) The potential of metabolic supports like berberine and specialized hop extract to combat rising insulin resistance and blood sugar issues.
(07:49) Why tracking your fiber intake is a critical midlife baseline and why fruits and vegetables alone might not provide the 25 to 30 grams you truly need.
Watch full episode: https://youtu.be/Gqic-qZ8br8?si=al3HemjB5Yqvjdea
Full show notes (including all links mentioned): https://jjvirgin.com/askdrsuzanne
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