Jessica Beal Stahl | Understanding Hormone Testing and Common Issues in Athletes

In this episode, we unravel the intricate world of hormones and their impact on health and athletic performance. Joining the show is Jessica Beal-Stahl, a clinical sports pharmacist whose blend of professional knowledge and personal experience, makes this discussion a treasure trove for anyone interested in sports pharmacy, performance, and hormone health.

We start by navigating the complexities of interpreting at-home health tests and hormone function for athletes. Understanding the nuances of menstrual cycles, training effects, and seasonal variations becomes key as we consider the importance of establishing baseline health markers. Jess emphasizes the significance of comprehensive education for medical professionals, highlighting the collaborative nature of sports medicine teams. We also dissect common hormonal challenges such as PCOS and RED-S, stressing the importance of awareness and support among coaches and healthcare providers in managing these conditions.

Rounding out the episode, we tackle the multifaceted issue of low testosterone levels and its prevalence among men of all ages. We delve into the broader implications of hormonal health, discussing the potential for subclinical issues to manifest into more significant health problems if left untreated. The discussion extends to cover the impact of genetics on nutrient metabolism, shedding light on the importance of vitamin D and thyroid health. For anyone seeking to broaden their understanding of hormone-related health issues or looking to optimize their health and performance, this episode is a must-listen, offering valuable insights and resources for further exploration.

Time Stamps:

[3:04] The scope and role of a clinical sports pharmacist

[10:59] Understanding hormone testing

[16:40] How hormone physiology impacts testing interpretation

[20:15] Common issues in high school and collegiate athletes: PCOS and RED-S

[27:48] Identifying and addressing low testosterone in men

[38:22] Other common issues: thyroid and vitamin D

[46:40] Educational resources for learning more about hormones

[49:05] The impact of endocrine disruptors on hormones

[55:28] Information on the Sports Pharmacy Network

Dr. Jessica Beal-Stahl, PharmD, is the founder of The Athlete’s Pharmacist, a consultant sports pharmacy practice that combines her passions of athletics and pharmacy.

Jess received her Doctorate of Pharmacy from Mercer University in 2009 and has been practicing as a Director of Clinical Services at a local independent community pharmacy in Merritt Island, Florida. She also serves as a functional health coach for Island Direct Primary Care.

Jess specializes in working with athletes who suffer from hormone imbalances, menstrual irregularities, decreased performance, and poor gut health. She is on a mission to help athletes understand their physiology, particularly the critical role nutrition, recovery, sleep, and mindset play in optimizing human performance and, in turn, escalating their sports performance.

You can learn from Jess and follow her on Instagram.

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