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:
Connect with Dr. Christine Maren:
Connect with Dr. Izabella Wentz:
Dr. Izabella Wentz’s Programs & Resources:
🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with someone who needs this information!