Summary of Ep. 284 HRT’s Misconceptions & Misinformation :
*In Episode 284 of HRT’s Misconceptions & Misinformation, Cynthia Thurlow tackles the topic of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in an Ask Me Anything session. She begins by emphasizing that she is not providing medical advice but rather general insights and information. She encourages listeners to seek out a practitioner who can best support their individual needs and emphasizes the importance of informed consent, regardless of the decisions made regarding the perimenopause and menopause phases of life.
The episode covers a wide range of questions related to HRT, starting with whether it is too late to start HRT at the age of 62. Cynthia explains that while the greatest benefits are usually seen when HRT is initiated within the first five years of the final menstrual cycle, there may still be clinical indications for starting HRT later on. She suggests consulting with healthcare providers, utilizing resources like the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) directory, and researching practitioners through the Institute for Functional Medicine (IFM).
The next question focuses on the benefits of HRT for longevity health, specifically for individuals who have not previously used HRT and are now 64 years old. Cynthia highlights the systemic impact of losing progesterone and estradiol during menopause and discusses the importance of these hormones for sleep, anxiety, stress reduction, bone health, heart health, brain and cognition, and overall well-being. She recommends exploring resources like NAMS, IFM, and books such as “Why Estrogen Matters” by Dr. Avram Bluming and Dr. Carol Tavris, “The XX Brain” by Dr. Lisa Mosconi, and podcasts featuring Dr. Felice Gersh.
Throughout the episode, Cynthia emphasizes the individual nature of hormone therapy and the importance of finding the right approach for each person. She encourages listeners to educate themselves, gather information from reputable sources, and consult with healthcare providers who are knowledgeable and supportive of HRT. By providing these insights and resources, Cynthia aims to empower women to make informed decisions about their health and well-being during the perimenopause and menopause phases of life.
Overall, this episode offers valuable information and recommendations regarding hormone replacement therapy. While Cynthia does not explicitly state her expertise in diet, nutrition, metabolic disease, and insulin sensitivity, her in-depth knowledge shines through in her insights and recommendations.
